The Hobbit, or There and Back Again
by J. R. R. Tolkien
Contents
CHAPTER XV: THE GATHERING OF THE CLOUDS
Overview
Ravens led by Roäc confirm Smaug’s death and warn Thorin that elves and Lake-men approach seeking reparations. Thorin fortifies the Front Gate and summons Dain from the Iron Hills. Bard arrives to parley, asserting claims for Dale and Lake-town. Hardened by gold-lust and grievance, Thorin rejects all terms, and the besiegers encamp.
Summary
At dawn, birds mass around the Lonely Mountain. The old thrush brings Roäc, chief of the ravens, who announces that Smaug is dead, slain three nights past at Esgaroth. Roäc warns Thorin that elves and Lake-men are marching, seeking a share of the hoard and amends for Lake-town’s ruin, and counsels trust in Bard.
Thorin thanks Roäc but angrily vows no gold will be taken by thieves. He orders the ravens to carry messages to Dain in the Iron Hills and to report movements of approaching hosts. The dwarves return to Erebor, discover only the Front Gate open, and labor to fortify it with a high stone wall, sighting apertures and redirecting the stream to create a defensive pool. Guided by ravens, Fili and Kili retrieve ponies and stores, securing meager provisions.
Elves and Lake-men arrive and make camp in Dale. Though Bilbo yearns for their music and peace, Thorin’s mood hardens. Bard and standard-bearers come to parley. Bard claims a just share as Smaug’s slayer and heir of Girion, and asks relief for Esgaroth that aided the company. Gold-lust and old grievances sway Thorin, who denies all claims while an armed host stands before his gate.
When messengers formally demand at least a twelfth part for Bard, Thorin shoots an arrow into the speaker’s shield and declares the Mountain besieged, daring them to starve him out. Bard withdraws, the host encamps between the Mountain’s arms, and the stalemate begins. Some dwarves waver, but Thorin’s will prevails; Bilbo quietly disapproves as cram and dragon-stench sour the victory.
Who Appears
- Thorin OakenshieldLeader of the dwarves; fortifies the Gate, summons Dain, rejects Bard’s claims, and declares the Mountain besieged.
- Bilbo BagginsObserves the mustering, understands Roäc, disapproves of Thorin’s warlike turn, and longs for peace and simple food.
- BardDragon-slayer and heir of Girion; leads negotiations, claims a share for Dale and aid for Lake-town.
- RoäcAged raven, son of Carc; confirms Smaug’s death, warns of approaching hosts, and advises prudence and trust in Bard.
- BalinAdvises on birds and ravens; watches the camps and participates in the defense.
- FiliSent to recover ponies and supplies; shows some misgivings about war.
- KiliAccompanies Fili to retrieve ponies and stores; less eager for conflict.
- The ElvenkingArrives with an armed host and supports Bard; his banner is borne at the parley.
- BomburLess enthusiastic about Thorin’s hard stance; part of the besieged company.
- The Old ThrushMessenger bird who brings Roäc and had witnessed Smaug’s death.