tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69569707273978692882024-03-19T16:07:56.600+11:00Myndariel's Middle Earth Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.comBlogger150125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-77406117902533189532023-08-10T21:34:00.000+10:002023-08-10T21:34:05.723+10:00Myndariel Finally Max Level 140<p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8wuptayxvX73Uq96wBimtpErFrq0Unl6UA599sMFcPtBmR0i7W4m3G-KkJqpOWvur0rmfTAvvaoUEoxhaQHEUaRxd8wyStujdz-OvpJz2ntyCURCICUHxqSY-8AECHopfd99uLhVXkvTlV91kwEvPE03VK0dkVDHz-aAx9vTF5jbfOOAhTcbO3cLV-04/s1680/myndariel_and_nixe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8wuptayxvX73Uq96wBimtpErFrq0Unl6UA599sMFcPtBmR0i7W4m3G-KkJqpOWvur0rmfTAvvaoUEoxhaQHEUaRxd8wyStujdz-OvpJz2ntyCURCICUHxqSY-8AECHopfd99uLhVXkvTlV91kwEvPE03VK0dkVDHz-aAx9vTF5jbfOOAhTcbO3cLV-04/s320/myndariel_and_nixe.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myndariel and her loyal bodyguard Nixe<br /></td></tr></tbody></table></p><p>Myndariel has finally reached the current max level of 140 while questing in Gundabad. I really wanted her to get there before the next expansion came out. The last time she was max level was when level 100 and Dol Amroth dailies was the big deal. </p><p>Myndariel celebrated reaching max level by buying the Elk of Felegoth's Glory from the Curator in Bree as her reward. <br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdoekAvVlRwU_FHMGk7ZoGiGzYtFrIh6P74-3qKmH6rBf0e8rJ9kGcTrIcIniq7OtsciWSNub4R4o68Xaqihbd0iMcC7wdw34Z_5ubnXNaURYQR7HrzS9ypls86WryQYmpm8Tw5Aj6WyhiotDvnQcvQqrxevl3Qu9Ru7z6PLGUh-gmmDKB0c4EKaBgmB8/s545/elk_of_felegoths_glory.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="545" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdoekAvVlRwU_FHMGk7ZoGiGzYtFrIh6P74-3qKmH6rBf0e8rJ9kGcTrIcIniq7OtsciWSNub4R4o68Xaqihbd0iMcC7wdw34Z_5ubnXNaURYQR7HrzS9ypls86WryQYmpm8Tw5Aj6WyhiotDvnQcvQqrxevl3Qu9Ru7z6PLGUh-gmmDKB0c4EKaBgmB8/w200-h200/elk_of_felegoths_glory.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elk of Felegoth's Glory - Myndariel's reward for reaching level 140<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>She still has lots of quests to go in Gundabad. I'm enjoying the story but the zone and the outfits are rather ugly. I'm looking forward to the Umbar expansion - that should be something totally new and interesting! I guess I'll have to try out the new Mariner class and I really hope the new zones will have some amazing corsair-themed armour. I'm nervous and hopeful for the crafting changes - I love crafting in games and I just hope they make it better and not worse (and please bring back all the beautiful old legendary weapon skins as craftable cosmetics!).<br /></p><p>Now that she's max level, I've made a list of goals for her to work on. Perhaps this list might help some other new level 140 players too.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Things to Do at Level 140: <br /></h4><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Finish quests in Gundabad</li><li>Do Zhélruka missions in Gundabad</li><li>Do Gundabad crafting instances </li><li>Craft some level 140 gear <br /></li><li>Do solo instances at level 140 (Minas Morgul, War of Three Peaks, Gundabad) <br /></li><li>Do quests in King's Gondor (Gondor Renewed has a new epic quest-line)</li><li>Try some Delvings</li><li>Go back and finish quests and deeds in other zones <br /></li></ul><p>I'm not interested in raiding but dungeons and raids usually have the best gear for those that want to min-max. Especially for level 140, there are several options in Gundabad and then the Return to Carn Dûm group of instances.</p><p>Have fun in Middle Earth!<br /></p>Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-86755373438062638892023-02-17T15:26:00.001+11:002023-02-17T15:30:44.766+11:00Scenic Tour: Before the Shadow<p>Before the Shadow came out with Update 34 in November 2022 and adds a new starting experience for level 1-32 characters in new regions Swanfleet and Cardolan. There are four epic quest books set before events in the Shadow of Angmar (the original base game) and there are new features for higher level players as well, including a skirmish, a 6-person dungeon and a new delving system (a scalable difficulty option for some missions with special bonus rewards).</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Swanfleet <br /></h3><p>I decided to create a female stout-axe dwarf brawler (since both stout-axe dwarves as a race and brawlers are fairly new as well) to try out this area.</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyEjawAwA02Kv17B7Ns2r68RuL25YrK_UZH8_cVMPiOaC7GyFT3XlZfurQR0Q8Q7rxxDU5TpI2G5f0prmIwcd5GmrZlbiY8y6_0q4D2B0VOvN-8XOmg1c0jtPBmb06byKkjMETCtLJHkppcxGwB5FTuWavM_EoGlCQN6I9VxVLAvr1LU7-TkEwNnJO/s1680/thordena_mossward.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyEjawAwA02Kv17B7Ns2r68RuL25YrK_UZH8_cVMPiOaC7GyFT3XlZfurQR0Q8Q7rxxDU5TpI2G5f0prmIwcd5GmrZlbiY8y6_0q4D2B0VOvN-8XOmg1c0jtPBmb06byKkjMETCtLJHkppcxGwB5FTuWavM_EoGlCQN6I9VxVLAvr1LU7-TkEwNnJO/s320/thordena_mossward.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thordena in the starting village of Mossward<br /></td></tr></tbody></table> <p></p><p>The tutorial started off with a burning village under attack and then requests for your aid helping the villagers. One brawler issue I ran into though was that I received several weapons as a quest reward - a 1H sword, a 2H sword, a 1H axe and battle-gauntlets. I was able to equip the axe or the battle-gauntlets but I couldn't use any of my brawler abilities while wielding the axe. Fortunately I didn't sell the gauntlets! </p><p>I discovered a Treasure Cache in the Howlingstones I could open at level 5 and was pleasantly surprised it actually had some nice gear in it - for level 11 and level 15. This is a great improvement on the treasure caches in other zones that require level 90 to open and contain only junk! Now exploring will be more worthwhile!</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6kkaKU5MaOUqmzw5am6HJb7SjOyQzx-deaaA3JTsWlZ25v4CL8Q0dOo-T1_gFT4PP2yDRQB50J-MagNirWiORC_5_VZO6Pao_VofgftAKZs9Pish3CxQHC6-vJ5c7I__IFE6F464zNy5gf0PhfnebXevNDMJ413cdgue6N_MFHgy2W_Cb42sDEFDB/s1680/free_starter_steed.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6kkaKU5MaOUqmzw5am6HJb7SjOyQzx-deaaA3JTsWlZ25v4CL8Q0dOo-T1_gFT4PP2yDRQB50J-MagNirWiORC_5_VZO6Pao_VofgftAKZs9Pish3CxQHC6-vJ5c7I__IFE6F464zNy5gf0PhfnebXevNDMJ413cdgue6N_MFHgy2W_Cb42sDEFDB/s320/free_starter_steed.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Little Extra Steed (32%) from "A Little Extra Never Hurts - Part 2"<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Speaking of exploring, Swanfleet is a large open zone with remote villages from many different cultures and lots of hills and valleys with scenic vistas. You really need a mount to get around (you can get the riding skill and a mount for free by doing the tutorial quest "A Little Extra Never Hurts - Part 2"), but there are also stablemasters in each village which helps. <p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ04nRmu5nJp68k-gQq_A-I9fI696N56zm-m6i-JZAR4xYgMWsaWDRpGy2Y_wz65RDblRSuq4IYsLMYTYBCg3gxFPRW2NDFV9h1NocJpGh1xk6d1-8cmHDctZ9jaAojnV47gpct4BXDFl4K50KyxSRaeHvzGOd3hXZooWwKLEb6NWd_E_MABTte3t2/s1680/mossward.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ04nRmu5nJp68k-gQq_A-I9fI696N56zm-m6i-JZAR4xYgMWsaWDRpGy2Y_wz65RDblRSuq4IYsLMYTYBCg3gxFPRW2NDFV9h1NocJpGh1xk6d1-8cmHDctZ9jaAojnV47gpct4BXDFl4K50KyxSRaeHvzGOd3hXZooWwKLEb6NWd_E_MABTte3t2/s320/mossward.