Azaghal III (SquatchThunder)

## Legacy of Azaghal

Azaghal is the roleplay name of SquatchThunder of the Blue Mountains. As of now he is the Dwarven High King, Lord of the Blue Mountains, and seen as the first dwarf of the server.The following accounts of real server events that have been molded to create the Dwarven Lord Azaghal.

The issue arising comes forth from the timelines set forward by Tolkien himself. He states that dwarves rarely live over 250 years old. My birth year is set during *T.A. 2700* which makes Azaghal II Belkbaghud 342 years old at this point in the server. To combat this issue, the saga of SquatchThunder will be split into two incarnations of Azaghal, the first being Azaghal II Belkbaghud, conqueror of Gundabad and founder of the Blue Mountains and Azaghal III, a Founder of the Dwarven Council and High King of the Dwarves.

## Azaghal II Belkbaghud

### Titles

1. Lord of the Blue Mountains2. Lord of Gabilgathol

3. the Storm

### Relations

Father of Azaghal III and DwarinGrandfather of Dimli Silverstone, Kheleb the Seafarer, Barin Silverstar, and Dorin

Great Grandfather of Fundin Thunderaxe, Farin, Thrirain, and Fror

Great Great Grandfather of Balin and Dwar

### Weapons and Armor

1. Gabilgathol - ancient mithril battleaxe named after the city in which it was forged2. Ulganul - Gondolinian blade forged for Azaghal of the First Age

3. Dragon Helm of Dor-Lomin - magical dwarven helmet forged in Nogrod for Azaghal of the First Age, recovered from the high elves of the west4. Blue Dwarven Armor - armor used by the dwarves of the Blue Mountains

### Lands

Blue Mountains, Blue Mountains Foothills, Northern Misty Mountains

## Player Information

### **Early Life** *(S.R. 1100-1160) (T.A. 2700-2760)*

Azaghal II was born to two parents in the heart of the Blue Mountains, Dis and Dwar during the middle of the Second Age. Azaghal was the only son of his parents. Azaghal grew up quickly, learning smithing from his father and family friends. Azaghal had little knowledge that he would soon become a very important figure in the history of the dwarven race.

Azaghal found it time to leave the family home and go to forge his own path in the wild world. One spring day he packed his bag with spongy cram and a large drinking horn of his favorite dwarven ale. He also took with him a few spare garments, a chestplate he forged himself, and a pickaxe he and his father made. As he waved goodbye to his family. Azaghal set out, southeast, along the beaten and winding path through the mountains. After a few rugged days of camping, he came to the ruins of Belegost, an ancient dwarven city that had thrived during the First Age. Azaghal took to exploring the ruins. Deep within the cavernous and rubble-filled halls he found a large stone box, decorated with intricate designs but laced with deep cracks. With all his strength, which was quite strong even by dwarven standards, he hefted the massive lid to the side where it fell with a thud and shattered due to the weathered appearance. Within the shattered remains of the lid, what appeared to be a tattered map of the ancient city. With this newfound curiosity, Azaghal was kept awake all night while he anxiously awaited the dawn so he could further his exploration.

### **The Ruins of Belegost** *(S.R. 1160) (T.A. 2760)*

Azaghal continued to live outside the ruins of Gabilgathol for many weeks, each day delving deeper into the mazes of tunnels and caverns that made up the great fortress. One day, after shifting a great boulder to the side, he uncovered a massive hall, mostly in tact as well. On both sides of the enormous hall there were statues depicting dwarven lords, most likely the seven Dwarven Fathers. At the end of the hall stood one, slightly different from the rest. This Azaghal knew to be his forefather, the dwarf who he was named after, the bearer of the Dragon Helm of Dor-Lomin and hero at the Battle of Unnumbered Tears, Azaghal I himself. Atop his head was a glorious helm carved out of the finest golds and silvers. His stone beard was lined with beautifully ornate beard ornaments. Azaghal continued under the statue's feet and through massive caverns and winding tunnels to where he found the tomb of Azaghal himself.

The domed room housed only the tomb of the ancient king. The walls glimmered due to the glowing stones found deep underground and seemed to hold and amplify the torchlight. Azaghal bowed at the large stone slab that marked his hero's grave. He stood, dusting years worth of dust and dirt from the face of the magnificent tomb. It shone blue like the stone that gave the mountains their name. It was set with the same shining stones that could rarely be found deep in the mines. In the center of the lid there lay the pearl of Belegost, Nimphelos, and a great broadsword, shimmering. Nimphelos, the great pearl of Belegost, given to the dwarves after aiding in the construction of some elvish hall that was long since lost in the west. the pearl still shone as brightly as it must have when it was set into the stone that it now lay in. As for the blade, no tales told of a sword as beautiful as this. It shone with a harsh light, piercing the darkness around it. Along the blade there were Cirth Runes, the word "Ulganul" in the language of the dwarves. Carefully removing the ancient sword , the young dwarf brandished the newfound weapon and discovered its extraordinary balance. He placed it through his belt and continued to explore the hall. Azaghal was careful when removing the top of the grave, as to not disturb his forefather. As the large stone slab was delicately set onto the cold floor, he found the tomb to be empty.

A gust of wind gave him a chill as he looked around the ornate room. He saw, on the back wall, the armor worn by the dwarven lord, beautifully ornate heavy armor and the Dragon Helm itself. Set in the stone at the boots of the armor there was a great axe that sparkled with a whitesh glow. He took slow and deliberate steps up to the axe of legend. This axe had wounded the dragon Glaurang before Azaghal was mortally wounded by the beast in a fit of rage. Again a gust of wind found its way into the cavern, taking the feeling of awe and twisting it into a feeling of untrust and anxiety. Azaghal wrapped his hands around the handle of the great axe and easily raised it to shine in the ever dimming torchlight. It read, "Gabilgathol, Barkuk Azaghal" which translated to "Belegost, Axe of Azaghal". The axe was named after the city in which it was forged. For such a large weapon it was beautifully balanced and sliced through the air as if it were no more than a parchment. He set it to the side and at once armed himself in the long forgotten armor of his forefather. Azaghal stooped to replace the weapon when another sudden gust caused him to turn around. Behind him stood the pale figure of the dwarven king. "You, my son, are destined to rule far more than I. Your name bears meaning. Carry on what it means to bear Ulganul and Gabilgathol. Go now," the ghostly figure said, placing its hand over Azaghal's on the hilt of the great axe. A sudden gust of wind extinguished his torch and the being was gone and the lid was restored onto the great stone grave. Azaghal spun about to see that the walls began to shake. Brandishing the pearl that shone as bright as moonlight, the most important helm of his people, and the great mithril axe, he ran from the tomb, and out into the sunlight.

