Dawn of Death: Eye of Nagash

Gashnag havia confiat una important missió a Vitorio que l'havia dut a la llunyana Albió. Un poderós penjoll, l'Ull de Nagash, que s'havia creat a Nagashizar i que els seus espies a Silvania li havien dit que Mannfred buscava. El mal temps havia separat les seves forces per la qual cosa inicialment només una reduïda part de la seva ràtzia va iniciar la recerca.

Gashnag had entrusted an important mission to Vitorio that had taken him to the distant Albion. A powerful pendant, the Eye of Nagash, which had been created in Nagashizar and which his spies in Silvania had told Mannfred was looking for. Bad weather had separated their forces so initially only a small part of their raid started the search.

Els seus espies Strigani creien que era el penjoll màgic que duia la noble Sonia Mac Anraic del clan Sessair i allà es va dirigir Vitorio. El vampir la va localitzar caçant a prop dels túmuls Ogham i va atacar sense esperar. Alguns exploradors albionics van donar l'alerta i així uns guerrers van acudir a protegir la seva líder. La batalla es va iniciar de sobte sense cap ordre tàctic. Amb tot i això totes les forces estaven llestes sense cap retard.

His Strigani spies believed it to be the magical pendant worn by the noble Sonia Mac Anraic of Clan Sessair and that's where Vitorio headed. The vampire tracked her down hunting near the Ogham mounds and attacked without waiting. Some Albionic scouts gave the warning and so some warriors came to protect their leader. The battle started suddenly without any tactical order. Nevertheless all the forces were ready without any delay.

Els druides del flanc esquerre van veure que uns monstres vampirics gegantins estaven a punt d'atacar-los i es van replegar. Això va propiciar que els vampirs, els necròfags i el mateix Vitorio avancessin per carregar sobre les víctimes.

The druids on the left flank saw that gigantic vampiric monsters were about to attack them and retreated. This led to the vampires, ghouls and Vitorio himself advancing to charge the victims.

La seva set de sang va fer que els Vargheist intentessin arribar sobre els druides, que veient el que se'ls hi venia a sobre van fugir per salvar la vida. Veient que no arribaven als druides, però si als guerrers, van redirigir el vol allà. El combat va ser brutal i sanguinari i en perdre onze guerrers van fugir tan ràpidament que el Vargheist no van agafar-los. Els druides que es replegaven en veure la matança van entrar en pànic i van fugir també del camp de batalla. Els caçadors prudentment van continuar ocults al bosc i van replegar-se al poblat en fer-se fosc.

Their thirst for blood caused the Vargheist to try to get at the druids, who seeing what was coming at them ran for their lives. Seeing that they were not reaching the druids, but the warriors, they redirected the flight there. The combat was brutal and bloody and losing eleven warriors they fled so quickly that the Vargheist did not catch them. The retreating druids at the sight of the carnage panicked and fled the battlefield as well. The hunters prudently remained hidden in the forest and retreated to the village at nightfall.

Vitorio va examinar els cossos sense sang que el Vargheist havien destrossat per si la noble estava allà. Durant la tarda va rebre notícies d'Asurath, havia arribat amb la resta de les tropes. Un cop es reforcés avançaria per destruir el poblat i recuperar la joia.

Vitorio scanned the bloodless bodies the Vargheist had mangled to see if the noblewoman was there. During the afternoon he received news of Asurath, he had arrived with the rest of the troops. Once reinforced, he would advance to destroy the village and recover the jewel.

A uns quilòmetres dels túmuls Sonia va reagrupar totes les tropes i va donar avis a altres poblats del perill que havia arribat a l'illa. Aquells monstres havien matat gent valuosa que hauria de venjar.

A few kilometers from the mounds, Sonia regrouped all the troops and notified other towns of the danger that had reached the island. Those monsters had killed valuable people that she should avenge.

Zargod, Dark Apostle of Hashut

La miniatura de Zargod, l'apòstol obscur de Hashut, va ser esculpida per Anno, un dels col·laboradors de la publicació de nans del caos Word of Hashut el 2009. S'ha de dir que va ser el meu general pel Setge que vam realitzar a Cap d'Any.

Zargod, Dark Apostle of Hashut

Aquí us deixem la seva història.

"Si vius seguint la guia de Hashut no rendiràs el teu esperit i mantindràs el teu honor intacte. La integritat ho és tot i això fa que un sigui invencible a la batalla. No sabràs lo fort que ets, però et farà cruel i despietat amb l'enemic i Hashut et somriurà." 

"If you will live following the ways of Hashut you will not surrender your spirit and you  will maintain your honor intact. Integrity is everything and it renders one invincible in battle. You do not know how strong you are, but in addition you will be cruel and pitiless towards your enemy and Hashut will smile upon you."

Al costat fosc, l'ombra de la Torre Negra de Zharr Naggrund, amagada sota la plana de Zharrduk, es troba la guarida de Zargod, un dels odiats i temuts senyors de la guerra dels Dawi Zharr, un veritable Fill de Hashut. Tot i ser important i d'un dels llinatges més nobles de Zharr Naggrund Zargod està molt lluny de qualsevol paper polític. Ara viu sol, com un ermità dins una vella mina abandonada moltes milles al sud de la Torre Negra. Les raons d'això són uns llaços estrets amb el seu passat fosc que es perd en la llegenda. Ell encara es manté alçat i és l'apòstol més inflexible i fidel de Hashut.

On the dark side, the shadow of the black Tower of Zharr Naggrund, hidden under the plain of Zharrduk, finds the dwelling of Zargod, one of the hated and feared Dawi Zharr Lords of the war, a true Son of Hashut. Although important and from one of the noblest lineages of Zharr Naggrund. Zargod however is far removed from any political role. He now lives alone, like a hermit within an old abandoned mine many miles to south of the Black Tower. The reasons for this are closely ties to his past, a dark past that is lost in legend. He still stands tall and is the most unyielding and faithful apostle of Hashut.

Els esdeveniments en qüestió relacionats amb Zargod són del període immediatament posterior a l'últim gran aixecament dels Orcs Negres en rebel·lió contra els seus mestres i creadors Dawi Zharr. Aquesta rebel·lió hauria enderrocat als Dawi Zharr si no fos per la traïció dels Hobgoblins. Aquest esdeveniment va deixar debilitat fins i tot al poderós Imperi de Dawi Zharr i encara s'estava recuperant de les profundes ferides que va deixar aquest terrible conflicte intern durant molts anys.

