An Unexpected Journey: Recent Episodes
Samwise Gamgee
The Hobbit & The Lord of the Rings Theatrical Audio Books.
Welcome to Season 3 of An Unexpected Journey!
New episodes every Monday, Wednesday & Friday
Seasons 1 & 2 audiobooks are available on our website.
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If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Back in Isengard, Théoden prepares to return to Edoras to gather soldiers, then march to Gondor to join in the fight against Sauron. As they ride, another group of riders overtakes them. They turn out to be other Rangers—Aragorn's people from the north—as well as Elladan and Elrohir, the sons of Elrond. Elrohir bears a message from Elrond to Aragorn: "The days are short. If thou art in haste, remember the Paths of the Dead," and Halbarad, one of the Rangers, brings Aragorn a staff wound around with cloth—a present from Arwen. For the time being, Aragon does not unwind it. Merry becomes an esquire of Rohan and plans to travel to Gondor with the king. But Aragorn decides to part company with the king of Rohan and take the Paths of the Dead instead. This route will be faster, but more dangerous. The Rangers, the sons of Elrond, and Legolas and Gimli travel with Aragorn, hoping to reach Gondor in time to make a difference in the battle. To add to the urgency, Aragorn, as rightful owner of the palantír, uses the stone to assess Sauron's forces and reveal himself to Sauron, hoping to cause Sauron to strike in haste, unprepared. Aragorn and his Company enter the Paths of the Dead, and the dead gather around. Long ago, they broke their oath to fight Sauron with Isildur, and he cursed them. To break the curse and find peace, Aragorn tells them they must fulfill their oath to Isildur's heir—Aragorn himself. The dead follow Aragorn.
The Return of the King: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Gandalf and Pippin have ridden to Gondor and can now see the beacons of Gondor (large fires lit at intervals across the land signaling Gondor's need for help from its allies) are lit. The two travelers enter the walls of the city of Minas Tirith and go to see Denethor, the Steward of Gondor, to give him news—including news of his son Boromir's death. Because the stewards only govern the kingdom in the king's absence, Gandalf warns Pippin to keep news of Aragorn quiet for now, because Denethor might not appreciate being told he may lose power. Gandalf and Pippin enter the throne room where Denethor is seated—not on the throne, but on a chair near it. He is in a bad mood because he has already received news of Boromir's death. He questions Pippin about Boromir's death, and Pippin, in return for Boromir's sacrifice on his behalf, swears loyalty to Denethor. After talking with Denethor, Pippin goes off to acquaint himself with the city, and Gandalf leaves to take care of other business. Pippin meets another soldier of Gondor, Beregond, who helps him find his way. Everywhere Pippin looks, preparations are being made for war. When Beregond must attend to other matters, he sends his son Bergil to take over as Pippin's guide. That night, Pippin is asleep when Gandalf finally returns.
The Return of the King: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
Hello and greetings listeners!
I hope this message finds you well, and that you are in the best of spirits. I wanted to take a moment to thank you for your loyalty and support of our podcast. It means the world to us and we couldn't do this without you.
As you may know, the next season of our podcast is just around the corner and we are thrilled to share our latest adventures with you. Get ready to embark on the next leg of the journey starting February 13th!
Just a heads up, once the new season begins, previous seasons will be archived. But fear not! All of our previous Soundscapes are still available for your listening pleasure on our website at AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Thank you again for your continued support and loyalty. We can't wait for you to join us on February 13th for the start of our next season.
So grab your cloak, sharpen your sword, and join us as we continue on our journey.
Until then, Farewell wherever you fare till your eyries receive you at the journey's end!
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In the ancient halls of the House of Durin, a longing for the fabled wealth of the Lonely Mountain burned bright in the hearts of the dwarves. And so, with determination in their eyes and axes in their hands, a company of thirteen set out on a journey to reclaim the treasure of their forefathers.
It was said that the path to the Lonely Mountain was guarded by a great dragon, Smaug, and many doubted the dwarves' ability to overcome such a fearsome foe. Yet, guided by the wisdom of Gandalf the Grey, the dwarves pressed on.
Gandalf, who had long delved into the history of the dwarves and their ancient halls, remembered a prophecy that spoke of a "burglar" who would aid in the downfall of the dragon. And so, he set out to find this "burglar", a hobbit by the name of Bilbo Baggins.
