The Third Age: A Lord of the Rings RP (IC/Open)

[The Starlight]

Caras Galadhon

The work to prepare against the coming shadow that would fall over Middle-Earth continued. The Galadhrim raced against time to build up the Eastern fortress facing Dol Guldur. The elves knew that they had been spotted and that the foul orcs were building their own fortifications on the other side of the Great River. Though the orcs were much more experienced at building fortifications, the Lorien elves were confident that their fortress would be able to withstand the forces of evil, that is, when it was built. The Wardens had reported that the orcs were chopping down the plentiful trees of the Greenwood to use for their fortress, allowing them to build faster. But the elves were using stone, which was much sturdier and would last longer than the opposing wooden fort, though it would take much longer, to bring it all the way from the mountains. The other building site had still gone unnoticed to the best of the elves' knowledge.

At the building site of the Eastern Fortress
The Wardens perched themselves in the high trees, to defend or ambush any orcs that tried to ambush the building site. Wearing their green elven cloaks high in the trees, the Wardens would remain unseen by virtually any enemies. There was telling if or when the orcs on the other side of the river would attack. But the Wardens were ready at anytime, and they surrounded Lothlorien at its borders, ready to defend the Galadhrim. But Galadriel had not decided if the Wardens should attack the orcs to slow down their building, for even she feared retaliation.But the orcs might attack without provocation and so everyone at the building site was ready. The workers also carried their swords at their hip, ready to unsheathe their weapons if they came under threat.

Having failed to cross the Misty Mountains, Galadriel attached her message to the white messenger dove and sent it to Rivendell.The message said:
My apologies for not being there for the White Council. The High Pass has been fortified and infested by orcs and did not dare to try going over Caradhras in fear of the orcs being there as well. I have urgent news for the Council, the orcs of Dol Guldur are building a fortress on their side of the Anduin in response to the building of my own fortress. Also, Mordor has attacked Osgiliath and has driven the Gondorians back. Sadly, the great stone heads of the Argonath have been torn down. I fear that Lorien will be the target of mordor soon, so we are preparing for war. Beware and be vigilant. I may need your support soon as Lorien is surrounded by enemies. I als have great need of Gandalf here, if he could be sent here soon. Also, the High Pass must be cleared of orcs. It may be possible to attack the orcs from both sides, if I have your support. Another messenger on a horse has been sent through Rohan to you, Elrond. His name is Runin and he is one of my advisors and has lived since the Second Age. He can represent my views in my absence and will deliever some of the messages. Also please contact me on the whereabouts of Radagast, for I have just seen in the Mirror that the spiders have organized and prepare to fight the elves. Be ready, my friends, war is coming.
Galadriel then whispered in the specially trained dove's ears to go to Imladris and let it fly in the air. After fluttering in the wind, the dove started to flap its way to Imladris.

Edoras

The messenger had finally reached Edoras and walked up to the guard. They looked at him suspiciously. " I seek an audience with the King of Rohan," he said.

Imladris

Runin had finally reached Imladris after a long and hard ride. He walked up and asked for Lord Elrond and the Council saying, "I come from Lorien, to represent My lady Galadriel in her absence.

[Bearon]

Saruman arriving at the gates of Rivendell quickly passed through the opening gates and with a quickness that defied his age dismounted from his horse and gave the reigns to a stableboy. As Saruman waled quickly through the halls of Rivendell in his his haste not taking in the grandiose spectacle of The Last Homely House he entered into the council chambers and nodded to his fellow council members. "Where is the Fair Lady of Lorien?" Saruman asked noticing her missing presence.

Results. Walls repaired to former 35 foot height and 35 foot width along with stone ramparts being built and placed from end to end 10 meters apart from eachother. Continued expansion of the Isengard tunnels and continued construction on waterwheels and forges. Recruitment of 250 Urak-Hai 250 Orcs 1,000 goblins and 100 Wargriders.

[Ouldale]

Rivendell

Elrond listened to Cirdan and decided to reply himself. He hesitated before he spoke, "Yes, you were followed here by a pack of orcs. I'm not sure their size, or when they started at your trail. My sight of Western Rohan and Isengard have been cloudy lately. It is very troublesome, and Vilya has been working perfectly fine elsewhere. As for the latest news, experience it for yourself."