The events in question concerning Zargod is the period immediately following the last great uprising of Black Orcs in rebellion against their Dawi Zharr masters and creators. This rebellion would have toppled the Dawi Zharr if not for the treachery of the hobgoblins. This time left even the mighty Empire of Dawi Zharr weakened and was recovering from the deep wounds left by that terrible internal conflict for many years.

En aquest moment, Zargod era un guerrer respectat i va servir, juntament amb els seus quatre germans, a l'honorable tasca de guardaespatlles del Magus Suprem Harzac, un dels fetillers més antics dels Dawi Zharr. On sigui que anava Harzac, els cinc guerrers nans coneguts com els apòstols de Hashut el seguien com una ombra, matant sense pietat a qualsevol que s'atrevís a acostar-se al seu senyor. Comparat amb altres nans, Zargod era un gegant, increïblement alt i desenvolupat, tant que li deien El Gegant de Hashut; podia veure's cara a cara amb els humans com a iguals, sense tan sols mirar cap amunt, això va ser una benedicció i una font d'orgull per al nan. De tots els germans, no només era el més poderós, sinó fins i tot el més devot en la batalla, mostrant una ferocitat en el camp de batalla sense igual. Les seves guerres van deixar un rastre de sang i mutilacions. Però quan Harzac va entrar en batalla, els cinc mai van estar a més de quinze passos del Magus Suprem.

At that time Zargod was a respected warrior and served, along with his four brothers in the honored role of bodyguard of the Supreme Magus Harzac, one of the eldest Sorcerers of the Dawi Zharr. Wherever Harzac went, the five dwarf warriors known as the Apostles of Hashut followed him like a shadow, killing without mercy anyone who dared get closer to their master. Compared to other dwarfs Zargod was a giant, incredibly tall and developed, so much so he weas called The Giant of Hashut; seeing eye to eye with humans as equals, without ever looking up, this was a boon and a source of pride to the dwarf. Of all the brothers, he was not only the most powerful but even the most devout in battle, showing a ferocity on the battlefield that was unmatched. His wars left behind a trail of blood and mutilation. But when Harzac went into battle, the five were never more than fifteen steps behind the Supreme Magus.

Durant una violenta guerra contra els Skavens, la fortalesa de Ghorak, baluart estratègic al nord de la gran plana de Zharrduk, va ser assetjada; creant un punt mort que a la llarga seria molt avantatjós per a la força assetjant.

During a violent war against the Skaven, the fortress of Ghorak, strategic outpost north of the great plain of Zharrduk, was besieged; creating a stalemate that in the long run would very advantageous to the besieging force.

Harzac, va pensar que tenia el deure de quedar-se per defensar la Torre Negra i era conscient del moment precari del seu poble. Després d'una acurada deliberació, va decidir abandonar la seva posició. Com a líder d'un grup d'elit de nans i escortat pels seus fidels apòstols, va atacar a l'exèrcit Skaven a través d'una antiga mina amb la intenció de sorprendre els Skavens per darrere. Però els traïdors homes rata són experts en excavació per naturalesa i ja havien descobert aquest camí i pres les precaucions necessàries per aturar aquest assalt. De fet, quan Harzac i el seu seguici van emergir de túnel, van ser atacats per una multitud d'enemics de tots costats i ràpidament van delmar a la petita contingent. En el camp de batalla només el poderós bruixot i els seus fidels apòstols van romandre vius, envoltats per les estridents hordes de Rata Cornuda. Entre les files d'aquesta escòria va aparèixer un comandant Skaven; aquest va aturar l'atac final que hauria aixafat als supervivents per interrogar-los i parlamentar, encara que no era necessari que es realitzés. Parlant amb els Apòstols, el senyor de la guerra Skaven els va donar l'oportunitat d'escapar, però a canvi volia la vida del fetiller.

Harzac, thought he had the duty to remain to defend the Black Tower and was aware of the precarious moment of his people. After careful deliberation he decided to abandon his position. As the leader of an elite group of dwarfs and escorted by his faithful apostles he attacked the Skaven army through an old mine with the intent to surprise the Skaven from behind. But the treacherous rat men are burrowing experts by nature and had already discovered this way in and took the necessary precautions to halt such an assault. In fact, when Harzac and his entourage emerged from the tunnel they were attacked by a multitude of enemies from all sides and quickly decimated the small contingent. On the battlefield only the powerful sorcerer and his faithful apostles remained alive, surrounded by the chittering hordes of Horned Rat. Among the ranks of those scum came forward a the Skaven commander; he halted the final attack that would have crushed the survivors in order to interrogate then and parley, although no parley need take place. Speaking to the Apostles the Skaven warlord gave them the opportunity to escape, but in exchange for the life of the sorcerer.

Després d'uns segons de vacil·lació i sota la mirada incrèdula de Zargod, un rere l'altre dels seus quatre germans van abaixar les seves armes i es van allunyar lentament pel túnel d'on havien vingut.

"Per a mi, la vida d'un dels fills de Hashut val mil esclaus. Però quan un Dawi Zharr traeix al seu poble en un acte de covardia, mereix que el matin sense pensar-ho dues vegades perquè és tan inútil com un solitari esclau... "

After a few seconds of hesitation and under the incredulous eyes of Zargod, one after another of his four brothers laid down their arms and slowly moved away through the tunnel from where they came.

"To me, the life of one of the children of Hashut is worth a thousand slaves. But when a Dawi Zharr betrays his people in an act of cowardice he deserves to be killed outright with nary a second thought for he is as worthless as a single slave…"

Amb la traïció dels seus germans, Zargod es va enfurismar tant que no va poder pronunciar una paraula davant l'acte sense precedents dels covards. Instintivament, va vessar totes les seves frustracions llançant-se a tota velocitat contra l'enemic. Abans que cap dels Skavens pogués reaccionar, Zargod estava entre ells amb una destral a la mà. En un tancar i obrir d'ulls havia travessat netament al Senyor de la Guerra Skaven tornant-se berserk. Va matar a la primera fila de Skavens i aviat a molts més. Però massa ràpid va ser envoltat per una gran quantitat d'oponents i es va retirar per acostar al seu mestre. Mentrestant, Harzac va mantenir a ratlla a la resta dels Skavens amb encanteris devastadors. No va ser suficient; tot i l'heroica defensa Zargod, els Skavens s'estaven acostant. Harzac al seu torn va detonar un encanteri final que el va consumir a ell i als nombrosos Skavens pressionant l'atac. La força de l'explosió va llançar a Zargod lluny deixant-lo inconscient.