Bilbo, a timid and unadventurous hobbit, was initially reluctant to join the dwarves on their quest. But, with persuasion from Gandalf and the lure of adventure, he agreed to accompany them.
And so, with Bilbo as their burglar, the dwarves set out on their journey. Many trials and tribulations they faced, from the treacherous Misty Mountains to the halls of the Elvenking. But through it all, they persevered, driven by the promise of treasure and the knowledge that their quest was tied to the fate of Middle-earth itself, for it was said that the recovery of the Lonely Mountain's treasure would play a crucial role in the War of the Ring.
Thus, the quest of the dwarves to the Lonely Mountain was not just a tale of greed and treasure, but one of bravery, determination and fate.
This is the first ‘complete’ telling of how the dwarves’ quest to the Lonely Mountain came to be. The fragmented accounts in The Unfinished Tales have been pieced together to make one continuous story. From the House of Durin to Gandalf's memory, concerning the finding of the Burglar and his significance for the War of the Ring.
Some background from Durin’s Folk (LOTR Appendices) has been included for context, as both texts are closely linked.
J.R.R. Tolkien’s words have been preserved wherever possible. To see the original writings, please explore The Lord of the Rings Appendices and The Unfinished Tales.
One new section was written to bridge a gap in the narrative on the War of the Ring. It references only canonical sources which simply introduce and conclude the story.
We hope this form helps bring this story to a wider audience, and you enjoy this ‘finished’ tale.
Written by J.R.R. Tolkien
Edited by Christopher Tolkien
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore.
Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Bluefax.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Sam, seeing Shelob has Frodo, attacks her. Shelob is fierce, but Sam holds up the phial of Galadriel and cries out the words in Elvish. This finally chases Shelob off, but when Sam checks to see how Frodo is, Frodo is cold and lifeless. Convinced Frodo is dead, Sam takes the Ring and vows to finish Frodo's quest on his own. As Sam goes off alone, he hears Orc voices, and not knowing what else to do, puts on the Ring in order to become invisible. Sam hears the Orcs carrying Frodo's body away. He also learns, by eavesdropping on the Orcs, that Gollum is a known accomplice of Shelob's and often lures others to her lair for her to eat. Worst of all, he learns Frodo is not actually dead, but simply paralyzed and in a death-like state due to Shelob's poison. As these terrible truths sink in, the Orcs enter their tower and shut the door, taking Frodo with them and locking Sam out.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Gollum leads Frodo and Sam deeper into the maze of tunnels of Cirith Ungol. It is dark, and on either side of the tunnel Frodo and Sam can sense openings, as if there are passageways branching off the main tunnel. From one, a terrible smell emanates, as well as a tangible sense of malevolence. They suddenly realize that Gollum has disappeared again. And when they hear a "long venomous hiss," they realize Gollum has led them into a trap. Holding aloft the phial of Galadriel, Frodo can see its light reflected in the many eyes of a giant spider. He and Sam try to escape, slashing through thick cobwebs blocking the tunnel with Sting, but the spider—Shelob, an ancient monster—cuts in front of them via another tunnel and emerges to try to capture Frodo. Just as Sam tries to shout a warning to Frodo, Gollum comes up behind and attacks, covering Sam's mouth with his hands. As Sam and Gollum fight, Shelob pounces on Frodo. Gollum breaks free and runs away.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Gollum urges Frodo and Sam on toward Cirith Ungol, and soon they can see Minas Morgul glowing with an eerie light. Frodo feels the Ring has become very heavy and it pulls on the chain around his neck. Suddenly, the gates of Minas Morgul open and out of them issues an army led by the leader of the Nazgûl, the same one who stabbed Frodo on Weathertop. Frodo feels pain in the old wound and has a strong desire to put on the Ring. By holding on to the phial given to him by Galadriel, he is able to resist this urge, and the army passes by without noticing them. Cirith Ungol, Gollum tells them, is made up of two stairways—one straight and steep, and one winding but less steep. They climb the steep stair, then rest for a moment before going on to the longer one. After a while, they take a break from walking to have some food. During this time, as the hobbits talk together, Gollum disappears. When he comes back, Sam and Frodo are sleeping, with Frodo resting on Sam. Gollum seems to recall, however distantly, what it was like to have friends or family, and he reaches out for Frodo's hand as if to hold it. But Sam, waking up suddenly, thinks Gollum is attempting to do harm, and speaks harshly to him. When Frodo wakes up, he tells Gollum he has now done what was agreed, and may go free. But Gollum wants to continue as their guide.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