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mossward - a settlement of Men<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpXuX4bEY6ydAW2txcF-buBUNTaTsYTAedF6KI_3pEQg9jyIceovy4UDDLXxJvcYnrpQ4TZJte3Drh355TweyvIHPmD3P8IpkjqvEUootaUc-3tv466fWZ1-95uhtM0pNd1OjZy-gt_bRgpvX0HKWDK8SK1DSIbFmpY8x40flYnSZolRkIiq5R-nnv/s1680/clegur_2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpXuX4bEY6ydAW2txcF-buBUNTaTsYTAedF6KI_3pEQg9jyIceovy4UDDLXxJvcYnrpQ4TZJte3Drh355TweyvIHPmD3P8IpkjqvEUootaUc-3tv466fWZ1-95uhtM0pNd1OjZy-gt_bRgpvX0HKWDK8SK1DSIbFmpY8x40flYnSZolRkIiq5R-nnv/s320/clegur_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clegur - a settlement of Hobbits<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiExG8TNo3k5XwWShb079pdohriU8aPf8NAgOsK1d5cnuyMqo7KTl4S1FPd1-Tx9hupVJuGqXZvdEs2Y656txpf2vDfdoff2SFnhBS_vgQD72h0Gj-smRLmMhE1x1fb_jixSwZEKuHiEI9oq3c9Y7PUUpAvzSDkVPaQbelhsSVrTzcHVj6ezcENQ9Ir/s1680/lhan_garan.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiExG8TNo3k5XwWShb079pdohriU8aPf8NAgOsK1d5cnuyMqo7KTl4S1FPd1-Tx9hupVJuGqXZvdEs2Y656txpf2vDfdoff2SFnhBS_vgQD72h0Gj-smRLmMhE1x1fb_jixSwZEKuHiEI9oq3c9Y7PUUpAvzSDkVPaQbelhsSVrTzcHVj6ezcENQ9Ir/s320/lhan_garan.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lhan Garan - a settlement of Dunlendings<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGj-B1tOtf9vwgLK1O0w3eRes2N-9WQA1rblyRqhKMOyepQg_1-mvnqKh35H4RBU57e3eNY18GT6dHUoSD0a5BTrCeDfHr036u0oqy8Y13OCJwVtARL12m7mNG-GTGf6wmFe4GYIp0XjgpNA9B-xiuX9y2BWPRE-DjKhBTGLtRyC1Nq8telGfFYp1x/s1680/caras_gelebren.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGj-B1tOtf9vwgLK1O0w3eRes2N-9WQA1rblyRqhKMOyepQg_1-mvnqKh35H4RBU57e3eNY18GT6dHUoSD0a5BTrCeDfHr036u0oqy8Y13OCJwVtARL12m7mNG-GTGf6wmFe4GYIp0XjgpNA9B-xiuX9y2BWPRE-DjKhBTGLtRyC1Nq8telGfFYp1x/s320/caras_gelebren.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caras Gelebren - Elven ruins<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>One thing that seemed difficult to find was a Master of Apprentices who could teach you crafting vocations - usually you get an obvious quest at level 5 to visit the trainer in the starting village. Instead, following the Prologue quest chain, I went from Mossward to Clegur to Glyn Helyg to Lintrev, then Book 1 took me to Lhan Garan at level 12 where I finally found the trainer. Nearby Caras Gelebren is a great place for apprentice scholars to find relics amongst the ruins (also lots of wooden chests containing low level crafting ingredients). Tier 1 resources in general are fairly abundant here.<br /></p><p>The main story in Swanfleet is quite interesting and the background music in the zone is fantastic and very enjoyable to listen to. By following Book 1 of Before the Shadow I finished most of the deeds in the zone and reached level 17 (quests in Swanfleet are designed for level 1-15). I liked how the Book quests take you back to Mossward where you started, ready to head into Cardolan to continue the journey. I'm curious to learn what will happen next.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Cardolan</h3><p style="text-align: left;">Thordena got a makeover in the Mossward blacksmith shop before leaving for Cardolan. Silver, gold and steel blue, and she's got her backpack and pickaxe for collecting shiny ore along the way (she's an armourer). No mistaking her for anything but a metal-loving dwarf, although even I would mistake her for a male dwarf. Maybe one day she'll wear pink but I think she would be proud that people see her as just as strong and capable as her brothers-in-arms. <br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8B7orIpPbzI7UzONSF9HRtnfDeSDIN859ysIEv-pm9cGOnXWOKGCFWHlyI38TDO_3fcCND79leHleJRHtjEw0XP2hRGWqEYrYW01-MNPN7wEJ4imixuWfS5rtjXfbLkzlCyUA_ybsui_ygv_WH0pSitp9IB9udwTvt-tTgZfSTLAPoAZSavBti-0k/s1680/thordena_mossward_mk2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8B7orIpPbzI7UzONSF9HRtnfDeSDIN859ysIEv-pm9cGOnXWOKGCFWHlyI38TDO_3fcCND79leHleJRHtjEw0XP2hRGWqEYrYW01-MNPN7wEJ4imixuWfS5rtjXfbLkzlCyUA_ybsui_ygv_WH0pSitp9IB9udwTvt-tTgZfSTLAPoAZSavBti-0k/s320/thordena_mossward_mk2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thordena preparing for Cardolan<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>She entered Cardolan by way of Tharbad, an orc-infested ruin of a bridge, and made some interesting new acquaintances. As a result, I think it is better if new players play through the original main story first (i.e. Shire/Ered Luin/Bree-land and beyond - possibly up to at least level 105) before levelling through Swanfleet and Cardolan on another character because there are spoilers for later events in the game. <br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsDXkaHnqZ3nY9PdLO16-20M2UBCnE-hD0DSSilTYYNUw8NWEllWscAic6WUs65gGv5ejHMZ3qhZuM2B0Rkmu31R2bR5vsdlKN-27TMEYhzhdrunjPTG1TOMbvosovf-V7ww83ZrSlnCUa09gSYrT5mH3tpLA7TXSwLHWyTgjdXJ7RUx8_-z4NjL7/s1680/tharbad.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsDXkaHnqZ3nY9PdLO16-20M2UBCnE-hD0DSSilTYYNUw8NWEllWscAic6WUs65gGv5ejHMZ3qhZuM2B0Rkmu31R2bR5vsdlKN-27TMEYhzhdrunjPTG1TOMbvosovf-V7ww83ZrSlnCUa09gSYrT5mH3tpLA7TXSwLHWyTgjdXJ7RUx8_-z4NjL7/s320/tharbad.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tharbad</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTjsVXZ4-vS09Aqxsa64KQCExckw79ItzCuVBK8npPXidky0Scf6wR7fDScBDFRcLJ_oYzFnLwPmXKsUbjy_xLXX3ftkAAQnkQ0Fwb0hbk_OgnR08mhzVyNYuO_thelDwwFscRLaGoH2kGc-cwmyOBf3baYvisS5rhOIbH0a05j3ad1xcpXYf4_8q/s1680/herne_2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTjsVXZ4-vS09Aqxsa64KQCExckw79ItzCuVBK8npPXidky0Scf6wR7fDScBDFRcLJ_oYzFnLwPmXKsUbjy_xLXX3ftkAAQnkQ0Fwb0hbk_OgnR08mhzVyNYuO_thelDwwFscRLaGoH2kGc-cwmyOBf3baYvisS5rhOIbH0a05j3ad1xcpXYf4_8q/s320/herne_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Herne (main town)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>Cardolan looks so pretty when it's not raining. The meadows are blooming with colourful flowers, lakes and rivers glitter in the sun, there are ruins dotted all over the landscape that just beg to be explored and the views stretch so far it gives a feeling of freedom. It would be wonderful to go for a gallop on a war-steed across those fields, leaping over the rocky outcrops like the nimble goats!<br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdHAWQqioSMQ9V5_oc8OQpQGqcjaBza406INP0nM0Ldk8zbfTg_ciXwA_Wf-eNm1aV31HeCzMSz1YOpPpz2l_vCRfzmw_pBRmwe6apXfHMsPwBU8CuzYPpQJGdP9cVrJhkkPXZnISZblVL0fMsN06s5Yn1Ed825XiZNoM2Rqrv045en-d-w0P0hHLq/s1680/cardolan.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdHAWQqioSMQ9V5_oc8OQpQGqcjaBza406INP0nM0Ldk8zbfTg_ciXwA_Wf-eNm1aV31HeCzMSz1YOpPpz2l_vCRfzmw_pBRmwe6apXfHMsPwBU8CuzYPpQJGdP9cVrJhkkPXZnISZblVL0fMsN06s5Yn1Ed825XiZNoM2Rqrv045en-d-w0P0hHLq/s320/cardolan.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sedgemead</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHyqCzt6Cv2Qy1ha0ZYDuH52r5Q5vdFee7kN0b8on8ZaOK1rRFNaeWXWm70aGuGmqR309RL1chCIRiEeFy1NTPgYhHto8MXwlmOYmMxYuXDCzgyhWNxCkfLNF-LhvbfEg0fjZSeHU2Ga8Tdsy01XuLwQYx64YLjV-BpIT3BSQqoxWJzvuDFkiUKbv/s1680/tyrn_gorthad.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHyqCzt6Cv2Qy1ha0ZYDuH52r5Q5vdFee7kN0b8on8ZaOK1rRFNaeWXWm70aGuGmqR309RL1chCIRiEeFy1NTPgYhHto8MXwlmOYmMxYuXDCzgyhWNxCkfLNF-LhvbfEg0fjZSeHU2Ga8Tdsy01XuLwQYx64YLjV-BpIT3BSQqoxWJzvuDFkiUKbv/s320/tyrn_gorthad.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tyrn Gorthad<br /></td></tr></tbody></table> <p></p><p>On the other hand, Tyrn Gorthad looks horrible in any weather - like the Barrow-downs of Bree-land, or the Fields of Fornost in the North Downs.</p><p>While doing the quests in the Southern Old Forest (I was going to skip them because they seemed so far out of the way, but I'm glad I did them, there's a good story there), I swam along the Brandywine River between Bree-land and Cardolan and discovered the entrance to the Woe of the Willow instance (which is part of the Wildwoods quest pack). It was pretty easy but not very interesting, and doing it solo, all I got was some medallions and rep tokens.