Another Fellowship has the party going separate ways.
Ladee once more across the Misty Mountains to bring smiles to his parents
awaiting in the Shire. Months holed up by the winter snows gives time for
research but the hobbit libraries are wanting. Hints of Dunedain treasures
scattered among the ancient ruins, but no real clues for the hobbit thirsty for
secrets. Thus, it’s early spring 2952 when the hobbit says his goodbyes as he
treks once more eastward toward the mountains. A short stop in Rivendell to
study in the great elven library. Intrigued by the mention of Weathertop that
has been a side note to his comings and goings all these years (halfway between
the Shire and Rivendell). “Maybe treasure lies among the ruins, that could be
used to battle the now growing shadow. Or knowledge of its weaknesses.”
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Weathertop was a large hill upon which Amon Sûl the
watchtower was built by the Dúnedain of Arnor. It was the southernmost of the
Weather Hills and stood upon the norther side of the East/West Road. Its
summit was well over a thousand feet and its strategic position was not lost
on the kingdom of Arnor, as it overlooked the Great East Road for many miles,
offering a commanding view in every direction.
During the reign of Elendil, the watchtower was built
upon its summit. The most powerful of Arnor’s three Palantíri was kept in the
tower, which enhanced its strategic importance. When Arnor split into three
smaller kingdoms, the tower stood at the junction of their borders. Amon Sûl
became the most coveted prize between the warring factions of the northern
kingdoms of Arthedain, Cardolan and Rhudaur. With the rise of Angmar in the
far north and its ally Rhudaur, the tower on Weathertop was taken and
destroyed by the Witch-king.
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But for now, Ladee departs the elven realm to rejoin his
allies in Dale. A long march indeed as he circles south to the pass near
Mountain Hall. It’s late Spring by the time the hobbit finds Brackrog at the
same inn, same table, with a dozen empty mugs lined before him. “Did you even
move while I was gone?” At least the arrival of Rowlie brings movement, “King
Dale requests our presence.” What could he want? We’ve heard the rumors of
easterly trade drying up; western wagon trains attacked preventing goods in and
out of Eriador.
