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Minas Morgul

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“‘Minas Ithil they built, Tower of the Moon,’ it was called; but it is now Minas Morgul, the Tower of Sorcery. The name of Minas Anor they changed to Minas Tirith. Ever they hearken to the good side, though of old Anor was the fairest city in Gondor, save only Osgiliath the city of stars, and yet Morgul has the ancient beauty still. Fair and silent. But its beauty is an evil mockery.” - The Return of the King (Book 5) CH 1

Formerly a magnificent stronghold of Gondor, this ominous fortress currently exists as a distorted and sinister reflection of its past greatness. Located in a shadowy valley at the base of the Mountains of Shadow, the fortress exudes an eerie glow and unnatural coldness, its ghostly pale light can be seen from afar. The city, formerly filled with pride but now infused with wickedness, is ruled by a skinny tower and enclosed by walls emitting a disturbing light, mirroring the decay that has established itself inside.

After the fortress was seized and influenced by evil forces, it was transformed into a base for the Nazgûl, the Ringwraiths. It acts as their headquarters, where they initiate their evil plans and strike fear into the nearby territories. The atmosphere surrounding the citadel is heavy with fear, and a sense of doom looms over the land. The previously lush and verdant valley is now a desolate wasteland, showcasing the sinister influence that now dwells there, transforming the formerly vibrant and noble city into a site of terror and misery.

Governance

The control of the feared citadel, formerly a strong fortress of Gondor, is now securely held by the Nazgûl, specifically their commander, the Witch-king of Angmar. The Witch-king, serving as Sauron's chief servant, governs the stronghold firmly, ensuring the obedience of his malevolent master. The absolute authority he possesses is fueled by the corrupting impact of the One Ring and the malevolent power of Sauron.

The Witch-king commands legions of Orcs, Trolls, and other foul creatures, who serve as the military force within the citadel. These forces are organized for war, with the stronghold serving as a base for raids and attacks on Gondor and other regions. The governance here is not one of traditional leadership but rather of fear and domination. The Nazgûl, with their supernatural abilities and undying loyalty to Sauron, ensure that all within the citadel and its surroundings remain under their oppressive control.

The once vibrant governance of the city has been utterly perverted; no council or noble families remain, only the dark, twisted rule of the Ringwraiths. Their presence ensures that the fortress operates as a center of darkness, spreading fear and malice across Middle-earth.

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Text References

The Fellowship of the Ring (Book 2)

  • Chapter 2: The Council of Elrond

The Two Towers (Book 3)

  • Chapter 6: The King of the Golden Hall
  • Chapter 3: The Black Gate is Closed

The Two Towers (Book 4)

  • Chapter 7: Journey to the Cross-roads
  • Chapter 8: The Stairs of Cirith Ungol
  • Chapter 9: Shelob’s Lair

The Return of the King (Book 5)

  • Chapter 1: Minas Tirith
  • Chapter 4: The Siege of Gondor
  • Chapter 6: The Battle of the Pelennor Fields

The Return of the King (Book 6)

  • Chapter 1: The Tower of Cirith Ungol

The Appendices

  • Appendix A: Annals of the Kings and Rulers
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