With the betrayal of his brethren Zargod was so enraged that he could not utter a word in the face of the unprecedented act of the cowards. Instinctively he poured out all his frustrations by throwing himself lightning quick at the enemy. Before any of the Skaven could even react Zargod was amongst them with an axe in hand. In the blink of an eye he had cut cleanly through the Skaven Warlord and in turn went berserk. He slew the first row of Skaven and soon many more. But all too quickly he was surrounded by a large number of opponents and withdraw to near his master. Harzac meanwhile kept at bay the rest of the Skaven with devastating spells. It was not enough; despite the heroic defense by Zargod, the Skaven were closing in. Harzac in turn detonated a final spell that consumed him and the numerous Skaven pressing the attack. The force of the explosion hurled Zargod clear, but knocked him unconscious.

No va passar molt temps abans que Zargod recuperés la consciència. Era de nit i ja no sentia cap soroll amunt. Encara que va resultar ferit en diverses parts del seu cos, l'Apòstol va poder escalar el penya-segat i tornar a la superfície. Sota la resplendor espectral de la lluna plena, Zargod va trobar les restes del seu senyor, destrossats per una poderosa explosió i, al seu voltant, les restes dels Skavens. El poderós fetiller s'havia sacrificat en una terrible explosió per provocar la destrucció del màxim possible d'enemics.

It was not long before Zargod regained consciousness. It was night and he no longer heard any noise from above. Although he was wounded in several parts of his body, the Apostle was able to climb the cliff and return to the surface. Under the spectral glow of a full moon Zargod found the remains of his master, torn apart by a powerful explosion and all around him the remnants of the Skaven. The mighty sorcerer had sacrificed himself in a terrific explosion in order to bring about the destruction of the largest number of enemies possible.

Iracund més enllà de tota imaginació pel que va succeir, Zargod va caure en un estat de confusió que va ser tan gran que va perdre tota la raó imposada per la pressió de la crua emoció de venjança que va establir per Zharr Naggrund. Zargod tornar a la ciutat sense ser reconegut i va entrar al gran temple de Hashut. Un cop allà, va saber que una nova ofensiva dirigida pels seus germans finalment havia escombrat a l'exèrcit Skaven.

Upset with rage beyond all imaging as to what happened Zargod fell into a state of confusion which was so great as to lose all reason bidden by the pressure of the raw emotion of revenge he set form for Zharr Naggrund. Zargod made his way back into the city without being recognized and entered the great Temple of Hashut. Once there he learned that a new offensive led by his brothers had finally swept away the Skaven army.

Les notícies no van disminuir el seu odi i ràbia i es va tornar encara més incontrolable quan va descobrir que els quatre Apòstols havien difós la falsa notícia de la seva mort.

Zargod es va amagar darrere de la gran estàtua de Hashut, la més gran del temple i va esperar el retorn dels traïdors. Una vegada que van travessar el llindar del claustre, Zargod va fer un pas endavant ignorant les seves frases de disculpa i sorpresa. Es va llançar contra ells amb totes les seves forces.

The news did not lessen his hatred and rage and it became even more uncontrollable when he discovered that the four Apostles had spread the false news of his death.

Zargod hid himself behind the great statue of Hashut, the largest in the temple and waited the return of traitors. Once they crossed the threshold of the cloister, Zargod stepped forward ignoring their half-sentences of apology and surprise. He launched himself at them with all his strength.

L'enfrontament va ser terrible i cap dels guàrdies del temple, ni tan sols els Centaures Toro es van atrevir a intervenir per separar el remolí de fulles i sang. Impulsat per la ira que el devorava des de dins i malgrat la pèrdua del seu braç esquerre, Zargod va aconseguir el seu objectiu: matar els quatre germans, traïdors al seu senyor assassinat.

"Jo tenia germans, i quan estàvem units i eren fidels a Hashut els considerava la meva família. Ells van perdre aquesta fe, només vaig veure els oponents aquell dia, oponents que volia matar. No tinc remordiment pels caiguts, no més del que un sent després de matar un enemic odiat. Els meus germans se n'havien anat feia molt de temps, només els enemics estaven davant meu aquell dia ... "

The clash was terrible and none of the guards of the temple, not even the Bull Centaurs dared to intervene to separate the whirlwind of blades and blood. Driven by anger that was devouring him from within and despite the loss of his left arm Zargod succeeded in his aim: slaughtering all four brothers, traitors to their slain master.

"I had brothers, and when we were united and faithful to Hashut I considered them my family. They lost that faith, I only saw the opponents that day, opponents I wanted to slay. I have no remorse for the fallen ones, no more than what one feels after killing a hated enemy. My brothers were long gone, only enemies stood before me that day…"

Oficialment es va difondre que els Apòstols, després d'una nova ofensiva contra els Skavens, havien donat les seves vides per defensar la ciutat i aquesta història ràpidament va esdevenir un fet acceptat. Però la veritat de Zargod i la seva dedicació a la causa de Hashut no va ser suficient per a justificar el seu comportament: els fetillers suprems van decidir exiliar-lo, llevant-li tot el seu poder.

Tot i el nom, els Apòstols de Hashut són ara un record llunyà. L'ombra de Zargod continua la seva batalla a favor dels Nans del Caos, eliminant silenciosament a qualsevol que s'atreveixi a travessar la frontera sud de la torre negra Zharr-Naggrund.

Officially it was spread that the Apostles, after a new offensive against the Skaven, had given their lives to defend the city and that story quickly became accepted fact. But the truth of Zargod and his dedication to the cause of Hashut was not sufficient to justify his behavior: the elder Sorcerers decided to banish him, taking away all of his power.

Despite the name, the Apostles of Hashut are now a distant memory. The shadow of Zargod continues its battle in favor of the Chaos Dwarfs, silently eliminating anyone who dares to cross the southern borders of the black tower Zharr-Naggrund.

En rebre la miniatura no tenia la calavera del casc, però tenint trilions de no morts no va ser complicat afegir-ne una.