The next morning, Faramir, Frodo, and Sam join in a farewell breakfast. He gives them some advice and some gifts, including food for their journey and walking sticks. Then he has his Men lead Frodo, Sam, and Gollum—all blindfolded—away to continue on their quest. The three journey for several days, once more walking by night and hiding by day. Gollum begins disappearing for hours at a time, and Sam becomes even more suspicious of and irritated by him. One day, as they are resting, Gollum suddenly tells them they must "go at once." He leads them to a crossroad, at which they must take the path leading to Cirith Ungol.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
In the middle of the night, Faramir wakes Frodo up and takes him to look at a pool of water nearby. There seems to be some sort of creature catching fish in the pool. The creature is Gollum who followed them all this way, drawn by the Ring, unable to leave Frodo because of it. Faramir's Men are ready to shoot Gollum with arrows, but Frodo asks them not to, telling them the creature is his guide. With Frodo's help, they capture Gollum. Faramir questions Gollum about where he intends to lead Frodo and Sam. When he finds out that Gollum's planned path is a pass called Cirith Ungol, he is disturbed. He later tells Frodo that going to Cirith Ungol is a bad idea, because the pass has an evil reputation and will take them very close to the city of Minas Morgul, which used to be Minas Ithil—a city of Gondor. Now, however, it is the home of the Nazgûl. Frodo feels that because he can't abandon the quest, and this is the only option that has presented itself, he must try it.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Faramir returns from battle and questions Frodo more, especially about Isildur's Bane. Frodo tells him that Isildur's Bane, if it belongs to anyone, belongs to Aragornas the heir of Elendil. This seems to be significant news to Faramir. Then Faramir asks Frodo if he considers Boromir a friend, and would be sad to find out he was dead. Frodo says he would be sad, but then realizes Faramir is telling him Boromir is dead. Faramir says Boromir was his brother, and he believes him to be dead because of a strange dream he had in which the corpse of Boromir floated down the river in a strange boat. In addition, he'd heard the horn of Boromir sounding several days before, and the pieces of it had washed up on the bank of the Entwash River. Frodo realizes all of this must have happened just after he left the Fellowship. Faramir, having curtailed his curiosity about Isildur's Bane so as not to speak more of it in front of his Men, takes Frodo aside and presses him for more information. He reveals he and Boromir are of the line of Stewards of Gondor—leaders who rule the land in the absence of a king. Boromir, for all his virtues, was ambitious, and may have resented that Aragorn might claim the kingship. Faramir, however, tells them he does not share this ambition. Frodo and Sam are led to the place where Faramir's Men live. They must go blindfolded, because it is the law that any outsider who knows the way must be killed. But Gollum sneaks behind, following them. Later, after dinner, Faramir, Frodo, and Sam again discuss matters, and Sam accidentally divulges that Isildur's Bane is the One Ring, and that Boromir had tried to take it by force. Frodo and Sam, afraid Faramir might try to take the Ring as well, get ready to defend themselves. But Faramir "show[s] his quality" by refusing to take the Ring, and by pledging to help Frodo and Sam in any way he can. Frodo is relieved.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
As they get nearer to the River Anduin, the hobbits feel a little better as the landscape becomes greener and a little less oppressive. Even Gollum seems to feel less fearful, and when Sam asks him to hunt some rabbits, he complies. When Gollum finds out Sam intends to cook the rabbits into a stew with some herbs and roots, though, he is horrified. Not only does the thought of cooked meat disgust him, but the idea of a fire frightens him. He tells Sam it will alert any spies in the area to their presence. Sam is dismissive, cooks the rabbit stew, and he and Frodo enjoy a hot meal. But as Sam is cleaning up, he sees the fire is actually giving off some smoke, and rushes back to put it out. He's too late, however: They have been spotted by a group of Men, led by a Man named Faramir. The Men do not know what to do with the hobbits, and they can't seem to find Gollum who has gone off to hide. Frodo, worried the Men might kill Gollum if they do find him, asks them not to hurt him. Faramir questions Frodo, who tells of leaving Rivendell with the Fellowship, and reveals that Aragorn is the bearer of the "sword that was broken" from the prophetic dream of Boromir. When the conversation gets around to "Isildur's Bane"—the Ring—however, Frodo is reluctant to tell any more. Leaving guards to watch Frodo and Sam, Faramir and his army go off to battle some Southrons who have been recruited by Sauron and are passing through Gondor on their way to join him.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