Standing in the sun he saw that he still held the axe that had once cut dragon scale. Having felt a sense of peace when he saw the paranormal being, he felt compelled to please it. Going a small way away and into the mouth of a small cave, Azaghal produced a shovel and pick from his pack and carved into the cave's walls to make a small box. In it he put Niphredil, the Dragon Helm of Dor-Lomin, and the Barkuk Gabilgathol and sealed it shut with the magic known only to the dwarves. He quickly restored the tools to his pack, gathered his gear, and set out again for the west. He brandished his new blade and bore with him the knowledge the ghostly figure had shared with him. The words still echoed in his head, "You, my son, are destined to rule far more than I. Go now."

### **Journey to the Shire** *(S.R. 1160) (T.A. 2760)*

Slowly, Azaghal made his way past the Grey Havens and slowly found his way into the rolling hills and little rivers of the Shire. As he walked along the road, following the signs towards Hobbiton, he received many strange stares and heard many hushed tones. Azaghal finally made his way to the inn of the Prancing Pony, famous across the west for its ales and warm feeling. As he sat at the bar he made small talk with a slightly intoxicated hobbit, he found himself wondering what lay on the eastern side of this peaceful and picturesque landscape.

As he wandered the Shire one warm summer's day, he came upon a tavern. Having nothing better to do with his time, he went inside with the peculiar structure. It shone blue like the mountains of his home land and had odd wooden beams that were almost purely white in color as supports. Outside there were strange trees as well with dark wood and leaves that were red even in the height of summer. The sign out front read "The Blue Elf". Azaghal had met few elves in his time. Those that he had met were either distant, exchanged only a few niceties, or looked down on him (figuratively as well as literally!). As he entered, he found the floor to be made of the same white wood and the tables and seats to be made of a sturdy oak wood. He sat at the bar and waved to the bar tender for a mug of ale. He tossed a few coins onto the counter top and took his mug to sit with a lot of what appeared to be other traveling men.

He spoke to them. One was a warrior who hailed from the land of Gondor and had chased a hoard of orcs from the lands of Mordor through the White Mountains to the south and into the forests of Eriador where a ranger who bore a blade with an owl carved into the hilt, had aided him in the slaying of these monstrosities. Azaghal spoke of his home in the mountains, a cave next to the ruins of the ancient city of Belegost. The men had never been as far west as where Azaghal was raised and were intrigued by his shining weapons and armor. The ranger wore only tattered garments with chainmail underneath. The Gondorian wore a chainmail shirt as well but with the chestplate and winged helm of Gondor tossed to the side. "You rule those lands eh?" the men asked. Azaghal was confused. He had never spoken of ruling a city, much less the mountains they thought he owned. Azaghal shifted in his seat and spoke that he wouldn't mind ruling such a beautiful mountain range. At this age, the two cities of the Blue Mountains were in shambles and ruins. The two men sitting there advised Azaghal to create a name for himself and to begin work on the halls of Belegost to fortify his claim to the throne of the Broadbeams of Belegost.

### **Forging of Gabilgathol** *(S.R. 1160-1190) (T.A. 2760-2790)*

Azaghal was swift in his return home, almost forgetting his pack and signs of the right to rule. He managed to cross the Shire and made it to the Tower Hills in less than a week's time! He was filled from the toes of his boots to the top of his head with happiness and joy as he was to become a dwarven lord! Azaghal returned to his cave and inspected the glorious weapon and heirlooms ever so closely. He was quick to return them to their hiding place. He now looked at the rubble and crumbling, cracked gate that now guarded the massive fortress beyond and envisioned a small door, only about 13 meters high and 5 men across. This was to function as the entrance to Gabilgathol. He set himself to work for what reckoned to be about a year. He then returned home to horrid news.

His mother and father were slain as two of the valiant warriors who defended their small village from a band of orcs who managed to cross over into the mountains. Sadly, Dis was a miner and fought only with a pick while his father, Dwar, fought with hammer from the city forges. They were laid to rest in their home by Azaghal's cousin, Bori, who stayed, safe guarding his family's wealth and possessions until his cousin returned. The family friend was found grimly sitting in Dis and Dwar's tomb he carved himself below their family home. Azaghal came forward, royal armor of the Dragon Fighter of the Broadbeams gleaming brightly in the firelight. Bori raised a hammer to strike down the intruder before he managed to see past the regal armor and into the eyes of the dwarf standing before him. The son of the fallen dwarves stood before him, clad in the armor of heroes and bearing such magnificent weapon had an air of authority about him. Azaghal was unable to see his cousin's awe for he had fallen to the ground, laying on the graves of his parents. Suddenly, Azaghal stood up, and left the room.

Azaghal explained his tales to his brother over a few goblets of dwarven ale in their childhood home. Dwarin was incredibly skeptical. "Orcs from Mordor? I've yet to hear anything of orcs with a master since the stories of the War of the Ring we were told as children!" Dwarin chuckled heartily. Azaghal too had questions raised in his mind for he had yet to see an orc on his entire journey through the lands of Eriador. He heard of the leaderless bands of Gundabad orcs that roamed the Lone Lands and Misty Mountains around the land of Khazad-Dum. Azaghal and Dwarin laughed and drank away the sorrows of their parents. Later that month, they gathered all their family's material wealth and carried it to their new home of Belegost. Azaghal had his first real citizen.

