The Free Peoples
Woodmen
The Woodmen are composed of both the Woodmen and the Beornings of Mirkwood. They are a loose collection of hunter- gatherer tribes who live in or below the trees of the great forest. The Beornings are closely related to the Woodmen, although their ancestry is distinct, and a select few can shape-change. The Woodmen numbers are few, generally preferring to blend in with their environment rather than placing a burden upon it. Their clans prefer small centres of population, and hold several sites in the forest as holy. Loosely led by Beoraborn and Waulfa, they possess skilled leaders with great insight and wisdom, and deft agents with speed and cunning. The scattered population of the Woodmen presents difficulty in co-ordinating plans, but they are fierce warriors, effective in almost any terrain, and have rich resources at their disposal.
Northmen
The Northmen nation is composed of both the Lake-men and Dale-men of Rhovanion, as well as the Dorwinion near the Sea of Rhûn. Their cultures are similar, since all are skilled diplomats and merchants, and together they influence much of the mercantile trade in western Middle-earth. The Northmen aspire to develop and control vast markets, and so acquire considerable wealth. Their numbers are not great, but their settlements are much larger than their neighbours’. The Northmen possess adequate and well-provisioned armies, and also possess a navy at the Sea of Rhûn. Led by Éoder and Gaerandil, the Northmen represent a significant power waiting to be awakened.
Éothraim
The Éothraim nation includes the sedentary Gramuz peoples as well as the plains-riders who reside on the vast plains of Rhovanion and near the eaves of Mirkwood. A loose collection of semi-permanent clans led by Uirdiks and Mahrcared, the tribes of the Éothraim control considerable territory. While they have chosen to establish few permanent settlements, these ancestors of the Riders of Rohan are capable of placing roots when need dictates. On horseback, the riders of the Éothraim have few equals anywhere in Middle-earth. Their forces enjoy the mobility of cavalry and are masters of the wild horses of the region. Although their dispersed forces and sparse settlements inhibit their power, the Éothraim possess considerable numbers of troops, and have reliable clan leaders.
Arthedain
The last independent kingdom of the former realm of Arnor, the nation of Arthedain still represents a significant force in the region. From the hills of northern Eriador and led by King Argeleb II, the knights and mages of Arthedain have withstood the evil forces of Angmar for over 300 years. The great power and influence they wielded long ago is no more, yet the memory of former glory remains and serves as a beacon for the people of Arthedain. The blood of the Dúnedain runs rich in the veins of their leaders, who still possess many of the heirlooms of ancient Númenor. Numerous well-fortified towns support the remaining population, and a variety of resources are still abundant in the region. Gifted with few but excellent leaders, the well-provisioned armies of Arthedain are formidable, whilst lately, to bolster their flagging recruitment, mercenaries have been hired to swell the ranks.
Cardolan
The glory of Cardolan has long passed, and the blood of the Dúnedain runs thin. However, the largest region of the former realm of Arnor still wields much influence, and employs numerous swords in central Eriador. Consisting of several co-operating fiefdoms loosely led by Hallas, Cardolan seeks to be a reunited and restored nation once again. The armies of Cardolan are adequate but lacking in discipline, and consist of large numbers of mercenaries hired to provide quantity if not quality. It is the numerous towns and settlements of Cardolan which help establish their influence over the strategic region of Eriador, and much of their strength lies in the considerable resources available in Eriador. A good navy is also anchored and ready to oversee the extensive coastline and numerous rivers within Cardolan.
Northern Gondor
Although no longer the dominant force in western Middle-earth, Northern Gondor still controls a huge domain extending north from the White Mountains, east from the Gap of Isengard, west from the land of Mordor (with outposts still evident in Rhovanion), and south of Mirkwood. The blood of the Dúnedain runs richest in Gondor, and the leaders are well-seasoned veterans of both foreign and internal conflicts. Led by King Tarondor, their armies are well-provisioned and supplied, and have even begun to reach their former proportions once more. Many strong cities and fortified towns are scattered across this vast realm, and several navies help maintain Gondorian interests along the Anduin and the route to the sea. The source of greatest concern for the people of Northern Gondor is not their own strength, but rather the extensive realm they must protect, and the many enemies who reside on their borders.