Elrond dropped Vilya into Gandalf's open hand, as they looked into each others eyes. The Istari slipped on the Ring of Air.

Gandalf's expression morphed. His expression already serious was replaced by an even more troubled look. After a few long minutes the wizard removed the ring and placed in Elrond's palm.

After a few tense minutes Elrond broke the silence

"So, you see my concern. The stakes are dire, and the need for the White Council is desperate."

He noticed Saurman the White as he entered the meeting. The elf-lord responded without even welcoming him.

"The lady asks we forgive the lack of her presence. Orcs have taken her route here. Her safety depends on her remaining where she is. Osgiliath has been taken by the forces of Mordor. War is brewing. The lady also prepares for war. As should we. As for you, Sauruman, Welcome to Imlardis. Come, be seated. Everyone this is Runin, the representative for Galadriel."

After he wrote on a piece of parchment Runin agreed to give it to her upon his return.

Galadriel,

It is of little concern that you are unable to attend. Your safety is, and should be, your priority. The other members have been informed of the situation. Runin should be fine as your representative.

Signed,
Elrond

[Bearon]

Saruman nodded in thanks before taking a seat at the council table. "So you have also felt the Shadow in the East growiny Master Elrond?" Saruman shook his head as if in worry. "Dark times are upon us my friends. I myself have seen increasing activity from the goblins in the Misty Mountains. The Shadow only grows the longer we wait."

[The Starlight]

Runin waited patiently as the elf went to go tell Lord Elrond that a messenger from the Lady of Lorien had arrived. Meanwhile, a dove had appeared, bearing a message. Runin took it on his shoulder and waited for the elf to come back.

[Great Confederacy of Commonwealth States]

Gandalf face turned even sterner after he saw what Elrond’s ring had to offer him. Shadows and flame, a hideous creature without eyes but with a silver rotten tongue. A being of earlier centuries, craving for a lost possession. A king, engraved into his throne, his hands white and his mind clouded. Three evil fortresses of steel and iron, gripped by the evil in the east. Barad Dur, Minas Morgul, and a third, which he could not recognise through the haze of his mind. A third tower of evil, unknown to him. What all this meant, he could only guess. Whether it were schemes, brought into his mind by the enemy, he could not know. This dark realisation made him only grimmer. When Saruman entered, he didn’t even look up. He just sat there, staring into the void. It was after Saruman that he finally dared to speak a word.

“Goblins in the eastern mountains. Orcs in the Dunlands. Trolls marching from Udûn. Rohan in peril. There is no doubt that these are, directly or indirectly, Sauron’s doing. If these Orcs following me are also part of his stratagem, he has more power then we could have feared. Elrond, I advise you to be careful with these Orcs. We need to capture a few for information. We need to know where these Orcs are coming from, and who their master is. If this is the action from an Orc kingdom in the mountains, or…”

Gandalf stood up from his seat, and started walking around the table. It seemed like a switch had sprung in his head, turning him from old wanderer to a warrior and a commander. It was remarkable. He did not use his rod to walk around, he had his hands behind his back, and pondered while he spoke. Narya gave him a fire in his soul, which he hadn’t shown before.

“We need to send word to every corner of Middle Earth that still stands free. Dwarves, men, rangers, Elves, all creatures. If we are to best the hordes from Mordor, we need to stand united. The Last Alliance must be honoured if we are to survive.”

Suddenly, a realisation hit Gandalf, something that he hadn’t thought of before. Was it because his judgement was being clouded by the dark lord? Or was he in its grip, to be forged by its will to join the dark lord? No, he could break through. He needed to speak.

“In my travels, I have located a small object, a simple golden ring, found in Goblin caves seventy years ago. It seemed to speak with my ring, in a way I have never seen before. It felt dark, and evil. I dared not touch it. I need your combined wisdom to see what this meant. If the East is marching on us, the appearance of this ring might not be a coincidence.”

[Bearon]

"It is the One." Saruman said his words seeming to darken the halls of Imaldris. "It must be found and studied to find any flaws in it that would allow us to destroy it and in turn Souran himself. As a Maiar servant of Aule and one much studied in ring lore I believe it should be brought to Isengard for further study."