Together, Bori and Azaghal excavated the first two halls of Belegost, the Gate Hall and the Inner Gate Hall. Small streams flowed through the first Gate Hall and the second was full of ornate designs on the walls and large pillars of stone, set with the glowing stones found deep within Blue Dwarven mines. Azaghal found it time to send his cousin south to the ruins of Nogrod to see if they were in as poor shape as Belegost. The year was *S.R. 1165* when Bori journeyed to Nogrod to relight the forges deep within. Nogrod was to become a secondary city of the new Blue Mountains with Belegost as its capital. He found it to be in even worse shape than Belegost and immediately sent word to his brother by raven. The letter read:

*Dearest Cousin,*

*I'm afraid that the ancient dwarven city of Nogrod is in far worse shape than Belegost to the North. I shall build a small fortress for myself to safeguard the ruins. I shall write as often as I can. Let us protect the forges so that we may rekindle the fires of the Broadbeams and Firebeards that our heritage hails from! I shall write again in the coming months with information about my new dwelling. I wish you luck without me, brother.*

*May your blade be sharp and your beard grow long!*

*-Bori*

Azaghal now worked alone in his halls, having them grow in size. However, he was never able to find the tomb of Azaghal again no matter how far he looked. The map had disappeared from his possessions so he was keen to exploring the ruins in whatever time he wasn't mining. Occasionally travelling merchants would stop and chat. Azaghal was always willing to buy minerals and food because he was unable to acquire much outside of hunting in his valleys for wild game. It was rare to see the dwarf lord too far from his halls so word came to him by merchants and ravens. In the year of *S.R. 1171*, Azaghal learned that the Longbeard Kingdom of Erebor had fallen to a fire drake from the North. He sent word to the survivors that they would be welcome in his halls. Slowly Azaghal began to get more and more attention. About the time the dwarves under his control reached a number not too far from 50, he recieved another letter from Bori by a raven that flew over the valley full of dwarven houses.

*Dear Cousin,*

*I have heard tales from travelling merchants that you have given life to the ruins of Belegost! Nogrod has been besieged by orcs. I recently fought off a small orcish hoard with thought the ruins to be empty. I can only hope this doesn't continue. Best of luck to you cousin. I can only hope that your halls continue to grow and your wealth increases.*

*May your beard never wither!*

*-Bori*

Azaghal proceeded to continue work on his halls. Having not uncovered the apartments or housing district, the young dwarf lord was forced to live in a cave while his slow stream of citizens built small houses out of the blue stone of the mountains. These dwarves were a mix of blue dwarves from neighboring villages and few from the fallen kingdom of Erebor. For the next 20 years or so the halls of Belegost continued to grow ever slowly and the lads became ever more eager to taste the riches found within. More permanent houses were built in the valleys surrounding the small dwarven gate. Small farms of potatoes and wheat also became common sights in the valley. It was in this time that Azaghal met his future wife who happened to share a name with his mother, Dis.

Azaghal took her for the warrior and warm hearted dwarf she was. They first met when a large orc pack, more than twenty mounted orcs in number, laid siege to the town outside Belegost. Azaghal rallied the dwarves at his command. He was thrown onto the ground by a hideous orc. Its warg snarled and snapped as it stood over him. Azaghal scrambled frantically around his waist and belt for his dagger to have some chance of defense. Suddenly, the orc emitted a horrid scream as an arrow pierced its chest. It fell off its mount that now stared into the eyes of the dwarf who shot its master. Letting out a monstrous howl, it stepped over Azaghal and stared down the dwarf woman. She tossed her bow and empty quiver to the ground and held a dwarven blade high. Azaghal knew she would die for the warg was a harsh animal, molded by darkness and evil to feel pain and ignore it. Azaghal watched as the beast bounded towards her. He lifted his sword, Ulganul, and threw it like a spear. It shone through the air and landed in the warg's neck as it prepared to pounce on its prey. Azaghal then drew his blade from the beast's dead body and continued to cleave the heads of the orcs about him.

### **The Mountain's Might** *(S.R. 1187-1199) (T.A. 2787-2799)*

This period of peace was not to last, for 3 years later, *S.R. 1190*, the dwarven lord of Erebor, Thror, was slain by orcs. Azaghal, thirsty for revenge against the orcs that slew his parents and invaded his lands, readied a host of men for war. He called for Dwarin's aid to which his brother swiftly answered. Each dwarf lord led about 25 men.

As the dwarven forces began to attack hosts of orcs in the Misty Mountains, Azaghal made ready to lay siege to the former halls of Durin within Mount Gundabad in the Northern Misty Mountains. The Blue Dwarven Lord chose to have a force lay siege from the East after he himself had softened up the enemy lines. His general set out for the mannish city of Framsburg in the late autumn of *S.R. 1191*.

#### ***First Battle of Mount Gundabad** (S.R. 1191) (T.A. 2791)*

Waiting a few weeks and departing on Durin's Day, Azaghal set out with his men for the old orcish hold of Mount Gram on the western spur of the Misty Mountains which lay south of Angmar and North of the troll infested Ettenmoors. Traveling by day to avoid the likes of orcs and trolls, Azaghal and his men reached Mount Gram in early winter of *S.R. 1191*. His men managed to reach the eastern side of Mount Gundabad in two week's time. Azaghal immediately sent word to his general that he would set up camp a quarter mile North of the wooden walls of Gundabad as not to alert the orcs of their whereabouts.

Waiting until the raven returned, Azaghal and his men made their temporary shelters in the nooks and crannies of the Northern Misty Mountains. The winter weather in the North made it quite a horrible experience. As food began to run thin, the raven returned, bearing no note but two blue pieces of cloth around its ankles. This cloth was only put on ravens when the army of the blue dwarves was less than a few day's march away. Azaghal alerted the men. They were to attack at dawn.

As the sun shone past the rugged peaks of the Misty Mountains in the early morning, Azaghal and his men were already prepared to march the quarter mile south to Gundabad. They arrived and found the gate thrown open and the halls relatively empty. A few orcs ran about here and there but were little to no match for the fine warriors of the Blue Mountains. Azaghal's men did a thorough search of the area and found it to be utterly empty. Taking advantage of the opportunity, the dwarves placed sentries and shut the gate. When the orcs returned from battles to the South with the dwarves, they would be trapped against their own wall by the Eastern forces from the and Azaghal's from within their fortress to the West. The sun began to sink below the mountains as a snowstorm began to develop.