Frodo, Sam, and Gollum arrive at the Black Gate of Mordor, the main entrance to Mordor, which is heavily guarded. They sit and try to figure out how to get through, and then Frodo decides to just march straight for it, thinking this is his only option. Gollum stops him, saying it is crazy to go toward the Black Gate—they'll certainly be caught and the Ring taken. Gollum suggests going by a different way, a secret way. Suddenly, the Black Gate opens and a large number of soldiers pass into Mordor—Men who have come to help Sauron wage war. Gollum continues to try to convince Frodo to follow him to this secret pass. He notes Sauron's attention is focused on the Black Gate, so he won't notice a couple of hobbits sneaking in a back way. Frodo wonders if the secret way is guarded, and Gollum hesitates a little. Although he claims he escaped that way from Mordor, it is clear he was allowed to escape. And although neither hobbit fully trusts Gollum, they decide going along with his plan is their only real option.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
Walking by night, and hiding by day, Frodo, Sam, and Gollum brave the Dead Marshes. Frodo and Sam are able to eat the lembas provided by the Elves, but this food causes Gollum to choke, so he finds his own food, to the disgust of Sam. They must pick their way carefully through the marshes, avoiding the little lights that seem to flicker like lit candles. Frodo falls, and must be rescued from a pool of muddy water. When he is helped up, he describes seeing faces of corpses. Gollum tells them there was once a great battle here, in which Orcs, Men, and Elves fought, and the graves are now covered in the marsh. At several points, a dark, winged shape flies overhead, inspiring terror in Gollum. After the marshes, they emerge into a dead landscape, and Frodo and Sam get some much-needed sleep. Sam, half awake, overhears Gollum having a conversation with himself, as if the Gollum part of him, ruined by desire for the Ring, disagrees with the Sméagol side, who retains some of his pre-Ring personality. The Sméagol side doesn't want to violate the oath to help Frodo, but the Gollum side answers, "She might help. She might, yes." Sam isn't sure what this means, but he definitely trusts Gollum less and less as time goes on.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
While Aragorn and Company have been chasing Orcs and fighting Saruman's army, Frodo and Sam have been making their way toward Mordor. They come to a cliff and must use a rope to scale down it. As they do so, they see Gollum is still following them, and Sam decides to ambush him. Sam and Gollum wrestle, but Gollum is surprisingly strong, so Frodo intervenes, threatening Gollum with Sting. In Sam's opinion, they should tie Gollum up and leave him to die. But Frodo doesn't think this would be right. Suddenly, Gollum makes an escape attempt, but Frodo and Sam capture him and tie him up with the Elven rope. However, the rope seems to hurt Gollum, and he begs them to take it off. They do, but not before they exact an oath from Gollum to help them get to Mordor. They head off toward the Dead Marshes with Gollum (also called Sméagol) acting as guide.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Later that night, Pippin becomes restless, thinking about the round object he had briefly held. Letting his curiosity get the better of him, he sneaks the object away from Gandalf, and looks into it. But as he does, a fiery glow emanates from the ball, and suddenly Pippin collapses with a cry. Gandalf wakes and begins to question Pippin, asking what he saw and what happened. Pippin reports he saw towers and nine winged creatures, and a voice asked him who he was. Pippin had answered, "a hobbit." Gandalf is relieved after talking to Pippin, saying the hobbit had come out of the encounter without being corrupted. Gandalf then decides to give the ball to Aragorn for safekeeping, and kneels as he hands it over. Aragorn accepts this responsibility because the object is a palantír that once belonged to Elendil. Gandalf decides Pippin will accompany him to Minas Tirith. The two ride to Gondor on Shadowfax, and Gandalf tells Pippin the palantír is one of seven seeing stones that came with the Men of Westernesse and were used in the past to communicate between different locations. Now, however, they seem to be controlled by Sauron. Gandalf deduces that Saruman was corrupted because he used the very one Pippin had his hands on. It is clear the finding of the palantír is a game-changer, with the benefit of causing Sauron to act hastily, thinking he can now easily take the Ring from the hobbit (he incorrectly assumes Pippin has the ring). However, this means war with Sauron is on its way.