Bardo

― Bard in The Hobbit, "Fire and Water"

Bard, known as “bowman” and “dragon-shooter”, is the current king of Dale. He is descended of the line of Girion, the last lord of Dale before the desolation of the dragon Smaug. He grew up in Esgaroth on the Long Lake, and became captain of the bowman in defense of that town. When the dragon was roused by the company of Thorin and began his assault on Esgaroth, Bard alone rallied his men to defend the town. At the very last moment, when all was lost, a com- mon thrush delivered a message to Bard that he could understand. It told him of the weak spot on Smaug’s belly, having overheard it from Bilbo Baggins. Bard then fired his black arrow, an heirloom and good-luck charm passed down to him from his ancestors, and slew the dragon. He later led his people in the Battle of Five Armies, and rebuilt both Dale and Esgaroth using Bilbo Baggins’ 14th share of the treasure of Erebor.

Now he stands as the wise king of Dale, leading his people as the world darkens in the shadow of Sauron. He is beset by many woes and worries, but remains a bulwark against evil. He seeks to keep good relations to Erebor and the Woodland Realm, and to expand his kingdom for the good of his people.