08 · Figures of Note

All dates in these entries assume a present time period of c. T.A. 1645.

Such dual professions might also be possible for PCs. The advantages are:

Such a character of course has disadvantages too. These are:

Note Some personalities are given dual professions and levels. This reflects the authors view that these people possess powers that cannot be covered by one profession alone, e.g. lvl 20/25 Astrologer/​Enchanter. This means this character is a 20th lvl Astrologer and 25th lvl Enchanter. If only one level is given for such personalities all professions are at the given level.

Members of The Court of Ardor

“…Therefore all the more did he [Melkor] feign love for them [the Eldar] and seek their friendship, and he offered them the service of his lore and labour in any great deed that they would do…But the Noldor took delight in the hidden knowledge that he could reveal to them; and some hearkened to words that it would have been better for them never to have heard…”

The Silmarillion

Greater Lords

Ardana (The Lady)

(S. ​“Noble Wright”)

Ardana was born as the daughter of a Noldo lord in the city of Tirion 2041 (sun) years before the rising of the Sun (Valian Year 1287). Soon after growing up she showed a great will and desire for knowledge in the way of the heavens. Consequently, she became especially acquainted with Varda (even more than usual for the Eldar) and soon surpassed nearly everyone in lore concerning the ways of the heavens. In Valmar she first met Núranolë (the future Morthaur) and they became quite good acquainted and respected each others’ work and knowledge. It was their mutual yearning for knowledge which attracted them in the first place and this should endure until their end. Soon thereafter, Ardana, enamored with the stars, built the tower of Minas Elen (Q. ​“Tower of Stars”) at the northernmost reaches of Eldamar, far to the north of Alqualondë where she secluded herself at times in studies about the heavens and its ways. Ardana however went on extensive journeys with Varda’s people and so learned a great deal about the stars and light in general. Here she also gained knowledge about the mordo aspect of the world, as it infiltrated nearly all matter in Arda, but not the far reaches of the heavens where Vardas lights shone brightly and untainted. Her move to the far region of far Eldamar she made because the light of the Two Trees was much more dimmed in this region and the stars were far better discernible. She began to long for the starlit night of Middle-earth even before Melkor was released from his bondage in Mandos. When Melkor was released Ardana became an eager listener, for he knew much and shared his knowledge freely. Ardana learned about men from Melkor, that they would be physically weak (compared to the Quendi) but probably inherit Middle-earth. This lore about men (as Melkor knew it) was one of the things the Valar never told the Elves and now Ardana suspected them of a plot to rob the Noldor of their inheritance. In these days her knowledge grew more than ever before, but she also yearned for Middle-earth and own realms to be ruled under the stars. When Telperion and Laurelin were finally killed by Melkor and Ungoliant, she mourned — but not for the fading of their light but for the strife and murder the two conspirators caused. Not surprisingly she was among the most eager to support Fëanor and his visions of war and conquest in Middle-earth. The desire for vengeance burned not very fierce in her, for the Silmarils were far too bright for her liking. Ardana left Aman with her Noldo kindred, ostensibly to recover the Silmarils, but she wished only to go to Middle-earth and rule a land of her own under the stars. The Star Lady went to exile in Fëanor’s host and was among the first who set foot on Middle-earth when he landed at the Fjord of Drengist.

It was not long after the Noldor’s arrival in Beleriand (even before the Dagor Aglareb) that Sauron, Morgoths chief servant, and unsurpassed in the art of subterfuge and seductive corruption encountered Ardana in a remote portion of Dorthonion. At that time he wore a pleasant guise, similar to his fana as Annatar in Eregion. He pretended to be a Maia who had stayed in Middle-earth (this pretense was not entirely false, and he did not speak of his motives for doing so). He spoke of the enormous potential of the Eldar for their birthland and his words did not fall on deaf ears. Though Ardana was weary (she knew enough of the lore of Valinor to distrust such a pretender) her desire for furthering her own goals were fueled. The new lights in the heaven stirred her interested and she began to delve into their secrets (as far this was possible in Middle-earth at that time). A mixture of Valinorean lore (Vardas teachings), Melkor’s (probably distorted) information and her own perceptiveness allowed her to make two main conclusions: 

These facts she took for true and therefore Isil and Anar (which she preferred to refer to as Vása and Rána) were ​‘tainted’ in her opinion (probably by the spirit of Morgoth and Ungoliant). Once she was convinced of this the thought of a ​“holy mission” was planted in her mind. These lights did not only blot out the stars, but they were ​“polluted” by the touch of Morgoth and Ungoliant and she deemed it a just cause to plot their downfall. Of course she thought of only using Morgoth’s powers (which were formidable as she knew from Valinor) to further her own elven goals (or so she believed) of a land lit only by the stars. Too little she understood the power of the Black Enemy and overestimated her ability to manipulate his power and stay independent of his thought.

After a few years she met the mysterious Maia again in Dorthonion and he perceived her grudge. At last she spoke of her conclusions. Of course Sauron was joyed at her thoughts and he promised to think it over. When they met the next time he spoke of Melkor and how he was awed at her perceptiveness. In the name of Melkor Sauron offered an alliance to further the goals of both and after thinking of it she decided to accept the alliance. The next meeting saw the gift of a great secret as as a pledge of his trust. This was the knowledge and ability to forge a set of enchanted cards which granted great powers, though it also slowly shifted her mind to the perspective of Morgoth. Though she never became a slave (e.g., like Saurons Ringwraiths) and retained her free will, she was strongly motivated to further Morgoths goals and still believed it to be her own worldview. Through Sauron, she was entrusted with the task of recruiting even more of the Eldar to her cause. In this mission, Ardana travelled far and wide through the lands of Beleriand and sought others whom she could convince of her vision. Among her converts were the female Fëatur (in Nargothrond), Valmorgûl (in Thargelion), Ardûval (in Nevrast) and Camring (in Himring). She handed them over each a set of the original cards and instructed them in their use. She promised them to call if the time for departure and founding of own realms was right. They agreed and Ardana went away again to further her plans elsewhere.

After the disastrous (to Morgoth) Dagor Aglareb and the strengthening of the siege of Angband and during a secret meeting in the northern Ered Luin (just north of Caranthirs’ realm) in the (sun)year 82 of the First Age she was officially charged with the task of finding a way for the destruction of the new lights. South she travelled, where she met her long lost friend Núranolë again. With him a plan to topple Vása and Rána was forged, along with a dark alliance to rival any in Middle-earth in later ages.

A cornerstone of the plan was the conception of a child with some Ainu strain. Because of the basic inability of the Ainur to procreate some other method had to be found to achieve this. To explain her plan and its main obstacle she travelled one last time northward and a solution was found by letting some of Morgoths thúle pour into a circlet which was presented to Ardana. This served two purposes: first she would pass this power to her child which was needed for the ritual and second this extraordinary ​“gift” multiplied her own powers of persuasion and subversion so that she would be able to convince many others to follow her.

The second century of the First Age of the Sun saw her travelling to Ardor (along with Morthaur) and laying the first plans of the organization of the Court as well as the physical foundation for the great citadel in the center of the isle of Ardinaak. She worked hard to convince the indigenous Avari that her cause was best for themselves. Her considerable power of persuasion enabled her to sway many of the Avari to the Court’s cause. Her task was helped by the fact that the Avari held a deep grudge against the Eldar who betrayed their kin in travelling to Aman. Ardana was able to convince her followers-to-be that this was a mistake indeed and she returned to follow the elven way in Middle-earth from now onward and never again go to the West.

During the second and third century of the First Age of the Sun the rest of the later Court arrived in the region and by the (sun-)year 175 of the First Age the Court was officially founded with the chief purpose of destroying the Sun and the Moon. Aside from this common interest any member was free to make his own politics and alliances as far as they did not interfere with their primary task. In the year 506 of the First Age Ardana became pregnant with … child and eventually the twins Morelen and Moran were born. As is elsewhere told the boy was removed from Ardana and the daughter remained, guarded as the cornerstone of the ritual. Ardana’s daughter was raised as a normal child of Noldo descent with … as the father. Morgoth’s thúle seemed to work the intended way and everything went one for the preparation of the ritual. Additionally this birthing also affected Ardana’s spirit and she would never waver from her plan, becoming absolutely loyal to her cause (and in fact serving Morgoth, though she denied it fiercely). Only Ardana, Morthaur and Valmorgûl know of Morelen’s special role and power and kept it for themselves to this day, acknowledging the need for secrecy on this matter. The rest of the First Age Ardana spent with the preparation of the Ritual to topple the great lights. These preparations were only interrupted by the need to corrupt and destroy Geshaan. Ardana approved Morthaurs plan which was put to reality largely by Morfuin and Gorthaur.

The attack of the Luingon alliance on the citadel (just before the time of the ritual) enabled the attackers to steal all the gems of Unlight and led to the abduction of Morelen. Morgoths wrath descended upon Ardana though she sought to appease her ​‘partner’, but he threatened her with retribution for her failure. Fearing the consequences, she informed the rest of the Court and they fled their realms and citadels. Fortunately for the Court however, before he could act upon his desire, the Host of the West landed in Beleriand and overthrew him. Ardana travelled with Morthaur to seek for Morelen, because if she could be found, the Ritual could be repeated and the Court’s purpose fulfilled. The first millenia of the Second Age saw Ardana travelling far and wide through Endor (she briefly visited even Eregion and Lindon), and at least she managed to discern that the time for reforming the Court was near. In this time she also found out that a second eclipse would come in the far future (T.A. 1653). She told Morthaur and they returned to Ardor, re-opened the Citadel and prepared it for the return of the other lords.

Until c. S.A. 2000 nothing of importance (at least in her view) happened. In this time however, she felt the growing power of Sauron and probed his strength for she feared he might try to bend the Court to his will. The third and fourth millenium of the Second Age were filled with the struggle of Ardor (and especially his mistress) to contain the power of Sauron. To this purpose she counseled Valmorgûl to take a position in Tantûrak, so that Ardor would have a powerful state to manipulate to the Court’s needs. The power of Tantûrak (with Ardor behind him) and Koronandë/​Hathor (backed by Tâliran) was great enough to keep the God-King in Amaru in check for a full millennium. The invasion of Ar-Pharazôn shook the power structure in the region as Tantûrak and Mûmakan both lost their independence and the Númenóreans became the primary overlords in the South.

It was in this time that the elven population of Dînsûlinor spoke of the existence of the Court and its motives to rule the South. This was clearly launched at this time to engage the powerful and now anti-elven Númenórans into a conflict with the Court. Ardana decided it was necessary to set an example and she searched for a method of retribution against Dînsûlinor. The isle was volcanic in origin and Ardana decided to awaken its power (as Sauron did with Orodruin) to destroy the land of their foes. This task was only possible because the volcano was not extinct as many thought but only dormant with tremendous potential which waited for its release. Ardana prepared the incident with prophecies brought to the region that spoke of destruction for those who offered false advice (aimed at Dînsûlinor’s inhabitants of course). In S.A. 3298 the Court was assembled and they bent all their powers upon waking the volcano and indeed it stirred and erupted. The following cataclysm was so terrible that only few of the inhabitants were able to rescue themselves. Thanks to Ardana’s careful manipulations, everyone believed it to be the wrath of the Valar (or gods for that matter) for sowing lies. The Ardan Council however was drained and greatly weakened by this conjuration of arcane power, so when Sauron demanded their submission in S.A. 3320; still exhausted they could not resist and fell under the Lord of the Rings’ dominance. Celebring the Smith (see ICE’s Gorgoroth, Dol Guldur and Northern Waste for details on this individual) was sent to the citadel as Sauron’s legate.

Saurons downfall at the end of the Second Age freed the elven organization of his influence and Ardana was once more able to act upon her own desires. Celebring was able to flee before the Court could arrest him and lived on to further Sauron’s goals in the world.

The Third Age saw no crisis like those of Dînsûlinor and the Court carefully manipulated the cultures and institutions of the South. In this time the full weight of mortal Middle-earth began to weigh upon Ardana and she felt the waning of the Eldar and undertook nothing new but remained in the Citadel and was content with guiding the Court from afar during this era.

Ardana is the ultimate power behind the Court, even if others are more prominently engaged in actual politics, it is she who holds the reins of power in her hands. One should not be fooled by her apparently passivity within the Court. She is the unapproachable mistress of the whole organization and to date no one has dared to challenge her position.

Fair of skin, Ardana has waist length black hair, with one white streak. She is just under six feet and 4 inches (1,92m) tall and slender though sensuous of figure. Her eyes are black; one cannot tell her pupils from her irises. She usually wears a robe of midnight blue, sewn with silver threads which catch any light and glitter like a field of stars. She is ruthless, but with a fanaticism for her cause, and she will do anything to achieve her purpose: the fall of the sun and moon. To gain it she will sacrifice anything, even her own child.

Profession: Tarot Mage/​Astrologer

Level: 55

Hits: 150

Race: Noldo

Stats: CO: 90 SD: 99 AG: 100 ME: 99 RE: 103 ST: 87 QU: 100 PR: 102 IN: 101 EM: 104

Magic Items

Morthaur (The Lord)

(S. ​“Black Bondage”, aka ​“Núranolë”)

Morthaur was born 2443 years before the rising of the Sun (Valian Year 1245) and given the name Núranolë (Q. ​“Deep Knowledge”) by his mother. Indeed, he showed great skill in acquiring every bit of knowledge about elven art (which men often calls ​‘magic’) concerning the manipulation of the elements and words. His early life in Valinor was uneventful as is often the case in times of peace and joy. With the release of Melkor from his bondage, however, all this changed. The fallen Ainu, once allowed access to all of Aman, shared his great knowledge with those who would listen to him. Not surprisingly, Núranolë was among those who did. During this time he learned much and achieved greater insights than possible without the Fallen Ainu’s knowledge.

When Melkor later destroyed the Two Trees together with Ungoliant and fled to Middle-earth, Núranolë — feeling betrayed personally — was among the most fervent supporters of Fëanor and spoke for the exile and revenge upon Morgoth. Consequently, he was in the host of Fëanor when it attacked Alqualondë and there he did more than his share in the Kinslaying when the company under his command managed to capture a dozen ships fiercely defended by the Teleri (these being the first ones to be built by the Teleri when they still dwelt in Tol Eressëa). Impressed by his skills, Fëanor made Núranolë one of his lieutnants. The ambitious Noldo fought bravely in the Dagor-nun-Giliath and saw Fëanor fall when he arrived with the Smith’s seven sons to relieve him. After that, he was chosen by Maedhros among his companions for the (feigned) negotiations with Morgoth about surrender. As it turned out, Morgoth trusted them no more than they him, but the Black Enemy’s force was stronger and they had Balrogs with them. So Maedhros’ company was slain and he himself taken to Thangorodrim as a captive. Unknown to all (even Maedhros missed it), Núranolë survived also (albeit badly wounded). Shortly after the departure of Maedhros by chance he was discovered by some plundering orcs. They thought they might gain favor from their master (quite a feat) and brought the wounded elf to their master’s citadel also. He recovered from his wounds and was kept as an important prisoner. Once Morgoth realized the Noldor would never ransom a hostage to Morgoth’s conditions (which he learned quite early with Maedhros), Núranolë was sent into the mines of Angband. After a few short years Morgoth deemed the time ripe to sway the Noldo to his cause. The captive was brought to the Black Enemy himself who offered Núranolë service and high position. The Noldo defied his words but Morgoth felt the resistance weaken and laid a shadow of dread and fear upon him (just as he did with Maeglin much later). After this, he feigned mercy and failure of his efforts and let the captive wander free again.

In the instant the ambitious Noldo left Angband but soon realized that he was no longer welcome among his fellow Eldar and they shunned him as we are told in the **: 

“Morgoth used some [of the Noldor…who had been in Angband] for his evil purposes, and feigning to give them liberty sent them abroad, but their wills were chained to his, and they strayed only to come back to him again.”

“Therefore if any of his captives escaped in truth, and returned to their own people, they had little welcome, and wandered alone, outlawed and desperate. Therefore he wandered alone, becoming embittered about his one-time friends. Furthermore he did not find peace when not plotting about his own grandeur (and subconsciously furthering Morgoth’s goals by splitting the ressources of the Deep-elves). So he wandered through Beleriand and only occasionally went among his people again (and then only with the darker ones, such as the people of Caranthir, Celegorm or Curufin and their lords where he only was on sufferance). Eventually he left Beleriand after the Dagor Aglareb to seek out realms of his own with lesser people he could rule. It was in this time he changed his name to Morthaur to better reflect his inner feelings, for no longer was he the one to possess deep knowledge just for itself, but he thought himself to be in some kind of black bondage (which didn’t molest him for that matter). On these wanderings he met his old acquaintance Ardana on the spot of later Vamag on the peninsula just north of Umbar. After a short period of probing they agreed to wander together (they instinctively trusted each another insofar that they were in opposition to their fellow Eldar).”

Silmarillion p188, Chapter 18 — Of the Ruin of Beleriand

His capture changed his character as well as his name (s.a.). Were he once a fiery Noldo, quick to act and even a bit reckless, he now became obsessed with security and methodical planning. He became cynical and rather self-centered. The reason for this transformation was that his (subconscious) fear of a repeat of his defeat following the Dagor-nun-Giliath; a defeat he deemed to be caused by too rash action. Now ruthless and selfish, Morthaur will stoop to anything to achieve his ends. He is also now a coward and will not imperil himself if it can be avoided, which is not surprising, given his history.

Once in Ardor, Morthaur devised grand plans for the Citadel which would be his home, plans that rivaled the most ambitious projects of the Eldar in Beleriand: a singular tower 550’ (165m) high, surrounded by eight smaller keeps in the perimeter of the grounds, each of them surrounded by a garden to reflect the special interests and peculiarities of the Lords. These keeps each towered 170’ (51m) high. The whole complex was surrounded by extensive parks and places for athletic tournaments. After 20 years of building the complex was finished and Morthaur moved into his masterpiece. For the rest of the First Age he remained here, his skills as planner rarely needed.

One of the incidents when his skills were needed was the destruction of Geshaan. This realm of men posessed such power that the Court deemed it a real danger to its plans. Morthaur studied Geshaan extensively and developed a method of bringing it down. His scheme incorporated the corruption of the realms’ religion, the manipulation of the climate (bringing droughts and floods) and the corruption of its leaders toward greed, hate and strife. The plan worked well and before long the once proud and prosperous realm was falling to pieces.

Satisfied with his success, Morthaur reclined in the comfort of the Citadel and awaited the Ritual. After its failure he fled the isle together with Ardana. He spent the greatest part of his exile in the places of learning among men and his knowledge was enlarged, especially about the Secondborn. Again in conjunction with Ardana he returned around the year 1200 of the Second Age to Ardinaak. Even though the place was in disrepair, he managed to reorganize the Court rather quick and in the year 1400 S.A. the Citadel complex had returned to its former glory.

Chief engineer of the scheme to bring down the Sun and Moon, Morthaur is more of a planner than implementer. After the construction of the citadels and the establishment of the Court he rarely left Ardinaak and preferred its safety and the comfort it provided. So his deeds are more those of a diplomat and politician within the Court rather than those of an active implementer. He has made friendship (as far this goes within this insiduous organization) with Ardana, Fëatur and Rilia. Even more so than the Lady he is rather passive and accomplishes no great feats until the Third Age. He despises Valmorgûl and (to a lesser degree) Cambragol.

Morthaur stands 6′6″ (1,98m) tall and is fairly muscular of build. His hair is coal black, kept in a bowl cut and his skin is dark as if deeply tanned (he is not as dark as the Kirani, however). His eyes are an almost black brown. In the way of clothing, he prefers either a coverall with many pockets or full length voluminous robes, both absolute black trimmed with silver and otherwise adorned only with the octagonal insignia of Ardor.

Profession: Magician/​Runemaster

Level: 60

Hits: 150

Race: Noldo

Stats: CO: 93 SD: 93 AG: 101 ME: 103 RE: 102 ST: 90 QU: 100 PR: 99 IN: 92 EM: 102

Magic Items

Valmorgûl (The Magician)

(S. ​“Lord of Black Sorcery”)

As Ardana and Morthaur, Valmorgûl belongs to those who left the Undying Lands after Morgoths theft of the Silmarils. Before his service to the Black Enemy, he was known as Valfëa (Q. ​“Spirit of Power”). The eager Elda learned all that he could in the ways of magic that was possible. His obsession with these arts also led to his fall. Under the tutelage of Vána he studied the way of fire, from Aulë he learned some smithy craft (although he never excelled in it 

Here in Angband, his cruel talents were refined and he learned great sorcery until he reached a skill surpassed only by the highest servants of his master. This was also the time when he changed his name to Valmorgûl which pleased him much more than his original, which he has left behind him with his past. He also witnessed the trial of Morthaur and delighted in his fellow Elda’s pain. Later, it was Valmorgûl who was sent as an emissary to Thargelion and bring Ardana the orders to make a plan to topple the Sun and Moon. This became also his mission, so he went to the South, albeit he separated from Ardana and joined her and Morthaur again when they met for the first time in Ardor.

Using his skills of building learned in Valinor and Angband, Valmorgûl supervised and led the work on the citadel of Ardor. Constant rivalries between him and Morthaur prevented the Citadel from being built too fast, but for the Eldar time meant little, and so the whole complex was finished after 20 years of building in 1.A. 196.

The remainder of the First Age saw Valmorgûl roaming abroad in Ardor (mostly disguised), seeking information about enemies of the Court. During the attack of the Luingon Alliance upon the citadel he was confronted by Chrys Menelrana in the accessway to the main chambers of the Ritual. The ensuing melee was long and violent but in the end Valmorgûl had to give ground before his enemy and fled the scene to avoid certain death. Fortunately for him, Chrys had much more to do than pursuing his foe and so Valmorgûl survived the incident — though he sweared eternal enmity to Chrys and all his family. After the theft of the gems of Unlight and the abduction of Morelen, Valmorgûl (being ultimately responsible for the security of the complex) fled the place of his defeat and went to eastern lands even before the other lords (who fled after having learned of Morgoth’s wrath).