The storm forced the Eastern forces to halt until dawn when they suspected the storm would end. Azaghal stood atop the gate and watched for his dwarven kin or the ragged armor and banners of the orcs of Gundabad for what seemed like eternity. Then he saw what appeared to be a figure in silver armors skirting around the outsides of the fortress. The figure became visible and planted a dark flag in the snow. Then he heard them, the shrill screeches of the orcish war horns to the East. The orcish hold would not be so easily conquered.

Unknown to the dwarf lord, a host of orcs from Mount Gram followed Azaghal on the way to Mount Gundabad. They had camped outside of Gundabad during the day while the dwarves entered the stronghold. They were led by a foul orc who was to one day inhabit the birthplace of Durin. But in this tale he leads a formidable force against the blue dwarven lord.

Azaghal answered the first horn by sounding his own dwarven war horn three times in proper dwarven fashion. The orcs answered with the low battle drums as they began to march. An orcish war horn set loose the wargs as they charged the front line. Despite the axe-throwers at Azaghal's command, the wargs were but a distraction for behind them there were wargs that held bombs atop their backs. The bombs breached the wooden gate, sending snow and wood debris flying everywhere. Another horn sounded letting forth the foot soldiers. The orcs of Angmar and Gundabad charged forward through the snowstorm, their crudely shaped blades waving above their heads. Orcish screams filled the howling mountain air. Dwarven battle cries answered just as loudly. Rallying his men behind the crater that was the main gate to the mountain, Azaghal cast his helmet aside and waved the ancient sword, Ulganul, high as lightning seemed to flash at the king's. The blade shone with a pale and magical light for it glew in the presence of the orcs. Signalling his horn men to blow into their horns to rally the men, Azaghal threw back his head and let forth a deep and earth-shaking dwarven war cry, The battle for Gundabad had begun.

The orcs continued to charge and the drums sounded the advancement of the trolls of Angmar. Azaghal had his men lower their pikes and put up their shields as he retreated to a boulder in the middle of his men. He let forth commands, sending his men to the left and right of the gate to pounce on the oncoming orcs. Dwarven axes flew through the sky to counter the rusty orc spears and arrows that flew through the air. Dwarves and orcs alike fell, cold and frozen to the ground after being slain by the enemy in the swirling storm. The trolls had abandoned their drums at the smell of dwarven blood and began to run towards the gate, brandishing large oaken clubs. They beat away at the gate and soon falling to dwarven spears that rained down from the mountain. The orcish war chieftain proceeded to slaughter Azaghal's men left and right, swinging a massive broadsword that was far too fair for any orcish make. The sword was a gleaming silver, as was his armor. It was no ordinary weaponry however, it was the mithril of the dwarves. Azaghal caught fleeting glimpses of the warrior as he saw his men fall.

Azaghal had driven the trolls and warriors back, what remained were stragglers of wargs and slave and scout orcs. Tasting victory, Azaghal's dwarven forces rallied, further forcing back the onslaught of warrior orcs. Then, in the heat of beheading a foul orc, Azaghal looked to his left and in the snow sat a black mass with sparks emitting from the top. One bomb had been dropped near the lord's feet! He tried to shout to his men above the howling wind and cries of battle to no avail. He turned to run and the bomb exploded, throwing the dwarf lord into a small cave to the right of the remains of the gate. Disoriented and temporarily deafened by the blast, Azaghal continued to butcher what orcs crawl about in the darkness of the cave. He soon fell unconscious as a second explosion rocked the cave he had fallen in.

The battle continued on for what seemed like ages. Dwarven warriors were able to bear their leader into the foul smelling caverns of Mount Gundabad. As the storm thinned in the early hours of the morning, orcish forces still laid siege to the small dwarven legion that was forced back into the caverns. They barricaded the entrance with what spruce wood was available. They lay their king inside on the stone where Durin himself awoke. Leaderless, the dwarves began to look for routes of escape. They were unable to find any exits to the birthplace of Durin save the gate they had just barricaded. The dwarves began to tear down the makeshift blockade with their heavy axes and mattocks. The orcs met them on the other side. Charging forward with a new, burning rage, the dwarves forced the orcs back to the crater of a main gate. As the first light of dawn shone over the jagged peaks and through the parting clouds, dwarven horns of war were sounded again but from the East. Dwarin and his men had seen signs of an orcish march and hurried towards the mountain. Dwarin, shouting a battle cry not as fierce as his brother's and brandishing a large axe, lead the charge against the orcs. They were now pinned between the remaining forces of Azaghal and the blood thirsty dwarves at the command of Dwarin. What orcs survived were wounded and ran swiftly back into the mountains. The likes of the mithril clad chieftain were not to be seen for many years.

It was at this battle that Azaghal was given the last name of "Belkbaghud" by his dwarven warriors. For he stood and with each blow he struck it was said that thunder and lightning crashed down from the skies. Azaghal became known as "The Storm" of the dwarves and thus received his surname due to the circumstances of battle.

### **Founding of Durin's City** *(S.R. 1192) (T.A. 2792)*

After the forces at Gundabad were narrowly defeated, Azaghal went on to found Durin's CIty within the mountain of Gundabad. He left few men which were to restore the ruins of Durin's birthplace into a functioning city. Because of this new city the Blue Dwarves now had a small satellite state in the far North.

Gundabad was quite the project for the dwarven lord. He reinforced the wooden wall with dwarven brick to make it more durable against the bombs of orcs. He totally rebuilt the gate by repairing the craters and implementing a much larger and dwarven steel gate. Within the mountain he expanded the orcish caves into more beautiful dwarven halls with pillars as supports. Azaghal left the halls of Durin on midsummer's day of *(S.R. 1192)*.