Al muntar la miniatura va ser evident que havien esculpit Zargod molt més gran que un nan normal i no encaixaria a les files de cap unitat així que es va fer servir una base decorativa de Scibor.

La figura va ser dippejada amb Corax White.

El Carlos la va pintar amb un esquema de Darkshard Armor.

La miniatura va ser dippejada i un passat uns dies es va aplicar antishine i pintar la base.

Finalment Carlos va aplicar vernís brillant a l'armadura.

Dawn of Death: Sir Charles Last Quest

El so d'una banya va fer que Sir Charles, baró de Badaloine, deixes per més tard la seva lectura. Aquest so representava que el seu galió, l'Aveler de la Dame, estava arribant a la seva destinació. 

The roar of a horn stopped the reading of Sir Charles, baron of Badaloine. That sound meant that his galleon, the Aveler de la Dame, was arriving at her destination.

Va alçar la vista per observar les seves relíquies amb una barreja de nostàlgia i estima. Es va apropar per agafar la primera d'elles La llàgrima Morena, el penjoll que la seva mare li va donar al poc de néixer a l'antic castell familiar de la poderosa Aquitaine. El penjoll tenia les seves llàgrimes del part i per això l'encanteri  només el podia protegir a ell.

He looked up to his relics with a mix of nostalgia and fondness. He approached the first of them, the Dark Tear, the pendant his mother gave him shortly after giving birth to him at the old family's castle back at the powerful Aquitaine. The pendant was awash with the tears of the labour and thus his protection could only work for him.

El següent objecte al qual es va apropar era l'espasa situada al costat del seu llit i de la qual mai se separava. La mateixa Dama se la va atorgar quan va expulsar les maleïdes hordes caòtiques que havien gosat envair la seva santa terra i les va perseguir fins a la mateixa Norsca per evitar que l'any següent retornessin. A les pèrfides i glaçades terres Norses es va lliurar una èpica batalla entre els Compagnons, els valents companys de Sir Charles, i els esclaus dels déus de la foscor. La batalla que només va ser guanyada pel sacrifici del molts bons homes es va decidir amb un duel entre Sir Charles, que mai hagués deixat que ningú moris per ell, i Horer Matahomes, ungit del caos.

The next relic was the sword laying next to his bed, from which he never parted.  The Lady herself gave it to him when he banished the disgusting Chaos hordes who desecrated the soil of his holy land and prosecuted them up until their native Norsca to ensure they did not come back by next year. At the perfidious and icy Norse lands an epic battle was fought between the Compagnons, the brave companions of Sir Charles, and the slaves of the Dark Gods. Victory was only achieved due to the martyrdom of several good men and it was decided in a duel between Sir Charles, who would never  let anyone die for him, and Horer Manslayer, Exalted Champion of Chaos.

En acabar la batalla es va obrir una clariana en mig del paisatge glaçat d'on sorgia un llac. Un camí de flors de lis va guiar als Compagnons i la dama els va oferir veure del calze. Sir Charles va ser l'últim en beure, deixant que els seus amics i companys ho fessin abans que ell. La Dama es va submergir a les aigües i en  ressorgir duia  la poderosa espasa com a regal.

At the end of the clash a clearing opened in the middle of the frosty landscape. In it there was a lake. A trail of flowers guided the Compagnons and the Lady offered them to drink from her chalice. Sir Charles was the last one to do so, letting friends and companions to drink before him. The Lady submerged into the waters only to come back with the powerful sword as a gift.

Després de recordar amb joia i gratitud a la Dama aquell sagrat moment es va apropar a la seva cuirassa, col·locada en una posició privilegiada a la seva cabina des de la qual vigilava la sala. Era la mateixa que duia el seu pare el dia que va matar la serp marina Belaquiel que terroritzava les costes d'Aquitania i havia matat molts dels camperols i pescadors que havia de protegir. Era l'únic que els va deixar en marxar a la recerca de la qual mai tornar. 

After remembering with joy and gratitude to the Lady that holy moment, he approached his cuirass, which was in a privileged position inside his cabin from which the room could be watched on. It was the same his father wore the day he slaughtered the sea serpent Belaquiel, who terrorized the coasts of Aquitaine and murdered several commonfolk under his protection. It was the only thing he left them after leaving for a quest from which he never came back.

Sir Charles encara recordava amb dolor que no era ell qui havia de dur-la sinó son germà gran. En retornar de Norsca amb la majoria dels cavallers de la seva baronia gairebé ningú els havia de rebre en el seu castell que es veia en ruïnes. En veure-ho, sir Charles va galopar tan ràpidament com el seu fidel cavall el va dur. En arribar una noia es va amagar a dintre de l'antiga sala principal i que era l'únic que quedava dempeus. El jove cavaller va entrar prudentment i la noia que empunyava li deia que marxes, que per la dama defensaria les relíquies del seu pare fins a la mort. Va ser apropar-se a les torxes i la noia va poder veure la cara del seu germà i va córrer als seus braços.

Sir Charles still remembered with pain that it was not him who was destined  to wear it, but his older brother. After coming back from Norsca with most of the knights of his barony, nobody was there to welcome them back from his castle which was now nothing more than ruins. Sir Charles galoped anxiously and upon arriving a girl hid herself inside the old main hall, which was the only thing left standing.  The young knight entered quietly and the girl told him to go away, that by the Lady she would protect the relics of her father until the end. He approached the torches and the girl, upon seeing the face of her brother, ran to hug him.

Ysabel feia setmanes que custodiava com un veritable cavaller les relíquies que va poder salvar del traïdorenc atac dels senyors de Colomê, uns cavallers sense herois del grial i que van aprofitar per atacar quan hi havia molt pocs soldats i matar al seu germà quan defensava heroicament el castell. El Senyor de Colomê no va respondre a la crida de la baronia per atacar les forces del caos, ja que acusaven Sir Charles pel rapte de la seva filla, la fetillera Oudine, que el serveix des de fa anys com a consellera i mestressa de les arts arcanes.

Ysabel was keeping watch on the relics like a true knight. She saved them from a traitorous attack from the lords of Colomê, knights without Grail Lords that fell against the castle when there were few soldiers and killed his brother during the defense of the family's residence. The Lord of Colomê did not answer to the cry for help against the Chaos raiders since he accused Sir Charles of the kidnapping of his daughter, the sorceress Oudine, who serves him as counsellor and mistress of the arcane arts.