<br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSOKt4_jFb_fkZLhR9zpmGWacmJwHJAlBoj-mQU58Um_qIwLKrAD126KW71S_vwo-HxnXCVPcYiehSScIvBJ0bVc2xlrq9Xh9ZPdUG8_Qz33vemWtEqbGljmNJ0P5RTfedw3y8_5NDgzpcSSGToAYjRkP58xMg-0lH7LerXd8xfA1fhjzApTj-9qi/s1680/woe_of_the_willow_instance.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSOKt4_jFb_fkZLhR9zpmGWacmJwHJAlBoj-mQU58Um_qIwLKrAD126KW71S_vwo-HxnXCVPcYiehSScIvBJ0bVc2xlrq9Xh9ZPdUG8_Qz33vemWtEqbGljmNJ0P5RTfedw3y8_5NDgzpcSSGToAYjRkP58xMg-0lH7LerXd8xfA1fhjzApTj-9qi/s320/woe_of_the_willow_instance.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to Woe of the Willow instance (1-3 players, lvl 20-140)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The quests also took me into the Sarch Vorn dungeon in Cardolan. The final boss fight was a good challenge - make sure to remove corruptions and debuffs and run away to heal up. It finished off that story-line and set me back on the path towards my next goal: Caranost.<br /><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg26r9NWYds3G1jcMCJ5F_Kjq7TZaYbSe0KH7mQSorUzGVtnWGerxDZudBxRFTifkRszjgKgo0kIK9AggH2Pyu5hdK8aqCqJ_yYRZsvRBVqmHYR8rkkz5lBXm_CKuXuIqVBr-Rd9mPFqOjPoP1az9AjUtOu1ymuWEvnC31KiiBWh2FU-xRPA2skXwsi/s1680/sarch_vorn_instance.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg26r9NWYds3G1jcMCJ5F_Kjq7TZaYbSe0KH7mQSorUzGVtnWGerxDZudBxRFTifkRszjgKgo0kIK9AggH2Pyu5hdK8aqCqJ_yYRZsvRBVqmHYR8rkkz5lBXm_CKuXuIqVBr-Rd9mPFqOjPoP1az9AjUtOu1ymuWEvnC31KiiBWh2FU-xRPA2skXwsi/s320/sarch_vorn_instance.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to Sarch Vorn (1-6 players, lvl 20-140)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>In Sírlond, the friendly camp near orc-infested Caranost, I found the Quartermaster for the Dúnedain of Cardolan. I was able to get the Return to Swanfleet and Return to Cardolan travel skills. They also have a bunch of housing decorations available.</p><p>The red flowers all over the zone took on a new meaning after learning about the Battle of the Deadmount. The main story in Cardolan is quite interesting and helps fill in some lore. I was level 30 when I finished the quests in Cardolan and I was recommended to continue questing in North Downs or Lone-lands until I reached level 32 then I can continue Book 4 of Before the Shadow. I had almost completed the Deeds of Cardolan so I finished that first. Here's a tip for completing the Slayer of Cardolan:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Orcs - Tharbad, Caranost</li><li>Half-orcs - Nímbarth, Amon Firn<br /></li><li>Goblins - Haudh Nirui, Hove Farm<br /></li><li>Dead - Tyrn Gorthad, Dol Ernil, Amon Firn</li></ul><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-FyrsXgoL6s9nOzkOy9kbeLjviX6UPijG9SieYPLOMG6e1_fdyLGw7RgU_E0-UkqkmITZ70sJi1vJYUCCJxTA2I8hapSAMRqOOrsy4B38mxJ5uq4yREp2InVfR9nj7xd9bfuvCmXIdO8MjWRlQNShMSLK_NTaaMAEg9jtrej4vIOBsuogmRfbEtQG/s1680/steed_of_cardolans_dawn.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-FyrsXgoL6s9nOzkOy9kbeLjviX6UPijG9SieYPLOMG6e1_fdyLGw7RgU_E0-UkqkmITZ70sJi1vJYUCCJxTA2I8hapSAMRqOOrsy4B38mxJ5uq4yREp2InVfR9nj7xd9bfuvCmXIdO8MjWRlQNShMSLK_NTaaMAEg9jtrej4vIOBsuogmRfbEtQG/s320/steed_of_cardolans_dawn.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steed of Cardolan's Dawn<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>Completing the Deeds of Cardolan earned me a nice mount: Steed of Cardolan's Dawn!</p><p>I followed Halbarad to North Downs to continue helping the Rangers near Esteldín. When I reached level 32 I got a quest to talk to Candaith near Weathertop in the Lone-lands. He sent me to Rivendell. And there, the Before the Shadow story ends as Elrond says thanks for the news, now please continue to protect Middle Earth. <br /></p><p>You can join back into the main Epic Quest at Book 4 (recommended level 37) or there is also an option to join the Further Adventures of Elladin and Elrohir (Elrond's sons) on a mission to investigate the Black Riders. The Further Adventures scales with level but ends up in Lothlórien. Or, you could go questing in Evendim or the Trollshaws. I've enjoyed this alternate levelling path through Swanfleet and Cardolan and the new lore I've learnt so I'll continue with the Further Adventures and see what new stories await me there.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Conclusion</h3><p style="text-align: left;">When they first announced the Before the Shadows mini-expansion I wasn't really interested (mostly because the cost seemed high for a "mini" expansion) even though it was aimed at players like me who have levelled up lots of characters through the original starting zones. I'm glad I finally tried it because it was really good! It had a great story, some interesting zones, some nice rewards and fairly good pacing - I was close to the target level for all the quests and didn't feel like I was running out of things to do or leaving things undone to keep up with the main story. The levels flew by and the ending leads you back into the main game quite nicely as well.</p><p style="text-align: left;">One aspect of Before the Shadow I didn't try was the Delvings but from what I understand it involves repeating instances over and over again with different/more difficult challenges each time. I find repeating instances boring, so that's not for me, but I hope other people enjoy it.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Overall, I think Before the Shadow is a great prequel to the main story and is a good option for veteran players levelling alts, but not recommended for new players.<br /></p>Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-87829062793672682092022-06-25T13:55:00.001+10:002022-06-25T16:35:51.478+10:00Midsummer Festival 2022<p>Myndariel finally joined in the Midsummer Festival celebrations, and it was so worthwhile and enjoyable!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhORjCoFy57JTL_44V-bb77FeTp_Mzr31PSlHkcoSgbNai9I-7qsgHDSZFtZVagS9fguSzgbHiCEHQWTnJyOKkm-sbU-gtCw9ka3v6KV773w08JYQu3P5wtLNPbKxLfMWn3ykNr6vIY-FYReiBCNG4VVDJyr4xXNJsEoZF16EgJbhFVb-oI_VDtXbXS/s1680/midsummer_wedding_fireworks.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhORjCoFy57JTL_44V-bb77FeTp_Mzr31PSlHkcoSgbNai9I-7qsgHDSZFtZVagS9fguSzgbHiCEHQWTnJyOKkm-sbU-gtCw9ka3v6KV773w08JYQu3P5wtLNPbKxLfMWn3ykNr6vIY-FYReiBCNG4VVDJyr4xXNJsEoZF16EgJbhFVb-oI_VDtXbXS/w400-h250/midsummer_wedding_fireworks.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aragorn and Arwen's wedding<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>She went through all the quests for the epic quest chain Vol. V. Book 1: A Time of Celebration which tells the story of Aragorn (also known as Elessar) and Arwen's wedding in Minas Tirith. After completing Chapter 7: A Wedding at Midsummer, she earned Gondor's Steed which looks awesome.</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzxVM5oxOZCeg_8LHjDjsSzDZGNSmntq3LA0nrAyjGeCCmWp8W-SU0CS-XjYJtYsfyUj2IjdsF5YlTjHpMZ8PTuhmwFxDZf4Sz1R50WGg-BALTCvs_y_fwXd-sdnH52l9qwsnXcNH0dDKZrsto0L_-eJVCGLB2WXaKoz4tRuGYSWPPn8J3x1gh4FCm/s776/gondors_steed.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="776" data-original-width="776" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzxVM5oxOZCeg_8LHjDjsSzDZGNSmntq3LA0nrAyjGeCCmWp8W-SU0CS-XjYJtYsfyUj2IjdsF5YlTjHpMZ8PTuhmwFxDZf4Sz1R50WGg-BALTCvs_y_fwXd-sdnH52l9qwsnXcNH0dDKZrsto0L_-eJVCGLB2WXaKoz4tRuGYSWPPn8J3x1gh4FCm/w200-h200/gondors_steed.