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Gandalf needs to speak to Saruman. He lets the others come along, and they go together to Orthanc. Saruman, whose voice can mesmerize, tries to win over Théoden with his beautiful voice. When this is unsuccessful, he tries to convince Gandalf to join him. Gandalf is having none of it, however, and casts Saruman out of the Council of the Wise, and breaks his staff. As they turn to leave, Wormtongue throws a large, round object out of the window at them. Pippin picks it up, but Gandalf immediately takes it away. Gandalf, Aragorn, Pippin, Merry, Gimli, Legolas, and those from Rohan prepare to leave for Edoras, leaving Treebeard in charge of making sure Saruman does not escape. The Ents promise to watch Saruman carefully.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Aragorn, Gandalf, Gimli, and Legolas spend time with Merry and Pippin, catching up on what has been going on during their separation. They also seem to have grown a few inches—something Legolas attributes to drinking the waters of the Ents. Among the other goodies, the hobbits have also found some Longbottom Leaf, which is produced in the Shire. Aragorn gives the hobbits the things of theirs he picked up along the way, and the hobbits fill the other three in on what has happened since they were captured by the Orcs. They explain the Ents "roused" themselves and began to march on Isengard to destroy it, and the huorns followed behind. At Isengard, the Ents tore into the rock and laid waste to the place—all except for the tower of Orthanc, which is protected by some magic Ents cannot overcome. The Ents then changed the flow of the Isen to fill in all the tunnels under Saruman's stronghold, and make escape impossible. Gandalf came and spoke with Treebeard about the situation at Helm's Deep, and when he left again, the huorns silently went toward Helm's Deep to form the mysterious forest. The hobbits also note Wormtongue did indeed make it to Isengard and is currently trapped in Orthanc with Saruman.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
No one seems to be sure where the strange trees came from, but all are joyful the battle was won. Gandalfconvinces Théoden and his allies to ride to Isengard, and, not knowing exactly what to expect, they agree. Nearing Isengard, the mysteries intensify: they are surprised to see some Ents, which no one but Gandalf even knew existed, and when they come to the River Isen, it has mysteriously slowed to a trickle. That night, they feel a rustling darkness moving around them, and in the morning, the strange trees are gone. They continue on to Isengard, noticing as the River Isen resumes its normal flow. Arriving at Orthanc, the tower in which Saruman lives, they see two small figures napping and smoking amidst a great deal of destruction. These small figures turn out to be Merry and Pippin, who have been given instructions to greet them. Gimli, Legolas, and Aragorn are overjoyed to see the two hobbits. Gandalf and Théoden meet with Treebeard.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
Aragorn, Gandalf, Gimli, and Legolas accompany the Riders of Rohan as they travel toward Helm's Deep and the fortress called the Hornburg. Saruman's Orcs and other Men he's been able to recruit are out and about in Rohan, causing trouble, and Théoden gets word Erkenbrand of Westfold, a leader in Rohan, is on his way to meet Théoden's forces at Helm's Deep, where they will all make their stand against Saruman. Gandalf goes his own way, promising to catch up with the rest later. Arriving at the Hornburg, they are disappointed that Erkenbrand has not yet arrived, but they enter and take up positions to defend it anyway. Outside the Deeping Wall, Saruman's forces gather all night long, and in the morning the fighting begins. Aragorn and the others fight tirelessly, but they are outnumbered and the battle does not go well. When it looks as if they might lose, however, Gandalf arrives, leading Erkenbrand and his soldiers. Saruman's forces are trapped between those defending the Hornburg and the newly arriving army. They scatter, running frantically into a forest that has mysteriously appeared nearby. They are never seen again.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Gandalf, Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas arrive at Edoras, but the guards outside Théoden's Golden Hall are strangely suspicious and unfriendly. Háma, Théoden's doorwarden, demands they leave their weapons at the door before entering, which they are reluctant to do. Gandalf is permitted to keep his staff. Inside the hall, they find Théoden in bad shape. Bent and feeble, he insults Gandalf, saying he only brings bad news. It becomes clear the king's adviser, Gríma Wormtongue, is encouraging Théoden's defeatist attitude. Gandalf uses his magic to silence Wormtongue and has some harsh words for him, exposing him as a thief, manipulator, and agent of Saruman. Gandalf and Théoden send Wormtongue away to join Saruman, if he dares confront the wizard's displeasure at his failing. Théoden, freed from Wormtongue's influence, seems to regain his former strength and courage. Éomer, who had been imprisoned on the ill advice of Wormtongue, is released, and they all prepare for war against Saruman. Éowyn, the king's niece, is to be left in charge while the Men go to battle. She is not pleased.