The first millenium he wandered through Middle-earth and learned much about its inhabitants. In the year 1175 S.A. his Elda foresight told him of an imminent re-forming of the Court and once again he wandered to the South. After his arrival at the Citadel, he was again entrusted the wardship over the Citadel, though his authority and prestige had gone down a little due to his failure at the Ritual. Nonetheless, he once again took the chance and organized an excellent security around the Citadel complex. Nothing escaped Valmorgûls watchful sentries, and so his pride soon reached its former height. The second millenium of the Second Age saw the rise of the Kirani realm of Koronandë and especially the Númenóreans and their colony of Tantûrak. In the latter realm he saw an opportunity to manipulate the mortal politics in the region without revealing the existence and aims of the Court. After counseling with Ardana on that matter, he waited for the right moment, and when the Númenórans began to mourn against the Ban of the Valar, he deemed the time was right and went in disguise to Sarûl. Posing as an aged man of wisdom and calling himself ​“The Magician” he was allowed into the ranks of the state’s bureaucracy. He quickly rose through the ranks and in S.A. 2025 became the chief advisor of the governor. It was obvious that he was no man despite his appearance and so early in his service he ​“revealed” that he was an emissary of ancient wisdom, intent on helping mankind to make its own way. This was much to the liking of the governor and indeed he (and his successors) had great benefits from the ​“Magician’s” advice.

Valmorgûl took delight in this role and soon he held the reins of power in his hands (though he seldom used them). Often he left Sarûl for years, excusing himself with ​“Wizard’s matters”, but would ever return in times of need or crisis. So it came, that the ​“Magician” left the realm occasionally for years or decades but ever held a close look on its situation.

The growing influence of Sauron in the region (especially after Jí Indûrs ascension as King of the Mûmakani), Valmorgûl used his influence in Tantûrak to oppose the Nazgûl’s (and thereby Sauron’s) plans in the South. This struggle went on and forth until the year 3010, when he deemed the might of Tantûrak great enough (and Númenór weak) and counseled the governor to declare Tantûrak independent and take the title of emperor himself. The secession succeeded and the ​“Magician’s” status reached a new height. As is told elsewhere, finally both Númenór and Sauron fell, and the Court was once more free to act upon his own desires. The dissolution of a strong and dominant nation opposed to his interests (Mûmakan), Valmorgûl only rarely visited Sarûl, taking no delight in day-to-day affairs and mundane problems.

Until c. T.A. 1200, nothing of importance for Valmorgûl happened. Then, he perceived the rising of the Shadow and soon saw the return of Jí Amaav. This led him to involve himself more in his old role as the ​“Magician” and soon the old conflict was alive once again. The rivalry continues to this day, yet undecided.

The legendary rivalry between Valmorgûl and Morthaur exists as long as the Court and even a few years before. Since he witnessed the humiliation of the Noldo by Morgoth, he constantly mocked him, believing him to be a coward and weak of mind. He also makes no secret of his loathing and so the atmosphere in the Citadel is in a state of heightened awareness when both lords are present. Valmorgûl holds Morthaur in contempt, and makes it clear that he feels he himself should rule the organization. It is he who is often responsible for the internal schisms. He is unlike Morthaur in that he does not shirk from stepping into the fray if necessary. Of course, he is completely confident in his own prowess as a sorcerer and warrior.

Valmorgûl is the most cruel and impatient of the Lords of the Court, save perhaps Cambragol. He is prone to violent fits of temper in which he strikes outright any number of servants or guards who might be nearby and could be blamed for the cause of his rage. He is the Warden of the Citadel of Ardor, and rules it with an iron fist and often dominates the group by sheer force of will.

In his position as advisor to the Emperor of Tantûrak, he appears as an ageless man with silver-white hair, flowing beard and golden eyes. About 6′6″ (1,98m) tall, his true form is that of a muscular, tanned Noldo with raven hair and grey eyes, 6′8″ (2,00m) in height. As the advisor, he wears unadorned white. When the Warden, he wears either a full-length robe or thigh length tabard, both black and quartered on the front, with the four Court emblems (helm, sword, orb, staff) embroidered in gold and silver; also black pants and high black leather boots. In addition, he bears the master octagon device, larger than the others, on a wide heavy chain draped over his shoulders: the symbol of his office.

Profession: Sorcerer/​Wizard/​Warrior Mage

Level: 41

Hits: 210

Race: Noldo

Stats: CO: 101 SD: 85 AG: 103 ME: 95 RE: 98 ST: 100 QU: 102 PR: 100 IN: 101 EM: 102

Magic Items

Morfuin (The Lord Demon)

(S. ​“Dark Gloom”)

Morfuin (the old calling Mourfuin is due to a mispronounciation and should not be used) is Morgoth’s special envoy to the court. He is by nature very similar to a Balrog, although one of less power. He was sent in 1.A. 302 to the Court and act as its ​‘Master of Terror’. With him went a sizeable company of lesser Raukor (Q. ​“Demons”) to act as his personal ​“army”. He was admitted to the Ardan Council and served as its ​“enforcer” from that time onward. Whenever there was need to punish the enemies of the Court with supernatural means so that the victims meant it to be a penalty from the gods, Morfuin’s service was needed. This was mostly used on men, since they are much easier to manipulate than the Quendi. He played a decisive role in the fall of Geshaan, when he appeared as the god Seth, punishing them for their ignorance of his godhood. Morfuin took delight in his role and was able to sway the benign religious beliefs of the people into a more grim and brutal cult. His mission as the evil god of Geshaan lasted from 540 to 563 1.A. The Demon left behind a realm filled with distrust and civil unrest which led to the final fall of Geshaan over the next forty years.

Until the Ritual at the end of the First Age, there was no challenge for the Lord Demon and so he stayed at the Citadel complex. The attack of the Luingon Alliance claimed the life of many of his demonic servants, though he was unable to prevent the breaching of the fortress by the forces of the alliance. After the theft of the gems and the disappearance of Morelen he went far and wide through Ardor to seek their places but was unable to find any evidence. The potential retribution by Morgoth caused him to seek shelter in the bowels of the Earth and so he went into oblivion for over eleven centuries.

When he felt the power of Ardinaak arising again Morfuin also emerged and travelled to the Citadel. Here he met his former peers and the Council was re-formed. The lack of open assault and warfare left the Demon Lord with much time to contemplate over himself and his power in the structure of the Court. He also worked hard to reorganize and train his remaining demons into an efficient force capable to turn any potential intruder.

The Lord Demon is relatively simple of mind, and his function in the Court is basically that of the ​“enforcer”. In nature he is a Valarauko (Q. ​“Demon of Power), correspondingly he is also master of all demons (except Airatano) in the Court. In his natural form, Morfuin stands 16 feet (4,88m) tall and has the hideous visage of all Valaraukar. Like all Balrogs, he is able to immolate at will, giving all within 10’ (3m) an ​‘A’ Heat critical and those in physical contact with him a ​‘C’ crit. Unlike most other Balrogs, Morfuin is capable of assuming human form at will — a bald and beardless man with red skin. This power costs him one PP per 10 minutes. He wields a weapon in each hand: a two-handed sword in the left and a multithonged whip in the right. Due to the level of his personal power, he will obey none except Ardana, Valmorgûl or Fëatur.

Profession: Warrior Mage /​Fighter

Level: 27 (42)

Hits: 150

Race: Raug (fallen Ainu)

Stats: CO: 103 SD: 80 AG: 100 ME: 80 RE: 60 ST: 106 QU: 99 PR: 100 (104) IN: 75 EM: 60

Magic Items

Morelen (The Star)

(S. ​“Dark Star”)

Born in 1.A. 507, Morelen is the daughter of Ardana. Her mother taught her much of the lore of the Eldar and her father those of the Tatyar and soon she rose high in the structure of the Court (despite not becoming a council member). Her father was the original Lord of Arms (the post now occupied by Valkrist) and fell in the defense of the citadel when the Luingon Alliance attacked it. She has not forgotten this incident and has a strong bias against the ancient alliance of the forces of the Free Peoples. The power of Morgoth poured into Ardana (q.v.) makes Morelen quite gloomy (though she sees no reason for it). Her position at the citadel might be compared with that of Arwen in Rivendell: the beautiful maid who awaits her fate. She does not know however that she is destined to be sacrificed on an altar…

During the First Age Morelen spent her entire life on the isle of Ardinaak where she was instructed in the ways of Eldarin as well as Avarin life. She deemed her role that of an intermediary between the sundered groups of Eldar and Avari, and hence her dedication to learn everything she could to fill this role as best as possible. Some of these skills were necessary parts of the Ritual that would accomplish the destruction of Rána and Vása (and unbeknowst to Morelen, her own death of course). During the attack of the Luingon alliance she was brought to safety deep within the Citadel, but after the hidden and disguised male Fëatur overtook the guards, he threw a veil of forget over her and brought her out of the citadel through a secret way without anyone taking notice. His plan was taking her to Kuilethelë (Q. ​“Well of Life”,) also called Guinarnen (S. ​“Water of Living”) but unfortunately while heading north he was struck by an epic blizzard in the Yellow Mountains, and after the storm subsided Morelen was gone. He searched long but didn’t find any trace of her. The escape of Morelen was something of pure chance (as Gandalf would say), since she hadn’t recovered from his power yet and followed him like an innocent child. The wild storm caught her attention and she wandered to feel it. Soon she was lost and nearly froze to death, but Morgoth’s hidden thúle kept her alive. So she survived and wandered through the lands that lay before her. Her past was black to her and long she sought to discover her heritage and name. During this search she called herself Vanwarin (Lost memory). During her journeys she visited many foreign lands and went as far as Helkanen in the Far East.

During her travels she learned much and rediscovered the gretest part of her abilities, but her name, heritage and home were still a mystery. At the end of the first millenium of the Second Age she felt a strange desire to travel to the Far South and eventually, in the year 1294 S.A. she arrived at Ardinaak. Here she was greeted by her mother who spoke to her of the past and then Morelen knew her past again except the circumstances of her abduction from the Citadel during the attack of the alliance (the fact which Ardana desired to know the most of course).

Since her reappearance, she remained in Ardinaak and acting in her role as ​“Eldar-Avari intermediary”. In this function she often cooperates with Camring. He fell in love with her, but she didn’t notice it — although Ardana did.

After all, Ardana’s daughter plays the role of the ignorant fool in this game of power since only a few people know of the fate she is entitled to. She is convinced she was kidnapped by jealous Eldar to prevent an understanding between Eldar and Avari in the region. She is not aware that she is indeed the cornerstone of a hideous ritual. Were she to know her real destiny she might even try to change sides for the destruction of Sun and Moon might be a crime too great for her. Morgoth’s thúle within her might even drive her to madness when it tries to prevent such an outcome. Here lies great potential for the cause of good.

In appearance, Morelen is 6′0″ (1,83m) tall with raven black hair and matching dark eyes. Her delicate features are augmented by her royal and lordly presence which suffices to keep her respected within the Court (those who does not recognize are generally short-lived). Generally she wears expensive garments made of silk and colored in black, silver and white. She delights in the classical Noldo exercises of prowess (both in mind and body) and is often seen on the sports ground, testing her skills.

Profession: Bard/​Houri/​Dancer

Level: 36

Hits: 150

Race: Noldo/​Tatya (part ​“Ainu”)

Stats: CO: 98 SD: 95 AG: 98 ME: 102 RE: 100 ST: 90 QU: 100 PR: 101 IN: 103 EM: 95

Magic items

Rilia (The Sorceress)

(S. ​“Brilliant Void”)

Not cruel, but perhaps ruthless in her thirst for knowledge and power, Rilia is a victim of the onborn tendency of the Noldor to seek out answers to secrets, and delve into things arcane. Even back in Valinor she belonged to those who ever sought to uncover more secrets and lore. She was born relative late in the reckoning of that realm, only thirty (Valian) years before the release of Melkor from his bondage at Mandos. With eagerness she learned all that the Valar (and Maiar) deemed suitable for one of the Quendi with her inherent strength. Soon she began to grow dissatisfied with the slow progress of her lore, and it was not long before she began to contemplate how she might learn more than the Valar taught. She met Valfëa (later known as Valmorgûl) and as he taught many skills of power to her, the two became quite good friends, though Rilia didn’t delve that much into Melkor’s lore as her fellow Noldo did (because Melkor didn’t unveil so many secrets to her). Thus she remained somewhat more independent and self-willed than her peer. After Rilia had all learned skills that her inner power might support, she secretly learned those skills, by whom she would be called in times after: she became the ​“Sorceress” and learned sorcery from Valfëa, who in turned derived his knowledge from the renegade Vala himself. This act led to her final fall from grace, for her desire to rule and govern over others grew ever stronger.

When the Two Trees were killed, Rilia belonged to Fëanor’s radical faction who demanded the war against Morgoth and suggested exile. Rilia did not take the Oath of Fëanor (she only wished to go to Middle-earth), but she was most fervent in the support of his policy and she killed ruthlessly (using all of the powers at her disposal) during the seizure of the Teleri’s ships. Upon setting foot on Middle-earth with Fëanor’s host she participated in the Dagor-nuin-Giliath, but learning of Fëanor’s death she held herself mostly apart from the active war against the fallen Ainu. Though she had no sympathies for Morgoth anymore (the killing of Finwë she deemed ruthless and a great crime), Rilia also was not overly interested in total war. Fëanors words of realms in Middle-earth came back within a few years in Middle-earth and they grew ever stronger. She clearly remembered his speech in Tirion, the place lighted by torches:

“Why, O people of the Noldor, why should we longer serve the jealous Valar, who cannot keep us nor even their own realm secure from their enemy? And though he (Morgoth) be now their foe, are not they and he of one kin? …And what…have he not lost, cooped up here in a narrow land between the mountains and the sea? Here once was light, that the Valar begrudged to Middle-earth, but now dark levels all. Shall we mourn here deedless for ever, a shadow folk, mist-haunting, dropping vain tears in the thankless sea? Or shall we return to our home? In Cuivienen sweet ran the waters under unclouded stars, and wide lands lay about, where a free people might walk. There they lie still and await us who in our folly forsook them. Come away! Let the cowards keep this city!…No other race shall oust us!”

(The Silmarillion. 96 – 97).

After the Dagor Aglareb together with her spouse she settled among Celegorm’s people at the Aglon pass where she ever thought about a realm of her own. During her frequent travels she also came to Nargothrond and became acquainted with the female Fëatur who also dreamt of vast realms of her own. Despite a mutual dislike for each other they shared a common desire and when Rilia was contacted by Fëatur about a potential realm of her own, far away from the Noldor and their wars, Rilia became very interested, though her husband was less enthusiastic. Soon therefater fate struck however. The death of her husband in skirmish with a band of orcs made her bitter. Indeed after this incident and being contacted by Ardana Rilia was easily converted to a cause of elven rule in distant lands, unmolested by either the Valar and her fellow Eldar. So, when Ardana offered her a position in an organization that would further Rilia’s goals, she obliged herself to the project. When all was ready, she left Beleriand with a few trusted friends (whom she had converted to her cause), one being Mornaur who served her well and was always a trusted ally of the Sorceress. Now she swore an oath however, the Oath of Ardor that all High Lords took.

Rilia erected her fortress at Naurlindol, a site near active volcanism and she delighted in the challenge to build a lasting abode in this dangerous and unstable area. The result is most impressive, even if it is concealed from foreign eyes. According to her temperament, the hot and fiery climate in Naurlindol leave the impression of constant movement — never ceasing and ever shifting in new forms, which wax and wane unpredictably.

As fiery of temper as her realm might imply, Rilia is both demanding and impatient. She rules Naurlindol with confidence, daring even to send Sauron away (see ​“Book of Andraax”). Rilia serves the Court well since its founding. But she also is active in her pursuits to satisfy her desire for personal gain and power therby coming into conflict with other members of the Court, notably (the female) Fëatur. With her she shares a special dislike and (mutual) rivalry and delights at every opportunity to discredit her.

The Second and Third Age saw Rilia ever more doubting the righteousness of the goals of Ardor, but out of stubborness (being quite proud herself) and the evil oath she clings to the Court. She does however keep herself now mostly aloof from its politics. When the Third Age progresses she becomes really weary and repentant of the deeds in her youth and seeks a way to circumvent her foolish words in the Council Chamber many milennia ago. Indeed just before the ritual she is quite weary, being worn down by the Oath and the weight of Middle-earth. When the new ritual was being conducted Rilia spotted the intruders (Moran the the PCs) in time but chose not to inform any of the other Lords (or the guards) and thereby try to right the wrongs of her early acts of rashness. She longed to be be redeemed of her existence in Middle-earth by fulfilling the oath (trying to topple sun and moon) and helping to prevent its completion. When the tower finally fell she gladly accepted her death, being free to Mandos now and await her time to be reborn.

With dark brown eyes and long dark red hair, Rilia is a beauty of rare appearance, for her red hair is virtually unknown among the Noldor, and uncommon for anyone of Eldarin blood. She stands 6′0″ (1,83m) in height, and carries herself with flowering grace, maintaining an attitude of aloofness from her fellow Court members (There is an intense, if unspoken, rivalry between Rilia and the female Fëatur). The passage in the Book of Andraax referring to Rilia having Eldarion executed and ​“dumped, decapitated on a hexagram platform” is perhaps overly dramatic, and mislays the blame. Morfuin killed Eldarion on his own initiative, after Eldarion antagonized the Demon, perhaps to escape further torture in the only way left to him: through death. Rilia wears full length chiffon-like robes, consisting of layers of red, orange and yellow, trimmed in black with severly pointed hems lending the impression of flickering flames.

Profession: Archmage

Level: 32

Hits: 150

Race: Noldo

Stats: CO: 87 SD: 85 AG: 100 ME: 95 RE: 98 ST: 68 QU: 100 PR: 97 IN: 99 EM: 101

Magic Items

Valglin (The Thief)

(S. ​“Gleam of Power”)

Valglin belongs to those Elves brought into the service of the Court by the persuasion power of Ardana. Born in the last years of the Two Trees in Tâliran, the ​“Thief” is at home in the region. Once she dwelt in Tâliran and enjoyed the free life of the Avari. She was among those who delighted in the refinement of their subterfuge skills — they were eager to test their abilities against each other and all other creatures found under the stars. One time however, strange monsters began to roam the region and many Elves disappeared — never to be seen again. Whispers of demonic monsters born in times before the emergence of the Elves went around and they were worried. Soon thereafter, (after the rise of the sun) a tall lord of the Noldor (Chrys Menelrana) from Aman appeared among the Nelya and Tatya of the region and he spoke of Morgoth, his desire to rule the world and his crimes in Valinor. Part of the Avari believed him and spoke for his support but the most of the Dark Elves viewed him as the cause for their newfound trouble and as a traitor (being an Elda) altogether. Valglin belonged to the latter fraction and as the lords of Tâliran and the Arana at last resolved to accede to his pleas and support his cause. Valglin, amongst others was disgusted by the idea of following one these arrogant deserters of their kind and she left Taurondë the hour Chrys’ wishes were granted.

After her exile from Tâliran, together with Linsûl long she wandered in the forests of the South until she finally heard of enemies of the newcomer arriving in the area as well. She searched for them and finally met Rilia near the site of the future Naurlindol. In spite of her obvious Noldo origin, Valglin spoke to the western lady and over the course of long discussions was convinced that these new arrivals went to Ardor because they despised the Valar (as Rilia called them) and only wished to live the life of the oroiginal Elves: to roam free in Endor and order all things they encounter according to their will. Appealed by the speech of the Sorceress, Valglin pledged her service and loyalty to Rilia and helped her recruit more followers among the scattered Elves of the region.

When the Court was formed, Valglin was rewarded with a high position within the Suit of Staves for her unwavering and faithful service to Rilia. She was given the title of the ​“Thief” and acts as an able informant and agent for the Court’s cause. Often she goes out on acts of espionage among the realms of the South for the Sorceress and until today she did her job well.

Her greatest task was the infiltration of the Elves of Dînsûlinor at the end of the Second Age. In this time it became apparent that men were beginning to whisper of powerful Elves bent on destroying the sun and that this should be opposed. Alarmed by these tidings, Ardana ordered the Court’s network of spies and informants to seek for the source of these rumours. Soon it was found that the inhabitants of the elven isle of Dînsûlinor were the source of these bad propaganda. These Elves were of Nelya stock together a few Tatya, and in fact they were the remant of the Arana who left the mainland and settled on the southern island. This composition of people was not uncommon for elven realms in the region but a few of them were once supporters or even adherents of the Court. These individuals saw the Court for what it was and renounced their allegiance and retreated to the lonely isle in the Haragaer late in the Second Age. They did not trust the Guild also and sought their own way of living. After some debate they decided that the Court was evil and should be destroyed or at least weakened. For this cause they began to sow the above mentioned rumours among men and openly spoke of the Court when the time was ripe. Their ultimate hope was to maneuver the now racist and anti-elven Númenóreans against the Court. Seeing the impending danger, Ardana sent the disguised Valglin and Linsûl and they were able to win the trust of Dînsûlinors leaders. When these decided the time to openly oppose Ardor was approaching, the Court’s plans were already one step ahead. Bending their full power upon the seemingly extinct volcanoe of the island the Court re-awakened it (made only possible by the placement of enhancing artifacts within the volcanoe’s cone) and the unleashed power of the earth nearly totally destroyed the isle and killed most of the surprised inhabitants. Before the cataclysm, Valglin and Linsûl had — of course — left the isle.

The Third Age saw Valglin engaged mostly engaged in such mission to recover the lost gems and strengthening the position of Rilia within the Court.

A quiet, even-tempered Elf, Valglin serves the Court at Naurlindol as Rilia’s assistant and often cooling the Sorceress’ outbursts. Valglin is an accomplished Thief by profession. In origin She is a Kinn-lai Elf, and her petite size (5′5″; 1,65m tall) works in her favor, for she is usually overlooked when she so desires. She has short brown hair and brown eyes, and is attractive if not aggressively beautiful. Quiet and businesslike, she and Curubor often cooperate on joint ventures. Valglin wears the full-length flame robes of her suit only at formal occasions, but preferring a plain black coverall decorated only with the staff badge of the suit, and a wide belt, which holds many small and useful devices.

Profession: Thief/​Illusionist

Level: 23

Hits: 100

Race: Tatya (Kinn-lai)

Stats: CO: 93 SD: 94 AG: 101 ME: 95 RE: 99 ST: 89 QU: 100 PR: 81 IN: 96 EM: 97

Magic Items

Airatano (Arda)

(Q. ​“Craftsman of coppery color”)

Airatano is another Ainu within the structure of the Court of Ardor. In the beginning he was (like Sauron) a disciple of Aulë but the glory and power of Melkor lured him into the service of the renegade Vala. Like Sauron, he was enticed by the prospect of building things of his own design. Unlike the later Lord of the Rings however, he never developed a desire for own lordship, relishing in the crafting of physical items (albeit outside of the Song of Creation). In this function he served in Utumno where he wrought many weapons and cruel devices for the Black Enemies’ servants. After the establishment of Angband, he was dispatched to this fortress, being under the direct command of Sauron. Even in this time there was rivalry between the two but it was clear (if not by Melkors order then by their respective inner strength — Saurons was far greater of course) who would be master and who servant. In this position the fallen Ainu made many items to be used by Sauron’s troops. When news of a planned campaign of the Valar against Morgoth and the liberation of the Quendi from his shadow reached Utumno, the fallen Vala marched with his host westward to stop the Valar’s advance right on the western shores of Endor. Their might prevailed though, and he was forced to flee to Utumno. Afterwards, Angand was destroyed, but only superficially and in well-hidden deep caverns some servants of Melkor still lurked. Among these were a number of Balrogs together with Airatano.