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gondor's Steed<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />There are lots of repeatable quests in the Midsummer Festival version of Minas Tirith, plus additional quests in Bree-land, the Shire and Ered Luin, so players of all levels can take part. The rewards are cheap so it was easy to collect all the mounts and some nice new outfits. If I wanted, I could also earn some cosmetic pets and housing items.<p></p><p>Apart from Gondor's Steed, there are several other mounts available this year:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Steed of Entwining Blossoms</li><li>Blackroot Steed <br /></li><li>Lamedon Steed</li><li>Lebennin Steed</li><li>Lossarnarch Steed</li></ul><p>You can check these out on my <a href="http://myndariel.blogspot.com/p/mounts-gallery.html">Mounts Gallery</a> page.</p><p>I love the main outfit for this year! The Robe of Entwining Blossoms is very pretty, especially when combined with the accessories, and it dyes well, with a slight colour gradient that adds a nice effect.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBw_eP9cfOFCJqPLiLV4_1mvzlHAi_50pHEmveslx4Ms-sM-SRPqxLjwX856uULgV2Eio7Jjn9Ti0VPowpSai7SIrnhZuaS0tPTS4auBYEpfmTJtGUpX_jXh0ytcKkYWxf2oT5UOB4P9L5HHO7UYz12S4O6yuHC8N8HY3BKs0eYA4Usta_GGmkn5b/s779/steed_of_entwining_blossoms.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="779" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBw_eP9cfOFCJqPLiLV4_1mvzlHAi_50pHEmveslx4Ms-sM-SRPqxLjwX856uULgV2Eio7Jjn9Ti0VPowpSai7SIrnhZuaS0tPTS4auBYEpfmTJtGUpX_jXh0ytcKkYWxf2oT5UOB4P9L5HHO7UYz12S4O6yuHC8N8HY3BKs0eYA4Usta_GGmkn5b/s320/steed_of_entwining_blossoms.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steed of Entwining Blossoms and matching dress<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIfWyX_X9puI_wuDwOa7sFJdH2zRkZAmTzfVqb024MWXxQUqsNIwFG6EMFKmzoRDknQ7ILB-HgJeF4Tr6ih3_oPtK_feADjsvyufvYvaNl5WtZf2GnQ_hJVZph4Rm7EpiZOh560WpvDgE6SI7xDxsDaDfqzD8cv9UNy1UA18BCISkcpK69PwFTqaH/s589/robe_of_entwining_blossoms.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="366" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIfWyX_X9puI_wuDwOa7sFJdH2zRkZAmTzfVqb024MWXxQUqsNIwFG6EMFKmzoRDknQ7ILB-HgJeF4Tr6ih3_oPtK_feADjsvyufvYvaNl5WtZf2GnQ_hJVZph4Rm7EpiZOh560WpvDgE6SI7xDxsDaDfqzD8cv9UNy1UA18BCISkcpK69PwFTqaH/w124-h200/robe_of_entwining_blossoms.jpg" width="124" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2s-JsHh6K8q7_GEUJ8OQrCqs11JmkRBTXBXgGIbYdS6SMnbWY3onIxPQ8bm5_FzsFYdesgnpwUV1Nr7d_iw6CRjzr3VmwCr6wDwvR2Sx6mHFQatELKcKhCwQdODAdgx8H2zWHnX8mbREy3ALB50WE98ANDqYS_l2zBB86jR8RJf0kHY5tmS5uy8qo/s474/robe_of_entwining_blossoms_rose.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="294" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2s-JsHh6K8q7_GEUJ8OQrCqs11JmkRBTXBXgGIbYdS6SMnbWY3onIxPQ8bm5_FzsFYdesgnpwUV1Nr7d_iw6CRjzr3VmwCr6wDwvR2Sx6mHFQatELKcKhCwQdODAdgx8H2zWHnX8mbREy3ALB50WE98ANDqYS_l2zBB86jR8RJf0kHY5tmS5uy8qo/w124-h200/robe_of_entwining_blossoms_rose.jpg" width="124" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robe of Entwining Blossoms (left: default, right: dyed rose)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p>Also shown are the Circlet of Entwining Blossoms (head), Mantle of Entwined Blossoms (shoulders) and Boots of the Entwining Blossoms (feet). Instead of using the matching cloak, I really liked the delicate lace-like Bridal Veil (it can also be dyed various colours). </p><p>There are also bride and groom sets of outfits, but they didn't appeal as much so I didn't collect them. I did buy Galadriel's dress (which is the same as what she wore to the wedding) and Arwen's Dinner Dress (which also has a lovely colour gradient effect).</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZNV-yOrV6Oa07x1y9i0iTT480JivMYwk0EHj1lDIWGQ-1DOv2ALzxBlvKjbqiZBkiq8hYiydtl5y247rRkPSpjodlkDpfsRrNzCjISl9w_O_9HTTcDnud6WtSlBf9N-8WuHZxn9dI3Wy3eet-aX6VwYGH6kqs1gyiolis7IVdqMRZ6fA5r9VY7Pz/s694/galadriels_dress.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="694" data-original-width="383" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZNV-yOrV6Oa07x1y9i0iTT480JivMYwk0EHj1lDIWGQ-1DOv2ALzxBlvKjbqiZBkiq8hYiydtl5y247rRkPSpjodlkDpfsRrNzCjISl9w_O_9HTTcDnud6WtSlBf9N-8WuHZxn9dI3Wy3eet-aX6VwYGH6kqs1gyiolis7IVdqMRZ6fA5r9VY7Pz/w111-h200/galadriels_dress.jpg" width="111" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKUKjfLko3cf03xCLFNgPjRgKS5bKdPmfc5U8nkiD727Z0yB4qQ7Rp-7_VKdJ3QHlwQJtNiC85cv5MM3iCg8bn_qREhxJsWy6OvSnPUVUzEuPZZzE7Sdif32dldNAmHzMvuo3z76IBpiU7iuhQFZpgX6bwlsIjIkKBn41Au5dp72ypYkOU6cUGe_Qp/s732/galadriels_dress_gold.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="480" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKUKjfLko3cf03xCLFNgPjRgKS5bKdPmfc5U8nkiD727Z0yB4qQ7Rp-7_VKdJ3QHlwQJtNiC85cv5MM3iCg8bn_qREhxJsWy6OvSnPUVUzEuPZZzE7Sdif32dldNAmHzMvuo3z76IBpiU7iuhQFZpgX6bwlsIjIkKBn41Au5dp72ypYkOU6cUGe_Qp/w131-h200/galadriels_dress_gold.jpg" width="131" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Galadriel's Dress (left: default, right: dyed gold in honour of Lothlórien)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf77VZETBvz6wjuK3bCujfUVq9_h-oEkGoamuwFhYFrfCnvvnSbwar9yAb8aex0z98I7ytNBle79iqVAykYDZrNfQTBjKirx2198BB3olIzOBMj1YPyfVsiErDa-KNDUge8r9YpTIu_9DfmxCcCBxqqdcfRzbbGax0JtUIIA38Wb9l7dOv2IN5DPKV/s648/arwens_dinner_dress.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 0em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="393" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf77VZETBvz6wjuK3bCujfUVq9_h-oEkGoamuwFhYFrfCnvvnSbwar9yAb8aex0z98I7ytNBle79iqVAykYDZrNfQTBjKirx2198BB3olIzOBMj1YPyfVsiErDa-KNDUge8r9YpTIu_9DfmxCcCBxqqdcfRzbbGax0JtUIIA38Wb9l7dOv2IN5DPKV/w121-h200/arwens_dinner_dress.jpg" width="125" /></a>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6ynR6ZaSwe4rbshIDAyFeTNC5KGXb_TAqyShbultRWN_w7lHqRSRlxH5uYxGna-0NhhxllJOqnSm6IfpCI8Sv_r2csHB0tjCCLUZfZlxhzGXHVlh0c5ahPwZi9YWoBR3xk2a7ulKXfk1LkfStxIAGC65yInr9lwtAytWMfaI18McZSMUEhwo0nCg/s582/arwens_dinner_dress_rust.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="582" data-original-width="357" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6ynR6ZaSwe4rbshIDAyFeTNC5KGXb_TAqyShbultRWN_w7lHqRSRlxH5uYxGna-0NhhxllJOqnSm6IfpCI8Sv_r2csHB0tjCCLUZfZlxhzGXHVlh0c5ahPwZi9YWoBR3xk2a7ulKXfk1LkfStxIAGC65yInr9lwtAytWMfaI18McZSMUEhwo0nCg/w123-h200/arwens_dinner_dress_rust.jpg" width="125" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJVe2ImM1yOZuZUyrx9Y-cgTTAJ3ATMK4kIEkNYLUZzpC56BNEsNHiZ-KamUGF6WFbb6Ibyki4n_L1q3GD-S44HaiDTlTjTVoB5lozigF7UNtGYj4yMlsBy9W5KVvj8u_GNiUJP8fr0XVNzIbiQ9YmC5AgLXgiizIMlzktMqf8rIxDRHgVYArZBvMy/s470/arwens_dinner_dress_skyblue.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 0em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="337" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJVe2ImM1yOZuZUyrx9Y-cgTTAJ3ATMK4kIEkNYLUZzpC56BNEsNHiZ-KamUGF6WFbb6Ibyki4n_L1q3GD-S44HaiDTlTjTVoB5lozigF7UNtGYj4yMlsBy9W5KVvj8u_GNiUJP8fr0XVNzIbiQ9YmC5AgLXgiizIMlzktMqf8rIxDRHgVYArZBvMy/w143-h200/arwens_dinner_dress_skyblue.jpg" width="125" /></a>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQCbbMg9mZ5XAiX9cXtN8GM_b54FFa9rcl8Yr83t8D0DNUp2uvBeSsirU-iSBVaWEbQFuqv9SFc83oKIIO-VZqNDp8V9zqNL8WmgzyulRR0ibi9LoRKYuZX9md8f1wuhxSGZ2_2yYUlUTJWYkd8HsQjLYgMVcB7KHdmQQsAJrTnwfyEGY-UAlrVfe5/s672/arwens_dinner_dress_turquoise.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="381" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQCbbMg9mZ5XAiX9cXtN8GM_b54FFa9rcl8Yr83t8D0DNUp2uvBeSsirU-iSBVaWEbQFuqv9SFc83oKIIO-VZqNDp8V9zqNL8WmgzyulRR0ibi9LoRKYuZX9md8f1wuhxSGZ2_2yYUlUTJWYkd8HsQjLYgMVcB7KHdmQQsAJrTnwfyEGY-UAlrVfe5/w113-h200/arwens_dinner_dress_turquoise.jpg" width="125" /></a>