La seva germana es va convertir en el seu portaestendard, el que va salvar del castell, i que ara defensa amb més força  que quan estava sola. La Dama clarament la guia.

His sister became his standard bearer, saved from the castle, and which she defends now with renewed vigour. She is cleary guided by the Lady.

En pujar a la coberta va notar un cop d'aire que va despentinat la seva espessa cabellera negra que el va fer mirar amunt on va veure set cavallers de pegàs que feien de missatgers i exploradors vigilant que la flota no fos atacada. La seva germana i els Compagnons estaven agenollats resant unes plegaries a la Dama per tal que els ajudi en la seva justa causa i Sir Carles s'hi va unir.

Upon going up to the deck, a windblow poured his dense black hair. He looked up to see it's source and saw seven pegasus knights who worked as messengers and scouts to protect the navy. His sister and the Compagnons kneeled praying to the Lady for help in their just cause. Sir Charles joined them.

En acabar la pregària ja es començava a entreveure el castell de Sistrell, base de la família en retornar de les croades i des d'on es mirava d'ampliar els dominis del regne. L'imponent castell es va edificar al riu Treblecz sobre una antiga edificació èlfica i dominava una fèrtil vall on viles i pobles rendien lleialtat al Baró.

At the end of the prayer Sistrell's castle appeared on the horizon. Family base since coming back from the crusades, it overlooked the domains of the kingdom. It was built near the river Treblecz on top of an ancient elven building and dominated a bountiful valley where towns and hamlets swore fealty to the baron.

Sir Charles tenia una missió sagrada per la Dama, Bretonnia i el Rei que pensava complir fins al seu últim esbós de vida. Sabia que seria difícil, però amb ell tenia els seus companys i quelcom li deia que la Dama volia que fos aquí.

Sir Charles had a sacred mission and for the Lady, Bretonnia and the King he was determined to carry it out even with his last breath of life. He knew it would be hard, but he had his companions and something was telling him that the Lady wanted it to be here.

Sir Charles

Nerdanel and Fëanor

A series of extracts at Mandos Hall.

Fëanor: I'm told that I must inform you that I died.

Nerdanel: How could you kill like that? As if no-one but you mattered? How could you take them all there and not stay to look after them?

Fëanor : It wasn't my plan.

Nerdanel: Don't contact me again.

Nerdanel: Are they all right? Tell me!

Fëanor: They are all right. None of them were hurt. They are strong. Try not to worry.

Nerdanel: Try not to worry? You utter filth.

...

...

Nerdanel: Did they tell you what Morgoth did to Maedhros?

Fëanor: I was told.

Nerdanel: His poor hand. His poor everything! I so wish I could see him. I am so grateful to Fingon, and to Manwë for the Eagle. I'm going to go and thank Manwë personally. I wish I could thank Fingon.

Fëanor: So angry. I should have broken Morgoth's nose when I had the chance. Or chopped his head off.

Nerdanel: Too bloody late for that. I'm pinning my hopes on your brother. I hear they made him king.

Fëanor: You meant that to hurt. It did.

Nerdanel: Good.

Fëanor: You could be there with them. You chose not to come.

Nerdanel: If you weren't already dead I'd kill you myself. Slowly. It might take more than thirty years of the Sun.

Nerdanel: Why are you in the Halls of Mandos, Fëanor? You doomed yourself to everlasting darkness if you failed. You have failed. You deserve the darkness more than any of my sons.

Fëanor: I don't know.

...

Fëanor: My father sends his regards.

Nerdanel: What's that supposed to mean?

Fëanor: It was something to say.

Nerdanel: Are you all right?

Fëanor: Are you?

Nerdanel : So far as that is possible under the circumstances, yes.

Fëanor: I'm glad of that. Are you working?

Nerdanel: Yes, as it happens. I have an exhibition coming up. Sixteen pieces. I have fourteen ready. I'm busy.

Fëanor: I hope it goes well.

...

Nerdanel : But are you all right?

Fëanor : How did the exhibition go?

Nerdanel: It was well received. Answer my question.

Fëanor: I'm worried about the boys.

Nerdanel : NOW you're worried?!

Fëanor: Yes.

...

Nerdanel: Here is a picture of my latest work. I thought of you after I made it.

Fëanor: It looks fierce. I like it a lot. Thank you for sending the picture.

Nerdanel: Do they give you anything to do there?

Fëanor: Contemplating where I went wrong?

Nerdanel: That doesn't sound like you.

Fëanor: I can't say I find it easy.

Nerdanel: No, you wouldn't.

...

Nerdanel: This one is made from granite. It's hard to get the edges clear, but very tough.

Fëanor: I thought you preferred marble? That one makes me think of the Sea.

Nerdanel: Granite gives an interesting texture: I'm experimenting with some new ideas.

Fëanor: You must be going through a lot of chisels, working with granite. There's a diamond saw in my workshop if you want it. Cupboard three.

Nerdanel: I have the tools I need. The workshop was removed some time ago. I put a greenhouse there instead.

Fëanor: Oh. They let me visit my mother. I don't think she recognised me.

Nerdanel: Oh, Fëanor.

Fëanor: I love you.

Nerdanel: let me think about that.

...

Nerdanel: I went back to casting bronze. See.

Fëanor: I think that suits your style better than the granite, if I am honest. Bronze is a delightful metal.

Nerdanel: You're always honest. That is something I suppose.

Fëanor: Can I see the influence of the granite-work coming through in the design?

Nerdanel: Probably. Lots of tough edges. It's useful to experiment at some point with granite, or something like it. I learned some things. I may try ice-sculpture next.

Fëanor: Interesting for light, but it would be ephemeral

Nerdanel: That's the point.

...

Nerdanel : Is your brother Fingolfin there with you?

Fëanor: No, has something happened? I have been told nothing.

Nerdanel: I'll find out if it's true.

...

Nerdanel: He died in a duel with Morgoth. Our boys are all right. Angrod and Aegnor were killed too, they must be there as well. Ask your father.

Fëanor: Thank you for telling me.

Nerdanel: when you are so polite I wonder if you're ill.

Fëanor: rather more than ill.

Nerdanel: I suppose so. I've sent you a picture of our house.

Fëanor: I didn't know you still painted! It is lovely. Strange to see it in the light of the Sun.

Nerdanel: I don't paint much, usually. But I thought you might like it.