[The Starlight]

" It is possible that orcs are gathering in Dol Guldur to launch an attack on us. The Lady has also seen in her Mirror that the spiders in Mirkwood grow in number. We have not heard from Thranduil for a long time. Evil forces may be about to attack him. But what made Sauron awaken? If so it would have to be the One... We must be wary. And if Sauron is awake, He may call Durin's Bane to his service. And the world would tremble..." Runin said, his face paling all the while.

[The Starlight]

"But I am not sure that Saruman should study this Ring alone, it is too dangerous and I think my Lady would agree in her absence. I am not sure it could be destroyed by our work, though a Dragon's fire consumed some of the Dwarf rings, Sauron must have made his very durable, especially if it has lasted as long as it has.

[Bearon]

Saruman shook his head sayinig "As Maiar we are able to resist the power of the One better then other mortals would be able to and it cannot be denied that it needs to be studied." Saruman nodded to himself saying "Which is why it should be brought to Isengard where The Enemy cannot reach it. As you well know the tower of Orthanc is indestructible against any weapon East of the long sunken Numenor."

Meanwhile in Isengard Lurtz continues to train in every area of combat and begins to learn tactics and how to ride a warg. Once the signal is given by Saruman he will take the army of Wargs that had been bred and use them to incapacitate the wizard Gandalf and take his and his companions rings from them. He smiles at the thought as Saruman had not ordered the survival of Gandalf's companions.

[Bearon]

The meeting in the Blue Mountains progresses with Hundin debating the exact number of dwarves that he would send if they were successful in clearing out the mountains of hostile goblins.

Results: Recruited 400 Dwarves.

[Great Confederacy of Commonwealth States]

Gandalf halted his pace through the room, and looked straight at Saruman, seated at the table. His statements were bold, not like anything he had heard him say before. Gandalf turned his body towards his old mentor and friend, and voiced his concern in a stern, fatherly way. Once, their roles had been reversed, but not now.

“Saruman, as a wizard it would be unwise for you to bear that ring. Through us it could be used to terrible effect. Imagine, all the powers of the Maiar at the command of Sauron. A second being like him. No, none of us can ever touch or carry that ring. It must be carried by a being of lesser power. Not me, not you, not Cirdan, Elrond, Galadriel. A being of lesser power and little ambition should be the one to cast it into the fiery pits of Mount Doom from whence it came. That you are so keen to offer yourself only proves that point.”

[The Starlight]

" I must agree with Gandalf here Saruman, I shiver at the prospects of any of the Elf-lords, White Council or Istari possessing the power of the Ring. It's too risky. Though the Istari are of the Maiar, so is Sauron and he too, once was good. If this is the One Ring, it would most certainly corrupt any who touch or bear it, slowly, but surely. But look at him now. But how will this "lesser being" get to Mordor, Gandalf? The High Pass is infested with orcs, as is north of the Misty Mountains and Caradhras. And I again shiver at the prospect of Moria. But the people of Lothlorien would help in anyway that they could." said Runin.

[Bearon]

Saruman shook his head saying "A small group would have no chance of making it to Mordor. Do you not think Sauron has taken any precautions? As one who is without a ring of power Sauron would not know I have the ring in my possession." Looking at Gandalf steadily he said "You mistake my eagerness for determination in the ring and Sauron's destruction. Besides we haven't been able to study the ring extensively and perhaps it has an as of yet unknown weakness."

[The Starlight]

" But I still believe that this Ring, no matter what kind it is, should not be only possessed and examined by only one person. If Gandalf indeed did sense some evil in this Ring, we must proceed slowly and carefully." said Runin.

[Limborg]

Khazad-Dûm
As Dwalin wanerd around in Khazad-Dûm his fears became more certain, he stumbled across a skelet of a dwarf. This was a bad sign, although he kept up hope since he knew Balin had fought many battles to regain controll of Khazad-Dûm.