</td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arwen's Dinner Dress (default, dyed rust, dyed sky blue, dyed turquoise)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>There's still a few more days to enjoy the festival, so now that Myndariel is all set, some of my characters on my Free Account would like new mounts and outfits too.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqOxHzkZkea0s1vJM4Hm88EfSGIKdWxMHftxlhZI0jTehBw5F5laHtbH8sn6JYoodqxultE3-qUYZxzXcZKhIETizIguWMlcTtDjrLtAzg0jt3ZjcmIAYttDcPhI2tRNKqn4rcHj5ByF2SxWtHynDgFNLX_zF5pTfEp7bhoyuIqebZRvoy1dnxhY6/s672/tunic_of_entwining_blossoms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="369" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqOxHzkZkea0s1vJM4Hm88EfSGIKdWxMHftxlhZI0jTehBw5F5laHtbH8sn6JYoodqxultE3-qUYZxzXcZKhIETizIguWMlcTtDjrLtAzg0jt3ZjcmIAYttDcPhI2tRNKqn4rcHj5ByF2SxWtHynDgFNLX_zF5pTfEp7bhoyuIqebZRvoy1dnxhY6/w110-h200/tunic_of_entwining_blossoms.jpg" width="110" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tunic of Entwining Blossoms </td></tr></tbody></table><p>Mynimuso, my hobbit minstrel, discovered that the dresses don't look so good on hobbits, but the tunics fit nicely.<br /></p>Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-62635699924135757362022-06-05T13:15:00.004+10:002022-06-05T13:18:59.842+10:00Scenic Tour: The Wildwood (Bree-land)<p>The Wildwood was added to Bree-land in Update 29, in March 2021. I was keen to visit this area because I saw you could earn some mounts, and I hoped it would be a nice alternative to questing in Angmar.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrdSBeQ5Ymp40JyytTDe4yAFzVnA1QsNBUI3-qK1gpKXK5wbVuyt8pIg-wCbpf-sO87vxKKLmby7E7MjzOdPGws6k3OblfjXAlhfC1Kueo0MQ5AaQGW1JbcqXJ8JMacl3nki2KLNT81AbArYGipNh3z2nbpAbgrGAwHWwg8t1ntLgVwawXdAYAmSIP/s1680/trestlebridge.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrdSBeQ5Ymp40JyytTDe4yAFzVnA1QsNBUI3-qK1gpKXK5wbVuyt8pIg-wCbpf-sO87vxKKLmby7E7MjzOdPGws6k3OblfjXAlhfC1Kueo0MQ5AaQGW1JbcqXJ8JMacl3nki2KLNT81AbArYGipNh3z2nbpAbgrGAwHWwg8t1ntLgVwawXdAYAmSIP/s320/trestlebridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trestlebridge (West Alley)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table>You start off in a new part of Trestlebridge where the Woodcutter's Brotherhood want to rebuild Trestlebridge. You'll need resources from the Wildwood, but you meet Thornmane who needs your help to restore the balance in the woods; there are many corrupted trees, orcs, bandits and predators to be pruned. <p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-DZccspQewnayTBFaA4DJj3CqVTB2Zdo6GH-iuCL_JJuxDQMO0o6OCYghN1mETAlmFtfD98j5rhR9LZRp7JZL6Ef4dChidLcY3f3mjqmHhC5ZDzdCW2Iql9f4LhiB3J8ClJzgj4nrAj5wdZ3-BApV1InXMZrnX466CNOvJvMhT48teq8W7_9wC1kP/s1680/thornmane.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-DZccspQewnayTBFaA4DJj3CqVTB2Zdo6GH-iuCL_JJuxDQMO0o6OCYghN1mETAlmFtfD98j5rhR9LZRp7JZL6Ef4dChidLcY3f3mjqmHhC5ZDzdCW2Iql9f4LhiB3J8ClJzgj4nrAj5wdZ3-BApV1InXMZrnX466CNOvJvMhT48teq8W7_9wC1kP/s320/thornmane.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thornmane near Cotfast<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyWH3FXs_DcVXsqGqlKoTyuMbKK095CAHWyt_FLwpiJ8wfCYNeWJZ7Wtaymr0m3P8abnrI23E_IYINm-kNYcWigIlQW2cT5ZS_CcTaVOmYXMlZQKyTFj0LACUZQsesH-iu2HXU14SPHLqeZS4w-A8ywABaKxlA64FrrZE5UPcWBxHNAYsjoz7r5agg/s1680/traders_wharf.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyWH3FXs_DcVXsqGqlKoTyuMbKK095CAHWyt_FLwpiJ8wfCYNeWJZ7Wtaymr0m3P8abnrI23E_IYINm-kNYcWigIlQW2cT5ZS_CcTaVOmYXMlZQKyTFj0LACUZQsesH-iu2HXU14SPHLqeZS4w-A8ywABaKxlA64FrrZE5UPcWBxHNAYsjoz7r5agg/s320/traders_wharf.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trader's Wharf<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>Eventually you meet the League of the Axe down at Trader's Wharf and they seem to just want to establish their own safe haven in the Wildwood and want your help gathering resources and eliminating threats.</p><p>That sums up the story-line and the rest is doing lots of repeatable quests to earn notoriety and complete deeds. The quests don't reward you with equipment so this zone won't help you gear up for Moria. It does give quite a lot of XP and there are tons of Master level resources and recipe drops available. Some of the deeds also give cool titles - my Warden is happy to be a "Scout of the Forest", although she also earned "Warden of the Wildwood".</p><p>There are also a number of missions available from the Trestlebridge quest hub. These are short, repeatable quests and after doing 15 missions, I am at about 60/200 Bree-land Wood-marks towards getting one of those mounts I wanted (Wild Trader's Steed). The other mount (Wild Trestlebridge Steed) is from completing all the deeds in the zone, including the Slayer deeds. Looks like I'll be level 50 before I'm finished here.</p><p>Overall, I think this is a zone I'd do once and then skip for most characters because it's just not worth it. There's not much story or rewards. It's a laid-back grind-fest, running all over the forest, killing everything you see, over and over again. Not my idea of fun. It reminds me a bit of the Hytbold grind but without the sense of progression. But, maybe if you just want to relax and do something else while you're playing, this might be a good place to do that while earning some gold, XP and LOTRO points. </p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwLP1jAJj9i3J1gaNNVJ4Ofr9TF-j0ynLLrgmfnMem4-h8XCLPGI2HBTCZKDE09Edradu5a3teL_2X2Y9g9bznGnoQFKyjsQF0uQasc_ykFuGwsuoWdFTTZy_uM78JfmUZ-AmwtCyZush5kSY7MXFKxGijKzdmHntFDDVcAV0xryWcNWhN2ssmNOqi/s1680/writhenset.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwLP1jAJj9i3J1gaNNVJ4Ofr9TF-j0ynLLrgmfnMem4-h8XCLPGI2HBTCZKDE09Edradu5a3teL_2X2Y9g9bznGnoQFKyjsQF0uQasc_ykFuGwsuoWdFTTZy_uM78JfmUZ-AmwtCyZush5kSY7MXFKxGijKzdmHntFDDVcAV0xryWcNWhN2ssmNOqi/s320/writhenset.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Writhenset</td></tr></tbody></table><br />PS. If you're just chilling out in the woods, don't go down into the depths of Writhenset - I got lost in the spiderwebs for half an hour and it was <i>not</i> a relaxing time trying to find my way out while being ambushed every few seconds.<br /><p></p><p></p>Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-19441099502945039912022-05-15T11:49:00.002+10:002022-05-15T11:49:54.878+10:00Scenic Tour: The Angle of Mitheithel (Trollshaws)<p>The Angle of Mitheithel is a new sub-zone in The Trollshaws for levels 40-45, added in the "Rangers and Ruins" Update 32 in February 2022. I decided to take my rune-keeper Sharmaen through the zone because she was dreading questing through Angmar and this would be a fresh new experience where she could help out her fellow elves.</p><p>Note: the following contains spoilers for the story-line in the Angle of Mitheithel. I definitely recommend you visit the zone and enjoy the quests yourself! <br /></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbVCwNDxphlX5JTPtnUZNlxuphKxMkpiaalualBhXrixX7oXmcdLuvHBQsxT1gUpkbQTXPQOOlLN-cGtb-QqbQ2iJIa498xTbqGI--Xf2kyziHSX06vwy8mzdMkKUIsdhFpGIB2ogcRzYfzIwf6pR0zbOHgUBY8eQRQTZqsZ8qgiat561O48yrZ_xd/s1680/lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbVCwNDxphlX5JTPtnUZNlxuphKxMkpiaalualBhXrixX7oXmcdLuvHBQsxT1gUpkbQTXPQOOlLN-cGtb-QqbQ2iJIa498xTbqGI--Xf2kyziHSX06vwy8mzdMkKUIsdhFpGIB2ogcRzYfzIwf6pR0zbOHgUBY8eQRQTZqsZ8qgiat561O48yrZ_xd/s320/lake.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lovely lake in Mitheithel<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Oh the zone is so beautiful! Full of vibrant valleys and crumbling overgrown ruins, it's a place to stop and admire the view at the top of every hill and around every corner. It's also a great place to find Tier 4 (Artisan) resources and recipes. <br /></p><p>Just after entering The Trollshaws via The Last Bridge, a path leads south to an outpost called Gaerond. There Sharmaen found Elladan and some Defenders of the Angle who could use her assistance. They sent her further into the zone to check on some travellers and help them reach their destination safely. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVtBSShab1SiV_-PvWRZUotRV48-c1TpZxow3XtXnh6UUxSi3VKKNOoNMteae0OfVAqyyeVl1etPdQ4mTgI_2oK9Z-cgfYsuO1Z2WEfOLrj5zX13bsOOv6iaBdEBwUypWxgNIIvXV28iLJ6688vp3xcGym8AwKezknoLVsw84ygNSSzFgkuiqUmBKW/s1680/eitheldir.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVtBSShab1SiV_-PvWRZUotRV48-c1TpZxow3XtXnh6UUxSi3VKKNOoNMteae0OfVAqyyeVl1etPdQ4mTgI_2oK9Z-cgfYsuO1Z2WEfOLrj5zX13bsOOv6iaBdEBwUypWxgNIIvXV28iLJ6688vp3xcGym8AwKezknoLVsw84ygNSSzFgkuiqUmBKW/s320/eitheldir.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ruins of Eitheldir (with some fascinating history!) <br /></td></tr></tbody></table> </p><p>Along the way she meets Ravaedron, an elf that has come to visit his former home and say farewell to friends before he travels into the West. He tells me about his hobbit friends from more than 1000 years ago who lived in Glynafon, but left due to the threat of war from Saruman's army. Their homes are now ruined mounds.</p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpJc97lL2mKqN9mCyenLS7CAMWy2BVllNqB3XasxZBcFUnZbY5U_OqOwNCY7B1FWwKGE_4_86OlMzA1AUyHgtBQtVQWnPgW9atVKWajDNZL3eALb8gNPiBXDH-HC7Har1R543VAAWVyuj71lRz1IKrJ7GqJ2yQxaY57QcFMgPB_MFnoxGn5X1p7UD/s1680/glynafon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpJc97lL2mKqN9mCyenLS7CAMWy2BVllNqB3XasxZBcFUnZbY5U_OqOwNCY7B1FWwKGE_4_86OlMzA1AUyHgtBQtVQWnPgW9atVKWajDNZL3eALb8gNPiBXDH-HC7Har1R543VAAWVyuj71lRz1IKrJ7GqJ2yQxaY57QcFMgPB_MFnoxGn5X1p7UD/s320/glynafon.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ruins of Glynafon</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGJcipcFCUxcs0cic23J5VNe64nU4UutB50zfPSrNPQA9LtWPWSBkd-iZWtR0SSizDAY_EgI33MN8BduM8yIzvmOv8R4Eo-4Re7KIZxaJkC2JQ6NGoqzuIo4uHIVgxDm5WnECQfKYEqt9UyU1EQpqWtHMWGkP5GFVSaGRjFItufQMwOz4Woo2F6_47/s1680/fernbrake_cot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGJcipcFCUxcs0cic23J5VNe64nU4UutB50zfPSrNPQA9LtWPWSBkd-iZWtR0SSizDAY_EgI33MN8BduM8yIzvmOv8R4Eo-4Re7KIZxaJkC2JQ6NGoqzuIo4uHIVgxDm5WnECQfKYEqt9UyU1EQpqWtHMWGkP5GFVSaGRjFItufQMwOz4Woo2F6_47/s320/fernbrake_cot.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fernbrake Cot<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />He recently made some human friends with the Staghorns who live in Fernbrake Cot nearby. When he says goodbye to them and promises he will ensure their safety after he has gone, they get very upset with him. He goes on a mission to make things right and asks for our help.</p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzAjYWFAkP6r0941UY3X9LFrgrjr6xASm4MoigqvgIKrfFHzBwjruxOSMJOAYKJZFWqZ01Sre03v4M2urthFa01gyB1s2zAJLleZxiTp51q1JxlOb4GUThIsT9fgxd6MHAFrTJrT5uJ-yC61KMpYzNF3id69B-6We-rY6GJP2pbyKJ6Q2pPGeJfU1/s1680/tornhad_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzAjYWFAkP6r0941UY3X9LFrgrjr6xASm4MoigqvgIKrfFHzBwjruxOSMJOAYKJZFWqZ01Sre03v4M2urthFa01gyB1s2zAJLleZxiTp51q1JxlOb4GUThIsT9fgxd6MHAFrTJrT5uJ-yC61KMpYzNF3id69B-6We-rY6GJP2pbyKJ6Q2pPGeJfU1/s320/tornhad_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tornhad</td></tr></tbody></table><br />We make our way to Tornhad, a village of Rangers, to request their protection for the Staghorns, but they are busy preparing to depart themselves: they have heard rumours that Saruman is causing trouble again around Mirkwood. Indeed, we meet some good Dunlendings fleeing Saruman and some bad Dunlendings hunting them.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7Xcv3sAzNEFF4wrGQsM2MncW_5h2JgQmEVrIMCAvKhE1ewUcb0EKyoDZOcvgrVahts7ZdRxpmFQEax4jLqerxtpCHIRhTD8mss67nVp7KG7OSIjYrejWctDFosEam0KQnECHXIwI9T8X3JBWjFC5jm_70gM2DBhfo75U8tQ2Kg8sg8_jOqNUFcLW/s1680/cuan-luth_refuge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7Xcv3sAzNEFF4wrGQsM2MncW_5h2JgQmEVrIMCAvKhE1ewUcb0EKyoDZOcvgrVahts7ZdRxpmFQEax4jLqerxtpCHIRhTD8mss67nVp7KG7OSIjYrejWctDFosEam0KQnECHXIwI9T8X3JBWjFC5jm_70gM2DBhfo75U8tQ2Kg8sg8_jOqNUFcLW/s320/cuan-luth_refuge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuan-lȗth Refuge for Dunlendings fleeing Saruman<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The Rangers ask for help with patrolling the area and collecting herbs for medicines and animal hides for making leather armour and generally making the area safe before they leave. That done, they finally show some sympathy for Ravaedron and promise that some will stay behind to keep protecting the area. Ravaedron is relieved but decides to make a painting as a farewell gift for the Staghorns.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYAwWvg6csi16RR4dlBoKTyve7IPsZy9cL9uenh0_WjhvVpYFc63AVPVvZlp2Sn7DzyLmayAH1P7x6fvp-yAGPE0L6M9ZY3p6roFXQGMDv5YEi8Ptb2LxFUXtX_GIFySiF-4I3rPo3Z3RDPE34vhHFvPq9kvrULt3XRfkxdxXzxSEPAeMT420cKjAO/s1680/ravaedron.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYAwWvg6csi16RR4dlBoKTyve7IPsZy9cL9uenh0_WjhvVpYFc63AVPVvZlp2Sn7DzyLmayAH1P7x6fvp-yAGPE0L6M9ZY3p6roFXQGMDv5YEi8Ptb2LxFUXtX_GIFySiF-4I3rPo3Z3RDPE34vhHFvPq9kvrULt3XRfkxdxXzxSEPAeMT420cKjAO/s320/ravaedron.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ravaedron painting Mitheithel in the rain<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The painting isn't received well and so he tries again, with more success once he realises what is really important to his friends.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwnmKO6HpbNnEGuSUYaRWwlRlrUuITEafRNxVubJkld861OE7UGvOcTLVDff-FRufQDveRZPe2Nq97_0p4AJWZG7aWvC_FP92QJcvMq12cEtv9MUCyGl2QSJT6neghs7ThXWDnCg5r7h_srIQPkP3sKaOU05Vb7xeUxlbXhVeuzbMSiRQN17GcKoOm/s1680/forgiven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwnmKO6HpbNnEGuSUYaRWwlRlrUuITEafRNxVubJkld861OE7UGvOcTLVDff-FRufQDveRZPe2Nq97_0p4AJWZG7aWvC_FP92QJcvMq12cEtv9MUCyGl2QSJT6neghs7ThXWDnCg5r7h_srIQPkP3sKaOU05Vb7xeUxlbXhVeuzbMSiRQN17GcKoOm/s320/forgiven.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forgiven<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>And so, Ravaedron can leave Middle Earth, Elladan can return to Imladris and the Rangers can scout out Mirkwood, knowing that with our help, the Angle of Mitheithel is as safe as can be, for now.</p><p>On a final note, I really liked how the quests led you through the zone and introduced some interesting history. Also, by questing you earn enough reputation to reach Kindred and unlock all the items from the Defenders of the Angle quartermaster. As you can see from the picture above, Sharmaen has claimed Emberwing as her companion as they both like fire. Overall, a really well done zone and I look forward to visiting there again with other characters.<br /></p>Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-70622837705370336222022-05-08T13:02:00.001+10:002022-05-08T13:02:56.542+10:00Introducing the Brawler: Level 1-20<div><p>The brawler is a melee class that was added in Update 30.3 In October 2021. It costs 1000 LOTRO Points to unlock.</p><p>All I knew about the brawler class before I tried it was that they use fist weapons and some people on Reddit said they were good at end-game raids. I like trying out all the classes, so here I will record my experience levelling a brawler from level 1 to level 20, talking about skills, specs and anything else that might be useful to know.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDwDmD-3r1C3jbDabPUcC7HkBnYF8ZAGUMeUlkCXwMcSgIFJ8nsKsk4UezGA_pBvDiiiOtyIAcr1glAnvrrcsJlgfiyfBmzrzhLzqwvCxrHJeNhoHczu-vOs4IuXMT4PC1SnEUtkiqr4BmTAFWtauR98AL-A-kO_86-n4WSG4hPfRgriiMLc9ElrC-/s706/lvl1_brawler.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="643" data-original-width="706" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDwDmD-3r1C3jbDabPUcC7HkBnYF8ZAGUMeUlkCXwMcSgIFJ8nsKsk4UezGA_pBvDiiiOtyIAcr1glAnvrrcsJlgfiyfBmzrzhLzqwvCxrHJeNhoHczu-vOs4IuXMT4PC1SnEUtkiqr4BmTAFWtauR98AL-A-kO_86-n4WSG4hPfRgriiMLc9ElrC-/s320/lvl1_brawler.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Level 1 Woman Brawler<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Here's our brand new woman brawler and some information about her:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Wears heavy armour</li><li>Wields battle-gauntlets</li><li>Primary stat is Might</li><li>Uses Mettle as a resource - some skills build up Mettle and others spend it </li><li>Starting abilities are Low Strike (a melee attack that builds up Mettle and sets up the target to receive a Vulnerable debuff), Dextrous Hook (a melee attack that builds up Mettle and sets up the target to take extra damage) and Overhand Smash (a hard-hitting melee finishing attack that costs Mettle).</li></ul><p>In the introduction, I was sent to talk with a few people in the starting area to find out about the current situation, then promptly told to visit the brawler trainer and practice using my skills on a training dummy. As a result, I got some better battle-gauntlets. At level 4, I earned my first new skill: Sinister Cross, a melee attack that builds up Mettle and sets up your character to receive a higher tier of the Innate Strength buff. At level 5 I gained some passive skills, allowing me to use fiddles or bassoons as musical instruments. We get a ranged skill at level 6 called Hurl Object, which involves throwing a mug at your target and also slows their movement speed.</p><p>Also at level 6, you can choose one out of two specialisations:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Blue = The Fulcrum - described as a tanking spec and offers some taunts and increased mitigations as well as a morale-bubble.</li><li>Red = The Maelstrom - the DPS spec which increases damage.</li><li>Yellow = The Fundament - can't be specialised in, but offers some extra utility (like AOE and group buffs).</li></ul></div><p>I chose Red and gained Shattering Fist (a finisher that decreases target armour) and Pummel (a channelled finishing skill that deals damage every second for 3 seconds). At level 7 you get your first trait point that you can spend on your
chosen specialisation. You get a new trait point every odd level.</p><p>After completing the introduction, don't forget to check your mail for the adventurer's gift. It contains several useful items and starts a couple of quests, including one that rewards 5 Tokens of Salutations which can be traded with the Barterer for a pocket item that increases run speed plus some health or power potions. The run speed buff can be quite helpful, especially if you don't have a mount.<br /></p><p>I did the quests to gain a crafting vocation and chose Armsman so I can be a Weaponsmith and make my own battle-gauntlets. Then I went back to questing and reached level 8 and got the Get Serious skill which gives a +25% damage buff for 6 seconds on a 30 second cooldown. That will be very nice when fighting bosses and elite mobs! <br /></p><div><div><p>At level 10 we got a 3-target melee finisher called Backhand Clout. At level 12 we got a single-target melee finisher, Knee Strike, which also slows target movement speed. At level 15 we get another single-target melee finisher, Helm-crusher, which also stuns the target. We also received a quest to visit the Brawler trainer at the Bree Jail. He says Brawlers have a reputation for getting into trouble but he knows someone who could use a Brawler's help to get <i>out</i> of trouble; Derwent Bindweed has been threatened and bullied and needs someone to help him stand up to the thugs so they'll leave him and his family alone.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVpSnReq8Fwpm3N1NGVy9mrk5QpSq5vxImgKN12g_JtuaPN_ss9q9KnLyrhptPUzgAD6YUnfEio_xQ6SrXVfXzCn2hW7uutNHIvMxWIoV2peStu6PlPjpLoZBlc7G4DBW5oK3VPGBg8AkuQSAkLS8lK36Cx0-FzcJtukJEKBQyd-YQOvvZQaiuKF7/s1680/lvl15_classquest.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVpSnReq8Fwpm3N1NGVy9mrk5QpSq5vxImgKN12g_JtuaPN_ss9q9KnLyrhptPUzgAD6YUnfEio_xQ6SrXVfXzCn2hW7uutNHIvMxWIoV2peStu6PlPjpLoZBlc7G4DBW5oK3VPGBg8AkuQSAkLS8lK36Cx0-FzcJtukJEKBQyd-YQOvvZQaiuKF7/s320/lvl15_classquest.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rough Fellows shouldn't mess with a Brawler!<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Bindweed was very grateful for the assistance and I returned to the Brawler trainer and received some nice battle-gauntlets and the title of "Good Puncher" as a reward.</p><p>The next skill became available at level 18. Weather Blows is a buff that reduces damage taken for 15 seconds and provides a large heal. I was in the middle of fighting three level 21 elite mobs in the Southern Barrow-Downs when I hit level 20. I got the Undying title and 4 new skills: Slip Free (removes crowd control - this would have been helpful when Barrow-Bats kept stunning me), Helm's Hammer (a single-target melee attack that removes corruptions), Fulgurant Strike (a single-target melee attack that interrupts spells) and Ignore Pain (removes debuffs such as poison - another skill I really wanted while fighting Noxious Barrow-Wights!).</p><p>I headed back to town and visited the Skirmish Camp to see if I could upgrade any gear. Here's how her stats look now at level 20:<br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFXt9BWEoigf710ycNySoYIBMIsat6F9Sy5q92W14eItc94rruQl5-td4F13nSF8l2-U33jQODUOgaCxMONsFVtHgMqZ3UtDUAOol_-BLPl61ngDXoeB1VOn6Hh7vV1Nv7lw-LPP5R13qUO-Vm_2wAF_71ht3yMCtAIVKCd66PG92YwZQU_14ONlw/s706/lvl20_brawler.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="706" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFXt9BWEoigf710ycNySoYIBMIsat6F9Sy5q92W14eItc94rruQl5-td4F13nSF8l2-U33jQODUOgaCxMONsFVtHgMqZ3UtDUAOol_-BLPl61ngDXoeB1VOn6Hh7vV1Nv7lw-LPP5R13qUO-Vm_2wAF_71ht3yMCtAIVKCd66PG92YwZQU_14ONlw/s320/lvl20_brawler.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Level 20 Woman Brawler<br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div></div><div> </div><div>I still hadn't tried out Blue spec, so I went back to the Barrow-Downs and did a few more quests in Blue spec. In Blue spec, I had a few new skills: Come at Me (a multi-target taunt), Iron Will (a buff similar to Weather Blows that reduces damage taken more but doesn't give the heal), and Joy of Battle: Heal (a buff that causes your outgoing attacks to also heal you for 15 seconds, on a 3 minute cooldown).</div><div><br /></div><div>Then I headed to the Training Hall in Bree and tested both Red and Blue specs' DPS with no consumable buffs active over 3 minutes or until I ran out of power, and took a screenshot at the end to eliminate the effects of DoTs that kept going after I stopped attacking. I repeated this three times and recorded the best result below. For Virtues, I had 8 ranks in both Zeal and Confidence. For traits, in the Blue spec I had points in Vitality Increase and Parry Chance, while in the Red spec I had points in Setup Attack Damage and Dextrous Hook Training. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>My rotation was basically use my three mettle builders, then use Get Serious if it was off cooldown, then use a mettle spender which was off cooldown, then rinse and repeat.</div><div></div>
<div> </div><div>Here are my DPS results (collected with the CombatAnalysis plugin):
</div></div>