### **Return to Belegost** *(S.R. 1192) (T.A. 2792)*

Upon the return of the dwarven lord to his home, he discovered a horrible disaster. Orcs had attacked while he was away and planted a bomb within the cave he called his home. Azaghal lost much that day, he managed to salvage what he could in order to build a more homely structure. This structure was to be the great "Blue Tower of Belegost" to stand watch over the valley he called home (The tower of Belegost was a real build that was one of the oldest single builds on the server, rivaling only Orthnac on the timeline. The tower remained to hold one of the oldest blocks in server history until the reset after Beta 29 of Sept. 10th, 2016). The tower of Belegost would stand until late summer *S.R. 1492.*

### **The Rise of the Khazad** *(S.R. 1193-1214) (T.A. 2793-2814)*

After the founding of Durin's City, the dwarves would work feverishly to cleanse the halls of orcish filth. Azaghal would further expand Belegost's interior. Bori would be slain by orcs in this period and Nogrod would fall once again and no dwarves would inhabit it until the reign of Dwarin, son of Azaghal.

### **Fall of the Khagolabbad** *(S.R.1215-1300) (T.A. 2815-2900)*

Azaghal and Gabilgathol began to slowly grow in strength and power. He excavated the hall behind the small gate and a large stair down to the Inner Gate. Seeing as there were still no excavated apartments, Azaghal lived in the tower outside of the gate. The sarlluin mass rose 7 levels into the sky. The halls of Gabilgathol steadily grew as a great hall was uncovered just beyond the small second gate.

However, the prosperity was not to last for a massive shaking (first world reset) commenced across the lands of Azaghal. Perhaps it was a dragon or other monstrous being in the earth stirring in the dark. None of the earth know how this great shaking occurred. During the night, Azaghal and his men were stirred by a massive roar of the stone within Gabilgathol. The halls began to shake and crumble, caving entirely. Many structures within the Valley of Gabilgathol crumbled as well. Nogrod fell and crumbled like its sister city to the north. The blues were in shambles.

## Azaghal III

### Titles

1. Lord of the Blue Mountains2. Lord of Gabilgathol

3. High King of the Dwarves

### Relations

Son of Azaghal II BelkbaghudBrother of Dwarin

Father of Dimli Silverstone and Kheleb the Seafarer

Grandfather of Fundin and Farin

### Weapons and Armor

1. Gabilgathol - ancient mithril battleaxe named after the city in which it was forged2. Ulganul - Gondolinan blade forged for Azaghal of the First Age

3. Dragon Helm of Dor-Lomin - helm forged for Azaghal of the First Age

4. Mithril Dwarven Armor - used by the Dwarven High King

### Lands

Blue Mountains and Blue Mountains Foothills

## Player Information

### **The Beginning of a the New Reign** *(S.R. 1300-1365) (T.A. 2900-2965)*

In this time, the Blues were given a new dwarven prince in *(S.A. 1240) (T.A. 2840)*. His name was Azaghal III. He was to become the new Lord of the Blue Dwarves. 20 years later, Azaghal was to recieve a brother by the name of Dwarin in *(S.A. 1260) (T.A. 2860).*

#### **Birth of Azaghal III** *(S.R. 1300) (T.A. 2900)*

It was at the end of this period that the Blue Mountains were to gain its greatest ruler, Azaghal III. Azaghal was born in the Blue Tower to Dis and Azaghal. This was viewed as a glorious accomplishment because Azaghal III was to become the greatest of all the dwarves. Azaghal was a healthy young dwarf. He was taught how to fight by the greatest warriors of the Blue Mountains, including his father Azaghal. He found love in forging and mining the halls of his father. Azaghal was truly shaping up to be the greatest of the dwarven lords.

#### **Death of a Legend** *(S.R. 1365) (T.A. 2965)*

Azaghal II Belkbaghud's dwarven civilization was besieged by Gundabad orcs who were searching for a place to live only 55 years after the birth of Azaghal. The orcish forces attacked the small houses which lay scattered around the valley. The hoards of evil orcs attacked houses, 5 orcs to each house. They were immense in number but small in stature. They were the scattered remains of orcs from Eriador and Rhudaur and bore mismatched pieces of bent and battered armor. Azaghal Belkbaghud burst forth from his tower, brandishing the mighty axe of Gabilgathol. A mighty orc, most likely the descendant of the orcs of Mount Gram, stood against the king. Azaghal signaled for his sons to stand behind him and that he was to face down this monstrous foe alone. He cast the Dragon Helm aside. The mithril axe shone in the fading light and the battle continued around the royal line. Behind the uruk there stood 2 large body guard orcs, presumably there to ensure that the royal dwarves wouldn't interfere.

And so began the last stand of Azaghal II Belkbaghud. Azaghal stepped forward at once and rushed the monstrous orc. With one massive swing of a cleaver, the orc forced the dwarven lord back in his tracks. The two circled each other, watching and waiting as well as learning the other's style. The orc attacked next, swinging the cleaver around and then bringing down with a crushing force onto the shield of the dwarf. Azaghal threw the shield aside and brandished his large axe. Taking swing after swing, the orc slowly broke down the aging king. His sons stepped forward to aid their father but were swiftly stopped by the two other uruks' hungry gazes towards Azaghal. Azaghal swung mightily with his large axe, destroying the cleaver of the orc with a thunderous snap. As Azaghal raised his axe to land the final blow, he was shot in the breast and fell lifeless on top of the monstrous orc. Ripping the dwarf's head from his shoulders, the orc threw it to his sons. Azaghal II Belkbaghud had fallen.

His sons, Azaghal and Dwarin stood tall in the light of the orcish invaders. The war chieftain had arisen and now swung two massive cleavers in the faces of the dwarves. Azaghal looked out from under the visor of the glorious Dragon Helm and raised his father's sword to fight the beast. Dwarin laid low an uruk guard and prepared to slay another when he looked up to see his brother holding the glowing blade against the two blades of the uruk. With one swift movement, Azaghal avenged his father and dodged the twin blades of his enemy and drove Ulganul deep into the orc's chest. Azaghal looked into the eyes of the orc and withdrew his blade. The monster grasped at the ground for any knife to stab the dwarven warrior with but found only the bloody grass. "May this day be known as the day the new Lord of the Blue Mountains avenged his father! Sigin furkh'uk Azaghal's aruyad! Baruk khazad ai-menu!" shouted the new lord of the Blue Mountains. (Long life of Azaghal's kin! The axes of the dwarves are upon you!)