Upon Morgoths return from Aman, Angband was rebuilt and Airatano immediately pledged his loyalty to Morgoth. He was given the task of Chief Forger of the Iron Prison and overseer of its craftsmen. So the job of the Smith was clear: to provide Angband’s smithies with skilled workers and keep the supply of weapons and armor for the rapidly growing armies flowing. This position he held until the end of the First Age, when Morgoth was overthrown in the climactic War of Wrath. Over the course of the battle, when Angband was breached and the Host of Valinor descended into its halls, Airatano fled through a secret tunnel out of the complex (like some of the Balrogs also did). Once free, he headed north — and eastward until he reached the old smithy at Morgoth’s Well and hid himself for long years. Here, he helped his fellow Maia Durlach to kill the Elf-lord Thilgon when the latter penetrated the ancient site (see ICE’s Northern Waste) . When, at the end of the War of Sauron with the Elves, a band of elven refugees arrived at the area and great magic was unleashed in the duel between Lindor and the Eloeklo (see ICE’s Northern Waste), Airatano awoke again and prepared to leave his self-appointed exile. After the adversaries left, he left the place too and headed southward. Travelling into Eriador, he visited the ruins of Ost-in-Edhil (and especially those of the Mírdaithrond) and frowned at the destruction brought upon this place of high craft. From the remains of the battle he also learned the most important facts of what happened and the thought of allegiance to Sauron was soon banished from his mind; mainly because he didn’t view the defeated Sauron worth his service and second because of the destruction of the skillful Mírdain. A nearly destroyed document within the ruins hinted at the settlement of an elven group loyal to the Black Enemy and his decision was made. His sympathy for the gifted Noldor and his disgust of Sauron led him to Ardor. In S.A. 1800 he arrived at Ardinaak and soon was given a high position in the Suit of Staves and Lord of the fortress of Ithilkir, becoming the chief craftsman of the Court. This position was vacant since the demise of its former lord in the Battle against the Luingon Alliance and hadn’t been filled to that day.

From his acceptance within the Court onward until ever after, the Master Smith stayed apart from Court politics and intrigues, finding delight and sense of existence in his work. He rarely leaves Ithilkir, preferring to contemplate over future designs and improving already existing ones.

Physically imposing, but in fact relatively mild of temperament, Airatano obeys without question Rilia’s commands, happy to remain at Ithilkir forging items of power and fine workmanship. He appears as a very muscular man seven feet (2,13m) tall with shiny (as if oiled) red skin. He is also often called ​“Lesh-Y” (pronounced ​“Lesh-eye”). This stems from a debased Tuktanin word which means ​“Red Demon”. This name was given to him when he, on one of his rare absences from Ithilkir, was spotted by some Tuktani priests. Though he was soon able to threw them off his trail, they spoke of their encounter and now this appellation is often used as a nickname for the demon. Airatano is able to alter his height from 5 to 10 feet (1,50-3m). He is bald and in fact lacks body hair, and has overlarge highly pointed ears. Airatano’s hands are very large with tough, clawlike fingernails (which can be retracted at will). He generally wears only a short red kilt and a wide tool belt. As part of his demonic nature, he is naturally immune to all forms of heat and flame.

Profession: Inorganic Alchemist/​Smith

Level: 30(50)

Hits: 250

Race: Raug (fallen Ainu)

Stats: CO: 100 SD: 80 AG: 102 ME: 90 RE: 90 ST: 102 QU: 90 PR: 99 IN: 80 EM: 90

Magic Items

Linsûl (The Harper)

(S. ​“Wind-song”)

Born in northern Tâliran in the Valian Year 1420, this beautiful Avarin woman was soon recognized as one of the most gifted in the art of music in the whole region. Her spirit and dedication belonged totally to the Avarin way of living. After she reached maturity and developed her talents in earnest she was given the honor of being the official bard at the court of the Tâliran king. She relished in her position and sought ever to express the elven way of life in her music. An incision to her life came in the fiftieth year of the Sun when a tall Noldo from Aman arrived in Taurondë and asked for permission to speak to the king. It was Chrys Menelrana, intent upon gathering as much support for his project of an organization for resistance versus Morgoth’s attempt of domination. Linsûl, like her friend Valglin disliked this Elda ​“traitor” and despised his words. Consequently she belonged to those Nelyar (Arana) who renounced their loyalty to the Tâliran king when Chrys Menelrana was accepted among the Kinn-lai and Arana of the realm and given high honors. Ironically it was this attempt of united resistance that resulted in the strengthening of the Court, led to strife among the Firstborn and prepared the grounds for the recruitment of many followers for the Ardan cause. So even here was the Doom of Mandos recognizable when it denied the Noldor those goals they wished to achieve in Middle-earth. The subsequent wanderings of Linsûl and Valglin brought them far and wide through the (later) Mûmakan and she saw many things of horror and monsters formerly unknown. All this she attributed to the returned ​“traitors” (how she called the Noldor then), and many of these horrors she weaved into her songs, making them capable of conferring awful visions and sometimes even complete madness.

Accompanying Valglin, she met Rilia and though her companion was soon convinced of the Sorceress’ sincere intentions, Linsûl was more skeptical. Finally she acceeded to Rilia’s arguments and she too joined the order that would later become the Suit of Staves. Linsûl is among the most openly active members of the Court.

The defeat of the Court and the subsequent flight of the Lords following the attack of the Luingon alliance also caused Linsûl to depart this area and seek her fortune elsewhere (at least for a time). During her travels she also came into the Far East of Middle-earth where she was able to gain new skills and powers belonging to this foreign culture. After her return to Ardor in the second millenium of the Second Age she uses her skills to further the goals of Rilia and the Court (in this order of preference).

Nearly all time she is abroad the Mûmakan, gathering information which is (after presentation to and filtering by Rilia) given to the Court. One of her most remarkable feats was the discovery of one of the three Gems of Unlight in the year 3103 of the Second Age, that were stolen by the Luingon Alliance during their attack on the citadel in the First Age. It was cunningly hidden in the Elornan wetlands; but Linsûl, through her many contacts and great knowledge of mannish legends and tales was able to narrow the area and finally seize the lost gem and raise the chances for the Court to prevail over its enemies.

In her missions she is often accompanied by Curubor (s.b.), a relationship which is often very profitable for the Court. In addition, the two are quite fond of another and so this cooperation is characterized by friendship and affection rather than mere professionalism.

Linsûl’s residence is Naurlindol, but she spends much of her time travelling about the countryside, learning of the actions from the enemies of Ardor. She first met Klaen in T.A. 1453, and nearly succeeded with her considerable charms to seduce him into telling of his true nature and connections. But he grew suspicious and in the end divulged nothing. Now, between them there is a mutual weariness and respect, coupled with a restrained natural attraction. She knows that he is more powerful than he seems, but has no proof. The two, both bards, experience a mutual respect and attraction for another, perhaps because of their allegiance to opposing sides in the scheme of southern Middle-earth. Linsûl herself is a powerful wielder of magic, more than a match for most of her targets. She serves Rilia, but is most frequently abroad, gathering information for the Court of Ardor.

Linsûl barely managed to escape the fall of the citadel when the Ritual failed. The years after this incisive incident she contemplated about her former life and intentions. For many decades she wandered aimlessly in the South, avoiding contact with any people. Finally she realized that her fervent support for the Ardan cause had been an error and that the Eldar of the Luingon Alliance and Guild of Elements at least were not as wrong as she ever thought. So she decided to look for herself in the region and see what she might do rectify some of her misdoings. She came to the conclusion that Ardor had served the Dark Lord’s cause indirectly, even though the Court ever had opposed him. But by making policy for himself she finally realized the resources of the Free Peoples had been split and this was support for Sauron too. In T.A. 1705 she finally left the Utter South and crossed the Ered Laranor northwards. So it came that she finally reached Far Harad and met Syrsi Aranî, a priestess of a cult she deemed suited for the neutralization of Sauronic influence. These were the Sisters of Ishtra (more on this organization can be found in issue 29/30 of OH).

Being 5′10″ (1,78m) tall and slim Linsûl features the classic elven appearance of grace and beauty. With her shock of long, wavy golden-blonde hair, violet blue eyes, and sun-browned skin, Linsûl is a different kind of beatuy than the darkly mysterious Ardana and Rilia, and even the pouting, petulant (female) Fëatur. With a voice like silver she enthralls her audience with hardly an effort, and it is difficult to remember that her beautiful songs are equally capable of killing, for she is a Bard of considerable expertise and ​“The Harper” of the Court. Linsûl wears a shorter version of the suit’s flame-robes trimmed in gold, and red tights, when not in a less flamboyant disguise.

Profession: Bard/​Dancer/​Geisha

Level: 26÷26÷16

Hits: 100

Race: Nelya (Arana)

Stats: CO: 95 SD: 92 AG: 99 ME: 95 RE: 90 ST: 87 QU: 100 PR: 101 IN: 93 EM: 94

Magic Items

Gorthaur (The High Priest)

(S. ​“The Abominable”)

Gorthaur, the so called ​“High Priest” of the Court of Ardor was born under the name of Valarser (Q. ​“Friend of the Valar”) during the noontide of the Blessed Realm. His father was a Teleri from Alqualondë while his mother was a Noldorin lady. They met in the days after the vanyar left Tirion for Valinor and “…the peoples of Túna and Alqualondë drew together in those days.” (The Silmarillion.72). Valarser accordingly was of mixed origin, similar to the children of Finarfin. He was among those who most eagerly learned the nature of the Order of Things as the Valar deemed it right for the Eldar to know. The young elf delighted in the knowledge about the Ainulindalë (Q. ​“The Music of the Ainur”) and the things that were included within it. Being most interested in the fate of the Children and their doom, he was an eager pupil of Námo (Mandos) from whom he learnt a good deal about spirits, their reading and the doom of the world in general. Although he perceived that Námo taught him only certain things and let many topics and lore unspoken, he profited much from the lessons of the Judger of Souls and was content for a long time. He also befriended Vairë, Námo’s spouse and the weaver of doom. Here he learnt much of the future of Arda, even more than was common among the Eldar.

When Melkor was released from his bondage at Mandos the Elf took no notice of him, not trusting the renegade Vala because of Valarser’s knowledge about the fate of Arda. He believed Melkor to be the cause of the many ills that he perceived. Though he never had dealings with the Enemy himself, other Noldor told him of his teachings, and over time the corrupting words of the dark Vala had effect even on Valarser. The fallen Ainu told tales that spoke of realms in Middle-earth, 

“… whispers went abroad that the Valar had brought the Eldar to Aman because of their jealousy, fearing that the beauty of the Quendi and the makers’ power that Iluvatar had bequeathed to them would grow too great for the Valar to govern, as the Elves waxed and spread over the wide lands of the world.…Melkor spoke to them in secret of Mortal Men…but now the whisper went abroad among the Elves that Manwe held them captive, so that Men might come and supplant them in the kingdoms of Middle-earth, for the Valar saw that they might more easily sway this short-lived and weaker race, defrauding the Elves of the inheritence of Iluvatar…but many of the Noldor believed, or half-believed, the evil words.”

(The Silmarillion. 79 – 80).

He didn’t believe these words first-hand, but thought in all his flattery there was a core of truth: that there would be other children (men) that the Valar never told of and he suspected they should rule over Endor and not the fair Firstborn. Over this he brooded long and finally came to the conclusion that he should go to Middle-earth and see for himself what would happen with these second kind of Children. He thought about a means of leaving the Blessed Realm and concluded that he would have best chances with a boat from the Teleri. So he approached his fathers’ family and asked for passage across the Great Sea. Hearing this, the Teleri were confused and before the topic could be brought to the Valar, Melkor and Ungoliant killed the Two Trees, slew Finwë and escaped to Middle-earth with the Silmarils. Soon thereafter, things developed a dynamism of their own and Valarser was engulfed in the rebellion of the Noldor. Seeing this as an opportunity to leave Aman, he participated, but was shocked of the Kinslaying at Alqualondë and held himself apart from Fëanor and his fell deeds. Consequently, he marched with Fingolfin and endured the terrible crossing of the Helcaraxë.

Upon his arrival in Middle-earth, he lived in Minas Tirith and later Nargothrond, when his lord Finrod moved to his new abode. Here he dwelt for many years and was among those who counseled the king in matters concerning the spirit. After Felagund encountered Bëor the Old and brought him to Nargothrond, no one was more eager to see this member of the Secondborn (from whom he had so many heard) than Valarser. He held long conversations with the Man during his stay at Finrod’s city. But when he finally died, full of years, Valarser was horrified. This short-lived and weak people should be those who would once rule Endor? His thoughts drifted on a way how to prevent this abnormal and horrific occurence. Perhaps it would be wise to rule these short-lived mortals from above — like a lord. In this way their great numbers perhaps could be restrained and elves still be in control. Dismayed and confused he left Nargothrond and wandered alone in Beleriand, seeking guidance and shelter for his shattered beliefs. He also sought a means how to make his plans of rule reality. By chance he met Taurclax (who was on a mission for the master in Beleriand), his fellow-to-be in the Court and after some careful conversation Taurclax recognized Valarsers discontent and spoke of an Elda organization whose aim was it to unite Middle-earth under Elda lordship. Enticed, Valarser heeded these words and soon went for Ardor. He arrived there in the year of the sun 373. Ardana told him of the aim of the Court (to topple the great lights and erect elven rule of all of Middle-earth for the benefit of all) and through her magnificent powers of persuasion was able to convince Valarser of the rightfulness of this goal. He deemed the destruction of the Two Lights a price to be paid when elven rule could be secured by it. One detail however, was not revealed to him: that it was indeed Morgoth who was the ultimate master of the Court. Ardana perceived Valarsers hate against the Enemy and she thought it would be wise not to tell this detail to him. Because of his might and inherent power he was chosen as Leader of the Suit of Helms. Despite his ostensibly dark intention he fell in love with a Tatya woman named … from the region and after some time she returned it. Soon thereafter they wed and ever thereafter she helped him in his deeds. Being a gifted woman herself it was she who designed the future home of the couple. Valarser wished a home a bit gloomy, similar to the halls of Mandos, where he once learned great lore from the Master of Fate. Aurax-dûr (S. ​“Deepwater Darkness”), a great castle within a natural grotto of the cliffy coast of Ardor was built to serve just this purpose.

Soon Valarser was able to prove his worthiness: having great knowledge of spirits and fate he was chosen to subvert the belief and culture of the realm of Geshaan. He began his work in earnest and with Morfuins help (whom he believed to be a defector to Morgoth’s cause) was able to corrupt the culture of these men totally. He acted however carefully and the Arana were not able to find out who was it that corrupted their pupils to dark ways. The goal was accomplished after c. 50 years and the culture and spiritual world of Geshaan was nearly totally corrupted and disunified. In this time he laid the foundations of the Mûmakanril religion with his pantheon of vying gods. He himself appeared as the God-lord of the future Mûmakani: Jí Amaav, the ultimate ruler of the physical world, the son of the Cloudlord Hagama (some kind of Manwë and a reminder of the remnant of Valarser’s loyalty to the Valar). With Morfuins assistance he instilled a great fear among these people and foretold he would come to lead them to victory and superiority over all other men. In this time he became more and more gloomy and darker and this coupled with his discontent with the Valar he called himself from now onward Gorthaur (“S. ​“The Abonimable”). This expressed his goal quite better: to rule the Secondborn as their dark overlord. His special affection with fate and doom made him first choice for the title of ​“High-Priest” within the Court and indeed he is some kind of High-Inquisitor for the organization.

After the defeat at the hands of the Luingon Alliance he fled with his spouse the region to wander across the continent of Endor. On this journeys he learned much about the human spirit and the beliefs of many cultures concerning the spiritual (after)life. After some twelve centuries his foresight told him that the time for the reforming of the Court was near and so the couple travelled again to the southern region. Soon after their return to Aurax-Dûr in S.A. 1295 the Court was officially re-formed in S.A. 1350. Gorthaur, however was bored by the constant bickering and intrigue of his fellow lords and he rarely left his fortress, preferring to brood upon ever better schemes to control the Secondborn. He almost forgot about the Mûmakanril since they posed no real threat and so he missed the change that had come upon their religion: the cult of Jí Amaav had changed drastically over the centuries of his absence. Additionally as an elf he did not fully understand the mannish spirit and its peculiarities. This he felt very painfully when a man pretended to be the second incarnation of the God-lord in S.A. 2010. Though he immediately tried to depose the ​“Usurper” this weak mortal seemed to wield a power even Gorthaur could not explain or counter (this was of course Jí Indûrs Ring of Power). So the Dark Noldo left it with that but he never forgot this personal humiliation and was the bitter enemy of Jí Indûr ever after.

The rest of the Second Age saw Gorthaur mostly in Aurax-Dûr with only occasional travels — mostly to Ardinaak. In S.A. 3197 his wife bore him a son that was named Lanthirion (Q. ​“Son of the Waterfall”) because of the beautiful waterfall that rushed into the grotto of Aurax-Dûr. Gorthaur was the judge over those Elves that escaped the fall of Dînsûlinor and were subsequently captured by the minions of the Court (namely Camring; s.b.). This inquisitional trial about ​“Crimes against Elvenkind” (and the execution of the defendants) was his last significant appearance in the Second Age. After the fall of the Dark Lord at the end of the Second Age the Court began to intensify its efforts to complete the hideous ritual and topple the sun and the moon. Around the middle of the first century of the Third Age, Lanthirion approached his father with the request to give up his intents because he deemed them evil. Furious, Gorthaur arrested his son after the he wouldn’t renounce his opinion. After five years of imprisonment and no sign of mercy at the side of Gorthaur … helped her son (who called himself Klaen afterwards) escape from Aurax-Dûr. Learning of this, Gorthaur was furious and slew his wife in his wrath. So deep was he in the trap of the Black Enemy that even this act which he despised at Alqualondë now didn’t cause any repentance in him.

The Third Age saw Gorthaur again involved in the affairs of the Mûmakanril and as long as Jí Indûr was absent he controlled a good portion of that people, but when the Ringwraith returned he wrested control of the people from Gorthaur, a fact which made the Noldo white with rage. This rivalry is the one thing that causes the otherwise cool Gorthaur to become agitated. The other Court members see this as Gorthaurs personal vendetta and so do not mingle in too much. The one great feat outside the Mûmakan proper area in which Gorthaur participated was the establishment of the Cult of the Dark Overlord in the lands of the great southwestern peninsula in the fourteenth century of the Third Age. Ostensibly, it served as the Court’s major cult to influence the will of the Secondborn. In fact, it is more or less a plaything for Gorthaur which he established to distract him from the ​“weak mortal” Jí Indûr as well as strengthening his grip upon the Secondborn’s beliefs. The Cult of the Dark Overlord remains a secondary venture for Gorthaur though and consequently he doesn’t spend the greater part of his time on it.

A shadowy figure in the Court, Gorthaur spends much of his time in the Third Age either in his dark cavern or abroad acting as (The True) Jí Amaav. He never wavers from his dedication to bring down the Sun and Moon; although perhaps he is at times less than wholly enthusiastic because his ultimate goal is to consolidate the rule of the Elves over men when the lights fall. The preparations for this goal take most of his time.

Gorthaur is master of the Court of Helms, the highest level lord to rule an individual house, Gorthaur is conservative, however, and has for the most part accepted his role within the Court. He rarely uses his personal powers, except in occasional displays to ​“reassure” his priests and subjects of his ​“godhood”. Usually he remains in his citadel at Aurax-Dûr, brooding upon his many responsibilities, within the dim cavern Morlin (Q. ​“Pool of Darkness”).

Of average build, Gorthaur is fairly tall (6′8″; 2,03m) with brown hair and black eyes.

Profession: Evil Cleric/​Diplomat

Level: 38

Hits: 125

Race: Noldor

Stats: CO: 91 SD: 99 AG: 100 ME: 90 RE: 99 ST: 98 QU: 100 PR: 100 IN: 101 EM: 89

Magic Items

Camring (The Tower)

(S. ​“Chill Hand”)

Camring is another of those Noldor who were born short before the release of Melkor from Mandos and eagerly heeded his words and the knowledge he gave. In the process, Camring was filled with visions of realms where the Noldor would be master and their word would be law. In this time he was much more hot-blooded than now, quickly following Fëanor on his quest for revenge. In the course of the Dagor-nun-Giliath however, he was surrounded by a band of orcs and though others of the host saw his plight did not come to his aid and even left the scene (they were much more needed on another part of the battlefield, though Camring did not know this). He survived his encounter only badly wounded because finally Maedhros came to his aid. Though the situation was later explained to him, he held a constant grudge and only reluctantly settled at Himring to serve in the service of Maedhros. When Ardana arrived at the site of Maedhros’ great fortress, she instantly perceived the potential of Camring and spoke to him of distant realms — ruled to his own liking. She left but occasionally came back and finally her words showed effect and he approved to accompany her to the South. She handed him over a set of the original cards, instructed him in their use and told him she would call him when the time was ripe. They agreed upon this arrangement and she left. His last years of service for Maedhros went uneventful except for his participation in the Dagor Aglareb — the last act in which he fought against the interests of his future overlord.

Fifty years later he received the call from Ardana and went south — never to return to Beleriand and his comrades. Camring was given high status within the Court and took his seat at first in the Citadel and later at Aurax-Dûr when Gorthaur arrived in Ardor. His responsibility within the organization lies in the capture of dissidents and heretics. He is the inquisitive hand of Gorthaur when people must be caught for crimes against the interests of the Court of Ardor. He is not without sense of justice however since he avoids hurting his victims at all costs because they must have the fair chance to defend themselves.

Since his installment within the Court structure he roamed the region, ever in search for the heretics who must be brought to justice. Camring’s greatest assignment was the hunt for those Elves who survived the fall of Dînsûlinor and fled to the mainland. They were marked as enemies of Ardor who had to be caught. Within thirty years Camring had brought them all (109 individuals) to the High Court of Inquisition of Ardor. Most of them were sentenced to death while some were imprisoned in the fortress of Ardor for the rest of their life. After this task, he let his life go a little more slow-paced because for the first time he doubted the rightfullness of Ardor’s mission. Too many of his victims told him things that found a way to his mind (and heart) and caused him to ask questions about the moral justification of the Court. He remains however true to the Court (although now a bit less enthusiastically and more grudgingly) because Ardana’s charisma binds him. There is even another (stronger) motive for his continued stay: Morelen, the daughter of Ardana. During his many dealings with the ​“religious” institutions of the Court he became acquainted with her and now he realizes that he has indeed fallen in love with her. Morelen, while kind to Camring, is unaware of his true feelings, as he is of her dark fate. Normally Eldar perceive such feelings in others, but Morgoth’s thúle within Morelen prevents her from developing genuine feelings towards potential spouses. Ardana however noticed his feelings (few things of the mind escape her sharp perception) and used them to her own advantage.