Southern Gondor
The numerous territories and fiefs of Southern Gondor are considered allied with their cousins to the north. However, the recent Kin-strife has strained relations and estranged some of the powers, and many powerful men within the nation ponder their own right to rule all of Gondor. Their realm consists of the lands south of the White Mountains and north of Near Harad. Led by Prince Celdrahil, the forces of Southern Gondor are not to be taken lightly. Numerous well-fortified towns dot a countryside rich in natural resources. A formidable army, in terms of numbers, training, and provisions, and powerful navies that patrol the sea regions south of Gondor and up the Anduin delta, provide considerable deterrent to the other major powers in the region. The mages of Southern Gondor are also very talented, and betray the presence of Elvish blood mixed with that of their Dúnedan ancestors.
Dwarves
The descendants of the Seven Fathers, known among themselves as the "Khazâd", are scattered from one end of Middle-earth to the other. The largest settlement of the Dwarven nation is centred at Khazad-dum, ruled by Báin I, but there are enclaves to be found in the Blue Mountains, the Grey Mountains, the Iron Hills, and the hills near the Sea of Rhûn. The rise of the Dwarves as a power has been prevented primarily by the isolation of their forces, but further hampered by the slow growth of their population. A stout and sturdy race, the Dwarves are blessed with some of the most formidable warriors, pound for pound, to be found in all of Middle-earth. The Dwarves were little affected by the Plague in the early Third Age, and most of the Dwarven population are trained warriors. Thus the Khazâd are capable of fielding a large, well-provisioned, well-led army. In matters other than military, however, the Dwarves are less-skilled. And although their settlements are usually strong and well-fortified, they have limited resources, other than metals, with which to trade.
Sinda Elves
The nation of the Sindar consists mostly of Silvan (Wood) Elves, who are led by their Sindar brethren. The Sinda Lords Thranduil and Amroth effectively lead the dispersed forces of the Wood-elves resident in northern Mirkwood and in Lórien. The armies of the Sindar are not numerous, but they are effective, possessing fine-quality weapons and superb leaders. The forces of the Sindar are adept at moving and fighting in their natural terrain – the forest. Skilled mages and numerous agents also keep them well-informed about their surroundings, and the activities of their neighbours. Although their settlements are few and far between (they possess harbours as far away as the Sea of Rhûn and the Great Sea), the Sindar are well hidden and well protected.
Noldo Elves
Arguably, the Noldo are individually the most powerful of Eru's Children. However, there are now so few of them that their potential to control events is not what it once was. The Noldo nation consists mostly of Wood-elves and a few Sinda Elves who are led by their Sinda and Noldo Lords, Círdan and Elrond. Residing in the westernmost parts of Middle-earth, they survey and consider the changing world from the Grey Havens and Rivendell. By no means strong by military standards, the Noldo still can bring to bear a well-trained, well-armed, and well-led army to back up their demands. Skilled mages and ancient artifacts grant them considerable knowledge of their surroundings, including the affairs of other nations, and well-protected by magical and natural forces, the settlements of the Noldo are perfect havens from which to launch attacks at almost any point in north-western Middle-earth.
The Dark Servants
Witch-king
Led by the Lord of the Nazgûl, the Witch-king, the nation of Er-Mûrazôr is one of the most feared in Middle-earth. From his realm of Angmar in the far north, Mûrazôr influences many of the events that transpire in Eriador and the Grey Mountain region. Surrounded by competent leaders and skilled emissaries, the Witch-king can send forth his armies to battle with considerable confidence. His main concern is that many of his troops are so poorly trained that only their sheer numbers make the difference between victory and defeat. Powerful mages and ancient items of power also contribute much to the fear felt in the presence of the forces of the Witch-king.
Dragon Lord
Led by the Second of the Nazgûl, the Dragon Lord, the nation of Khamûl is one of the most extensive of the Dark Servants. From his main fortress in southern Mirkwood, the Dragon Lord influences many of the events that transpire in Rhovanion and the Misty Mountain region. Surrounded by a variety of competent emissaries and skilled mages, the Dragon Lord can manipulate the affairs of the region almost at will. His agents frequently infiltrate his adversaries' settlements, yet due to the numerous enemy military forces in the area, the Dragon Lord has not yet openly displayed his growing armies. The Dragon Lord does not like to operate near bodies of water, so maintains no navies and does not even bother to maintain vigilance over the nearby Anduin river.