---

Recruiting:
400 Infantry

[G-Tech Corporation]

Tower of Eyes, Southern Vale of Mirkwood

The work proceeded apace, thousands of Orcs laboring en masse towards their common goal while many others stood watch for the foe. Outriders and scouts had reported many elves armed across the river, but the vast wash of the Anduin would protect them against any attack. The fools were dragging stone all the way from the quarries near the feet of the Misty Mountains to build their redoubt, for the thick rich soil and clay of the marches of the watercourse held little with which to build their stone fortress. Stories of old told of Noldor builders and masons of renown, but clearly these were not in attendance. In time stone would be dragged from the hills near Amon Lanc for the purpose of a similar nature to that of the folk of Lorien, but not yet; first the wooden barricades and watchtowers, all that was necessary. Then would come the reinforcement, the bones of the earth that would make an indelible mark on the land. Only a few hundred elves had been counted upon the opposite bank, and the more meat-eating portions of the commanders there present called for an attack. Many knew of the fury of the elves in combat, but even the greatest of warriors would fall to nearly ten times their number of soldiers trained and disciplined in the manner of the Great Eye, and here was a chance unlooked for indeed. The general was not as convinced though; the witch of the woods was still said to be a great sorceress, and though Sauron was strong, the Eye was far away now, and his arm as long, but its potency attenuated with distance. To please both factions and hedge his bets, some hundred of the Orcs began constructing small boats in secret from the wood brought to the fortress, far away from the prying eyes of any patrols. Options, that was the foundation of warfare, and the soldiers of the Dark Tower would have their strategic flexibility. Behind them, to the east, a crude road bed was being scraped by the legions of workers available, and slowly the web of the Dark Lord's stratagem continued to be woven.

The Black Gate of the Morannon, Mordor

Ever patrols marched about the spires of the Towers of the Teeth, full of grumbling Orcs who were unhappy to be kept away from the war by guard duty. A great victory had been won on the banks of the Anduin over the men of Gondor, and ever one of the dark-kin knew of the vast host that had issued forth from the Morannon only a few weeks past. It was ignominious, this task, but one with which their captains had charged them, and there was no getting out of the will of the superiors. But today was to be their lucky day.

Near one of the stinking slab heaps in the area before the gates, the Orcs spotted a small greyish body skulking about. One gave chase, and soon the others followed him. It was a slippery creature, and it screamed like a skewered eel when they caught it eventually, hemming it in with their numbers. With little hands of surprising strength it tried to throttle one of the Morannon Orcs, but a hilt of a black scimitar to the head and it calmed down precipitously. Unconsciousness did that to many being that walked Arda. Proud of their work, and expecting a nice round of extra rations, the Orcs carried the form back to the Towers. An Elvish spy, certainly, and the interrogators would wring his vile masters' purpose out of him.

Angfalch, Passes of the Dead Marshes

At last the Black Road had made its way all the way past the frowning walls of Angfalch, and it wound away north and west from the fortress, making for the distant indistinct shadows of the Emyn Muil. Clad in good stone and rounded so as to shed the frequent rain, it carried supplies and building materials in their numbers to the rising stronghold; some parts, nearly up to the waist of the man, had already been finished of the rock face that would be erected in time upon the pallisade that now marked the artificial island. More important though were the loads of dirt and cracked earth that came up from the east by the cart-load. They were heaved with many shovels into the depths of the marshes, desecrating the graves of long-dead elves with great amusement as Orcs were oft wont to do; but the more land that there was here to build upon, good packed down settled land, the larger the redoubt of the Dark Tower could grow, and even some slaves had begun to grow food here. No longer a mere watchtower, this area would soon be a fully-fledged outpost of Mordor.

Northern Desolation

From out of the west they had marched, their interminable path along the northern fringes of the Mountains of Ash behind them, but it was a pleasant surprise to see forces marching out of the south to greet them. Here they would assemble in strength, to head north to aid the Rhun-men in their conquest of the obstreperous folk of Dorwinion and Dale. Messengers brought new orders, and news of road crews working up out of the west and south, but it was enough to have fresh beer and rations. Ah, this was an excellent day indeed.

2050 Morannon Orcs recruited in Amon Lanc

[The Starlight]

The White Council at Imladris

At the White Council, Runin replied, " But what about the other threats that the Free People of Middle-Earth face? Lorien and Mirkwood are in very precarious positions and are the closest in proximity to the Enemy, so something must be done about that situation before an attack comes. I am especially worried about Lorien, not just because it is my home, because Dol Guldur is just across the Anduin and Lorien is the closest elf-realm to Mordor. There is evidence that Dol Guldur will attack, with their building of a new fortress across the river. Perhaps an attack on Dol Guldur or at least reinforcements should be sent there after clearing out the High Pass and Caradhras. And what about Durin's Bane which dwells in Moria? If it is awakened by the dwarves, then it could come to the West or towards Lorien.
About this ring, perhaps the places great in lore should be searched such as here and in Gondor and perhaps even the ruins of Eregion. But it would be a dangerous mission, going all the way to Gondor since the passes are blocked. The small party would have to be very discreet. Something must be done about all these things my lords, before the shadow strikes and destroys us all. What say you? "

