A Legend in the Making
by Andi Newton
Inspired by the adventures of Harmur Bellowsbreath in the world of LOTRO
As a warrior in the Blue Mountains, Harmur Bellowsbreath spent many an evening in the great halls of Gabilgathol, entranced as minstrels recounted the deeds of heroes like Thorin Oakenshield and Durin the Deathless.
"That, lads," he told his fellows, "that is immortality!"
Even crouched around a battlefield campfire, mug of ale in hand, Harmur listened to the tales and dreamed of the day his own would be told. But although he plowed into battle, axe swinging, he found it hard to make much of a name for himself with so many other doughty dwarven warriors about. So he headed west, toward Angmar, the forces of Sauron, and greatness.
Fate must have yearned to hear Harmur's tale, too, for she seated him next to a minstrel in the Gray Havens' Twinspire Inn one evening. Over pipe and ale, Harmur learned that the minstrel, a dwarf named Dwaloin, was on a quest to find the maiden he loved.
Though the minstrel's singing voice was remarkable and his songs inspiring, to Harmur's eye he looked more comfortable with lute in hand than sword or axe. So Harmur offered to accompany him to the Shire -- and to provide fodder for tales as he slew enemies along the way.
In the Shire, Harmur found a people desperately in need of a hero such as himself. With Dwaloin by his side, Harmur undertakes quest after quest for the hobbits, each adventure more dangerous than the last. But as he boldly proclaims to any who'll listen,
"No enemy is a match
for the sharp-edged axe
of Harmur of the Lonely Mountain!"