Dog Lord
Led by the Third of the Nazgûl, the Dog Lord, the nation of Dendra Dwar is both powerful and in ascendance. From his main fortress inside Mordor, the Dog Lord prepares his forces for what he considers his rightful rulership of Ithilien and Rhovanion. Numerous dark mages and skilled agents are in the Dog Lord's service, but his greatest potential lies in the able commanders that handle his growing military might. The forces of the Dog Lord are aptly named, for many of his troops ride the infamous war-dogs and war-wolves that Dendra Dwar himself breeds and trains. This ferocious cavalry is one of the most feared forces Middle-earth. Until recently, the resources available within Mordor were sufficient for the Dog Lord's purposes. However, the need for both more canine-mounts and other war materials has forced Dendra Dwar to look beyond his current haven, and consider extending his domain's boundaries.
Cloud Lord
Led by the Fourth of the Nazgûl, the Cloud Lord, the nation of Jí Indûr is probably the most secretive of all the Dark Servants. From his main fortress in south-western Mordor, the Cloud Lord's minions perform the most delicate of extractions and arrange the most unobtrusive of accidents for the leaders of the Free Peoples. As a result of the exploits of his highly-skilled agents, Jí Indûr also influences and oversees much of the trade and commerce that passes through Harondor. His knowledge of the affairs and plans of his neighbours has allowed the Cloud Lord to begin preparing his forces, both military and arcane, in preparation for his own plans of expansion and domination.
Blind Sorcerer
Led by the Fifth of the Nazgûl, the Blind Sorcerer, the nation of Akhôrahil represents one of the most dangerous conclaves of mages in possession of powerful artifacts among all the Dark Servants. From his main fortress in south-eastern Mordor, the Blind Sorcerer's adepts prepare for the inevitable expansion of his domain into Harad and Khand. Akhôrahil possesses one of the richest regions from which to operate, and controls one of the few navies serving the Dark Servants. Although lacking individuals skilled in the more subtle means of persuasion, the Blind Sorcerer is surrounded by powerful mages and well-supplied forces, and his armies and navies are swiftly becoming a force with which to be reckoned.
Ice King
Led by the Sixth of the Nazgûl, Hoarmûrath the Ice King, the nation represents a formidable and growing force among the Dark Servants. From his main fortress inside Mordor, Hoarmûrath's adept mages and skilled agents have permitted him to maintain constant vigilance and influence over the Ithilien region, while at the same time remaining largely undetected. The Ice King's armies are growing, and pressuring his neighbours is the next step in his plans for expansion. For the rich and poorly-defended lands outside his realm are an attractive goal, and the resource-poor lands of Mordor will not long continue to support the growing might of his forces.
Quiet Avenger
Led by the Seventh of the Nazgûl, the Quiet Avenger, the nation of Adûnaphel wields the most well-balanced force of the Dark Servants. From her main fortress south-west of Mordor in Near Harad, Adûnaphel's learned mages, numerous diplomats, and military commanders execute the dire whispers of the Quiet Avenger throughout the region of Harondor and Harad. The location of Adûnaphel's stronghold provides her with a rich source of supplies and good potential for further, albeit controlled, expansion. However, the people at Adûnaphel's disposal are not the best-trained nor the most skilled, and the delicate position of her realm places great emphasis in balancing the many neighbouring forces.
Fire King
Led by the Eighth of the Nazgûl, the Fire King, the nation of Ren the Unclean wields the most dedicated force among all the Dark Servants. From his main fortress inside Mordor, the Fire King's mages, numerous agents and military commanders maintain constant pressure and vigilance on the Gondorian towers that surround Mordor and the region of Ithilien. The armies of Ren, although not the most skilled, are typically well-armed, and represented by a diverse mixture of races and peoples. His servants have enabled the Fire King to begin preparing his forces, both military and arcane, in preparation for his own plans of expansion and domination.
Long Rider
Led by the Ninth of the Nazgûl, the Long Rider, the nation of Ûvatha controls one of the most extensive realms of the Dark Servants. From his main fortress near the Sea of Rhûn, the Long Rider's minions infiltrate and pressure many of the peoples that inhabit Rhovanion and the region of Khand. The skilled agents of the Long Rider are able to exert considerable influence on mercantile operations throughout these regions, whilst the vast realm of Ûvatha is patrolled by the superior cavalry that serve as the bulwark of his armies. Whilst perhaps not as highly regarded as some cavalry, nevertheless the exclusively mounted forces of the Long Rider are numerous, well-provisioned and quite capable of carrying out the planned expansion of his domain. And the rich lands found in his realm hold strong potential for this growth.