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Returning to Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas, the story finds them hunting for clues to the mysterious old man's identity. Aragorn searches, but is unable to find footprints. And he recalls the horses didn't make sounds as if frightened. They do find more evidence that Pippin and Merry escaped and are somewhere in the forest, including a leaf from Lothlórien with a few crumbs of the Elves' lembasbread. Following signs of Merry and Pippin's presence, they go deeper into Fangorn. As they track the two hobbits, Aragorn also sees some puzzling footprints (which are, of course, Treebeard's). Suddenly, Legolas sees a mysterious old man approaching. At first, the three seem to think the man may be Saruman, and are not sure if they should defend themselves. But soon, the man reveals he is Gandalf, miraculously returned from the dead. He is now wearing white robes, a change from the gray he used to wear. Gandalf shares news, reassuring them Aragorn's decisions have not caused disaster: Merry and Pippin are safe with the Ents, and the Ring-bearer is on his own path, beyond their help. He confirms Saruman is corrupt with desire for the Ring, and tells them Sauron is so occupied with preparing for war he may not notice what Frodo is doing. He also tells them what happened after he fell into the chasm in Moria, and brings prophetic messages from Galadriel. Aragorn, Gandalf, Gimli, and Legolas decide to present themselves to Théoden, the king of Rohan, in the city of Edoras. Gandalf summons his white horse, Shadowfax, who arrives accompanied by the two horses Éomer lent them. They mount the horses and depart.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
The two hobbits, entering Fangorn Forest, find themselves soon lost. They try to figure out where they are, and come to appreciate the forest. But when Pippin says, "This shaggy old forest looked so different in the sunlight. I almost felt I liked the place," a strange voice says, "Almost felt you liked the Forest! That's good! That's uncommonly kind of you." It turns out to be the voice of an Ent named Treebeard, an ancient, tree-like creature who shepherds the trees in the forest. Treebeard becomes friends with Merry and Pippin, and carries them back to a place where they can stay overnight. Treebeard gives Merry and Pippin a drink of water he says is sustenance for Ents, and asks them to share their story. In turn, he tells the hobbits a little about the history of Ents. Eventually, the subject comes around to wizards, and Treebeard wonders aloud about Gandalf and Saruman. Because Saruman lives nearby, Treebeard is aware of his destructive actions: the wizard has been breeding a new kind of Orc (the Uruk-hai) and cutting down many trees. Treebeard decides he will try to get the other Ents to do something about Saruman. Several of the Ents gather for an Entmoot—a kind of council—and after days of talking about the issue, they decide to take action against Saruman. They set off, singing, for Isengard. The trees of Fangorn forest seem to follow the Ents.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Pippin and Merry endure rough treatment at the hands of the Orcs. Bound and forced to run beyond the point of exhaustion, they overhear the Orcs arguing about whether to kill them or not. Evidently, some of the Orcs have orders to bring the halflings back alive, but not all the Orcs seem to have the same orders. Some Orcs are loyal to the "Great Eye," and some to Saruman. Pippin manages to break away from the Orcs for a moment, and drops the brooch from his Elven cloak. Later, Grishnákh, one of the Orcs, seems to know about the Ring, and Pippin pretends he has it in order to distract him, egging him on. As Grishnákh focuses on Pippin, the Rohirrim attack and Grishnákh is killed. Pippin and Merry manage to escape into the forest of Fangorn.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas keep up a fast pace in pursuit of Merry and Pippin. They follow their course into Rohan where the Rohirrim live. They come upon some slain Orcs and deduce there is internal strife among the Orcs in the group, some of which are from Isengard, ruled by Saruman, and some from Mordor. As Aragorn says, "the enemy brought his own enemy with him." At one point, Aragorn follows some signs to the side of the path trodden by the Orcs, and finds the clasp of one of the cloaks given to them by Elves. He believes Pippin dropped it on purpose, hoping it would be found. The three pursuers find this heartening. After a few days of the chase, they encounter a group of men on horseback—the Riders of Rohan. Éomer, their leader, is suspicious, but also awed by Aragorn's ancestry. The Riders are unable to give them news of the hobbits, but eventually Éomer lends them horses, and they continue to search for the hobbits. At the edge of Fangorn forest, they make camp for the night. A mysterious old man appears as they sit by the fire, and shortly afterward they find their horses have been let loose. They think it possible the man was Saruman.