A muscular Noldo with dark flashing eyes and short black hair, Camring, true to his name, is cool and impassive. He goes about his profession in silence, obeying without question, but maintaining an unwavering attitude of justice. He wears a sea green wrap tunic and loose pants, after the manner of the warrior-monks.

Camring is of average height (6′6″; 1,98m) and powerfully built. He has dark brown eyes and short black hair.

Profession: Witch Hunter

Level: 34

Hits: 160

Race: Noldor

Stats: CO: 101 SD: 56 AG: 101 ME: 98 RE: 67 ST: 96 QU: 99 PR: 97 IN: 101 EM: 99

Magic Items

Taurclax (The Moon)

(S. ​“Fang of the Wood”)

Taurclax was born in Doriath during the Third Age of Melkors imprisonment in Mandos. He was exceptional curious about the world around him and soon wandered far and wide through Beleriand and its bordering lands. Taurclax sought out knowledge about the ways of the olvar and kelvar and long he studied them to become a master of that lore. Because of this interest he neglected other teachings, especially those of Melian concerning the Valar and this would prove to be the doom of Taurclax. Even among the herbmasters of the Sindar he was accounted as one learned and mighty in lore. As is said in the Silmarillion, Sauron, Melkors greatest servant escaped capture by the Valar after the Battle of Powers. So it happened that during the Third Age of Melkor’s captivity in Mandos, Taurclax, wandering alone in Dorthonion met a another traveller — ostensibly an Elf of great power who spoke to him. The stranger talked of great secrets which he could share with Taurclax. Upon Taurclax’s question of his name and heritage he pretended to be Annatar (sic!), the Lord of Gifts, a pupil of those ultimate power that ruled all of Arda. This ultimate master was now tricked into exile but soon would return and reward those that were faithful to him. Naive were the Eldar in these days concerning evil and its lures and promises and Taurclax was no exception. He agreed to listen to Annatar’s teachings (which probably saved his life since the Lord of Gifts enjoined the Elf not to reveal this meeting at any time). As they parted Annatar told Taurclax where they would meet again to begin their studies in earnest. These meetings were afterwards held regularly and Taurclax grew in lore until he knew nearly everything about the ways of nature (here Annatar’s teachings were not so extensive) and diplomacy/​intrigue (Annatar’s specialty) and hidden knowledge that gave the Sinda lore that was never intended for Eru’s children. In return, the Elf informed Annatar about many things at Thingol’s court — not important ones to be sure — but even these little trinkets would be valuable for Sauron and his master when he would return. Taurclax even learned some great sorcery from Sauron. All in all, Taurclax was an effective spy for the Enemy even before he himself returned. The service was not oppressive however, since Taurclax profited much from it and never encountered any kind of pressure or threat from Sauron and he never saw any kind of damage to his king in Menegroth. This coupled with the benefits made the service light for him indeed. As it is with evil, after some time in the service he found itself appealing and relished in his new knowledge and power. Slowly his allegiances shifted as well. Because of his personal affliction with Sauron, the future Lord of the Rings became his sole focus of loyalty. As long as Sauron himself was the servant of another power, so was Taurclax. But later, after Morgoth’s fall Taurclax’ unwavering loyalty belonged solely to Sauron. When the Black Enemy returned to Middle-earth, Sauron had already one high-ranking spy in Menegroth presentable for his master.

Pleased with this success, Sauron was appointed as the most valued lieutnant of the Black Enemy again and his special envoy for delicate operations. In Menegroth things went less fortunate for Taurclax since his new lore caught the attention of Melian and she grew concerned about the herbmaster. After several talks in which he would reveal nothing to the queen (though he not openly defied her) her concerns intensified and she counseled Thingol to keep a closer look on his servant. Displeased with this development (since together with his knowledge his pride grew also) he thought about leaving Doriath and Beleriand altogether and seeking his fortune elsewhere. After the Dagor Aglareb when victory over the Eldar seemed to be far away, Taurclax was given the task to join the coalescing Court and act as the special spy for the Black Enemy (and Sauron) beside Morfuin (they knew nothing of the other’s mission of course) with Taurclax being the number one. This pleased Taurclax well, since his position in Doriath began to erode and his ambitions sought greater power than was available in Doriath. he left the Grey-Elven realm with little regret and turned south, leaving behind his former life.

Sauron had knowledge of ancient Maia servants of Melkor in the Far South (the ​“Winds”)and entrusted this to Taurclax and even methods of coercing their cooperation were revealed to him. Accompanied by a company of trusted servants they travelled south and established their first camp in the northwestern Ered Laranor, not far from the place of the future Taurang. Here Taurclax made his pact with the ​“Winds” (the old Maiar who once served Melkor) and work on the fortress of Taurang began in earnest. Besides, they spied out the elves of the region and provided Ardana with valuable information which she used cleverly when she arrived several decades later in Ardor. The arrival of Khelekar proved to be a boon for Taurclax’ plans for the Noldo possessed many talents that he himself lacked.

Since the founding of the Court Taurclax has been relatively passive and only engaging in occasional intrigues among the Lords. All open and outward activities of the Court were watched by him but he did not participate overly much in them. He only watched and reported back to Angband. After the failure of the ritual Taurclax fled together with the other lords and wandered Endor to bide his time when he could return to the South. When Morgoth fell at the end of the First Age, he was dismayed because he heard no news from his true master, but around the year 600 of the Second Age they met again in the region of later Mordor and the plans for his future mission were made. It seemed clear that the Court would re-coalesce again and for that time Taurclax should be ready to act as the top-informant again. When the Court came together again, the plan was set into motion and ever since Taurclax held the Dark Lord informed about the whereabouts of the Elven Council. This inside information enabled Sauron to time his strike against the Court when they were weakest (after the destruction of Dînsulinor) and finally had to accede to his lordship. Taurclax received great reward from his master for his invaluable assistance (though he was not openly rewarded — to maintain the facade for the rest of the organization). With the fall of his master by the hands of the Last Alliance, Taurclax was once more on his own but he made the best of it by residing in Taurang and occasionally venturing forth for the Court. He gained many contacts and allies for the cause of the Dark Lord in the South, the most notable being the Lord of the Desert Screamers, Vaal Gark (K. ​“Power of the Narrow Shine”). Besides Khelekar he is Taurclax’ most valuable ally and complements the Scholar very good; Vaal Gark is a man of action and initiative whilst Khelekar is the loremaster who develops and analyzes. Through the Desert Screamers, Taurclax is very well informed about the situation in the western Mûmakan (in a wider sense), Elorna and the Seven Lands (see ICE’s Shadow in the South). They even provide him with some manpower and personal fighting force apart from ​“official” Court troops.

Since the time of the Dark Lord’s return and the reappearance of Jí Indûr (of which Taurclax is very good informed) Taurclax has returned to his relative passive role of observation and intrigue among the Court. He certainly don’t want to thwart the plans of his master in the South by too openly opposing Mûmakan.

The master of Taurang is a Sindarin elf of lordly nature, stands 6′5″ (1,96m) tall, and posesses brown, neck-length hair and green eyes. He is quiet and soft-spoken, with a warm, sincere smile, concealing his true nature. Taurclax wears a forest green tunic and tights, with the tooled leather full length stole and riding boots of the Suit of Helms.

Residing in the fortress of Taurang (S. ​“Iron Tree”), Taurclax holds an entire forest region in fear.

Profession: Druid/​Ranger/​Spy

Level: 31÷31÷16

Hits: 130

Race: Sinda

Stats: CO: 95 SD: 101 AG: 101 ME: 96 RE: 83 ST: 95 QU: 101 PR: 98 IN: 100 EM: 95

Magic Items

Khelekar (The Scholar)

(S. ​“Hard as Ice”)

Khelekar the Scholar was born in Tirion in the Valian Year 1330. Soon he began to study the lore of Arda as his personal interest and showed great aptitude in accumulating knowledge. It was the mere knowledge and not its use that was Khelekar’s prime delight. In this he differed from his fellow Noldor who mostly used their knowledge to create new and wonderful things. Gathering all knowledge he could get his hands on in Aman, he thought upon returning to Middle-earth to gather more lore in the birthland of the Elves. When Melkor was released from bondage Khelekar, like so many of his fellow Noldor heard his words and the desire for the lore of Endor grew ever stronger in him. The destruction of the Two Trees caused pity in him but it failed to really touch him emotionally. He viewd this act as unjust but didn’t become emotionally hit by it. To him only the facts were important, not the emotions accompanied by it. In this he is a very atypical Noldo. who are known for thei rashness and often emotionally influenced decisions. Khelekar also joined the Noldor on their exile to bring Morgoth to justice.

In Middle-earth, Khelekar lived in Hithlum, providing the Noldorin king Fingolfin with advice concerning intelligence operations. During this time he was often met by Valarser (Gorthaur). He perceived Khelekar’s potential as an useful friend and when he finally left Beleriand, left him a notice where he could contact him if he wanted to explore new regions and follow his own desires. At first Khelekar didn’t heed these thoughts much but after the Dagor Bragollach this changed drastically. Seeing the breaking of the elvish siege lines, the loss of Dorthonion with the death of Angrod and Aegnor and finally the death of Fingolfin in single combat with Morgoth, led Khelekar to the logical conclusion (logic being the only thing that mattered to him) that this war was hopeless and any involvement in it would lead to destruction. So he left Hithlum after Fingolfin’s fall and travelled south, following Gorthaurs notes. Wandering south around the Ered Luin, he went to the place of the future Mírdaithrond hidden in a natural cave. Here he found precise instructions where to go and he followed them to the letter, finally arriving in Ardor in the Year of the Sun 466. He was assigned to the fortress of Taurang and its commander, Taurclax. The two found each other rather comfortably: on one hand the Sinda spy (secret of course) with power and enough ruthlessness to remove any obstacle to his interests and on the other hand the cold, rationale Noldo who only looked at facts and results, not emotions. They were a formidable team and soon found each other complementing to their own best. Of course Khelekar soon found out who was the real chief of the organization of Ardor, but it didn’t bother him, because it gave him the freedom to act according to his own judgement and giving him the opportunity to access knowledge that was hidden to him until now. If he had to be in the service of the Dark Lord to gain it, so should it be, but he did not worship Morgoth either.

The remainder of the First Age saw Khelekar mostly travelling around the region and learning about the people that lived there and studying them, their ways and the land around them. When the First Age ended, he went into exile with Taurclax. They went far and wide through nearly all Endor and remained their own lords for nearly six centuries. Here he learned that it would be of great profit to him to serve the new Dark Lord Sauron as he did under Morgoth. Quickly convinced of the prospects of even more knowledge, the Scholar quickly agreed. He became an almost closer ally of Taurclax after this, together conspiring their own devices even against the Court.

Khelekar did some of the preparations for Valmorgûls ascension as ​“The Magician” in Tantûrak and so the two are quite comfortable with each other. He does not altogether go along well with Fëatur for she (and the Darin Tesarath) dare to challenge (in his perspective) his preeminence of information-gathering and processing within the Court. Consequently, he strives to outmatch (by whatever means) the Sisterhood in the gathering and organizing the data needed by the Court (and his personal master Sauron of course).

Khelekar is as cold as his name implies, possessing biting dry wit and no patience for ignorance. The Scholar is ever in Taurclax’s shadow, serving Sauron as faithfully as his comrade does.

6′8″ (2,03m) tall, with silver hair and pale grey eyes, and slender even for an elf, Khelekar is striking in appearance. He is the recorder of Ardor and the Court’s living computer. Although properly of the Helms, and so supposedly tied to the realm of Channeling, Khelekar is a Scholar, posessing powers of the Mentalist realm. He is condescending and sarcastic of manner, and has few friends (besides Taurclax) even for a Lord of Ardor. The Scholar wears black, featureless voluminous robes, hooded and fashioned after those of the Darin Tesarath, the Sisterhood of Mentalists, no doubt in mockery of that rivalry institution founded and controlled by Fëatur.

Profession: Scholar/​Sage

Level: 37

Hits: 130

Race: Noldo

Stats: CO: 90 SD: 101 AG: 96 ME: 102 RE: 104 ST: 86 QU: 100 PR: 100 IN: 89 EM: 90

Magic Items

Fëatur (female) (The Mind Master)

(S. ​“Lord of Spirits”)

Without doubt the most fascinating mystery (and well kept secret) within the Court is the identity(ies) of the Noldor twins Fëatur. The truth: they are twins: one male, the other female.

These twins were one of the most interesting members of the Noldor in Aman. Born during the Third Age of Melkor’s captivity, they were eager pupils of the Fëanturi Irmo and Námo. Unlike so many of their fellow Noldor they took more delight in the power of the mind rather than the crafting of material things. Seldom the two were seen without the other and they enjoyed their common gifts and many of the Maiar and even the Valar wondered at their similarity and pure happiness of the Eldar shown in these young of the elder Children of Ilúvatar. Under the tutelage of Irmo and Námo they learned many secrets of the mind and its use. The twins grew powerful in those powers that were later referred to as “… all the magic and might … of Elvenesse…” (The Silmarillion.205). Although not as powerful and noble as Finrod Felagund (of whom the quote tells) they were great nonetheless.

When Melkor was released from Mandos, he went among the Noldor as is told in The Silmarillion and even the Fëatur twins were not totally free from his splendor and the seemingly wise words he told to those who would hear. It took some time for them to give in for they were weary of possible falsehhood but all seemed good and wise that came from Melkor in those days. So from time to time they joined his retinue and after some time he taught them powers of the mind that the Valar had withheld (intentionally or not is not known). Over time they went less to their Vala teachers and in the end followed Melkor wherever he went, virtually becoming his pages for their power was great indeed and the Black Enemy found their similarity amusing.

After Melkor and Ungoliant destroyed the Trees the twins renounced any friendship or allegiance to the Black Enemy and joined the rebellion of the Noldor and were in the host of Fingolfin. It was even now in the rebellion that their ways became different (though they did not see it then): the female fought valiantly in the host and slew many of the Teleri at Alqualondë whereas the male stood by, horrified by the slaughter. They became separated in the fray, for the female was entrusted with the command of one ship (having proved her worth) while the male stood by his friends and relatives in the host of Fingolfin. So she went with Fëanor and landed at Drengist and fought in the Dagor-nuin-Giliath. Here she quarreled seriously with Caranthir over strategy and tactics which led her to abandon Fëanor’s people after the battle. For some time she wandered in Beleriand when the rest of the Noldor arrived and settled in the northern highlands and Beleriand. She chose to join Finrod whom she knew well from Aman and who liked her company as well. So Fëatur moved to Minas Tirith on the isle of Tol Sirion. Later, when Nargothrond was built she went there and dwelt with the king. It was spring in the year 69 of the First Age when Fëatur received a visit from Ardana. The Star Lady told Fëatur of her desire for an own realm and the vastness of Middle-earth. These words fell not on deaf ears and ere long Fëatur was convinced of Ardanas arguments and she agreed to join the cause of the Star Lady. Ardana gave Fëatur a set of the original cards and promised her to contact her when the time was ripe. For this time the Mind Master should seek to gather other followers for the cause and with these words the Lady left. Among her first candidates for her future followers was Yavëkamba the Healer. She was wise in healing lore and this Fëatur deemed an valuable asset to have under her control. Because the Healer was undecided, Fëatur let the topic rest for a while and worked to convince Yavëkamba and others by arguments and the waking of desire rather than power or even force.

In the (sun)year 90 during one of her journeys to win over other of the Eldar she travelled to Minas Tirith on Tol Sirion. On her return she came to Eithel Ivrin where she noticed a shadowy figure sitting by the still waters. She went ahead and upon her approach the stranger looked into her face. It was her brother long believed to be dead, killed during the terrible crossing of the Helcaraxë like so many others. Full of joy was their meeting and she asked him of his whereabouts during the interim. Strange it seemed to her since she hasn’t had any mental contact to her brother since their sundering at Alqualondë. He told her a story of pain and long suffering — a long odyssey on the ice and she believed his words. Indeed she saw great torment in his eyes and mind and thought his suffering on the ice to be the cause. In fact however it was his mission that hurt his soul so much that she saw it even through his attempts to hide it. Immediately the idea of joining the power in the South with her brother came to her mind and she told him of her plans to go south and become a great lord herself — not the subject of another like in Nargothrond. After some thought he cautiously approved the plan but wanted time to think about its consequences. Because she knew his cautious mind Fëatur believed him fully (in fact she would have become suspicious if he had agreed on the spot). He proposed to live here in the southern Ered Wethrin until he came to a decision. They agreed to keep his ​“survival” secret because of her plan to join the future Court with the possibility of powerful subterfuge within the organization itself.

Back in Nargothrond, Fëatur sent Yavëkamba (now convinced at last to join the Ardan cause) back to Eithel Ivrin and supplying another convert (she did not reveal his identity) with goods he needed to survive in the wilderness until the time for departure had come. As told in the entries of the male Fëatur and Yavëkamba, their meeting proved to be of great fortune for the cause of good. The female Fëatur however did not recognize their special relationship in the least and was happy with the way things were developing.

In the (sun)year 149 of the First Age word reached Fëatur from Ardana that things were ready and she should come south to join the future Council body. She gave order to all her converts and followers and five weeks later left Beleriand forever. Three years later they arrived at Ardinaak and Fëatur counselled with Ardana, Morthaur and Valmorgûl for the location of her future home. It was decided she should try to reopen an abandoned Dwarven mine. After years of preparation and gathering of ressources (she believed in thorough planning) she arrived there in 1.A. 197 and took it for own. Immediately her craftsmen began to carve out a magnificient abode that recalled a little of the splendor of Nargothrond whose construction and design Fëatur admired greatly.

Soon after the establishment of the Ardan Council she felt the advantage of the common belief that her brother was dead. When he donned her guise, she was often able to wander abroad and weave her own designs or when she simply wanted to travel incognito.

In the year 301 of the First Age of the Sun Fëatur officially founded the Darin Tesarath (?)as an organization of knowledge-accumulation, –processing and mind-exercise. Fëatur became the head of the organization although she operated only in the shadow. To the outside, the leader of the Sisterhood changed from time to time and Fëatur’s name was not spoken. Behind the scenes, she holds absolute power over the organization and nothing within it escapes her vigilant eye. She delighted in the role of the one who controls information and often used this position to embarass other Court members. Especially Rilia was among her ​“victims” who felt her desire for control. This made the two women bitter rivals within the Court and only the enmity between Valmorgûl and Morthaur rivals their dislike for each other. The rest of the First Age nothing of importance happened in which Fëatur was involved. The fall of Geshaan was an affair of Morfuin and Gorthaur so she ​“helped” only a little through the Sisterhood. Nonetheless information gathered by the Darin Tesarath helped to corrupt the people of that realm. The entire Court was assembled at Angkirya (where Fëatur had invited them to show her splendor) when the Luingon alliance struck. Correspondingly, it took some time before the Lords could come to the Citadel for help (this was of course arranged by the male Fëatur).

After Morgoth’s fall, she fled into other regions of Middle-earth and bided her time when the time for return would be ripe. In the meantime she held contact to the Darin Tesarath so that she would keep being informed on the general events of the South. As most other Court members she returned to the area in the thirteenth century of the Second Age and immediately began to rebuild her power. Until the fall of Dînsûlinor she remained relative quiet and patient in Angkirya (behind the scenes she plotted and gathered knowledge of course).

Fëatur managed to win the trust of the Stiffbeards of Blackflame and therefore there are always a handful of these Naugrim present in Angkirya. These Naugrim are reserved special quarters when residing here. Fëatur treats them with courtesy and respect and therefore they go along well and will respect her wish to remain secret. None of her Stiffbeard will ever consciously betray Fëatur’s wishes (within reason).

When present at the citadel, her brother resides in voloptuous chambers cunningly hidden in the inner recesses of Angkirya. He is often away to to pursue the twins’ aims (so she believes) while in truth he is often abroad in matters of the Guild of Elements. The way of the siblings is this: each knows the other’s mind, and so is aware of the other’s thoughts and actions in all things, so that they may carry out their charade. But the male Fëatur can now cloud his thoughts from his sister, while creating surface thoughts to prevent her from becoming suspicious. Everyone in the Court believes that only the female Fëatur still lives, and that she will occasionally appears in masculine form as an amusement. And of course, she does not even know of (the male’s) manipulations of the Cards or his conversion. In appearance, they are 6′4″ (1,93m) tall, with gold-blonde hair parted in the middle and swept back from the face, worn at neck length. Their skin is tanned, and their eyes of golden amber.

Profession: Mystic/​Evil Mentalist/​Houri

Level: 41

Hits: 160

Race: Noldo

Stats: CO: 96 SD: 87 AG: 101 ME: 99 RE: 96 ST: 89 QU: 101 PR: 101 IN: 86 EM: 99

Magic Items

Ardûval (The Stargazer)

(S. ​“Lord of the Heights”)

Ardûval belongs to those Noldor who were born in Valinor at the height of its bliss. Soon he became a fervent student of Varda (surpassing even the general elvish reverence for Elbereth) and the ways of light and the heavens. He was a little like Ardana (but not as gifted or ambitious) in that way that he held the stars above all other forms of light and brightness. Even the Trees came behind them in his mind, quite unusual for a Calaquendi. Furthermore the skills of the mind interested him and he became quite good acquainted with Curumo, a Maia with great skill in charming and persuading others. He learned a great deal from the Maia and soon Ardûval was among the most convincing Noldor when matters of speech were concerned.