Dark Lieutenants
The nation of the Dark Lieutenants represents a strategic centre of power for the Dark Servants. From their main fortress inside Mordor, The Mouth of Sauron (Ûrzahil) and The Warlord (Gothmog) initiate and control events that influence much that transpires in all the regions surrounding Mordor. While the forces that constitute the armies of the Dark Lieutenants are not well-skilled, the seasoned commanders of the Dark Lieutenants are probably the most capable leaders to be found anywhere in Middle-earth, and their presence makes their armies a formidable force. Surrounded by wise mages and protected by artifacts, the Dark Lieutenants' power is rapidly rising, and rivals that of any of the other Dark Servants.
The Neutrals
Corsairs
The nation of the Corsairs consists primarily of descendants of the Dúnedan rebels who fled from Gondor in the wake of the Kin-strife wars, and also their Black Númenórean cousins who resided in Umbar prior to the arrival of the rebels. Led by the exceptional sea-captain Angamaitë and the powerful Teldûmeir, the Corsairs have effectively established themselves as a dominant force in the Bay of Belfalas and along the southern coasts. The vast navies of the Corsairs are feared by all and equalled by few. The strategic location of the Corsairs affords them a region that has both plentiful resources, and ready access to the Great Sea, the Harnen and even the Anduin river. Along with a few mages, the skilled diplomats and agents of the Corsairs wield their powers to great effect throughout the neighbouring regions, and have so far managed to keep the forces of both the Free Peoples and the Dark Servants in check.
Haradwaith
The nation of the Haradwaith chiefly consists of the Northern Haradwaith of Near Harad, and the peoples who occupy the semi-arid lands south of Mordor, called Harondor, with their greatest settlements located along the sea-coast and rivers. Led by Haruth Ramam and Carlon, the Haradwaith regard the Belfalas area to be their own, and contest other rival navies for right of passage there. The lands about Harondor provide bountiful resources and afford considerable protection from their powerful neighbours. Surrounded by powerful realms of the Free Peoples and the Dark Servants, the Haradan nation utilises their strategic location and rich resources to thwart these foreign influences. While their main strength lies in their military might of their armies and navies, they also possess individuals with skills in the arcane as well as the more subtle arts.
Dunlendings
The nation of the Dunlendings encompasses the large region south of the former realm of Arnor in central Eriador. Consisting of several co-operating clans loosely led by Enion and Eríbhen, the Dunlendings seek to be reunited and restored to the lands of their forefathers. Possessing neither valorous nor skilled warriors, the armies of the Dunlendings rely primarily upon their charismatic leaders and sheer numbers to win the day. However, their forces are accustomed to fighting in all types of terrain (the rougher the better), and possess a wide variety of troops to suit their varied styles and expertise. While few of the Dunlendings aspire toward the arcane arts, the few that do so have acquired considerable skill. Surrounded by powerful adversaries, the Dunlendings have quietly reinforced their armies, and plan a return to the days of old when their people were possessed of great power and influence.
Rhudaur
The glory of Rhudaur has long passed, and blood of the Dúnedain almost vanished, but the eastern region of the former realm of Arnor still wields some influence, and employs numerous swords in northern Eriador. Consisting of several fiefdoms, led by Arfanhil and Broggha, Rhudaur seeks to be a reunited and restored nation once again. However, some factions favour the policies of the Dark Servants and others the policies of the Free Peoples, whilst the considerable natural resources of Rhudaur are of interest to both, making such restoration difficult. While the armies of Rhudaur are adequate to defend their borders, they are lacking in discipline, and consist of large numbers of mercenaries. The military commanders of Rhudaur possess some skills in subterfuge and magic, as well as a keen interest in ancient artifacts. This broad spectrum of tools has allowed the leaders of Rhudaur to balance the strong influences of their neighbours whilst harbouring their own desire for expansion. So far.
Easterlings
The Easterlings consist of the collection of peoples who occupy the north central region of Middle-earth. This region encompasses part of Rhovanion, and all the lands south of there above the Khand. This diverse nation includes the tribes of the Sagath, Logath, Asdriags, Nuriags, and the Variags. Loosely led by Tros Hesnef in the north and Ovatha II of Khand in the south, the Easterlings are a people with great potential, but equally with numerous pitfalls to overcome. The greatest strength of the Easterlings lies in their fierce and brave warriors, and especially their much-feared cavalry. Competent commanders and numerous warriors make this mobile threat very real indeed. Additionally, their skilled mages and adequate agents help make up for the lack of political envoys, and the abundant availability of resources provides the Easterlings with a rich base for growth. The most difficult barriers to be overcome in the Easterlings’ plans of conquest, however, are the lack of central command, and the dispersal of their forces over much of Middle-earth.