Fëanor: I do, very much. You used to paint sometimes when we were young. That is a good spot for a greenhouse.

...

Fëanor : I saw my brother.

Nerdanel: What did he say?

Fëanor: A lot.

Nerdanel: Did you apologise?

Fëanor: Yes. And I praised his courage. Happy?

Nerdanel: All seven of our children, and my grandson, are in Beleriand, where you led them, facing the enemy that killed your father, you, your brother, and your nephews, and who tortured Maedhros.

Nerdanel: Because you chose to kill at Alqualondë, they will have no help from your father's friend Elwë, and they are bound by an oath that dooms them to Everlasting Darkness. No, I am not happy.

Fëanor: I suppose not.

Nerdanel: Did he forgive you again?

Fëanor: Yes.

Nerdanel: I'm not sure you deserve a brother so forgiving.

Fëanor: They had six Maiar watching us, and I was bound. He would think it undignified to do anything else under those circumstances.

...

Nerdanel: Finrod has returned from death. He came to see me.

Fëanor: Did he have news of our sons?

Nerdanel: He didn't speak to you while he was there?

Fëanor: No. Please tell me.

Nerdanel: They are all alive, and none are captive. Celebrimbor sounds well. But I don't like what Finrod says about Celegorm and Curufin. They took over this city Finrod founded, and sent him out to die.

Fëanor: They are clever and ambitious. But surely they did not mean Finrod harm. Finrod?

Nerdanel: Finrod says they did. I believe him. I blame you. If you had not put such weight on political power, Curufin would not think it so important. He was made to be a maker, like me, not a scheming politician!

Fëanor: He is a prince. Of course he thinks it is important.

...

...

Fëanor: Has something happened? I heard singing.

...

Fëanor: I can hear a great noise and weeping, but nobody will tell me. My father says it is better I not know, but I find that hard to believe.

Fëanor: Nerdanel?

...

Fëanor: I miss you.

...

Fëanor: I won't ask for news, I promise. But if you would send me a picture.

Nerdanel: I don't know why they call me the wise. I should just ignore you, but I can't.

Fëanor: Thank you.

Nerdanel: There was a battle. Maedhros and Fingon led it. They lost. Thousands died. Our sons survived, and are free. Fingon is dead. The Valar are leaving them all to die. I can't understand it.

Fëanor: I wish I could do something to help.

Nerdanel: You would, I'll say that for you. You would do something, if you could.

Fëanor: Maedhros will miss Fingon. He asked me to send the ships back for him.

Nerdanel: But you got in a fury and burned them instead. Did it not occur to you that Morgoth was more your enemy than your own brother?

Fëanor: At the time, no. Not until I saw Morgoth's stronghold. Then it was too late.

Nerdanel: You know, Fingolfin loves you. He wanted his big brother's attention as much as your father's.

Fëanor: Well, he got it.

Nerdanel: I married an idiot.

Fëanor: Apparently you did. I was luckier in my choice.

Nerdanel: Here is a picture of a small figure of my idiot prince husband. It's clay so I can throw it on the floor and break it if I feel the need later on.

Fëanor: A wise choice of medium.

...

Fëanor: I was permitted to see Fingon. I have thanked him, as you said, for helping Maedhros.

Nerdanel: Did he shout at you?

Fëanor: He's dead: he can't. He tried.

Nerdanel: He's a good lad.

Fëanor: That's what I told Fingolfin. I asked to see him as well.

Nerdanel: I bet that surprised him.

Fëanor: It did. I thanked him too. I still love you.

Nerdanel: I'm still thinking about that.

...

Fëanor: They are dead. Curufin, Celegorm and Caranthir. They are here in the Halls.

Nerdanel: Oh no, oh no, oh no. What happened? Was it quick at least?

Fëanor: This is going to be difficult for you to hear. Did you know that Elwë had one of my Silmarils?

Nerdanel: Everyone except you has known that for years. I agreed not to mention it.

Fëanor: !

Nerdanel: Fëanor. Tell me about my sons. Now!

Fëanor: The Silmaril was in a hidden palace, in the forest of Doriath. Elwë was already dead, I don't know if you knew about that. Our sons stormed the palace where his grandson lived, and the three of them were killed fighting with the Sindar. I understand it was fairly quick. Caranthir is most distressed. He saw the other two die.

Nerdanel: Another kinslaying. Another. How could they? How could you? Oh, Maedhros, I trusted you to look after them. Fëanor, if you weren't dead...

Fëanor: You'd kill me slowly. I know. They send their love.

Nerdanel: Oh Eru. But they are in the halls of Mandos, not taken by the darkness. I must be grateful for that, I suppose.

Fëanor: May I give your love to them?

Nerdanel: I suppose you must. Yes, give them my love. Although it may be a while before I could look them in the eye and say it.

Fëanor: It seems unlikely to come up.

Nerdanel: Oh shut up. And look after Caranthir. Look after all of them.

...

Nerdanel: How are my dead sons?

Fëanor: I am not permitted to speak with Curufin nor Celegorm. I am a bad influence, it seems.

Nerdanel: Did you get angry?

Fëanor: Yes.

Nerdanel: Oh Fëanor.

Fëanor: It didn't help.

Nerdanel: I'm not surprised. You're dead, Fëanor, can you not lie down?

Fëanor: Do you want me to?

Nerdanel: If I'm honest, not entirely. The Valar will still not send any help. I petitioned them myself. Finrod helped me, and Finarfin.

Fëanor: That was good of them.

Nerdanel: It was. I thought they might listen to Finrod. But it achieved nothing.

Fëanor: Caranthir is healing, I think, or he says so. He looks better to me. He sends his love.

Nerdanel: I love him too, tell him.

Fëanor: My father has been with Curufin. You were right, there's something wrong there. I should have left him with you.

Nerdanel: You should have left them all with me.

Fëanor: They would not have stayed. I am not sure they should have. I spoke to Fingolfin again, since you thought I should. Morgoth has done terrible things.

Nerdanel: So have you.

Fëanor: I am a murderer and a thief. Does it help if I admit it?

Nerdanel: Not much.

Fëanor: I thought not. But I'm not Morgoth. Caranthir tells me much of Aulë's people, the Dwarves, and of the Aftercomers. I am surprised Aulë will do nothing to aid them. At least our sons opposed him.

Nerdanel: And died slaughtering their own people.

Fëanor: The oath was badly worded. I should have thought it out more clearly.