### **Beginnings of Azaghal III** *(S.R. 1300-1355) (T.A. 2900-2935)*

Azaghal III was born to Azaghal II Belkbaghud and Dis in the Blue Tower of Belegost. He was the first of his parent's two children and the elder sibling of Dwarin by 20 years. Azaghal was a fine military commander and warrior, taking after his father. He was often found working alongside his men, a trait he was most well known for. Azaghal III grew up quickly in a land that faced many orcish invasions. It was during this time that Azaghal learned to crush the rebellions that occasionally sprung up within his father's lands. Azaghal was also found travelling Middle Earth to the other houses of the dwarves to give aid in fortifications. The West Gate of Khazad-dum was his favorite of these places. He worked alongside the Lord and Minor Lord of Khazad-dum, Fundin and Dain. Azaghal gained quite the reputation among Middle Earth for being a fierce yet fair Dwarven Prince.

Azaghal's first shining moment as the Heir of Gabilgathol came at the death of his father. His father fell before him, slain by a foul orc. Azaghal, Heir of the Blue Mountains, now Lord of Belegost, stepped forward to face down the savage beast of shadow. Dodging various blades, he drove the glowing blue blade deep into the chest of the orc and cast him down. The young prince stood above the orc and shouted, "May this day be known as the day the new Lord of the Blue Mountains avenged his father! Sigin furkh'uk Azaghal's aruyad! Baruk khazad ai-menu!" before shoving the blade through the chest of the monster again, cutting off a massive roar and ending the orc's life.

Azaghal then rallied his men to the ancient blade of his father and laid waste to all the orcs in the valley. Many of his citizens were slain during the battle, the most notable of these were his mother and father. Dis was mortally wounded as she was defending the Blue Tower. She died next to her second son, Dwarin.

### **The Lord of Mountains Tall** *(S.R. 1335-1395) (T.A. 2935-2995)*

Azaghal and Dwarin had little time to mourn over the loss of their parents for they had citizens to care for. Azaghal was crowned as Ruler of the Blue Mountains and Lord of Belegost and his reign was the most prosperous of all blue dwarven reigns, rivaling those that ruled during the First Age.

Azaghal would assign Dwarin to Nogrod during his first year of lordship, living with his Uncle Bori in his fortress. However, Dwarin would leave for Gundabad after living in the estate of Bori for about 40 years . Azaghal did well to strengthen the forces in the Blue Mountains. It was as Dwarin left for the farthest reaches of the Blue Dwarven Empire during the winter of *S.R. 1380 or T.A. 2980*. Dwarin would take over from Bori after his untimely death there the same year.

Nogrod became uninhabited and empty in the coming years. Dwarin would rule Mount Gundabad and inhabit it with a host of dwarves of Durin's line as well as the lines of the Blue Mountains.

## **The Reign of the High King**

The tales from this point on are modern server history, after the first year of the server, and reflect actual events, wars, battles, sieges, and players from the server. These events are written from the point of view as a dwarven player and prejudices and the like are only the views of myself, not all dwarves because they are entitled to their own feelings and ideas.

### **Heirs of Azaghal** *(S.R. 1350-1375) (T.A. 2950-2975)*

Azaghal II Belkbaghud's line was to begin extending at this point in time. Azaghal III was to be the father to Dimli Silverstone and Fundin Thunderaxe in the years *(S.R. 1350 and 1362) or (T.A. 2950 and 2962)*. Next came the sons of Dwarin, Barin Silverstar and Thrirain born in *(S.R. 1355 and 1364) (T.A. 2955 and 2964).*

#### **Dimli Silverstone** *(S.R. 1333-1422) (T.A. 2933-Fo.A. 1)*

Dimli (DamonSilverstone) was the first born of Azaghal's sons and was heir to the throne of the Blue Mountains and Gabilgathol. He wasn't as fond of mining as other dwarves so he was tasked with building a small village with farms for the dwarves in a valley to the west of the front gate. This valley was to be called *Butsish'aban Duban* *(Ancient Silver-Stone Valley),* named after Dimli. This valley would house the magnificent mansion of Dimli as well as the extensive upper farms of Belegost. The valley was dotted with scattered, blue brick homes of the dwarves and small roads of dark dwarven brick crisscrossed the landscape. Dimli was to be succeeded by his son Fundin who would become thane of Gabilgathol as well as Heir to the Blue Mountains. Dimli died to the clubs of the trolls during the Hill-troll invasion of the Blues.

#### **Fundin Thunderaxe** *(S.R. 1342-present) (T.A. 2942-present)*

Fundin is the second son of Azaghal III. He would rise to the position of Heir of Belegost after the death of his older brother Dimli in the Troll Battles. During these battles it was said that with each swing of his axe he brought a troll to its knees and slew it. The falling of the trolls was where his surname of Thunderaxe began to be used. He would have a son named Balin who would become the Royal Guard of the Blue Mountains and eventually Minor Lord of Arvedui's Mines.

#### **Barin Silverstar** *(S.R. 1345-1422) (T.A. 2945-Fo.A. 1)*

Barin was the first son of Dwarin and when he came of age, returned to Nogrod and began excavating it. Barin rose to the throne of Tumunzahar in *S.R. 1422 or Fo.A. 1*. He carved a massive stone staircase that descended to a large hall that still houses massive pillars and many dwarves ambling on due to business. Barin fell to Hill-troll Chieftains who laid siege to the Blues. After his death in *S.R. 1438 or Fo.A. 17*, his son, Fror took over and ruled before his second son, Thrirain would take the throne.

#### **Thrirain** *(S.R. 1364-present) (T.A.2964-present)*

Thrirain is the second son of Dwarin. After Durin's City was captured again by orcs, Thrirain went to be with his brother, Barin, in the halls of Nogrod. Soon after Barin fell and leaving no heir, Thrirain took the throne and rules the mansion of Nogrod to this day.

#### **Balin** *(S.R. 1396-present) (T.A. 2996-present)*

Balin is the first of the two twin sons of Fundin. He and his brother both rose to greatness as Balin became the Royal Guard and went on to become the Minor Lord of Arvedui's Mines in the north. Balin does most of his best work in carving and excavating.