In Valinor he often conversed and counseled with Ardana because he knew of her geat knowledge concerning the ways of the heavens. In this manner they became quite good acquaintances and her desire for realms in Middle-earth (stirred by Melkor of course) became strong in him also. So, when the Trees died and Fëanor called the Noldor to exile and war against Morgoth, Ardûval did not hesitate for he saw his chance to fulfill his dream of vast lands only waiting to be ruled by the elder Children of Ilúvatar. Like Ardana, he was in the host of Fëanor when the Teleri were attacked in Alqualondë. Although he fought valiantly for the cause of the Noldor (mainly to defend himself since he was caught in the middle of the fray) he didn’t show the fell deeds performed by the more brutal (or desperate) Noldor. Indeed he disapproved them. However, when the battle was won, he embarked on Ardana’s ship (on her urging) and eventually sailed to Middle-earth when Fëanor abandoned Fingolfin’s host in Araman. He fought also in the Dagor-nun-Giliath but didn’t settle down permanently in the years following (like so many of his fellow Noldor). When Fingolfin arrived and the most urgent matters and controversies were solved (or at least adjourned) during the Mereth Aderthad, Ardûval decided to settle with Turgon in Nevrast until a better solution (that means more power for him) could be found. Here he stayed for long years and advised Turgon in matters concerning diplomacy with his allies and strategy against Morgoth. Turgon failed to see however, that Ardûval was less interested in revenge against the Black Enemy than in pursuing his own interests (mainly the lore of Middle-earth and the ways of its inhabitants). Following this course he contacted Ardana again and asked her about potential realms beyond Beleriand — something they had discussed in Aman many times. She promised to keep his questions in mind and re-contact him when she had something interesting for him. After the Dagor Aglareb Turgon discovered the Vale of Tumladen and told his most trusted advisors about his plan to build a hidden city as stronghold against Morgoth. Ardûval was among these advisors and the prospect of relocating to a hidden city — far from any outside knowledge and contact alienated him quickly from Turgon and his friends in the Court of Vinyamar. When word from Ardana reached his ears that the time was ripe to leave Beleriand and found own realms left with the Lady never to return to Beleriand.

He was among the first Eldar to come to Ardor and its beauty appealed to him. He chose to erect his personal fief and home in the mountains of the region. His main reason for erecting his home in the seemingly uninviting mountains laid in their very nature. The great heights allowed the best possibilities for observing the stars, something of greatest importance for someone interested in the stars like Ardûval. Also, from here he had the entirity of the region’s climates in all its beauty: the mountains provided coolness and from his abode he could look down onto the great Pel Dûshera, its plains and great forests.

However, there was also a reason even more important for Ardûval to settle in the mountains. Wandering in the mountains in the waning years of the First Age of the Sun (when Geshaan was in decline), by pure chance (or so he thought) he discovered a herd of Pegasi (s.a.) in one of the most inaccessible vales. Of course they were shy and reluctant at first, his legendary charm and skill of persuasion soon overcame their careful nature. Many of the Firstborn are able to commune mentally with animals and the Stargazer is no exception: very soon Ardûval could commune with them and they agreed to keep the flying horse’s existence secret but they would willingly carry their friend when he had the need. Soon thereafter, when Menelcarca was completed, Ardûval also added stables and a sufficient landing zone for the horses when they would dwell there. In fact Ardûval more good of heart than most other of his fellow lords and the destruction of Rána and Vása were not that important for him; because he found out that the stars could be observed well enough even with these lights. he was however bound by the oath and that drove him further onwards on the path to destroy the great lights.

During the First Age Ardûval concentrated on the completion of Menelcarca and his astrological studies while becoming something aloof from Court politics. After the attack of the Luingon Alliance however, he fled his abode in the mountains. For the next twelve centuries he wandered in Middle-earth and learned from other cultures (especially Womawas Drus). The 10th century of the Second Age saw him wandering into the West and eventually reaching the elven realm of Eregion. He asked for permission to settle in the city and was helped in this task by one of the city’s military commanders; Valkrist the Half-elf. After Ardûval’s settlement in the city, they soon became good acquainted and formed a frienship to last. Ardûval found the curiosity of Ost-in-Edhil’s Noldor interesting and soon after his settlement he joined the Gwaith-i-Elentirmo (S. ​“Brotherhood of the Star-Watchers”) whose chief was a friend from his days at Vinyamar, Valglin the Astrologer (see ICE’s Lorien for details on this individual) and he told a story of long adventures and life in foreign lands (which was not false — in a sense). The 12th century saw however the arousal of Ardûval’s concern. In the stars he saw a great and dark doom approaching the realm as well as he felt the time for the reforming of the court approaching. His concern grew when he heard of a stranger walking through the West who claimed to be an emissary from Aman and great friend of the elves but he couldn’t concretize his suspicions. After long thought he decided not to tell the realm’s authorities (he never went very well with Galdariel and Celeborn) but to ask Valkrist about the prospect of a great command in distant lands. The warrior soon was very fond of this plan because he was also discontent with the political course of the realm (he voted for an aggressive policy of power versus all neighboors, something Galadriel wanted to avoid at all costs). Thus Ardûval was joined by Valkrist when they left the city only a few days before Annatar (the disguised Sauron) arrived at the capital of Eregion.

Five years later they arrived in Ardor and spoke with the Court about the acceptance of Valkrist into the organization. These details are told in the description of the Lord of Arms.

After his reappearance, the Stargazer mostly travelled in the region to make himself comfortable with the new political and social situation. Of course, the esoteric orders and practitioners were of utmost interest for him and so he began to study their lore and organization (both had changed somewhat during the interim). He desired an influential position in Tantûrak but was outmatched by Valmorgûl. This was the beginning of a rivalry that persisted until the middle of the Third Age. Ardûvals second most important target was the Starseer Conclave. Respected and admired by many in the Southlands, this organization would be perfect for his plan of political influence. The old enemy of the Court had changed drastically since the days of the Luingon Alliance. The founders were either dead or had left Middle-earth and their lore of the dangerous Court was either lost or forgotten by the present leaders. So it was relative easy for Ardûval to gain influence when he began to entice the organization at the end of the 18th century of the Second Age. During this time he was known to the Conclave as Gilnaur (S. ​“Fire-Star”). Although he took no position within the Starseer Conclave, soon his advice was sought by many and by the middle of the 21st century he virtually was its master without possessing a formal title.

The Starseer Conclace provided much information for him and because one of its masters was the advisor of the Hathorian king, Ardûval could influence that country’s politics. This he did in the interest of Ardor to preserve the Balance of Power within the region. He knew that such a situation would best serve the Court’s (and his) interests. The remainder of the Second Age saw him working hard to predict the decisive eclipse and precisely calculate its excat date and hour. After many decades he presented the result of his work to the Council in S.A. 2961. From this time onward preparations for the second ritual began but Ardûvals primary role was the prediction of the eclipse and after this was done naturally he had much spare time which he used to think over his situation and the justification of the Court’s mission.

Even in the Third Age he delighted in his position in the Starseer Conclave and he was behind the scenes of many important decisions. At the beginning of the Third Age Ardûval has come to the conclusion that his decision to join the Court and swear the Oath was wrong, but now was no turning back and the ritual time approached. Becoming ever more desperate he sought for a way to right the wrongs of the past, but the oath drove him to further seek the destruction of the sun and moon. In outlook he was similar to Maglor, who was the most repentent of Fëanors sons and was willing to risk breaking the Oath of Fëanor at the end of the First Age when the Silmarils were re-captured by Eonwe.

When the ritual failed and the Citadel perished alongside the majority of the lords (ardûval had ready an escape route), the oath was fulfilled and Ardûval was freed of this burden. He was not allowed to return to the West however, and so he sought a way to redress some of his wrongs. This he thought to achieve by assuming the role of the Magician in Tantûrak. The office enabled him to support the Free peoples in the South (Tantûrak was less expansionistic in his time) and containing Mûmakan. While he held the office, Tantûrak’s main goal consisted of the containment of Mûmakan’s power. This policy severely crippled Indûr’s progress in the region. Of course this policy was well disguised since the Ârûwâna populace was not particularly interested to foster such goals – they wished to become masters in the region and not charitables.

Besides this honorable goal the takeover of the Magician’s office fulfilled his age-old dream. In general he pursued the old policy of balance of the Court to hold Sauron’s influence in check. So Tantûrak remained in Sauron’s path and the general situation didn’t change very much. Over the course of years he even came to quite good terms with the Wizard Lianis, his one-time rival (when the Court still existed). In this manner he has undergone a Pauline conversion by becoming a good guy. He helped all other Free Peoples (even his old enemies when he was a Court member) when he could.

All this changed when Sauron’s servant Khelekar was able to corrupt many of Ardûval’s trusted servants in Sarûl and took the latter’s office by surprise when Ardûval was occupied with matters of the Starseer Conclave. Since that time, he remained mostly in Menelcarca and uses the Conclave to play a minor role in politics (since Hathor and Koronandë were relatively isolated now) and stabilize the position of the Free realms as best as he could. In this time Menelcarca became a haven for all refugees and a center of learning and lore for all victims of persecution. It is a bit ironic that the place were the downfall of sun and moon was prepared (as an observatory to calculate the time of the eclipse) became a refuge for all those that fought for the Free Peoples.

With his glittering blue eyes and suave demeanor, Ardûval has won many a debate in his time. Slender, 6′5″ (1,96m) in height, with curly brown hair, and cheeks flushed red as if he has just stepped in from cold. Ardûval, in the way of the Noldor, is handsome. But he goes a step further: his charm is unparalleled. Every word and movement is calculated to seduce or disarm; so it was he that won over the members of the Starseer Conclave with ease. Although his wardrobe is expensive to suit his many moods and needs, he tends to favor a short, loose toga-like garment in dark blue, trimmed with silver and adorned only with the orb insignia of his suit.

Profession: Astrologer/​Enchanter

Level: 34

Hits: 150

Race: Noldo

Stats: CO: 98 SD: 95 AG: 97 ME: 97 RE: 98 ST: 86 QU: 99 PR: 102 IN: 100 EM: 89

Magic Items

Yavëkamba (The Sun)

(Q. ​“Fruitful Hand”)

Yavëkamba belonged to those Noldor who were born in Aman during Melkors captivity. She was among those people who became later the following of Finarfin. Like her brethren, the young Noldo woman delighted in the arts and crafts that the Valar taught them. Her special interest lay in the healing arts and especially of those that dealt with bodily ailments. Although there was nearly no need for such skills in the Blessed Realm, the art interested Yavëkamba for its own sake. Consequently she found tutelage from Estë’s maidens and she became quite skilled in the arts of healing. In these years she first saw the Fëatur twins and she became good friend with them. When Melkor was released from his bondage the Fëatur’s soon were in his following and Yavëkamba became quite estranged from them. She however belonged to those Noldor who had no dealings with him because she spent most of her time in Estë’s gardens. Unfortunately however, Melkor’s treacherous words worked here as well and the desire for the wide lands of Middle-earth became strong even in her heart. So when the Trees were killed she joined the rebellion of the Noldor and went into exile and fell under the Doom of Mandos. The kinslaying at Alqualondë horrified her and she chose not to heed ever to the words of Fëanor again. Still, she wanted to see Middle-earth and so devoted herself to the house of Finarfin. So like many other she took the crossing of the Helcaraxë and through her skill many wounded and exhausted could be saved. In this time she met again the male Fëatur and she saw his inner torment in his eyes though he wouldn’t tell her. When he also was (seemingly) lost to the grinding ice, she mourned but went on and finally managed to survive the unforgiving ice and reach Endor.

The fell words and deeds of Fëanor and his sons (despite Maedhros’ soothing words to Fingolfin) estranged her from the older line of Finwë and she chose to go with Finrod. In Doriath she encountered Melian and learned some healing skills of the Sindar from her. Her main abode in this time however was Minas Tirith on Tol Sirion. When Finrod built his city at Nargothrond she followed and found comfort within its grandeur.

Here she met again the female Fëatur. They spoke extensively about their respective experiences since their time in Aman and Yavëkamba soon was convinced that Fëatur was indeed hungry for power but this was not a great hindrance since deep in her heart Yavëkamba had similar desires. When Fëatur approached her with the prospect of more power in foreign relams she was reluctant though. She feared she might only be used as a pawn for the clever Fëatur and stalled her. The Mind Master, ever patient let the matter rest for a while but regularly spoke of the positive aspects of migrating from Beleriand. Finally, in the ninth decade of the Firt Age (of the sun) Fëatur finally had convinced her to accompany her and leave Beleriand when the time would be ripe.All these carefully laid plans changed drastically in the Year of the Sun 90. As it is told in the entry of Fëatur, the male twin reappeared in Beleriand and was met by his sister at Eithel Ivrin. Back in Nargothrond she sent Yavëkamba to the spot to bring her brother the supplies he needed. When they met at the clear waters of Eithel Ivrin, again she saw the great torment in his eyes and a deep feeling of affection for him came over her. He took the advice and supplies but spoke very little and asked Yavëkamba to leave him alone. She complied but only after he agreed to meet her regularly. When Yavëkamba returned to Nargothrond she told his sister all that happened (except his pain and her feelings, these she hid from her future mistress). Fëatur agreed to regular meetings for she saw affection for her brother in the healer and she wanted to exploit these feelings to her advantage because she knew her brothers mind and that he was still loyal to her like in Aman — or so she thought. Anyway, Yavëkamba and the male twin met more or less regularly and over time he became more open in in fact returned her love. Overjoyed, she told him of her intention to leave Beleriand with his sister and suddenly all his pain returned. Believing in her true and unyielding love he told her of the danger imposed by those misguided elves and his own mission. She agreed to help him in every way possible and they agreed that she should fake absolute loyalty to (the female) Fëatur’s cause and secretly aid him in his labor. Their deep love and the foresight of the Valar allowed their secret to be kept even before the eyes of the Mind Master of the future Court.

In the (Sun)Year 149 word came to the female Fëatur from Ardana that the time was ripe. So it came that the entire clan (the Fëaturs, Yavëkamba and a couple of retainers) left Nargothrond and three years later arrived in Ardor. Fëatur counseled with Ardana over the site of the Mind Master’s future fortress and it was decided they should re-open an old Khazâd mine. After they moved there a few decades later, work began in earnest and soon the site (then named Angkirya) recalled a bit of the splendor of the great underground fortress of Finrod Felagund in Beleriand. Here Yavëkamba made her home and from here often she ventured forth to learn anything she could about the healing arts. The elves of Tâliran were not that unfriendly then and so these Nelyar and Tatyar taught her something about life that these Quendi had acquired over the long years in a starlit Middle-earth.

Her most important task was the delivery of Ardana’s twins. The male Fëatur had instructed her of the importance to bring him the boy that would seem to be dead. He also told her that this boy would be the hope against darkness and the fact of his life must be kept secret at all costs. So prepared she helped Ardana in the birth and as foretold the girl was alive and healthy while the boy seemed dead. Under the pretense of preparing the body for burial she took the boy and brought it to the male Fëatur. Afterwards they combined their power to produce a false body that would be buried and so fool everyone. This she presented to Ardana and it was buried on Ardinaak.

Yavëkambas responsibility within the Court became the physical health of its members. Consequently Angkirya, one of the most central keeps was the obvious choice for her permanent abode. She oversaw the establishment and distribution of other healers to the various castles, but she was the head of the ​“medical staff”. Officially she is neutral and aloof from all the politics of Ardor, and remains at Angkirya under (the female) Fëatur’s supervision unless called forth. However, since all her subordinates report to her, she gains some intelligence about the internal affairs of the keeps. Subtly, she shares this knowledge with the female Fëatur (only filtered information) and of course with the male twin (all informations).

In general quiet of temperament and cooly efficient at her job as a Lay Healer, Yavëkamba is the supreme surgeon of the Court.

Her ultimate loyalty is of course to the male Fëatur, and she would disobey even the orders of Ardana if he countermanded them. Of Noldo blood, she stands 6′1″ (1,85m) tall, with black hair swept to one side, and darkest brown eyes. She wears simple, pale blue robes.

Profession: Lay Healer/​Physician

Level: 37

Hits: 130

Race: Noldo

Stats: CO: 98 SD: 99 AG: 100 ME: 94 RE: 87 ST: 82 QU: 100 PR: 100 IN: 93 EM: 94

Magic Items

Valkrist (The Lord of Arms)

(S. ​“Powerful Cleaver”)

The most physically imposing of the Lords of Ardor, Valkrist stands 6′10″ (2,08m) tall, and weighs 240 pounds (109kg), inheriting the muscular physique of his father, an Adan lord of old. He is one of the ​“younger” members of the Twelve, being born in the first century of the Second Age in Lindon before the departure of the Edain to Númenor. When his Adan father left Lindon for Númenor, the young Peredhel chose to remain in Middle-earth with his mother and be counted among the Firstborn. Much grief was followed by the parting of his parents and this event formed his character for the rest of his life. Because he felt his father had betrayed his mother by departing he developed a very strong affinity for duty and loyalty towards those he loved and respected.

Valkrist’s talent obviously lay in the martial department. Despite the ostensibly peace after the War of Wrath and the seemingly banishment of evil from the world, he still enjoyed combat and the art of warfare. These skills were only needed and honed in sparring and mock combat in these times but Valkrist worked hard to become the best nonetheless.

He stayed in Lindon for six centuries and when Galadriel led a great number of the Eldar eastward he joined them. This decision was helped by his curiosity for the unknown and new challenges. The establishment of a new country from nothing was something he found comfort in. Eventually the realm of Eregion was founded and the building of its capital Ost-in-Edhil begun. Valkrist was one of those responsible for the buildup of a defense force. Even the mighty Eldar were cautious not to let themselves become defenseless in a wild land. As soon as Eregion was established, Ost-in-Edhil built and everything ran smoothly, Valkrist began to grow restless. He dreamed of still wider lands new dangers and obstacles, and mighty foes to be overcome. First he directed his desires to a more aggressive position within the realm’s leadership: he voted for the enlargement of the realm, conquering more land and act more imperialistic in general. Of course this was utterly rejected by Galadriel and Celeborn who wished to keep peace with their neighboors and (especially the proud Dwarves) thereby strengthening all involved. In the end Valkrist gave way but his loyalty and trust to Galadriel had its first cracks. After this setback he began talking openly of his desires and he found a few who shared his thoughts. Because this group only talked about their plans but otherwise fulfilled their duties with precision no one was worried — it was quite normal for the Eldar in these days to seek new challenges and everyone had to find his personal version thereof. This situation went on for some time but all changed when a Noldo lord appeared in the city and asked for permission to settle therein. This was Ardûval and his handsome manner and charisma won Valkrist and in the city council he spoke for the stranger. So came it that the Stargazer was allowed entry into the city of the Eldar. It was not after long that Ardûval and Valkrist were good friends — and Ardûval’s stories and visions of distant lands were an important reason for Valkrist’s affection.

Galadriel saw the development with concern and slowly began to shift his military responsibilities to other persons she trusted more. Of course Valkrist did notice it and saw it as a sign of jealousy and envy on Galadriels part. Over time the Lord of Arms grew discontent and so was overjoyed when Ardûval approached him with a proposal that was too tempting for letting it pass: he should accompany the Stargazer to the South and rule an own castle and command over vast armed forces (here Ardûval exaggerated a bit) in a land who waited to be ruled by Elda lords. Of course Valkrist agreed and they made plans to leave the city. Galadriel was not that happy to let Valkrist leave but she saw no opportunity to hold him and forcing him would only worsen matters and so she relieved him of his command and bid him farewell. Valkrist however left without a friendly word, taking with him his acquaintance and sub-commander Sûlherok. He was done with the Eldar of the West and joined the renegades, those who coveted things born in the mind of the Great Enemy.

He and Ardûval journeyed more or less directly towards Ardor and soon arrived at the Citadel. Ardana was already there and Ardûval introduced Valkrist to her. Since the attack of the Luingon Alliance the post of the Lord of Arms had been vacant and because of rivalries (but mainly the lack of a really suitable candidate) the post remained vacant. Ardana already had thought about the problem when Valkrist appeared at the Citadel. His prowess in arms and all military matters pleased and impressed the Lady and in him she saw the perfect choice for the post. Soon the Court council appointed him the command of the Suit of Swords.

Accordingly, Valkrist moved his seat to the fortress of Tirgoroth and started the reorganization of the Court’s army. This force consisted exclusively of elves (mostly Tatyar and Nelyar) not accustomed to a strong central leadership. It took him nearly two hundred years to reorganize that body by recruiting new soldiers and thereby replacing unsuitable ones. After all this the army was smaller but much stronger than before. He made the Court’s military (which was and is used near exclusively as a guard for the fortresses) an extremely efficient fighting force capable of assembling quick and striking hard should the need ever arise. The logistic center lay of course in Tirgoroth, but subcommanders were present in all installations of the Court to ensure proper and efficient functioning of the military forces as a whole.

One of the most remarkable operations of Valkrist in the Second Age was his indirect and occasionally direct assistance of Tantûrak’s armed forces. Disguised as … and leading a company of mercenaries, he trained and occasionally led that realm’s forces into battle against the Wraithking of Mûmakan.

The late Second Age, when Sauron dominated the Court saw him retiring to Tirgoroth and giving only marginal support to the new master. Sauron’s fall at the end of the Second Age freed Valkrist (and the rest of the Court of course) from foreign influence.

In the Third Age the Lord of Arms re-consolidated the Court’s army and generally kept any potential threatening force away from the Court’s residences. He also uses his personal troops occasionally to decide a mannish battle of the region just to keep the Balance of Power and his own desire for military challenge satisfied.

Valkrist remains relative aloof from the intigues of the other lords but he doesn’t shrink away from any confrontation either. He simply sees no way in quarreling among each other when there is a greater goal. This attitude keeps him a favorite of Ardana (who always likes loyal and reliable subordinates). This attitude has made him unpopular among the more scheming Lords (Fëatur or Rilia for example) and they frown upon him but also recognize his competence and leave him mostly alone. He gets very well along with Ardûval his old companion from Eregion and they have became relative close friends (for a Lord of Ardor) and maintained a relationship of mutual respect and occasional help.

Valkrist has black hair, and his Noldo mothers blue eyes, fair skin, and aquiline features. Slow to anger, but deadly when provoked, Valkrist is a killing machine second to none, being the only member of the Court to defeat Cambragol in single combat. It is by his virtue in physical prowess as well as his calm demeanor that he was named the ​“Lord of Arms”, and head of the Suit of Swords. He wears shimmering mithril chain armor, covered (but not concealed) by a diaphanous gossamer surcoat possessing magical defense properties. He commands Tirgoroth with cool efficiency, and never allows his counsel to be affected by the emotional outbursts of the other lords.