Nerdanel : You're telling me!

Fëanor: My father has reproached me for it too. It punishes the oath-taker more than the thief.

Nerdanel: Now can you see why getting in a rage is such a bad idea? It results in poor workmanship.

Fëanor: It does.

Nerdanel: Like those awful things I made in granite.

Fëanor: They weren't awful. But they were not your best work.

Nerdanel: I have been thinking lately that Morgoth must have got into it. The Oath. Such sloppy thinking is unlike you.

Fëanor: Was that a compliment?

Nerdanel: Surely not. I'm not letting you off that easily. You should have had more sense.

Feanor : I'm sorry.

Nerdanel: I think I'll put that last message in a frame and hang it on the wall.

Fëanor: If I sent an apology to Olwë at Alqualondë, would he receive it?

Nerdanel: I don't know. I'll ask Eärwen.

Fëanor: Do you see Eärwen often?

Nerdanel : From time to time. I made her this frieze of her children, as my apology, here is a picture of it.

Fëanor: You have caught Aegnor's hair to the life, and Finrod looks as if he's about to speak. But you did nothing to apologise for.

Nerdanel: Being married to an idiot involves a lot of unearned apologising.

Fëanor: I suppose it must.

...

Nerdanel: Olwë will receive your apology. Send it to me, and I will take it to him in Alqualondë.

Fëanor: That seems unfair on you.

Nerdanel: Do you see anyone else volunteering? Will you ask Finrod, with werewolf scars still upon his spirit, and memories of the Grinding Ice? Or will you ask your brother Finarfin? You might need to apologise to him, first.

Fëanor: If you will take my apology to Olwë, I would be very grateful. Thank you for not giving up, Nerdanel.

Nerdanel: If I can carve granite with a chisel, that suggests a stupid degree of not-giving-up. Give Caranthir my love.

Fëanor: I will. I love you.

...

Fëanor: Amrod and Amras have been killed, and have come to the Halls of Mandos. I thought you'd want to know at once.

Nerdanel: Oh, my poor boys. What did they do?

Fëanor: They attacked a haven full of people who had fled the war. The Silmaril was there. It was defended by warriors trained by Turgon.

Nerdanel: I feel sick.

Fëanor: I barely recognised them at first. Middle-earth has not been kind to them.

Nerdanel:They used up so much of their lives, living there under Morgoth's shadow.

Fëanor: They thought it was what I wanted. To bring flame and death to the weak and pitiful. What have I done to our sons, Nerdanel?

Nerdanel: You remade them in your image. 'Foe or friend, foul or clean'. What did you think that meant?

Fëanor: That I'm an idiot?

Nerdanel: Worse.

Fëanor: May I give them your love?

Nerdanel: I need to think about that.

Fëanor: It was not their fault. It was mine. Blame me.

Nerdanel: It's been a long time since you died. I'm not sure that can be true.

Fëanor: I will give them my love, anyway. Caranthir sends his love to you. He is with them now.

...

Nerdanel: I have thought. Give my love to Amrod and to Amras, and to dear Caranthir.

Fëanor: Thank you for being so generous. I will tell them.

Nerdanel: What is the point in hoarding love when it might go out and do some good? Perhaps if I had gone to Beleriand with them...

Fëanor: I'm glad you didn't, seeing how they are. Honestly, I am.

Nerdanel: Oh no, that makes me weep for them. They were such happy children... I made this picture for them.

Fëanor: I will show it to them now. They look very friendly dogs.

Nerdanel: They are Eärwen's dogs, Sun and Sand. Sand is the white one. I have been talking a lot with Eärwen. She told me to send the picture.

Fëanor: I'll tell them that too.

Nerdanel: You've heard no word of Celegorm and Curufin?

Fëanor: I'm not permitted to know. Or ask. Or say their names.

Nerdanel: Oh Fëanor, you ARE an idiot. Don't rage at the Ainur.

Fëanor: It's a habit I'm trying to break. Perhaps if you asked Mandos?

Nerdanel: I will do. I wonder where Maedhros and Maglor are now.

Fëanor: So do I.

...

Nerdanel: We're going to war with Morgoth.

Fëanor: What? How did that happen?

Fëanor: I'm sorry. I promised you I would not ask for news.

Nerdanel: The Aftercomers sent an envoy to ask for aid. Well, two, really, half-Elf descendants of Turgon and Elwë. And the Valar have answered. They are sending Finarfin and Ingwion, with a great army of the Noldor and the Vanyar.

Fëanor: But... Never mind.

Nerdanel: I asked to go. They said no. If I could only speak with Maedhros and Maglor...

Fëanor: It seems hard to forbid you to go to the aid of your sons.

Nerdanel: I should have trained with weapons and waited patiently for the moment, like Finarfin, instead of making sculpture and complaining to everyone who would listen about how the Valar had abandoned Middle-earth.

Fëanor: But then you would not be you.

Nerdanel: Have they still not let you have anything to make or do, but only set you to think about your mistakes?

Fëanor: It has been easier, since Caranthir has been here. He says the Dwarves are a remarkable people. I regret not meeting any. But I confess, I do envy them their industry. I find it hard to never make anything.

Nerdanel: I complained about that, too. Loudly.

Fëanor: Did you? That was kind. I walk in my memory a good deal. I can do that.

Nerdanel: Well, of course you do, with nothing else to do and nobody telling you anything, but who with two grains of common sense to rub together would call that a good idea, with your memories? I think

Eärwen's dog Sand has more sense than the Valar, sometimes.

Fëanor: I didn't realise it was troubling you.

Nerdanel: Mandos is lucky you haven't brought his Halls down around his ears.

Fëanor: I love you.

Nerdanel: Do you remember meeting on the shore, that first time, near Alqualondë? We saw a deer in the long grass.

Fëanor: Of course. I don't regret it, even if you do.

Nerdanel: I'll walk back in my memory, and meet you there, by the big white stone. Just for that one walk.

Fëanor: Really? I'll be waiting.

...

Nerdanel : I had a message from Celebrimbor, via Finarfin. He's not coming home, but he is well. He says there is a lot of work to do in Middle-earth, and he is busy with it.

Fëanor: That is good news. He'll do good work there.

Nerdanel: Poor Finarfin, though. They will not let Galadriel return. They say she was a ring-leader in rebellion. Finrod is furious.