#### **Khain** *(S.R. 1396-present) (T.A. 2996-present)*

Khain is the second son of Fundin and the twin brother of Balin. After Balin became promoted, Khain ascended the ranks and rose to the position of Royal Guard and currently presides over Thorin's Halls, south of Nogrod. He also is a well known explorer, having explored much of the southern chain and aiding in the act of making a proper map of the mountains above Thorin's Halls.

#### **Dwar II** *(S.R. 1416-present) (T.A. 3016-present)*

Dwar II is the only son of Thrirain of Nogrod. Dwar is the youngest of the Royal Line but is by far one of the most talented in combat. Dwar takes the name of his great great grandfather. Dwar claimed the seat as Thane of Nogrod after the death of Barin when his father took the throne. Dwar has been known to explore far into the northern reaches of the world and seek for the treasures around the mouths of Utumno.

### **Founding of the Dwarven Council** *(S.R. 1419) (T.A. 3019)*

After the fall of Sauron, Dwarin would summon all the current dwarven kingdoms to Mount Gundabad to establish a council to ensure the dwarves would be safe for many years to follow. It was at this council, within the halls of Gundabad, that a new order among the dwarves would emerge. Answering the summons of Lord Dwarin (iwellner45) were Fundin II (SpoangityBob) and his son, Dain (Aidansebastian), of Khazad-dum; Dwarin's brother, Azaghal, of the Blue Mountains, and Lord Kilor Ironhelm (SpeedySC) of the Red Mountains (and future Lord of the Iron Hills), and the Dwarven Lord of the Mirkwood Mountains (JJMS2002). These dwarves voted, at the request of Dwarin, to elect a leader of this new council. This leader was Azaghal of the Blue Mountains.

Azaghal now held the office of the High King of the Dwarves. He would lead the Dwarven Council and ensure that the dwarven race would never fail. After this council Dain would go on to found the Grey Mountains with Dain's Halls as the capital. Together, the lords would shift the seats until a comfortable arrangement was achieved. They chose to limit the council to only 7 seats with 7 being a significant number among dwarves as well as the number of dwarven fathers.

### **The Golden Age of the Dwarves** *(S.R. 1419-1442) (T.A. 3019-Fo.A. 23)*

Azaghal would return to his kingdom in the Blue Mountains with a mithril ring, carved with runes to show his right to rule over the newly founded Dwarven Council. When he returned, he continued work within Gabilgathol and to build up the greatest dwarven kingdom of the west.

#### **First Gladden War** *(S.R. 1420-1424) (T.A. 3020-Fo.A. 3)*

A young dwarf was making a trade with his kin along the pass in the Misty Mountains. He was slain by a man of the Gladden Fields. This man was the leader of a fierce town of warriors and assassins within the Gladden Fields. His guild was ironically named The Free Peoples of the Yellow Iris. Azaghal issued a bounty on this assassin's head as revenge but A year of guerrilla attacks would plague the dwarven nations.

#### **Finding of the Mithril Horde** *(S.R. 1421) (Fo.A. 1)*

 Azaghal had ruled for three years as High King and forged many bonds, strengthening the dwarves. He began to question himself when trouble erupted in the Grey Mountains as Dain became corrupt and rebellions and gangs began trying to lay claim in the Blue Mountains. Small villages that were commissioned and long since lost became active again and demanded freedom. Azaghal stood atop the King's Perch on the second gate of Gabilgathol. He prayed to Mahal, Father of the Dwarves. *"Father Mahal, I have been chosen by my fellow lords to rule and watch over the mountains of Middle Earth, our home, your work. I ask that your hammer guide me and you protect your sons against the ever growing presence of greed to claim your work and our home. I ask that you guide me, Father. In the name of the Hammer you created our kind with, we shall not dwindle or fail. Your work, the Khazad, are forever,"* he prayed.

As he looked down on the valley, the sun gave way to a quick flash beneath the depths of a small pond in the valley. Azaghal quickly journeyed down from his gate and grabbed hold of a pickaxe and journeyed down to the shore of the pond. As he looked into the crystal blue water, he saw a small nugget of silver. He quickly shed his clothing and jumped into the water. As he swam, he noticed a cavern beneath the cool surface that had been unseen from anywhere but between two boulders below the water. He grabbed the nugget and swam back to shore. He gazed at it and new from the dull shine that this was a gift from his god. This was mithril.

The greatest substance known to Arda was the mineral of mithril. It was malleable yet tough. In the hands of a proper dwarven smith, the mineral could be molded to near impenetrable armor and weapons that were light yet extremely powerful in the hands of a true warrior. Azaghal found such a nugget and immediately pocketed it and dove deep beneath the surface to the cavern. As he swam, he noticed that it opened up into a small pocket that was lined with a secret treasure horde. Along the walls were countless pounds of mithril. He immediately began excavating it.

He brought pouches which he filled with the substance only to hide it under his clothes. Soon he found that there was far too much to remain hidden. He waited until late in the night and brought proper tools to aid in the excavation. In the many chests and hidden storage compartments that hid the wealth of the Blue Mountains, now lay many countless ingots of pure dwarven mithril. Shining and gleaming in what appeared to be its own light. Azaghal smiled at his newfound wealth. He immediately began praising his god and master of the forges. He shared his wealth sparingly with his royal family, each getting magnificent mithril pickaxes and marvelous weapons that shone even in the dimmest of light.

Immediately after the wealth had been locked away, Azaghal began building, with his own hands, a shrine of the blue stone that covered his mountains. He erected a monument to Mahal and named the pond "Sanzigil Buznzaram" which translated to "Mithril Pond" in the common tongue.

And so with newfound wealth and assurance from his god that his right to rule was divine, Azaghal returned to work in his halls and aiding the other lords under mountains for many years to come.

### **Dark Ages of the Blue Dwarves** *(S.R. 1443-present) (Fo.A. 24-present)*

#### **Into the Depths** *(Early S.R. 1446) (Fo.A. 25)*

Early in the year of *S.R. 1446*, Azaghal III ventures to the far northern reaches of Forochel to test his might against the hordes of Utumno. It was said by the Lossoth people of Forochel, who occasionally ventured south to trade for the rich steels of the blue dwarves, that the orcs of Utumno began terrorizing them from the ruins of Utumno. Azghal saw it as light work to seal the tunnels of Utumno for good in exchange for the coins of the Lossoth. He went North with a small host, less than 20 men, to drive the few orcs that still lived in the ruins back to the depths. Azaghal was to seek shelter in the ruined halls of the Northern Longbeard clans at Zigilgund.