Profession: Noble Warrior/​Arms Master

Level: 35

Hits: 180

Race: Noldo/​Adan

Stats: CO: 100 SD: 100 AG: 101 ME: 81 RE: 78 ST: 102 QU: 102 PR: 99 IN: 90 EM: 89

Magic Items

Sûlherok (The Messenger)

(S. ​“Lord of Steeds of the Wind”)

Sûlherok was born during those peaceful years in Beleriand before the third age of Melkor’s captivity in Mandos ended. He was raised in Menegroth by his parents and even in young years showed an amazing talent in the work with animals. By instinct, he learned many of their languages and soon became an important member in Thingol’s realm as the vice-master of the Olvar… As such he became entangled in the Wars of Beleriand, beginning with the First Battle in which he participated in the campaign against the eastern orcish army which encircled and destroyed Denethor’s force and was eventually destroyed by the Grey-elven army led by Thingol himself. After the arrival of the Noldor he was among the few who enjoyed contact with the exiles from the west and learned much of their lore. However, he went only to Fingolfin’s people, respecting Thingols will and not cooperating with the sons of Fëanor. Later in the age he served in the northern march and was in the company that campaigned with Beleg and Túrin. In contrast to the former he never left Doriath to fight with the Noldor against the armies of Morgoth. When Doriath fell at the end of the fifth century, Sûlherok fought valiantly against the invading army of the Dwarves of Nogrod but as is told in the Silmarillion the valor of the Grey Elves was of no avail and Doriath was doomed. The final conflict came when the sons of Fëanor attacked Menegroth and Sûlherok fled with the survivors towards the havens of Sirion. It was this day that changed Sûlherok forever. He developed a rather aloof attitude towards the rightful ways of the world and became a bit frivol, enjoying his life as long as he could. This was not very well liked by his fellow refugees in the havens of Sirion, but the final attack of Fëanor’s sons only cemented his new worldview.

When the First Age ended in the War of Wrath, Sûlherok decided to remain in Middle-earth which promised to be much more ​“entertaining” than the ​“dull” life in peaceful and ​“happy” Aman or Tol Eressëa. When Galadriel and Celeborn set out for founding Eregion early in the Second Age, Sûlherok went with them excited at the idea of participating in another ​“adventure” — something that the ​“boring” Lindon couldn’t provide.

Sûlherok joined the ranks of those that were responsible for the tending and breeding of animals within the realm. Because of his previous experience and talent he rose swiftly in their ranks and became even one of the three chiefs of the organization. But the same effect as in Lindon soon took its toll on the Sinda: Eregion became an established realm and the possibilities for ​“adventure” and ​“new opportunities” were rapidly dwindling. Galadriel wanted a stable and secure realm realm that lived in prosperity and peace with its neighboors (especially and foremost Khazad-dûm of course). There was no longer room for experiments. Galadriels friendship with the dwarves further estranged him since his experiences in Doriath he (like Celeborn) developed a very cool relationship towards dwarves of any race. His dissention with the official policy led him to join the small group of dissenters, among them Valkrist.

When Ardûval arrived in the city Sûlherok soon joined the group that formed around him and listened to the Noldo’s words of the wild and far regions of Middle-earth. These teachings took their toll and when Ardûval departed for the South, Sûlherok joined him too (like Valkrist).

Once in Ardinaak, Sûlherok was deemed valuable by the Council and a new office was created for him: that of the messenger. The old cards were sufficient for all communication needs (even official and confidential) but the new cards weren’t as powerful. So operating from Tirgoroth, it is the duty of Sûlherok to deliver the formal messages of Ardor from one Lord to another. Additionally he conveys communications of the Council to other persons or organizations. In this manner is one of the most likely encounters as far as the Lords of Ardor are concerned. He is lighhearted of demeanor, refusing to become embroiled in any squabble within the Court, which could become dangerous to one in his position. Instead he is diplomatic and neutral, earning everyone’s disgust but no one’s ire. He, like Valkrist his master, wears mithril under a transparent robe, all over tunic and breeches of white trimmed in silver and sky blue. He rides the swiftest windsteed of the Court: Sûlroch, a white stallion. Standing 6′4″ (1,93m) tall, with typically slender Elven build, he is of Sindarin descent, with light brown hair and hazel eyes.

Profession: Beastmaster/​Leader

Level: 26

Hits: 150

Race: Sinda

Stats: CO: 97 SD: 90 AG: 101 ME: 94 RE: 92 ST: 96 QU: 101 PR: 97 IN: 87 EM: 90

Magic Items

Cambragol (Karol Dekdarion; The Monk)

(S. ​“Sudden Hand”)

Cambragol was (as so many of the Court) born in the Undying Lands during its bliss in the light of the Trees. But he was not content in this land. From his early adulthood on he longed for the wide reaches of Middle-earth where he could act upon his desires and wishes. He recognized however the great skills he could learn in Aman from the Valar and Maiar. His greatest joy ever was combat — especially its unarmed techniques. Consequently he was often seen in the following of Tulkas from whom he learned a great deal about unarmed combat. Cambragols main flaw ever was his impatience and cruel character. In fact sometimes he was even sadistic. The young Noldo recognized that he never would gain great knowledge from Tulkas should he ever discover Cambragols true tendencies. So the elf restrained himself and played the good boy to please his teacher and learn ever more about the hroar and the way it functioned in combat (and could be hurt of course). Cambragol remained quiet and eagerly learnt all knowledge that Tulkas was willing to share.

Then came the day when Melkor was brought before the Mahanxar and given pardon by the Valar. As is told elsewhere, before much time had passed the fallen Ainu walked freely in Valinor and gave advice to those who would hear it. Cambragol, feeling that he couldn’t get enough skill from Tulkas naturally was drawn to Melkor who offered his great knowledge freely. Here the later ​“Monk” learned the last tricks and skills that made him into an unarmed killing machine. Melkor was pleased with Cambragol because he saw through his deceit (skilled in these things as he were) and saw his cruel nature and was convinced this could be exploited to his own benefit. Discreetly Melkor gave Cambragol great knowledge mingled with visions of wide realms in Middle-earth which he could rule for himself, without interference and completely for his own amusement — he could do whatever he wanted without fearing any intervention. In his teachings Melkor let slip pieces of indirect information that something great will happen and Cambragol should be ready to depart. He also let him know on which signs he could further recognize messages from the fallen Ainu.

When the Trees were destroyed and Fëanor led the Noldor into exile Cambragol saw his chance and immediately set out for Endor with the host. He went with Caranthirs people for the ​“Dark” was most like him in mind among all the princes of the Noldor. Once in Middle-earth he delighted in the opportunity for real combat. He fought fiercely and brutally in the Dagor-nun-Giliath and after Maedhros’ agreement with Fingolfin (which enraged Cambragol) went with his lord to the Blue Mountains. After the Dagor Aglareb the long peace began and Cambragol soon felt Beleriand too small and peaceful for his ambitions. He began wandering the northern lands in search of adventure when he once met another elf who soon revealed Melkor’s signs of recognition to him. The proposals the elf (in truth the disguised Sauron) made were tempting: he would be master of his own lordship, given a seat in a council of lords and rich reward in case of success. Soon the pact was made and Cambragol was provided with information from his new master. His first job would be the elimination of an old and now recalcitrant servant of Melkor: Drul Chaurka. In the Year of the Sun 189 Cambragol arrived in Ardor and was (of course) assigned as lieutnant to Drul Chaurka in Mirisgroth. In the year 220 Drul left the installation and no one save Cambragol saw him leaving. There were rumours of Cambragol being responsible for the vanishment of Drul but these rumours quickly disappeared with their sources.

After the dispersal of the Court following Morgoth’s defeat and the end of the First Age Cambragol wandered through many areas of Middle-earth and studied the combat techniques of his inhabitants. The ​“Monk” arrived in the lands of the Womaw around the year 450 of the Second Age. Their culture caught his attention but his aggressive spirit was annoyed by the banishment of weapons at this time. Consequently he taught selected students (the Caranchor-i-gaer) the Martial Arts. Soon his teachings began to spread and satisfied he saw the rise of combat and bloodshed among the Womaw. He remained in the land of the Womaw for about 200 years before he resolved to continue his wanderings. He left a legacy of unarmed combat in these lands which evolved in many ways, and much of them with a new philosophy of peace which would have infuriated Cambragol if he knew of them.

Within the Court Cambragol plays a surprisingly inactive role. He is content with his lordship and the ability to go on ​“adventure” in the region. These adventures generally result in the demise of several enemies of the Court and even more of those who earned his personal ire (for whatever reason). His primary object is to further his own interests and if this can be only achieved by furthering the Courts aims then it should be. Cambragol often schemes only to maneuver someone into a position where this person must insult him in one or the other way and so giving the Monk the pretense he needs to agonize the other.

For all his impatient and cruel nature Cambragol never neglected thorough planning and was always prepared for many possibilities. This saved his life when the Court finally fell and in the end survived his evil master in Arda.

Cambragol, has made killing a fine art, and certainly displays no hesitation to show off his skill. He enjoys combat, and often antagonizes a potential foe to get into a fight. Capable of severe cruelty, Cambragol tortures for his own entertainment, and engages in a number of other perversions. In addition he is quite vain, although perhaps not without justification: he is strikingly and handsome. Standing 6′6″ (1,98m) tall, with raven-black hair and eyes of anthracide, his presence is striking and his charm and powers of intimidation are immense. Cambragol’s physical strength is considerable, his muscular build is the result of rigorous exercise.

Profession: Monk/​High Warrior Monk/​Yamabushi

Level: 31÷31÷14

Hits: 150

Race: Noldo

Stats: CO: 99 SD: 95 AG: 100 ME: 91 RE: 88 ST: 104 QU: 101 PR: 99 IN: 85 EM: 100

Magic Items

Curubor (The Fool)

(S. ​“Clever Hands”)

Curubor was born in Ardor during the Third Age of Melkors captivity in Mandos. He belonged to the folk of the Kinn-lai where he grew up and wandered around, exploring the lands of Middle-earth around him. His early years went on without great events beside his growing interest for all kinds of all kinds of handicraft that were practiced by the Firstborn.

Quickly he was the pupil of many of their greatest craftsmen and his burning interest for their craft soon earned him his name. He travelled through the lands of the Kinn-lai and Arana and whereever he went he sought to improve his manual skills. When the invasion of the Melkoric monsters threatened the land he helped to defend the elven homes’ as best as he could, first by providing weaponry and later even entering the battle himself. It was during this fighting that he became convinced of the necessity to fight for the elven cause no matter what the cost. It also hardened his confession that the so-called Valar have forsaken the Quendi in Middle-earth and that their Calaquendi brethren in Aman were ​‘traitors’ and ​‘cowards’ hiding in the secure realm of the west. This conviction made him one of the foremost foes of Chrys Menelrana once he arrived in Ardor. On the other hand he listened to Ardana and her preachings of the betrayal of the Valar. She spoke of elven independence and rule. This pleased him much more and soon he joined the Dark Mistress’ fold.

He found his mechanical in high demand among the Lords and with Airatano’s help (in the Second Age) he was able to reach great heights in skill. Long he labored to improve the devices installed in most of the Court’s castles and completed them just prior to the attack of the Luingon alliance. He fought valiantly to defend the citadel but all of his efforts came to naught when the male Featur succeeded in capturing Morelen and securing the Gems of Unlight from their resting places. After the retreat of the alliance Curubor left the area as well fearing Morgoth’s wrath and retaliation from the other foes of Ardor. He wandered through great parts of Endor and learned many new ways of his craft. So it came that when Ardor coalesced again he was there too and with renewed vigor worked for the safety of the installations. He was assigned to Cambragol in Mirisgroth and served in this function well until today.

Cambragol’s second in command at Mirisgroth is also the captain of the large garrison there. It is his main duty to act as a consultant on various devices and installations. Second only to Airatano in his understanding of mechanical contrivances, particularly elaborate traps and locks, he is constantly in demand. He, of all the Suit of Swords rarely wears his formal sky blue silver and white attire, finding a plain uniform more suitable to his profession since he is often called upon to engage in acts of espionage.

A Tatya Elf, he stands 6′5″ (1,96m) has a fair complexion as well as dark brown eyes and black hair. In demeanor, he is bored and impassive except when involved in a mission, or discussing a particular devious lock or trap device.

Profession: Nightblade/​Montebanc

Level: 24

Hits: 150

Race: Tatya

Stats: CO: 95 SD: 103 AG: 102 ME: 89 RE: 96 ST: 90 QU: 101 PR: 99 IN: 97 EM: 95

Magic Items

The Lesser Lords

The Lords of the various suits are listed in order of their status: Lord, Lady, Knight, Herald.

Suit of Staves

Mornaur

(S. ​“Black Fire”)

This Noldo holds the position of the Lord of the Suit of Staves. In this function he resides at and serves as the hold’s captain. Airatano, being the official master of the fortress, is much too occupied with his craft to be bothered by the mundane task of running and administrating of a great fortress. So Mornaur is practically master of Ithilkir 

Of fiery temperament, Mornaur is quick to kindle with enthusiasm and equally swift to anger. His disposition is autocratic, and matters both great — tactics to incite the Mûmakanril to war on their neighboors, the Kirani of Tuktan — and small — the failure of a page to refill an ink pot and sharpen a quill — excite his interest and judgement. The Lord of Staves is not a companion or friend easily borne, but he is a superb strategist. His grasp of fine detail together with his sensivity to changes in the overall pattern of events mean that most campaigns under his supervision succeed.

Mornaur wears the garb of his suit: robes of crimson silk partially covered by a tabard of apricot and a stole of golden yellow. A badge on his left breast takes the shape of an inverted triangle behind a flaming staff.

Profession: Magician

Level: 19

Hits: 100

Race: Noldo

Stats: CO: 85 SD: 87 AG: 100 ME: 90 RE: 102 ST: 68 QU: 90 PR: 97 IN: 90 EM: 101

Magic Items

Sirnaur

(S. ​“Flowing Fire”)

This Noldo holds the position of the Lady of the Suit of Staves. In this function she resides at Naurlindol. Here she meditates for hours on end at the lip of the volcano’s crater, staring down into the molten rock below and basking in its ferocious heat. Consequently, she hates the cold with a vengeance, never forgetting the death of her parents on the cruel passage of the Helcaraxë.

The Lady of Staves is thin, so thin she appears frail. She stands 6′3″ (1,91m), but weighs a mere 145 pounds (66kg). Appearances are deceptive, however, and Sirnaur possesses great reserves of inner strength.

Profession: Runemaster

Level: 15

Hits: 150

Race: Noldo

Stats: CO: 99 SD: 102 AG: 78 ME: 90 RE: 96 ST: 60 QU: 90 PR: 81 IN: 91 EM: 100

Magic Items

Valnaur

(S. ​“Flame of Power”)

This Kinn-lai holds the position of the Knight of the Suit of Staves. In this function, he resides at Naurlindol. Valnaur cuts a dashing figure: his crimson blouse sports wide cuffs and full sleeves; his apricot doublet is velvet and slashed to display the crimson below it; his yellow tabard features appliqué of gold thread set with topazes. Despite his love of flamboyance, Valnaur’s attention dwells infrequently on his garb or his appearance. His duties as captain of guard in Naurlindol challenge his skills most satisfyingly, and it is upon matters military that he obsesses.

Profession: Warrior Mage

Level: 11

Hits: 150

Race: Tatya (Kinn-lai)

Stats: CO: 100 SD: 90 AG: 98 ME: 80 RE: 100 ST: 95 QU: 95 PR: 86 IN: 90 EM: 98

Magic Items

Palandor

(S. ​“Far Lord”)

This Arana holds the position of the Herald of the Suit of Staves. In this function, he resides at Ithilkir.

Palandor is handsome with pale blonde hair and grey eyes. He stands 6′8″ (2,03m) and weighs 215 pounds (98kg), cutting an impressive figure.

His duties as Herald of Staves in the Court demand that he resides in Ithilkir at least a few months out of the year, but personal inclination mitigates against the sedentary life. Palandor has long been infected with the desire to seek out and explore new lands, in part inspired by a dislike for Mornaur, the Lord of Staves. Palandor’s wanderlust is reinforced by his preference for the companionship of almost anyone else other than Morthaur.

Profession: Wizard

Level: 8

Hits: 150

Race: Nelya (Arana)

Stats: CO: 82 SD: 95 AG: 96 ME: 75 RE: 103 ST: 78 QU: 90 PR: 85 IN: 90 EM: 100

Magic Items

Suit of Orbs

Ardaron

(S. ​“Forest Lord”)

This Noldo holds the position of the Lord of the Suit of Staves. In this function he resides at Ithilkir.

He is of medium height for one of the Noldor — 6′5″ (1,96m) — and weighs 160 pounds (73 kg).

Ardaron is affiliated with the element earth and wears the hooded robes of forest green donned by the lesser nobility of Orbs. Of all the myriad things born of earth, the jungles north of Angkirya spark Ardaron’s passions most fiercely. He dreams of a continent fully cloaked by rainforest far more often than a land forever veiled in starlight (the official aim of the Court).

Profession: Mentalist

Level: 20

Hits: 150

Race: Noldo

Stats: CO: 85 SD: 94 AG: 75 ME: 99 RE: 94 ST: 78 QU: 94 PR: 99 IN: 97 EM: 75

Magic items

Tirial

(S. ​“Watch-woman”)

This Tatya woman acts as Lady of the Suit of Orbs. Her home is Angkirya.

Tirial is lovely — elegant in carriage, dainty in stature, and fine in feature and expression. Her long dark hair reaches her ankles when released from the braid she coils around her brow, her large grey eyes shine with joy, and her skin is pale and translucent (she protects her complexion from the sun with a parasol). Many a fool has supposed that her beauty renders her defenseless. Nothing could be further from the truth. The Lady is trained in unarmed combat, and she is lethal in combat, despite her lack of the usual accouterments of armor and weaponry.

Profession: Warrior Monk

Level: 16

Hits: 150

Race: Tatya

Stats: CO: 85 SD: 95 AG: 99 ME: 81 RE: 75 ST: 96 QU: 99 PR: 95 IN: 90 EM: 91

Magic items

Valandor

(S. ​“Strong One”)

Knight of the Suit of Orbs. Valandor, a Kinn-lai Warrior Monk, serves Fëatur in Angkirya, a hold of the Ardan Court.

Valandor is a tall Kinn-lai who prefers his green robes to possess a hint of blue. His servants embroider the garments issued to him by the Court with abstract swirls of azure, cerulean, and sapphire after dipping them in a vat of dye.

Valandor’s demeanor is boyant, with a tinge of cynicism. Better hidden is a streak of paranoia: the Kinn-lai believes that all his cohorts — of both high and low degree alike — covet his belongings, his chambers, his friends, and his position. He remains ever ready for the stab in the back.

Valandor stands 6′9″ (2,06m) and weighs 210 pounds (95kg). His hair is light brown, almost a bronze in hue. His eyes are a hazel so light as to seem gold.

Profession: Nightblade

Level: 11

Hits: 150

Race: Kinn-lai

Stats: CO: 90 SD: 100 AG: 95 ME: 75 RE: 81 ST: 93 QU: 98 PR: 97 IN: 71 EM: 87

Magic Items

Arduin

(S. ​“River Lord”)

Herald of the Suit of Orbs, Arduin is a Kinn-lai Seer of the Court of Ardor; his home is Menelcarca.

His statute is small, even for a Kinn-lai Elf — 5′10″ (1,78m) and 140 pounds (64kg) — and beside his magnificient Noldo cohorts, he seems to be diminutive. He is quiet and reserved, preferring to work behind the scenes. He covets a greater sphere of power and influence; specifically, he cherishes designs on Ardaron’s position: Lord of Orbs.

Arduin’s skills as a Seer are valued by the Ardan court, but few of the lords feel any close friendship for him. The herald spends most of his time in research and contemplation of the things he discovers. He keeps all potential rivals at a distance.

Profession: Seer

Level: 9

Hits: 150

Race: Kinn-lai

Stats: CO: 70 SD: 102 AG: 85 ME: 88 RE: 94 ST: 61 QU: 90 PR: 99 IN: 92 EM: 89

Magic Items

Suit of Helms

Taurion

(S. ​“Son of the Forest”)

Lord of the Suit of Helms. Taurion, a Kinn-lai Cleric, lives in Aurax-dûr, an Ardan citadel.

Taurion was born in the forest, and it is toward the forest that his heart still yearns. Yet power and knowledge and arcane magicks are not to be gained amidst the beauties of his birthland. The Kinn-lai Elf seeks these commodities in the Court of Ardor. He has learned the lore of the seas, lakes, and oceans, despite his hatred for open bodies of water, and become mighty in the Suit of Helms.

Profession: Evil Cleric

Level: 19

Hits: 150

Race: Kinn-lai

Stats: CO: 70 SD: 66 AG: 90 ME: 98 RE: 95 ST: 73 QU: 93 PR: 92 IN: 101 EM: 95

Magic Items

Silion

(S. ​“Offspring of the Moon”)

Lady of the Suit of Helms. A Noldo Cleric serving the Court of Ardor, she lives in Taurang.

Silion’s long dark tresses remind one of the midnight sky, while her silver grey eyes shine like the stars. Despite its kinship to Varda’s lanterns, her beauty is not illuminated by compassion: Silion’s heart is hard with anger. She is a merciless foe, and the best a lesser enemy may expect from her is a quick and relatively painless death.

Profession: Evil Cleric

Level: 15

Hits: 150

Race: Tatya

Stats: CO: 90 SD: 75 AG: 76 ME: 96 RE: 90 ST: 82 QU: 90 PR: 89 IN: 99 EM: 99

Magic Items

Vallin

(S. ​“Powerful Song”)

Knight of the Suit of Helms. A Sinda Fighter, Vallin serves the Court of Ardor and lives at Aurax-dûr.

Vallin feels little interest in his cohorts, the courtiers of Helms, or in anyone else. Her reserves his passion for the sea and the creatures of the sea. The memories he treasures most, feature his many hours spent beneath the ocean’s waves.

Vallin stands 6′7″ (2,01m) and weighs 200 pounds (91kg). His powerful frame intimidates more slender folk, as does the indifferent gaze of his steel grey eyes.

Profession: Beastmaster

Level: 13

Hits: 150

Race: Sinda

Stats: CO: 97 SD: 87 AG: 92 ME: 90 RE: 90 ST: 95 QU: 97 PR: 82 IN: 101 EM: 90

Magic Items

Sarkarxë

(S. ​“Stone Jaws”)

Herald of the Suit of Helms. He is a Cuind Ranger and lived originally in Valagalen, but was lured away by Taurclax, and spends his life now in Taurang.

Sarkarxë was promised wealth and power — so far, he has not been disappointed, yet he hungers for more. He intends to make a bid for the position of Lord of Helms.

He stands a commanding 6′7″ (2,01m) tall; his skin is fair, his hair silver blond, and his eyes palest blue. He reveres the sea and passes many of his days both above and below its waves.

Profession: Ranger

Level: 8

Hits: 150

Race: Cuind

Stats: CO: 98 SD: 87 AG: 92 ME: 75 RE: 81 ST: 88 QU: 100 PR: 91 IN: 103 EM: 90

Magic Items

Suit of Swords

Sûldun

(S. ​“Valley of the Winds”)

Tall (6′8″; 2,03m) and well-muscled (230 pounds; 104kg), Sûldun is the ultimate warrior. He revels in his position as the Lord of Swords, considering the title to be evidence that his skills in melee cannot be rivaled. His assessment is correct. Woe to the enemy who challenges him in armed combat!