[Liecthenbourg]

Rhunagaroth, Rhun
Soaring above the walls, above the markets and houses of Rhunagaroth soared the Fellbeast, returning from Khamul's venture north. With a graceful descent it perched itself upon the battlements of Khamul's Citadel, before Khamul himself dismounted the creature and made his way deep within the fortifications hastily, leaving the fellbeast to itself as he went out of sight. He descended a mighty flight of stairs before walking into an extensive library. He soon got to work, grabbing a hold of a good few dozen books and removing the dust from them. He scanned each individually, trailing his hand upon the wording of the pages inquisitively, searching constantly for what he was looking for.
Open the opening of his 7th book, his ghostly faced formed a wide smile, teeth barred and eyes narrowed, as he had found what he was seeking. Placing the book in the crook of his robed arm, he briskly left the library, for much needed to be done.

12 Trebuchets: (80 x 12) Approx 1000
20 Ballistae: (20 x 50) 1000

---

A Tale of the Gongs
Southern Dorwinion
The Mouth of Sauron sat atop his horse as it galloped along the road upon which he had been instructed to follow by the Elder Gong - to his left and right were vineyards, rumoured to grow the finest grapes for the finest wine in the entirety of Arda. Delectable, surely, but not to the Mouth's forte. He shook the reins of his steed, causing its slow and graceful trot to erupt into a steady and pacey gallop. Eventually, as the sun set over the Misty Mountains in the distance, the Lieutenant had hitched his steed upon a post and walked within the Town Hall of this Dorwinion Village.
He sat inside, ready to converse with the Lord. As he awaited for the round oaf, thoughts of the Gongs had dawned upon his mind. He recalled them, texts of them and perhaps even meeting one once. Might warriors of Sauron during the War of the Last Alliance, who had all but perished at the hands of the Elves in Mirkwood and beyond. He also recalled their capability as archers, a useful skill for Mordor. Suddenly, the Lieutenant was interrupted by the sound of a chair dragging back across the floor, followed by a loud creaking as the wooden chair was sat on.

"Greetings" the Mouth began as he extended a hand forward. "You seem to be in the possession of somethings of great importance to my Master, Sauron the Great." Before more could be said, the Mouth held up his arms.
"Do not fear, Man, I come in the words of diplomacy and only wish to offer you a deal for the Blades Black." The Mouth then tossed a small purse filled with gold onto the table. "A fair trade, as well if you accept I shall inform my Master to not harm this village when and if the legions of Mordor arrive North. What say you, lord of the village?"

---

The Stonefoot Clan, The Red Mountains
The guardsmen's eyes narrowed behind his heavy ornamental helmet, much like that of the Rhunic men. With a small gruff and a gesture with his spear he pointed around the column in which he was stationed down an extensive hall.

"Lord Harlan Stonefoot is currently in his throneroom, Thorin III. He is currently not dwelling upon the needs of his people or that of the other Dwarven Clans of the area. Feel free to continue your venture to speak to him, it has been quite some time since Dwarves from Erebor or anywhere in the West for that matter have visited here".

With that, the guardsmen's arm came back to his side as he clutched the well detailed and manufactured halberd in his hands, resuming his duties of before.

[Maineiacs]

"And until then, I should continue my efforts on your behalf in Meduseld?" said Wormtongue. "I will, my Lord. My Lord, if I may ask, what is this item you seek from Gandalf? Is it some weapon you think will aid you?" Wormtongue was uncertain whether he should be honored or worried by Saruman's trust. He could draw some consolation from the fact that Saaruman had not expected Wotmtongue himself to confront Gandalf; if the Uruks failed, it would be on their heads -- so much the better for Wormtongue's own esteem in the Master's eye. It was so much easier to sit back and let others do the dirty work. That suited Wormtongue's style much better.