After venturing far into the north and forcing back the orcs, Azaghal and his small company chose to leave the halls of the north. The dwarves ventured farther north into the ruins of Utumno. Azaghal bore his shining mithril gear and burst through the gates. His lust for the ancient treasures of the depths of Utumno drove him forward. Azaghal brandished a large halberd and his most famed blade, Ulganul.

The orcs were unlike any others the dwarf lord had fought in the past. They stood tall as the Uruk-Hai of Nan Curunir and bore large weapons of dark steel. The glowing eyes of the demons of Morgoth shone through the darkness as easily as the light shines through a glass. Azaghal's men slowly began to fall to the orcs and wargs and spiders of the upper level. The frigid winds and ice of the Forodwaith had crept into the darkness and created foul creatures, mixed of shadow and frost. Azaghal struck each down with his blades before descending into the second level, the Hells of Obsidian. The evils grew ever more in number, being backed now by the captives of Morgoth, the Tormented Elves. Their dark bows shot long and wicked arrows at the dwarf lord. He suffered minor injuries to the elves, orcs, and wargs. But his greatest threat was to yet to come. He rounded a corridor and was met by three massive trolls, scarred and born of the darkness. He ran as quickly as he could before he turned to fight the beasts, striking each tower of evil with his ancient blade, creating deep scars until the beasts fell. It was here that Azaghal found the key to descend to the most treacherous level of Utumno, the Hells of Fire.

Legends had long been told by the elves and men of the first age who saw the fires of Angband as they attempted to cleanse the world of Morgoth. Tales of demons cloaked in fire and utilizing whips of flame were woven into folk lore as the years passed. Azaghal knew these tales and was prepared for what he was to find. He crept into the abyss, his blade glowing ever brighter. And there he saw it, the malice and handiwork of the Dark Lord. Before him, surrounded by flames that seemed to leap from the very walls of the corridor itself, there it stood. A balrog of Morgoth. Azaghal brandished his ever mighty halberd, the Reach of Telphor, and the famed blade of Ulganul. The beast turned, its eyes met those of the dwarf lord, and a piercing scream ran through the depths, the likes of which had not been heard for centuries. The battle cries of the khazad erupted from the mouth of the lone dwarf. Then the darkened Maiar cracked a whip of flame at Azaghal, ripping his halberd from his hands. The dwarf lord, being too consumed by fear and anger to run, charged the beast. The light of the ancient sword shone and was reflected off the dented and scarred mithril armor. As the pure flame of the dwarves clashed with the corrupted fires of Utumno, the halls shook with each clash of sword on sword. Azaghal's helm was thrown from his head as blade met blade in the dark fires of the Pits. Azaghal swept his blade at the feet of the demon, causing it to fall to its knees. "Death to the servants of shadow! Khazad-ai menu!" rang throughout the dark corridors. Another flame of Utumno was extinguished.

After slaying the balrog, all after seemed to fear the Undying Balrog Slayer. They fled before the pale blue light of his blade, fearing him for the Valar. Gifted by Mahal, each crushing blow to a foe shook the dark halls of Morgoth as if an earthquake awoke beneath the cold of the north. Deep the dwarf strode into the unforgiving depths in search of ancient treasures. His strength began to fade in the dark corridors of hell itself. He struggled to ascend from the depths, reaching the uppermost levels. When Azaghal felt he could go on no longer and that his doom was to be in the depths of the world, he saw a glowing blade. The blade shone through and cut through the whispering and chilling winds that made their way into the deep. A tall and dark figure strode forth and lifted the dwarven king onto his back and bore him out of the shadow and into the cold.

#### **The Coming of Gonthir** *(Late S.R. 1446) (Fo.A. 25)*

Azaghal was awoken by the frigid air of the northern plains. He saw only a dim fire and his blades stacked against the wall. Near the fire sat an elven warrior with long hair. However, this was no ordinary elf. He stood tall, even for an elf and his armor was dark, almost as black as the depths from which they escaped. Azaghal struggled to raise himself from the stone that he was placed on. As he struggled the stranger rose and helped him to sit.

"So you're the famous dwarf who went north to save the Snow-men eh? Do tell what you were thinking going down into the dark," the elf chuckled quietly. "I am Gonthir, only son of Caranthir. And you may be?"

Azaghal told his tale of how he drove the scattered orcs back into the deeps and how he too was drawn in. He told of his descent and of how he slew one of the demons of fire in the dark. Gonthir was stoic, showing no emotion and sitting quietly. After his tale, Gonthir told his part.

The elf had been exploring the bay of Forochel for the long lost Palantiri when he heard of the dwarf that forced back the ancient spawn of the dark. Gonthir followed Azaghal and his small force to the last tower of Utumno. He witnessed the orcs fleeing into their dark stronghold and how the dwarf king followed. Gonthir was unwilling to descend unless need be and when he heard the scream of a demon of Morgoth, he had no choice. Selflessly the elf raced into the depths and bore the dwarf out on his shoulders.

The dwarf lord was amazed at how the elf managed to escape without much of a scratch. He looked to the walls of the cavern and saw that the armor was in fact the fabled galvorn worn only by the mysterious Eol and his kin. Gonthir was quick to share that he learned the secrets of the forge deep in the forests of Beleriand, under the trees. When the sea rose above the earth, Gonthir was in the land of Lindon, west of the Ered Luin. He had been driven from his home near Mount Rerir by orcs and fled south to Amon Ereb. He went not with his father to the Second Kinslaying, in order to preserve the line of Feanor.

Azaghal became amazed at the stories of the elf. He had forgotten his long standing dislike for the Noldor and suggested that Gonthir reclaim the fortress of Caranthir at Mount Rerir, above Lake Helevorn. The elf graciously accepted his offer and thus became bound to the blue dwarven crown. Gonthir was to become one of the closest friends and most trusted advisers of Lord Azaghal in the coming years.