Aptitude on the field of battle is not the least of the Tatya’s skills. Sûldun is a brilliant commander, and soldiers vie with one another to serve under him.

Profession: Arms Master

Level: 20

Hits: 150

Race: Tatya

Stats: CO: 101 SD: 90 AG: 91 ME: 75 RE: 85 ST: 101 QU: 98 PR: 98 IN: 90 EM: 75

Magic Items

Elendor

(S. ​“Lady of the Stars”)

Lady of the Suit of Swords. Elendor is a Tatya Fighter in the Court of Ardor who makes her home at Tirgoroth.

Elendor is a powerful warrior, and there are few brave enough to withstand her ferocity in the realm of the court, much less taht of the battlefield. At 6′5″ (1,96m) and 185 pounds (84kg), she is a statuesque Tatya in prime condition. It irks Elendor that Sûldun’s position as Lord of Swords is considered higher than her own, but she has little use for such artificial structures. Only when crossing her blade with a foe’s sword does she come truly alive. The sight of the Lady striding into the ranks of her enemies — her glistening blade hewing and hacking — is an image those lucky enough to survive rarely forget.

Profession: Noble Warrior

Level: 16

Hits: 150

Race: Tatya

Stats: CO: 102 SD: 95 AG: 97 ME: 90 RE: 81 ST: 90 QU: 95 PR: 97 IN: 80 EM: 75

Magic items

Valsûl

(S. ​“Strong Wind”)

Knight of the Suit of Swords. Valsûl is a Kinn-lai Elf serving the Court of Ardor in Mirisgroth.

Valsûl meditates on the iron bridges of Mirisgroth while practicing sword work forms developed by himself. The Elf appears to be fighting an invisible enemy, but his mind is tranquil. Several admirers among the guards of the fortress have taken up similar drills in emulation of their superior, although they occupy the bridges at times when their activities will not interfere with the Knight of Swords.

Valsûl stands 6′7″ (2,01m) and weighs 220 pounds (100kg). His hair is silver blond and clubbed into a thick braid. His eyes are pale grey with dark charcoal rings about the iris.

Profession: Swordsman/​Monk

Level: 12

Hits: 150

Race: Kinn-lai

Stats: CO: 90 SD: 98 AG: 92 ME: 60 RE: 75 ST: 102 QU: 95 PR: 90 IN: 82 EM: 97

Magic items

Vairesûl

(S. ​“Wind Weaver”)

Herald of the Suit of Swords. A Sinda Fighter, she lives in Tirgoroth.

Vairesûl dwelt in Eregion until she encountered Valkrist, warrior of such skill that he successfully and single-handedly confronted bands of twenty Orcs or more and went unscathed. To win Valkrist’s attention and regard, Vairesûl devoted her life to the study of war. When her mentor left for the Court of Ardor, she followed him and was named Herald of Swords.

When released from its warrior’s braid, her long blond hair resembles a stream of moonlight. Its fluid tresses and her soft grey eyes contrast pleasingly with the sharp lines of her cheekbones and chin. Many find her beautiful. She stands 6′1″ (1,85m) and weighs 155 pounds (70kg).

Profession: Warrior Mage/​Leader

Level: 10

Hits: 150

Race: Sinda

Stats: CO: 90 SD: 92 AG: 88 ME: 90 RE: 94 ST: 99 QU: 90 PR: 90 IN: 85 EM: 86

Magic Items

Other members of the Court

Laris

Chief assistant forger of Airatano in Ithilkir.

Lords of the Guild of Elements

Laurrë Menelrana

(S. ​“Golden Warrior of the Heavens”)

Descended from the line of Finarfin through Angrod, brother of Finrod Felagund. In fact he is closely related to Gildor Inglorion. Laurrës father Chrys Menelrana was originally one of the great lords at the Court of Finrod Felagund but he departed for the Utter South when he had an urging dream about the impending danger far away from Beleriand. So in the Year of the Sun 41 he headed south never to return to his beloved land. With him he took his son Laurrë for he perceived that he had an important role to play in the millenia to come. Together they labored long to thwart the Shadow in the area and unite the Free Peoples. After arrival in Ardor they began to work among the indigenous Arana and Kinn-lai elves. The aim of the two Noldor was the establishment of an organization with the aim to actively thwart any actions the Shadow might take in the Far South. These efforts led to the Guild of Elements in Y.S. 50. Originally there were five lords within the Guild (Chrys, Carnil Ravire, Talan Linvairë, Ralian, and Elerior). Chrys forged many artifacts — strange and powerful items fashioned with skills long lost to Middle-earth and which aided the Guild in its struggle against darkness. Laurrë held a lesser position within the Guild, travelling most of his time and watching for signs of the Shadow.

Soon after the first members of the Court-to-be (namely Ardana of course) appeared in Ardor and began to enlist followers for their cause, Laurrë spotted them and informed the Guild. The next years saw heavy debating among the Quendi of the region about the right path and leadership. Finally most rejected the Court’s offers, but a substantial number (among them the most fervent enemies of the Eldar) joined the Court. This partial failure did not frustrate the Guild, but nevertheless it made their mission more difficult. The Court knew they had a potent enemy and this didn’t make it easier for Laurrë either.

During the final attack upon the citadel Laurrë fought valiantly and though the remnants of the Guild withdrew they had achieved their goal by stealing three of the Gems of Unlight and abducting Morelen. After the end of the First Age Chrys supervised the sealing of the Ardan citadels as well as the construction of watch-places near every installation. With this done and instructing his son and heir about his new duty as Lord of the Guild, he was permitted to return to the Undying Lands for his deeds against the Enemy.

Soon thereafter Laurrë learned of some secret place in the great Desert of the Harad and journeyed to learn more. His travel eventually brought him to Guinarnen, the resting place of the infant Moran within the ruins of Almaren (in a nearby cavern lies Fuinur’s Well). He was however unprepared for what he found and trapped in a magical slumber within the primeval waters. Nearly a thousand years later he is discovered by the male Fëatur and the two forged an alliance against the re-formed Court of Ardor. Laurrë learned what happened in his long absence and he felt guilty for failing his duty as the Lord of the Watchers. Upon his return to the Mûmakan area he began to reorganise his intelligence network and prepare for any potential threat from the Court. Because of his focus on the Ardan machinations he failed to realize the danger posed by the ​“returned Amaav” (Jí Indûr) and Saurons plots in the Second Age before it was too late. Because of the lack of powerful individuals willing to take the side of the Free Peoples the Guild was only secretly re-formed as an organization of advice and not force, and consequently Laurrë and Fëatur were not able to oppose the Court directly. This Laurrë felt very painful at the incident with Dînsulinor, where he was unable to stop the catastrophe.

Despite all setbacks Laurrë is confident in the ultimate downfall of the Court and this keeps him up during hard times.

Laurrë is also one of the most powerful warrior-lords in the area, although his skills are rarely tested anymore. Standing 6′4″ (1,93m) tall with cobalt blue eyes and the raven-black hair of his fair mother, Laurrë exudes a youthful niavetè which belies his cunning mind and deadly hand in battle. Of ​‘Fire’ in the order, he wields the flaming Holy blade Kirlhach. Laurrë tends to wear average fighting clothes of deep red or golden-yellow, and rarely leaves his manor house in the vale of Tumlinde, except at great need. The house is built upon a Guild of Elements ruin, and there is a small pentagram platorm in the walled garden behind the house.

The special ​“magical” arrangements to keep it hidden (similar to Gondolin in the First Age, but on a lesser scale of course) coupled with its remote location make it a safe haven for all people fighting the Shadow. In essence it fills a similar role as Rivendell in the North.

Profession: Paladin

Level: 37

Hits: 150

Race: Noldo

Stats:

CO: 96 SD: 99 AG: 100 ME: 94 RE: 94 ST: 101 QU: 97 PR: 98 IN: 101 EM: 95

Magic items

Lyerin

(S. ​“Thou Rememberance”)

Lyerin was born in Cuiviénen after the departure of the Eldar. He was among the leaders of his people and together with Lyan and Lysa brought his people (the Arana, a Nelya branch) to Ardor in the Second Age of Melkor’s captivity in Mandos.

The Three leaders of the Arana sought it wise to provide some sort of organization for their people and with the help of their Kinn-lai brethren began erecting buildings which served as centers of lore and counsel for everyone who sought it and accepted the laws of the Arana.

When orcs began to plague Ardor Lyerin led his fellow Nelyar to repel the menace. They were partially successful but after a brief respite a full-scale invasion was started by an orcish army aided by now leaderless Morgothic monsters. Lyerin fought valiantly to defend his people and after some serious defeats and losses the united elves (Kinn-lai and Arana) were able to destroy the invaders. Lyerin realized that the days of peaceful existence were over and that some sort of organization was needed to concentrate the powers of the region to prevent future catastrophies. Soon after the Great Raid in the Third Age of Melkors captivity he realized the danger of the still unbroken Shadow. He began travelling among his fellow elves for advice what could be done to permanently ban this danger. The answers he got were not satisfying since after the defeat of the Great Raid most Elves wished to be left alone and didn’t desire a strong central government. So things went on until Chrys Menelrana appeared in Ardor. He spoke of Valinor, Morgoth and the struggle of the Eldar with the Black Enemy. He asked them to unite against any Morgothic threat that might arise in the South but he was greeted with coolness at best. The Avari hadn’t great love for the Eldar and when one appeared among them and asked for a mission that was not theirs he was firmly rejected. The Kinn-lai were the most unwilling to follow his requests. The leaders of the Arana were more farsighted however and counseled their followers to cooperate with the Elda lord and eventually the majority of the Guild was recruited from the Arana. Lyerin himself shared the cool feelings towards the Eldar but he knew that it was necessary to cooperate and so he gave Chrys and Laurrë all the assistance they needed. Their personal relations remained however cool.

When men began to migrate into Ardor Lyerin was particularly fascinated by them and at his urging the Three decided to give them advice and leadership. The benevolent tutorship of Lyerin and his peers led to the rise of Geshaan. Of course he saw the Secondborn as a potential valuable ally and instructed them not to listen to other Elves (the Court’s emissaries) because they gave ill advice. The Three were very successful in this and their mannish allies grew into a power to be reckoned with, preventing many a Ardan plot. Finally the Court was able to subvert the mannish realm and the Three were helpless while witnessing the disintegration of their efforts.

The final confrontation at the Citadel saw the fall of Lyan and Lysa and so Lyerin alone remained of the Arana leadership. The changing of the world and the losses of the war against Ardor led to the disappearance of the Arana as a strong folk, most of the survivors migrating to Dînsûlinor, others joined the Kinn-lai and were finally assimilated into the latter folk. So the structures built by them fell into disrepair with only Ty-Ar-Rana still held intact until the end of the Third Age. Later in the Third Age when the Guild was reformed, Lyerin joined this organization to dispel the Ardan danger once and for all.

The only survivor of the former Three of Ty-Ar-Rana, Lyerin is one of the most important members of the Guild. A consumate unarmed warrior, he was the least intellectual of the Three and wandered for many years without special purpose before meeting Laurrë and rejoining the Guild.

He is somewhat apart from his companions, feeling little sympathy for his Elda companions — although he does not let his feelings touch his responsibilities. He knows it is necessary to prevent the Court from achieving its goal, and so he makes this a decision of the mind, not the heart. He is however quite comfortable with the wizard Lineris whom he values as a honorable ally. He guesses about the latter’s origins but admires the decision of a Maia to don a permanent mortal fana with all its perils.

6′7″ (2,01m) tall with with tanned skin, dark brown eyes and brown hair, Lyerin bears the same familial signs as his brethrens of Ty-Ar-Rána, but little resemblance to the Noldor. He keeps his auburn locks trimmed to the top of his ears, and layered around the back. In manner he is boyish and amazingly carefree for his age and past sufferings, although he takes his responsibilities within the Guild with utmost seriousness, and would fight to the death without hesitation if he believed it necessary. Lyerin is of ​‘Metal’ within the Guild.

Profession: Delver/​Fighter

Level: 48

Hits: 150

Race: Nelya

Stats: CO: 91 SD: 98 AG: 101 ME: 91 RE: 90 ST: 100 QU: 100 PR: 97 IN: 95 EM: 101

Magic items

Klaen

(S. ​“Shining Still Lake”)

Born in Aurax-dûr in the year 3197 S.A., the boy was the child of Gorthaur and … and named Lanthirion (Q. ​“Son of the Waterfall”). His childhood and adolescence went uneventful. He had every comfort the Court could provide and took very little interest in its doings. All this changed when in S.A. 3298 the Court destroyed the isle of Dînsulinor and hunted down its survivors. He witnessed the trials led by his father who led to the execution of nearly all defendants. This merciless kinslaying brought Lanthirion in direct opposition to his father. He openly declared his disapproval to the High Priest. Gorthaur however was unmoved. This unsolved discrepancy slept some time as the last years of the Second Age were quite eventful in the Utter South and Lanthirion reluctantly helped to stabilize the Court structure during the time of Sauron’s supremacy. After the fall of the Dark Lord and the beginning of the Third Age Lanthirion was able to spend more time on his research upon the Court and its history. In the year 45 of the Third Age he had gathered enough clues to prove that the Court worked for Morgoth’s goals and approached his father with his conclusions. The ensuing meeting was very heated and finally Gorthaur ordered his recalcitrant son imprisoned. So deep he was in the trap of the Black Enemy that he comitted deeds he abhorred during the march of the Noldor into exile. A trial was appointed where his ​“traitorous” son should be found guilty and executed according to the ​“rightful law”. When … discovered the High Priest’s intentions she begged him to spare their son, but it was all for nothing: Gorthaur was determined to punish this ​“insurrection”. Disillusioned about her spouse she began to prepare the escape of her son. This split between Gorthaur and his wife was especially painful and showed the corrupting powers of the Black Enemy since the Elves do not err in such matters of the heart (Morgoth’s Ring, p. ). When everything was ready she helped her son escape from Aurax-dûr but herself remained behind. Lanthirion urged and begged her to come with him but she was still in love with her spouse despite all his failings. So, when she told him what she had done (after her son was well on his way) he became so mad that he slew her on the spot and not repenting his deed. Gorthaur also arranged that his son heard about his mother’s fate to further torture him. Lanthirion, hearing this became silent and after many hours he took a vow of revenge against his sibling. From this time on he called himself Klaen to emphasize his personal enmity towards the Lord of the dark cave Morlin.

Many years Klaen wandered Middle-earth to gather every bit of knowledge he could to find some way his revenge could be realized. During these travels he met the male Fëatur in T.A. 1356 in Tûl Harar and was offered to join an organization opposed to the Court. Of course he was wary because he knew the long arm of the Court but Fëatur was able to convince him of his honesty and soon the Bard became an integral part of the Guild. He is very active and seeks every opportunity to hinder the Court’s plans which has earned him the special attention of the Court’s active minions.

He travels far and wide in the area to gather the intelligence that enables the Guild to effectively thwart the Ardan council’s plans. It his he who watches over the operations to enable Moran kill his mother.

Wearing a perpetual, wiry smirk, and continually brushing his sandy brown hair back from his eyes, Klaen is Laurrë’s antithesis. 6′6″ (1,98m) tall and very slender, he tends to slouch or lean against any available support, eyes shut (or nearly so). In typical bardic fashion, he uses this seeming nonchalance to disarm others around him, perhaps inspiring them to say things they might not other wise. Those who have felt his intent gaze, however, realize the full potential of Klaen’s driving will.

Forced to leave most of his extensive wardrobe at his home in Tumlinde, Klaen usually dons unobtrusive clothing in shades of green. Of the six lords of the Guild, Klaen was chosen to be the guardian of the Company because of his ability to remain unobtrusive; as well as his vast geographic and cultural knowledge. Klaen is of ​‘Air’ within the Guild, and has items with powers over that element.

Profession: Bard/​Montebanc

Level: 27

Hits: 150

Race: Noldo/​Tatya (Arana)

Stats: CO: 90 SD: 101 AG: 98 ME: 95 RE: 101 ST: 90 QU: 98 PR: 102 IN: 96 EM: 99

Magic items

Rána

(S. ​“Wanderer”)

Born shortly of the Arana’s arrival in Ardor, Rána is a pure Nelya elf. Ever since his early childhood he relished in the art of healing. For the elves of Middle-earth the healing of the hröar was a necessity since Endor lacked the safety of Aman and many of Melkor’s monstrosities still roamed the world. He lived in Tâliran during all the times of trouble in Ardor. The early incursions of orcs and other monsters saw his art in high demand but he was unable to cure all hurts of the body nor could he be everywhere. These experiences strengthened his resolve to aid the hurt and ailing. The arrival of Elda lords in the land changed Ránas life forever. Fisrt came Chrys Menelrana who spoke of the Great War in the North and the danger the Black Enemy’s that his monsters posed for every inhabitant of Middle-earth who wished to be free. Though he shared the common dislike of the Avari for their Elda brethren he understood the need Chrys spoke of. He also realized the danger for all those who did not wish to follow Morgoth’s path. Accordingly he was among the Arana who spoke for the Elda lord and his request. It took some time for the Avari elves to reach a decision but finally most accepted Chrys’ arguments and were willing to help him in his deeds. This decision marked an important split in the Avari of the region for those discontent with the decision left in anger and Rána lost many a friend in the wake. He was accepted into the Guild of Elements as their chief healer and surgeon. His skills saved many lives in the early years of the organization and he became quite good friends with Laurrë Menelrana.

The arrival of the Secondborn in Ardor gave him a new goal: together with the Three of Ty-Ar-Rana he made it his business to teach men in all arts of leechcraft they could handle. This helped them to grow and defend themselves better against the ills of the world. With satisfaction he monitored the growing of Geshaaan. The corruption and final destruction of this realm disgusted him and removed any feelings he might have for his former companions in the Court. Such a wicked deed was the corruption of Geshaan in his eyes that his quest to help everyone who fought the Court became an obsession. All throughout the later ages he stayed ever true to his cause and helped everyone in need who opposed the Shadow in its many incarnations. The destruction of Dînsulinor became a trauma for him since many of the people he loved and respected lived there. He was present when the catastrophe struck and barely managed to escape. His inability to save any other than a mere handful companions drove him to new heights of loathing against the Court and ever since he is unwavering in his resolve to overthrow this evil organization. For someone of his profession it is quite surprising to find someone so cold-determined but the many crimes and kinslayings carried out by the Court make it understandeable.

One of the last of the original people of the Arana, Rána belongs to the Guild since its foundation, tending to the wounds and ailments of others. A Nelya Elf with black curly hair, Rána is 6′5″ (1,96m) tall and slender, yet fairly muscular of build. Despite the sometimes grim nature of his profession as a Lay Healer, he is lighthearted of demeanor, and his slow, deep voice, youthful face, and seeming lack of coordination seem to contradict his quick mind and true sensitivity. It is Rána who would appear to heal a wounded PC should others be willing to sacrifice stat points (or something comparable) to channel power and bring his powers to a pentagram. It would be only at such places that Rána could act. Normally he stays at Laurrë’s manor unless his talents are sorely needed by those fighting against Ardor. He has been known after an attack or raid by an enemy to appear unlooked-for at healing houses in Koronandë, Tuktan or Hathor, heal the wounded and vanish as quickly as he had come. Of ​‘Earth’, Rána wears green and brown, usually in the form of a tunic, pants and high boots, or a full length hooded robe.

Profession: Lay Healer/​Physician

Level: 38

Hits: 150

Race: Nelya

Stats: CO: 88 SD: 98 AG: 98 ME: 92 RE: 100 ST: 81 QU: 90 PR: 100 IN: 96 EM: 97

Magic items

Fëatur

(S. ​“Lord Spirit”)

Nearly all of the origins of the Fëatur twins is told in the entry for the female twin. Only facts belonging exclusively to the male twin are reported here. They joined the rebellion of the Noldor (for the only reason of re-joining their master in Middle-earth) and were in the host of Fingolfin. During the painful crossing of the Helcaraxë the male Fëatur saw Morgoth for what he was and repented his deeds. He left the main host and all thought him to be another victim of the unforgiving ice, but he survived and tried to return to Aman but soon was lost in the frigid waste. So Mandos’ doom that Aman was closed to the exiled Noldor became true even for the repentent Fëatur. Even the hardiness of the Noldor in their youth did not help him on the ice and he became trapped. Before long he perished and his spirit departed for Mandos. Here he prayed to the Valar for forgiveness and found mercy and was judged a short time in Mandos. After a few fleeting years he was re-incarnated, but the Valar charged him with a mission to return to Middle-earth to combat the minions of Morgoth, especially the Court and his own sister. This would be the fulfillment of his penance. His purge in Mandos had lifted and strengthened his spirit similar to the similar act of Glorfindel in later times. He accepted his mission with dignity and soon appeared in Middle-earth after he again took the Helcaraxë crossing and sought out his sister. As is reported in her entry they met secretly at Eithel Ivrin again and he told her a story of a long odyssey on the ice and she believed his words. Here she also told him him of potential power in the Utter South and he agreed to accompany her on her mission for she was already contacted by Ardana to join the Court’s cause.

They agreed to keep his existence a secret, just to have a source of amusement and potential subterfuge within the future Court. He was very satisfied with this solution since it allowed him easy access to nearly all installations of the evil Court while having the complete trust of one of its greater Lords. Despite the need for it, the double-crossing of his sister left a shadow upon him and he was more gloomy than before. Thankfully his sister attributed this to his painful memories on the unforgiving ice.

Once they had arrived in Ardor he received a dream about the twins of Ardana and knew that the obviously dead boy would be the hope against the impending Darkness and he informed his lover Yavëkamba. Accordingly she presented him the boy after the birth and he took the latter and brought him to the cavern of Guinarnen whose existence he had discovered some time before. Indeed this was one the few caverns that contained the remnants of the waters of Almaren: the primeval waters which still held some of the awesome might of the Valar in the spring of Arda. He knew that the waters would keep him alive indefinitely and aid his fëa to fight Morgoth’s influence (see the entry on Moran below). When the time would come, Moran would be awakened and prepared to face his destiny.

Fëatur’s stability in this great game of politics and subterfuge is Yavëkamba, the Healer of the Court. Her love and his hope of redemption for his evil deeds kept him up during the most desperate moments when the Court seemed to prevail as in the cases of Geshaan or Dînsulinor.

He is the brain and central figure in the struggle versus the Court. He supplies the other Guild members with intelligence from the inner circle of their foe and he defines the guidelines for the overall strategy. He also acts as the counsellor for all the others, gives them advice and hope. These responsibilities and the need to keep up the guise for his sister and thereby acting within the Court for substantial periods of time prevent him from taking the action himself.