Saruman smiled saying "If I gain possesion of this weapon and master it completely no longer will we have to hide in the shadows. You shall receive your long awaited prize as will I. Sadly it is not yet in our possession so I must make haste to Imaldris. The item in question is a small golden ring among others though it is the most important of them. Continue your work in Meduseld till the signal is given." Saruman said as he mounted a horse and took off with great speed towards The Last Homely House.

Wormtongue watched as Saruman sped off northward. A ring? What use could such a thing be? He did not know, but he sincerely hoped that Saruman did. All there was to do now was return to Meduseld and await word form Saruman.


Helm's Deep--

Théodred read Éowyn's reply again. Perhaps she was right; Wormtongue was obviously plotting something, and it might be difficult for her to deal with it alone. He could not leave Helm's Deep right now; the Dunlanders would not stay cowed forever. The raids would resume ere long. He needed to be here to meet them. The Eastfold, however, was quiet right now. He would write to Éomer and have him investigate Wormtongue at Edoras.

Code: Select all

Éomer,

Something is happening at Edoras. My Father continues to ail, and Gríma looks to be trying to usurp his power. I need you to return to Edoras and aid your sister in discovering what his plan is. Leave your charge in the Eastfold to your lieutenant for now. Report back what you discover, and if you need my assistance, I will come as I can.

Théodred

recruiting: 120 horse

[Archegnum]

The White Council at Imladris

At the White Council, Runin replied, " But what about the other threats that the Free People of Middle-Earth face? Lorien and Mirkwood are in very precarious positions and are the closest in proximity to the Enemy, so something must be done about that situation before an attack comes. I am especially worried about Lorien, not just because it is my home, because Dol Guldur is just across the Anduin and Lorien is the closest elf-realm to Mordor. There is evidence that Dol Guldur will attack, with their building of a new fortress across the river. Perhaps an attack on Dol Guldur or at least reinforcements should be sent there after clearing out the High Pass and Caradhras. And what about Durin's Bane which dwells in Moria? If it is awakened by the dwarves, then it could come to the West or towards Lorien.
About this ring, perhaps the places great in lore should be searched such as here and in Gondor and perhaps even the ruins of Eregion. But it would be a dangerous mission, going all the way to Gondor since the passes are blocked. The small party would have to be very discreet. Something must be done about all these things my lords, before the shadow strikes and destroys us all. What say you? "

"I agree with Gandalf - none of use should risk bearing this ring, if it truly is the One." replied Cirdan. "For into it Sauron has passed the greater amount of his malice and power, and there is no doubt any of us here, whether elf or lesser maiar, would be corrupted and destroyed, even if we merely thought deeply in longing for it." here he glanced sideways at Saruman, though he was not sure why he did so.

"As for Lothlorien and Mirkwood," Cirdan continued, gesturing towards a map "I have the navy of Lindon ready for battle. Within a few weeks we can transport a force up the Anduin to the Golden Wood. I am sure Elrond can assist Mirkwood if need be." Pausing for a moment, he pointed a long finger towards a region in the north of Eriador. "What I fear most, my friends, is the darkness of Angmar. Now that Mordor has arisen, I forsee the likelihood of a new occupation of Arnor - evil in the north. Lindon, and most probably Rivendell, will not be able to resist as they once did - too many of our kindred have passed across the sea. We must be prepared on all fronts."

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lindon

Construction had begun on a new fortress to the south. Elves had laboured for many days, working the stone bought from the dwarves of north Lhun, and had succeeded in building the lower floor of the keep. Lord Elgin had ruled Lindon well in Cirdan's absence, but had taken it upon himself to reinforce the safety of the elves that dwelt there. Back at the Grey Havens, more ships were being built to replace the navy poised to sail southward.

