In a quiet, shadowed corner of the Prancing Pony, the destiny of Middle-earth takes a turn with the arrival of a mysterious figure—a ranger known only as Strider. Few recognize him, and fewer still know his true purpose. As Frodo Baggins seeks refuge from those who hunt him, a chance encounter seems to place him in the hands of yet another stranger. But is Strider truly a mere traveler? This episode delves into the eerie tension of Frodo’s first encounter with Strider, unpacking the subtle clues, hidden dangers, and Tolkien's masterful layering of fate and choice. Perfect for fans of The Lord of the Rings eager to delve deeper into Tolkien’s world, this episode is full of lore, history, and surprises at every turn. Sources mentioned in this episode: JRR Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings The Letters of JRR Tolkien (The above are affiliate links, and I may receive a small compensation at no extra cost to you if you purchase—thank you for supporting the show.) About the Lore of the Rings Podcast Contact the show, donate, and find past episodes: ringspodcast.com Embark on an immersive journey through the captivating realms of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, where the epic sagas of the Lord of the Rings, the Hobbit, the Silmarillion, and Unfinished Tales, and more come to life. Join us as we delve into the rich tapestry of Tolkien's masterful storytelling, drawing intriguing comparisons between his literary works and the cinematic adaptations crafted by Peter Jackson. Be at the forefront of the latest developments as we explore the highly anticipated Rings of Power series from Amazon. Prepare to be enthralled as we uncover hidden connections, untold tales, and delve into the depths of Middle-earth lore. Tune in now and become part of our fellowship on this extraordinary journey! This podcast is not affiliated with the Tolkien Estate. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/ringspodcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy