Chapter 6: In the Steps of Evil  

Prerequisite: Chapter 5: The Last Refuge
Series Name: Vol. 1, Book 5: The Last Refuge
Leads To: Chapter 7: Evil Tidings
Start Zone: Misty Mountains
Start Area: Gloin's Camp
Start Mob: Gloin
Flags: Epic
Reputation Increased: 500 Thorin's Hall
Cash Granted: 22s 40c
Quest Level: 43
Min Level: 38
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    Gloin's Camp

Bestowal

'If you have a moment, allow me to tell you some of the tale of Helegrod, the ruins of which lie north of here. The tale may shed light on what the Rider seeks to accomplish, though I cannot guess what that might be. Helegrod was delved beneath the mountain of Orod Lostol; it remained the northern-most outpost of Khazad-dûm for long years. Mithril was never found here, but a good many other stones and riches were. Those riches drew a dragon to Helegrod. Thorog, he was named; he slew all the dwarves and made his bed in Helegrod's treasury.

'In Khazad-dûm, which the Elves call Moria, Durin marshalled a company of dwarves to journey to Helegrod and slay the beast. Thorog was defeated, but Durin was slain by the dragon's dying breath. He was the fifth of that name; the next too had a sad end, but I will not speak of that now. Dwarves sought to reclaim Helegrod in the years that followed, but death hung heavy over that place and they abandoned the halls and removed Helegrod's riches to Khazad-dûm.

'I do not know what the Rider might seek to gain by taking to Helegrod. Perhaps he simply wants to fortify it, but I would wager there is more to this deed than we can see. Perhaps by scouting the borders of Helegrod we can learn more of his plans.'

Background

Upon hearing that the Nazgûl fled to Helegrod, Glóin told you some of the tale of that ancient fortress.