Lindon constructs 15 ships

[The Starlight]

The White Council at Imladris

At the White Council, Runin replied, " But what about the other threats that the Free People of Middle-Earth face? Lorien and Mirkwood are in very precarious positions and are the closest in proximity to the Enemy, so something must be done about that situation before an attack comes. I am especially worried about Lorien, not just because it is my home, because Dol Guldur is just across the Anduin and Lorien is the closest elf-realm to Mordor. There is evidence that Dol Guldur will attack, with their building of a new fortress across the river. Perhaps an attack on Dol Guldur or at least reinforcements should be sent there after clearing out the High Pass and Caradhras. And what about Durin's Bane which dwells in Moria? If it is awakened by the dwarves, then it could come to the West or towards Lorien.
About this ring, perhaps the places great in lore should be searched such as here and in Gondor and perhaps even the ruins of Eregion. But it would be a dangerous mission, going all the way to Gondor since the passes are blocked. The small party would have to be very discreet. Something must be done about all these things my lords, before the shadow strikes and destroys us all. What say you? "

"I agree with Gandalf - none of use should risk bearing this ring, if it truly is the One." replied Cirdan. "For into it Sauron has passed the greater amount of his malice and power, and there is no doubt any of us here, whether elf or lesser maiar, would be corrupted and destroyed, even if we merely thought deeply in longing for it." here he glanced sideways at Saruman, though he was not sure why he did so.

"As for Lothlorien and Mirkwood," Cirdan continued, gesturing towards a map "I have the navy of Lindon ready for battle. Within a few weeks we can transport a force up the Anduin to the Golden Wood. I am sure Elrond can assist Mirkwood if need be." Pausing for a moment, he pointed a long finger towards a region in the north of Eriador. "What I fear most, my friends, is the darkness of Angmar. Now that Mordor has arisen, I forsee the likelihood of a new occupation of Arnor - evil in the north. Lindon, and most probably Rivendell, will not be able to resist as they once did - too many of our kindred have passed across the sea. We must be prepared on all fronts."

"It is good to hear that Lorien has your support, Cirdan. We will attempt to aid you in anyway that we can and will await your navies on the Anduin soon.

[Great Confederacy of Commonwealth States]

Gandalf, having sparked his inner commander and warrior, was now in the middle of making plans for the prevention of the evil in the east. He too had his part to say in the discussion.

“I will ride for Gondor. They have great knowledge of magic rings in their libraries. With their help, I will be able to find what this trinket is, and if it is to any use to us. Indeed, being invisible will be very handy in the future. As for Lorien…”

Gandalf looked out of an arch, across the vale of Rivendel and over the forests and plains thereafter.

“I say we strike a way through Moria. I fear what is inside, the Dwarves have awoken some dark and terrible power from the First Age, and I do not know what we may find. If we capture Khazad-Dum, and return it to their rightful masters, the Dwarves might join us in our war. They hate the orcs as much as any of us. It were the Gundabad that slayed Thrain, after all. If we recapture this fortress, our passage through the misty mountains will be safe, and we will be able to use it as a base. A very important base, I might add. Does this idea have the approval of the Council?”

[Shaggai]

Othronn Ungol

The messengers had at last arrived at Mirkwood, bringing the Olog-Hai breeding stock with them. The spiders knelt at Gonurl's throne. If Gonurl was displeased at their alteration of the terms, they knew, they would die. The Spider-Lord seemed to take an eternity to consider the new terms, during which the messengers quaked with fear. At last Gonurl clacked his mandibles in acceptance. He knew that he would never be able to fully take advantage of the Mountains, and Olog-Hai would be valuable enough that he would be happy to have them. The messengers collapsed with relief, one of them even passing out.

18 Olog-Hai per page

[The Starlight]

Gandalf, having sparked his inner commander and warrior, was now in the middle of making plans for the prevention of the evil in the east. He too had his part to say in the discussion.

“I will ride for Gondor. They have great knowledge of magic rings in their libraries. With their help, I will be able to find what this trinket is, and if it is to any use to us. Indeed, being invisible will be very handy in the future. As for Lorien…”

Gandalf looked out of an arch, across the vale of Rivendel and over the forests and plains thereafter.

“I say we strike a way through Moria. I fear what is inside, the Dwarves have awoken some dark and terrible power from the First Age, and I do not know what we may find. If we capture Khazad-Dum, and return it to their rightful masters, the Dwarves might join us in our war. They hate the orcs as much as any of us. It were the Gundabad that slayed Thrain, after all. If we recapture this fortress, our passage through the misty mountains will be safe, and we will be able to use it as a base. A very important base, I might add. Does this idea have the approval of the Council?”

"You have Lorien's support in this matter Gandalf. We will attack simultaneously from the East and meet up with the elven forces in the middle. Hopefully Cirdan's forces will arrive before then.But we must be very cautious, for I fear what the dwarves have awoken as well,"said Runin.