The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
To all of our listeners and supporters, thank you! We are happy for you to join us once again for season 3 of An Unexpected Journey! If you missed seasons 1 & 2 (The Hobbit & The Fellowship of the Rings) you can find the full audiobooks by visiting our website, anunexpectedjourney.shop
If you love the podcast, please consider supporting us on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop Aragorn searches for Frodo, but while he does, he hears Orcs nearby, and then Boromir's horn blowing. He runs quickly to Boromir's aid, but when he finds him, Boromir is already full of arrows and his horn is in pieces. Before he dies, Boromir admits he tried to take the Ring from Frodo, and tells Aragorn the Orcs captured "the Halflings." Feeling as though everything is in shambles, Aragorn kneels by Boromir and weeps. Legolas and Gimli find him in this posture when they arrive, having also heard Boromir's horn. Legolas, Gimli, and Aragorn lay Boromir in one of the boats, arrayed with his weapons and broken horn, and send the boat over the Falls of Rauros. Examining the fallen Orcs in the area, they realize the Orcs bear the mark of Saruman, not of Mordor. They also determine Merry and Pippin were captured, but not Frodo and Sam, who appear to have taken their packs and a boat and left alone. Aragorn correctly reasons out the answer to this riddle. Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas decide to pursue the Orcs in hopes of recapturing Merry and Pippin, and they set off at a run.The Two Towers: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien. Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore. Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.Art by Jian Guo.
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Join The Fellowship.
Eccentric hobbit Bilbo Baggins has announced his 111st birthday party will be a very special one, and the town of Hobbiton in the Shire is abuzz with the news. Bilbo is known to be generous and thought to have a secret cache of treasure from his previous adventures, and so the residents of Hobbiton believe the party will be quite grand. The September 22 birthday is shared by Bilbo's nephew Frodo, who came to live with Bilbo at Bag End after his parents' deaths, and their custom has been to share birthday celebrations. This year, Frodo will be turning 33—the "coming of age" for hobbits. In addition, rumor has it Gandalf the wizard will be setting off the fireworks for the celebration. There is much to anticipate, and the residents of Hobbiton watch supplies arrive at Bag End with growing excitement. Amidst the preparations, Gandalf and Bilbo have a private talk about Bilbo's plan to leave the Shire following the party. Gandalf encourages Bilbo to stick to the plan. On the day of the party, tents and pavilions populate a large field, and the guests arrive to presents (hobbits give others presents on their birthdays), abundant food, exciting entertainment, and flowing drink. Gandalf's fireworks are remarkable and magical. After supper, Bilbo gives a short speech, then suddenly places a magic golden ring on his finger and vanishes, to the surprise and consternation of all. Invisible, Bilbo walks back to Bag End, where Gandalf is waiting for him. Gandalf reminds Bilbo he promised to leave the magic ring with Frodo. Bilbo's ring allowed him to avoid his greedy and annoying relatives, the Sackville-Bagginses, who continue to pester Frodo in the present. Bilbo reluctantly leaves it behind as he departs on his journey. Gandalf makes sure the ring passes safely into Frodo's possession, but warns him to keep it secret and safe. Then Gandalf also leaves, and Frodo watches him walk down the road leading out of Hobbiton.
The Fellowship of the Ring: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore.
Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Phil Dragash.
Art by Jian Guo.
Find the complete audiobook on our website AnUnexpectedJourney.shop
Bilbo Baggins is a simple hobbit with a simple life. His quiet life is interrupted when a group of dwarves and a famous wizard, Gandslf, show up at his home with a treasure map in hand.
The Hobbit: Written by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Soundtrack composed by Howard Shore.
Audiobook narrated, produced, and edited by Bluefax.
Art by Jian Guo.