Fëanor: You know what you said about Eärwen's dog Sand? That.

Nerdanel: Yes.

Fëanor: Could you arrange to send a message to Finarfin for me?

Nerdanel: Yes, but this is not the moment for him to have to deal with you. Later.

Fëanor: I understand.

...

Fëanor: Maedhros is here. Oh, Nerdanel. He is so hurt. I would not have known him if they had not told me who it was. I don't know what to do for him. I would be so angry that this was done to him, if I had

not been the one that did it.

Nerdanel: Where is Maglor?

Fëanor: I don't know. Maedhros can't speak, or won't.

Nerdanel: I'm on my way.

Fëanor: Will they let you in?

Nerdanel: If they don't, I'll camp outside.

Fëanor: Don't hurt yourself. Remember, you told me not to rage at the Ainur.

Nerdanel: Did you just tell me to be careful?

Fëanor: ...I take it back.

...

Nerdanel: They won't let me see him. They say he killed Eönwë's guards around the Silmarils. He and Maglor.

Fëanor: They took the Silmarils back?

Nerdanel: Fëanor. No.

Fëanor: Right.

Nerdanel: I think Maglor is still alive.

Fëanor: I haven't seen him.

...

Nerdanel: Mandos says they are both accursed and dangerous. Maedhros is unfit to meet the living. I said, who cursed him then? You, or Morgoth, or did you work together?

Fëanor: Maedhros still will not speak. I wonder if he is afraid. I've left him with Caranthir and the twins and my father.

Nerdanel: Ask them to give him my love.

Fëanor: I will.

...

Fëanor: He spoke to Caranthir, a few words. The twins seem a little better for seeing him.

Nerdanel: That's something. And they are here and not lost in everlasting darkness.

Fëanor: Why did I say that? Why?

Nerdanel: Because you are... no you aren't an idiot, not all the time. Because Morgoth was clever, you lost your temper and you didn't know what you were facing.

Fëanor: I think I preferred being called an idiot. Now I feel like one.

Nerdanel: There's a first time for everything. Ask if they will let Maedhros see Fingon.

Fëanor: Good idea.

Nerdanel : Mandos let me see Celegorm and Curufin. I think because he knew I would not go away until he did. Celegorm is doing well, I think. I saw Curufin, too. There is a darkness on him. He would be much better if they would give him more to do. He sent you his love.

Fëanor: ...Did you intend to tell me that?

Nerdanel: Let them try to stop me. They are our sons, you are my husband.

Fëanor: Thank you. Thank you! I love you.

Nerdanel: I'm camping. It's quite comfortable. I have one of the big tents we used to use. If Mandos wants his front garden back, he's going to have to think again. Can you see me? Are you near a window?

Fëanor: I broke the window, ages ago, and they took it away. I felt like Caranthir when he was small and used to break his toys in a rage. Small, and ultimately rather foolish.

Nerdanel: You always gave him more toys though.

Fëanor: Well, he was a child. He has grown up. You'll like him.

Nerdanel: I will visit him tomorrow. I hope Maglor is safe.

Fëanor: So do I. Middle-earth must surely be safer now that Morgoth is defeated.

Nerdanel: I hope Middle-earth is safe from him. I hope he does nothing else horrible.

Fëanor: I wish I could think of some words of comfort.

Nerdanel: My gentle Maglor. I can't imagine him a killer. But I must. Eärwen is finding out who are the families of those they killed, so I can see if there is anything I can do for them.

Fëanor: More unearned apologising for you.

Nerdanel: Yes. I'm quite practiced at it by now. Eärwen is a good friend. I'm going to build a fire on Mandos's lawn now. It's rather too neat at the moment, and also I am chilly.

Fëanor: I don't deserve you.

Nerdanel: Well, at least you noticed that.

Fëanor: For some time now.

...

Fëanor: Fingon was angry with Maedhros, once he recognised him. So then Caranthir was even angrier with Fingon. Amrod and Amras held them apart. Then Fingon cried. And Maedhros cried. Caranthir hugged them both. Then there was lots of hugging. I think something is being achieved. I'm not sure what. But Maedhros looks a little less likely to blow away on the wind.

Nerdanel: Good. Give them all my love.

Fëanor: I will, later. I may not approach Fingon unless I request permission. I am watching from a distance. I don't know what they think I'll do to him.

Nerdanel: You did leave him to walk across the Ice and hold his father at swordpoint.

Fëanor: It would be difficult for me to repeat either! But fair enough. I don't think they should have bound Maedhros, though.

Nerdanel: I am beginning to become a little annoyed with Mandos.

Fëanor: Mandos believes that the unbodied spirit is naturally solitary, and heals most effectively through isolated introspection.

Nerdanel: Really.

Fëanor: He was surprised when my father asked for me, and more so when I agreed to meet him. I am doubtful about the theory. It was when you would not answer me that I broke the window.

Nerdanel: Oh.

Fëanor: Maedhros looks so much better in company with his brothers and his friend.

Nerdanel: Good. Can you imagine Amrod and Amras healing in isolation?

Fëanor: No. I am not sure that isolation and reflection has been good for my father, either. He didn't kill anyone, yet he seems a little faded.

Nerdanel: You don't. Or do you?

Fëanor: I started with an advantage.

Nerdanel: Has anyone given you a hug?

Fëanor: It doesn't seem a priority.

Nerdanel: It does to me. Hug your father, Fëanor. Assuming that isn't another thing that is not permitted.

Fëanor: I'll try it. They can only stop me.

Nerdanel: Please tell me if they do. I may need to have another long talk with Mandos.

Fëanor: I am imagining the look on his face. It is a good while since I laughed.

...

Nerdanel: Mandos has agreed to let me see Maedhros, Amrod and Amras. I have told him that if he has Maedhros bound again, I will strangle him with his own robes.

Fëanor: I wish I had seen that. You are formidable. If you had come with us against Morgoth...

Nerdanel: Don't be silly. I pick my adversaries. Mandos does mean well. He does not entirely understand how best to deal with the Children of Ilúvatar. In fact, he has made some alarming mistakes, andneeds things explained to him, repeatedly, in short, clear words, until he gets the point. But he is trying.

Fëanor: I have found him quite trying myself.

Nerdanel: Fëanor! I think he could say the same about you.

Fëanor: I love you.

Nerdanel: I can't believe I'm saying this, but I love you too. Idiot.