For the players it will be nearly impossible to approach him directly but his work should provide them with many valuable information to defeat the Court.

See ​‘Lords of Ardor’ for physical details. Of ​‘Spirit’ in the Guild, Fëatur wears white trimmed with gold usually in the form of an open silk tunic with half sleeves, white pants, and gold sandals, in short the antithesis of his usual drab black-robed garb worn in the Court. He also has gold wrist bracers, about 3” (7,5cm) wide, with magical properties. The most introspective of the six, he smiles rarely, and when he does there is a touch of irony. There also appear lines about his eyes and mouth that no Elf would normally have. He wears an aura of impending doom like a dark cloak, seeking now only the completion of his quest and then returning to the Undying Lands with his love, which can only be achieved through the destruction of the Court and, of course, the death of his sister.

Profession: Montebanc/​Mentalist/​Sage

Level: 33

Hits: 150

Race: Noldo

Stats: CO: 93 SD: 98 AG: 101 ME: 99 RE: 96 ST: 92 QU: 99 PR: 101 IN: 97 EM: 99

Magic items

Moran

(S. ​“Long Dark”)

The brother of Morelen was born together with his sister in 1.A. 507 but seemed to be dead upon birth. This made quite a sensation because it was unknown to the Eldar before that such a thing could happen. Given the unnatural power of their conception this caused not the stir in Ardana it would normally have and Yavëkamba took the boy to prepare the body fur burial as she said. In truth she brought it to the male Fëatur who knew of the peril the boy was in. Moran’s hröa was indeed nearly dead and his fëa fought a death-struggle against the evil thúle of Morgoth that sought to destroy the body and thereby ending any hope. In great haste the infant was brought to Guinarnen by the male Fëatur. Here the benevolent influence of the primeval waters stabilized the boy’s hröa and gave the fëa the strength he needed to subdue and expel the evil thúle of the Black Enemy. This took very long however but there was no haste and so the infant slept for millennia in the powerful waters and thereby gained strength for his ultimate fate.

Moran was awakened by Fëatur in T.A. 1390 because the latter felt the time for the final confrontation to come. Soon after his emergence from the blessed water the infant was quickly brought to Laurrës manor. Here the young elf grew up with the best teachers and friends available. The Guild knew Moran would need this love and caring for the great task that lay before him. He was raised in the lore of both the Eldar and Avari. As soon as he was old enough he began to learn about the Court, the Guild and their struggle. Finally he was told his heritage and the role he would have to play in order to achieve the final fall of the Court. Of course the knowledge that he had to eventually kill his mother made him somewhat gloomy but he understands the necessity for it. He has also decided that if there is another option to permanently stop the Court he would take it.

He plans to spare his sister (if this is possible) and return to Guinarnen with her. Moran thinks that their tainted heritage would not be appropriate for Aman and the waters would help her in the same way as they did him. Perhaps they both can be purged so that a return to Aman might be permitted to them.

Moran spends most of his time in Tumlindë and its vicinity.

The brother of Morelen and the son of Ardana is 6′6″ (1,98m) tall and slender. He still has the curiosity of an elf young in the world.

He has no specific element within the Guild, but combines all elements. This reflects his central role for the success of the quest.

Profession: Paladin

Level: 15

Hits: 150

Race: Noldo/Tatya?(Ainu)

Stats: CO: 92 SD: 97 AG: 100 ME: 92 RE: 90 ST: 99 QU: 96 PR: 95 IN: 100 EM: 103

Magic items

Lianis

(Morinehtar: S. ​“Darkness-slayer”, Pallando, The (Lesser) Blue, Pallanir (Sindarin), Doom-seer, Soul-keeper)

The Istar known as Morinehtar is one of the two Blue Wizards who were sent to Middle-earth “…for a different purpose [than Gandalf, Saruman and Radagast]” in the Second Age to circumvent Sauron (PoM.385): “…to bring help to the few tribes of Men that had rebelled from Melkor-worship, to stir up rebellion…and after his fall to search out his hiding (in which they failed) and to cause dissension and disarray among the dark East (a metapher for all areas east and south of the Dúnadan-settled Northwest)…They must have had very great influence on the history of the Second and Third Age in weakening and disarraying the forces of the East…who would both in the Second and Third Age otherwise have…outnumbered the West.”

This ​“man” is known throughout the region as Lianis and he is most prevalent in Koronandë and Hathor. In fact he supports these two nations to oppose the various incarnations of the Shadow, be they the Court (Tantûrak) or Sauron (Mûmakan). His knowledge as a pupil of Mandos enables him to understand the mannish spirit to a great degree and he relishes in the feeling that his advice is vital for the opposition of the Shadow. In this he is similar to Saruman, but he did not fell into the trap of Sauron and the chief wizard and seeking overt domination. In essence he failed too in his mission but in another way than Saruman or Radagast (as every Istar was unique with personal strengths and weaknesses). He does not want to ever return to the Undying Lands because of his exalted position in Endor.

Similar to Gandalf, he is always on the move and wanders the lands of southern and south-eastern Middle-earth with high frequency, but whenever he resides in a region he has (rather unlike Gandalf) a semi-permanent home which is tended to in the meantime by generations of mortal servants who know that some day the real master may appear. In the meantime however they are free to use the manors ressources as long as they keep it intact.

In keeping his mission he seeks to support those people who resist (or revolt against) Sauron in the wide realms of the East and South where Gondorian power never was felt. In this context the Hathorians and the Kirani of Koronandë are his chief ​“pupils” since he perceives a spirit of freedom in them that gives him the confidence that these people are the real hope for resistance versus the Shadow in this region. He also perceives quite clear the Court and its machinations. To this organization he holds a more differentiated opinion: on the one hand they resist Sauron and thereby aid him in his mission, on the other hand they plot the downfall of the Sun and Moon, something that he has to hinder of course (though it was not one of the tasks he was sent for). In general he thinks it is best to play one opponent off against the other and strike at both when they have weakned themselves in mutual strife.

Soon after his arrival in the Far South in the third millenium of the Second Age he got acquainted with several members of the Guild of Elements. After some discussion and due consideration he was admitted into their organization. He is of ​‘Water’ within the Guild.

After the failure of the ritual in the Third Age he even became a friend of Ardûval whom he convinced to join the cause of good and redeem his previous fell deeds.

Lianis, the lesser of the two ​“Blue Wizards” (Ithryn Luin), was sent to Endor upon the request of Alatar. A servant of Namo (Mandos) and Nienna, he knows much of the ways of grief and dying and understands the troubles of the soul. Alatar took him as a compan­ion because Pallando was known as a great traveller and he was originally Alatar’s friend but, over time, the two became sundered.

Pallando stands 6′6″ and walks with a powerful and tireless stride. He had indigo eyes and black hair. Like Gandalf, Pallando travels far and wide; but unlike the Grey Pilgrim, the lesser Blue Wizard eventually at least partly fell away from his mission and settles temporarily among those who would follow his word. This is a complicated matter to decide however since the Blue Wizards’ mission is different from those Istari of the Northwest (see also above).

In later days Pallando’s word eventually became quite terrifying for, as in keeping with Name’s people, Pallando was capable of dealing with death and darkness. As Sauron’s dominion over the South and Southeast shrank away, Pallando’s presence grew (although he never took any personal title and so avoided the trap in whic Saruman fell).

Profession: Cleric

Level: 40(60)

Hits: 180

Race: Istar (Maia)

Stats: CO: 99 SD: 99 AG: 100 ME: 98 RE: 98 ST: 100 QU: 100 PR: 101 IN: 108 EM: 99 APP: 102

Special Powers

Magic items

Leaders of Tantûrak

Ar-Kîratôr

The emperor of Tantûrak from T.A. 1644 – 1726 is a young man (only 29 years) of modest temperament (for an Arûwain). He feels himself superior to any man in the Mûmakan and that it is his right to rule over the lesser men of Middle-earth. He leaves the political business in the hands of his advisors, chiefly the trusted ​“Magician”. The emperor prefers to train his skills-at-arms, making tournaments and enjoying the martial arts. Ar-Kîratôrs great longing is it to crush the Mûmakanril and conquer Ciryatandor. Despite the odds he plans an offensive against the latter and is building up his army for the campaign. Most of his advisors disapprove this plan but the campaign is his personal vendetta for for the defeat of his great-grandfather in T.A. 1487. While being open to most good council on other matters, the emperor insists upon his plan. He dreams of glory in the west and a crushing defeat of hated Ciryatandor. This would make him the most powerful Arûwain lord in the south. His dream has only a very low chance of success given the many enemies of his ambitions. It is more probable that this campaign will lead to disaster but the young emperor does not see it.

Indeed his campaign against Ciryatandor led to a disaster as his army was trapped in the Cleft of Goats and forced to fight at a great disadvantage. Consequently his troops were vanquished and the emperor barely escaped with his life to safety in Ûsakan. This defeat not ended only any hope of conquest in the west it also wasted desperately needed ressources in the much more important struggle against the united Mûmakanril under their greatest (living) king: Moraar I. This misinterpretation of priorities degraded Tantûrak for five centuries to a secondary power before it was able to regain its old holdings and might.

Physically Ar-Kiratôr is an imposing man whose Númenorean ancestry is quite visible in his black hair and grey eyes. He stands 6′3″ tall (1,91m) and a constant air of arrogance radiates from him.

Profession: Cavalier

Level: 14

Hits: 150

Race: Aruwain

Stats: CO: 91 SD: 92 AG: 89 ME: 61 RE: 75 ST: 96 QU: 85 PR: 94 IN: 91 EM: 75

Magic items

The Magician

See the entry for Valmorgûl in the ​‘Lords of the Court of Ardor’ section.

Baratûn

The High-general of Tantûrak’s armies stands 6′6″ (1,98m) tall, a mirror image of the Sea-Kings of old. He governs his area of responsibility with an iron fist, firmly believing in his people’s superiority. Baratûn has his seat at the great fortress Ramôrth (though often he is at the eastern fortress at the Pel Dûshera) and he is the one who denies Mûmakan easy access to Gan. Consequently, he is the most able soldier in the state — and he knows it.

He comes from an old Numenorean family distantly related to the royal line. This kinship has more often than not hindered his plans and proposals, as the emperors constantly alleges that his relatives want to usurp more power and thereby takes their advice only reluctantly (especially if it’s contrary to the emperor’s own judgement). In case of Baratûn this is especially tragic since he is the most experienced Tantûraki concerning Mûmakanril dealings. He has observed the Mûmakanril unification with great concern and is sure that the future king Moraar will rule over a highly unified and armed realm with a potent army and the determined will to conquer. His warnings are largely unheeded though and he tries to use his limited ressources to their utmost limit and thereby strengthening the Tantûraki position in his area of responsibility.

Baratûn also disapproves Ar-Kiratôr’s dispositions for the Ciryatandor campaign. When the emperor heeded his military council at other times, this special campaign takes a quasi-religious meaning for the emperor and he organizes everything to his own judgement. Baratûn is sure that the campaign will ultimately fail and secretly prepares emergency measures in case of the expected disaster.

Baratûn’s preferred garb is his magnificent Chain Mail armor combined with a red surcoat bearing his symbol: a red fortress upon a field of black trimmed with a rim of silver.

Profession: Arms Master

Level: 26

Hits: 150

Race: Arûwain

Stats: CO: 90 SD: 75 AG: 98 ME: 97 RE: 101 ST: 95 QU: 90 PR: 99 IN: 98 EM: 92

Magic items

Lords of Ûsakan

Bal-Anzeti

The Lord-Chancellor of Ûsakan comes from one of the oldest noble houses of the realm. He serves as the king’s executive arm, since the Tantûraki emperor spends most of his time in Sarûl. Practically, the Lord-Chancellor can rule with near autonomy and in return for this faithfullness on behalf of Tantûrak he stays true to the alliance of the two states.

He is particularly hostile to the King of Sparta, the most powerful of the Magri realms. This powerful realm denies him the hegemony over Tumag and Mag he so strongly desires. The current state of affairs is that both realms divide the hegemony over Tumag roughly by half whereby Sparta holds the more fertile and populated southern and southeastern parts.

Within his responsibility falls the protection of the western border of the combined realm. Today, his chief concern are the Ciryatandorian incursions and the recently rising Magri raids. He is very fond of the attention the emperor gives to the western border because this enables him to strike at the Ûsakani’s age-old enemies with the full might of the twin realms. He supports the Ciryatandor campaign in every way and it his advice that the emperor mostly relies on. Bal-Anzetis agents provide the intelligence for the campaign and on their reports the plan is made to invade southern Ciryatandor and Hyarn through the Cleft of Goats. As is told elsewhere this campaign led to a catastrophic disaster. Perhaps it was better for Bal-Anzeti to be killed in the rearguard rather than surviving and facing the wrath of his lord.

In appearance, he is a tall, slender man of 45 years with a bald shaven head (as tradition demands), brown eyes and a stern demeanor.

Profession: Diplomat

Level: 19

Hits: 140

Race: Ûsakani

Stats: CO: 78 SD: 90 AG: 88 ME: 100 RE: 97 ST: 90 QU: 90 PR: 95 IN: 97 EM: 65

Magic items

Personalities of Mûmakan

Jí Indûr (Indûr Dawndeath)

Indûr Dawndeath was born as Jí Indûr in the city of Korlan in the year S.A. 1965. Heir to the fortune of the wealthiest oligarchic family in the Kiran republic of Koronandë, he was the youngest man ever elected governor in any of the realm’s six districts. He later became a powerful representative to Koronandë’s twelvemember assembly. There, he lobbied for the creation of a central govemment which could contest the growing might of Numenor, for the young merchant-lord feared the loss of his precious commercial interests in the region around the Bay of Ûsakan. The Numenorean colony of Tantûrak (founded S.A. 1792 as Lond Hallacar) grew during the reign of Tar-Ciryatan, and ships once bound for Korlan began docking in the Adan port of Sarûl. More importantly, though, warships started frequenting the bay and Jí Indûr perceived a threat to his people’s independence. Indûr slowly accumulated support among the wealthy merchants and warriors of Koronandë, as well as among many of the Elves of nearby Tâliran. Elven sentiments varied like those of the Kirani, but the majority feared that the growing Númenórean prejudice against the Eldar would eventually lead to war. With the support of key figures among his own people. and the tacit approval of the Kirani’s Firstborn allies, the young representative seized control of the assembly in S.A. 1987. Koronandë became a kingdom the following year when the advisory council oligarchs that replaced the republican assembly elected him King of Koronandë. Hundreds of freedom-loving Kirani resisted the change and civil rebellion racked the realm for the next nineteen years. The arrival of the ​“Magician” in Tantûrak in S.A. 2007 polarized support for Jí Indûr and appeared to doom the rebel cause. Relations between the Adan colony and the Kirani reached the edge of war and, out of fear, the people of Koronandë sought unity. Confident, the young monarch called for a great public celebration. His plan to gather popular support for an unpopular war and an illegal regime failed, though, when Korlans governor Loran Klien stood at the rostrum above the crowd and offered a return to republican rule. The Kirani spontaneously applauded the age-old solution and rioting ensued. The self-styled King of Koronandë was forced to flee east to Mûmakan.

Sauron’s agents had resided in the home of the Mumakil (Oliphaunts) since the mid-eighteenth century S.A. and Jí Indûr’s cordial relations with the Dark Lord’s minions (it was unbeknowst to him that they served the Dark Lord) enabled him to find a refuge after his overthrow. The tall Kiran provided the Lord of the Rings an opportunity to further his sordid goals in the Far South. While Sauron offered the exiled King a new throne, this heinous pact doomed the Mûmakani. The Evil One gave Indûr a Ring of Power in S.A. 2010 , and later the same year the wicked Kiran captured the throne of Mûmakan.

Jí Indûr was crowned Jí Amaav II of Mûmakan. The people believed his arrival to be the second coming of the legendary Firstking — the God-lord Amaav — and the ambitious monarch had little trouble seizing control of the troubled nation. Ruling from the holy city of Amaru. Indûr united the semi-nomadic tribes and laid plans for further conquest. His reign lasted 1252 years, during which the Mûmakanril became a corrupt people that subjugated Gan, eastern Dûshera, and most of the great southern archipelago.

Mûmakan’s expansion to the west proved unsuccessful in the face of opposition from the Ardan Council and the inherent strength of the Elves, Númenóreans, and Kirani that dominated the region. This situation led to the Ringwraith’s pact with the Magician of Tantûak in S.A. 3010. With Mumakani support, Tantûrak threw off the yoke of Númenórean rule and declared itself an independent kingdom. Ar-Zîmrathon of Numenor failed to crush the rebellion in the years 3010 – 17, so the sundering succeeded. A few months later, Tantûrak and Koronandë abdicated the treaty of peace, leaving the Kirani surrounded by hostile neighbors. The coming years proved dark, as the Kiran republic became a disarmed and exploited land. Only the uncertain jealousies lingering betwan Tantûrak and Mûmakan prevented its outright conquest. Ar-Pharazôn, the Golden king of Númenór, terminated Indûr’s reign and ended the independence of Tantûrak in S.A. 3262. His invasion of Endor brought most of Westernesse’s former holdings in Middle-earth back into the Adan fold and culminated in thc capture of the Lord of the Rings. Mûmakan became a Númenórean subject state, its empire shattered and Jí Indûr retreated to Mordor. Númenór perished in the Downfall of S.A. 3319, enabling thc Evil One to escape home. The Nazgûl became active again the instant Sauron returned to Endor. For the remaining 122 years of thc Second Age, Indûr engaged in the strugglc against the Last Alliance of Elves and Men but, like Sauron and the other Úlairi, the Shadow of the South passed into hiding upon the defeat of the Dark Lord.

Indûr returned to Middle-earth around T.A. 1050 and spent the next two centuries regaining his strength on the islc of E-Sorul Sare. His influence in Mûmakan grew slowly (especially Gorthaur hindered his progression), but by T.A. 1250 Jí Indûrs servants successfully maneuvered the disarrayed aibes into coalition commanded by his Lieutenants. This loose union again stirred the warlike Mûmak-riders into an aggressive policy of expansion.

In T.A. 1264 Sauron ordered Indûr to fly to the Citadel of Ardor and seek an ​“alliance” with the Elven Ardan Council, but the old rivalry for control of the Far South persisted. Stalled by the elven group in Ardinaak, the Ringwraith considered the meeting an affront and counciled the Dark Lord to avenge the rebuke. Sauron preferred to wait, however for without the Ruling Ring the Evil One regained his strength very slowly. Indûr’s rivals received an uneasy peace that never sat well with the Úlair.

Under the ​“Magician’s” sway, Tantûrak declared war on Koronandë in T.A. 1365. The conflict raged for seven years, and the Kirani appeared to be on the edge of collapse when the nations signed a treaty in T.A. 1372. Indûr’s mediation (for fear of Tantûraki dominance saved the Kirani republic from defeat, but it began an era of Mûmakanril influence. This period was marked by the spate of ritualistic nocturnal assassinations that gave birth to Indûr’s association with death. Time after time, his enemies perished in their sleep, to be found at dawn — brutally executed.

Indûr ruled Mûmakan as Jí Amaav III from T.A. 1264 1640 and as Jí Amaav IV between T.A. 2460 and 2941. Between T.A. 1640 – 2000 with increasing frequency he visited Mordor but ever returned to the Mûmakan. In this time he ruled through mortal servants to be free for his masters call to Mordor. Between T.A. 2000 – 2460 and T.A. 2941 – 3019 he resided at Minas Morgul. He travelled with the Witchking on the search for the One Ring in T.A. 3018, encountering the Company on Weathertop and losing his mount during the confrontation at the Bruinen Ford. Later, he oversaw the preparation of the Mûmakil assault during the ill-fated campaign against Minas Tirith. His end came after the skirmish with the Great Eagles at the Battle of Morannon, for as Indûr and the other Fell Riders tried to intercept the Hobbits at Mount Doom, they became engulfed in the destruction resulting from the unmaking of the One. Thus, the Shadow of the South disappeared from Eä forever.

Indûr stands 6′5″ (1,96m) tall and, like most Kirani is slight of built. Dark-skinned and black eyed, he embodies the ideal of his people. After becoming King of the Mûmakani, however, he favored the garb of the Mûmak riders: grey cotton breeches with leather patches, a grey cloak, a brigandine armor, and an open-faced helm and inlaid with ivory to resemble the head of an Oliphaunt.

Profession: Diplomat/​Maleficant

Level: 24/34

Hits: 140

Race: Kiran

Stats: CO: 88 SD: 81 AG: 99 ME: 101 RE: 102 ST: 78 QU: 96 PR: 95 IN: 99 EM: 101

Magic items

Other Personalities

Vaal Gark

Vaal Gark is Lord of the Desert Screamers and is reputedly the most elusive and cunning figure in the Dominions and the whole southwestern peninsula. As such, he employs many languages and dons many guises. Normally, though, he favors a long, white, robe-like tunic and a light, reddish helmet fashioned like the open-mouthed skull of a desert cat. His quilted white, silk-inlaid cotton armor is also adorned with a Garkic symbol: a gaping red maw. When he first met Taurclax in the Second Age he found the renegade Sinda a capable teacher. Never one to let a chance for enhancing his powers slip, Vaal Gark listened to Taurclax’ teachings for the Elda knew many secrets of the olvar and kelvar, knowledge Vaal Gark was definitely interested in.

The two beca,e quite close friends and Vaal Gark was drawn towards Saurons service (albeit indirectly through Taurclax). When Vaal founded the organization of the Garks in S.A. 1870 as a mercenary company dedicated to outdoor services and reconnaisance, Taurclax wielded a considerable influence in this new organization. Beside Vaal and a handful of other Elves (Cuind and Kinn-lai), the vast majority of this organization consisted of men. Indeed it was the Garks that discovered the first Gem of Unlight in T.A. 1100 and handed it over to the Court. Despite being a spy for Sauron and his interests, Taurclax was still bound to the Oath of Ardor and had to hand over the gem when he got his hands on it.

Vaal wears a two-hand scabbard, which is slung over his back, as well as a pair of daags — twin-edged, falchion-like swordswords. He carries a silvery eliptical target shield with a red boss that resembles his bizarre helm.

Vaal Gark is a lean but strong Cuind Elf of uncertain age. His smooth, hairless face belies his rugged background. He does not look like a ranger who has spent a great deal of his life in the Haradan deserts. Instead, he looks like a tall (6′3″; 1,91m) teacher from Valagalen.

Profession: Ranger/​Nomad

Level: 24

Hits: 144

Race: Cuind (Tatya)

Stats: CO: 92 SD: 67 AG: 97 ME: 85 RE: 86 ST: 97 QU: 101 PR: 79 IN: 100 EM: 83

Magic items

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