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<thead><tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver; border-top: thin solid silver;"><th>Statistics</th><th>Blue Spec (Tank)</th><th>Red Spec (DPS)</th></tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Total Damage</td><td>56041</td><td>69804<br /></td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Time</td><td>1 min 33.4 sec</td><td>1 min 33.8 sec<br /></td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Avg DPS</td><td>599.9</td><td>744.4<br /></td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Min Hit</td><td>57</td><td>66<br /></td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Avg Hit</td><td>397.5</td><td>495.1<br /></td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Max Hit</td><td>2565</td><td>3454<br /></td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Attacks</td><td>144</td><td>141<br /></td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Crit Strikes (%)</td><td>34 (23.6%)</td><td>34 (24.1%)<br /></td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Power (%)</td><td>10/1000 (1%)</td><td>8/1000 (0.8%)<br /></td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Skill Priorities</td>
<td><ol><li>Low Strike</li><li>Sinister Cross</li><li>Dextrous Hook</li><li>Get Serious</li><li>Overhand Smash</li><li>Knee Strike</li><li>Helm-crusher</li></ol></td>
<td><ol><li>Low Strike</li><li>Sinister Cross</li><li>Dextrous Hook</li><li>Get Serious</li><li>Shattering Fist<br /></li><li>Overhand Smash<br /></li><li>Knee Strike<br /></li></ol></td></tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div> </div><div>In both specs, I ran out of power after about 90 seconds. Brawlers have great burst damage but would need to slow down or get some power regen from somewhere during a long fight. The DPS of both specs is crazy high compared to other classes at level 20 (for example, based <a href="https://myndariel.blogspot.com/p/class-guides.html">on my studies</a>, red spec Hunter with 213 DPS was the next best).</div><div> </div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">General Observations</h4><div style="text-align: left;">It felt a lot like playing a burglar without stealth. Both burglar and brawler are melee single target specialists with limited ranged and AOE abilities. Both burglars and brawlers have several target debuffs to use, but brawlers use less damage-over-time abilities.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Most mobs died in 1-3 hits. Some named elites in the Barrow-Downs took 4 hits. Red spec has a skill called Pummel and I tried using it but mobs died before I finished channelling so it wasn't worthwhile. I rarely needed to use Hurl Object on fleeing targets because they were usually affected by Knee-Strike which slows run-speed, so I could finish them off with an auto-attack before they could get away.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Definitely need some more healing abilities. I was getting stunned and dazed and poisoned in the Barrow-Downs and was helpless while mobs attacked and my health plummeted and I relied on healing potions to stay alive. Finally getting a cleanse and a crowd-control breaker helps. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It seems that brawlers have a lot of stacking passive buffs to damage. For example, each point of mettle gives an extra +3% melee damage and you can have 9 points (+27% melee damage!). I wouldn't be surprised if those passive buffs get nerfed/reduced in the future to bring DPS more in line with other classes.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h4 style="text-align: left;">Specialisations</h4><div style="text-align: left;">There didn't seem to be a lot of difference in play style while questing between red and blue specs. They both use more-or-less the same abilities. For leveling and soloing I would recommend Red because it does more damage and Blue doesn't really offer any benefits until high level. Is Blue good in groups? I don't know - maybe at higher levels when they have more skills and traits? This is definitely a class I want to level up and see what else it has in the toolbox. Also, there seems to be a few interesting traits locked behind the Yellow tree which would be nice to have.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h4 style="text-align: left;">Stats</h4><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Might - your main stat that increases your damage</li><li>Critical Strike - increases your damage</li><li>Evade and Parry - gives bonus Critical Rating and Finesse respectively in the Blue spec, in Red spec, can automatically deal damage on evade and parry</li><li>Mitigations and Resistances - reduces damage taken</li><li>Morale and Vitality - bigger health pool increases survivability</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">These stats should help make the levelling process a bit easier in the
beginning. Look for heavy armour or jewellery with Might and Critical Rating, Morale or Vitality. If a piece of gear has Fate on it, it will
also increase your critical strike chance. You might not find much
Evade on gear yet, but increasing Agility also increases your Evade
chance. The best place to get Mitigations and Resistances at low levels
is probably from virtues.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><h4 style="text-align: left;">Virtues <br /></h4></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Before you gained levels of Virtues by completing specific deeds, now you can choose which Virtues to level. Here are my recommendations for Brawlers:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Zeal - gives might, physical mastery and critical rating plus extra physical mastery<br /></li><li>Confidence - gives critical rating, finesse and evade plus extra physical mastery</li><li>Valour - gives physical mastery, finesse and critical rating, plus extra physical mastery</li><li>Innocence - gives physical mitigation, resistance and tactical mitigation, plus extra morale</li><li>Compassion - gives physical mitigation, tactical mitigation and armour, plus extra morale</li></ul> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><h4 style="text-align: left;">Pros of the Brawler Class</h4><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>High single-target DPS</li><li>Unique play-style punching mobs with fists instead of using weapons</li></ul><h4 style="text-align: left;">Cons of the Brawler Class</h4><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Limited ranged and AOE abilities</li><li>Limited healing abilities</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I hope this has been helpful. Feel free to leave any questions or advice for new brawlers in the comments below.</div></div></div></div></div></div>
Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-64928463117797018322022-04-24T19:53:00.001+10:002022-04-24T19:55:28.800+10:00Fifteenth Anniversary<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk_dNaZHiNUqS-_gJiad6cmGZFG_ejXXwWGqHbyZ5J1QxiVUbO4FmlMLNQmYJyqHID29J04jPXU0ooWo1lmhwQRhdk7noIGB6lFqkg8uohc6gYQZxo-05mB3okLOKU9jGTSfWC8dqzSd2Hpgirso1Q3Ll4UtxX4qTKul7C6qAAFjRUWSIFFpKIIB8r/s856/steed_of_starlight2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="711" data-original-width="856" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk_dNaZHiNUqS-_gJiad6cmGZFG_ejXXwWGqHbyZ5J1QxiVUbO4FmlMLNQmYJyqHID29J04jPXU0ooWo1lmhwQRhdk7noIGB6lFqkg8uohc6gYQZxo-05mB3okLOKU9jGTSfWC8dqzSd2Hpgirso1Q3Ll4UtxX4qTKul7C6qAAFjRUWSIFFpKIIB8r/w200-h166/steed_of_starlight2.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My F2P Rune-keeper Mynaruun got boosted to level 120<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>If they were trying to get players to come back to LOTRO with the generous rewards for logging in during the 15th Anniversary event, it certainly worked for me. A couple of character boosts, some new mounts, some new content, new legendary system to try out ... I'm a happy camper right now.</p><p>On my main account, I boosted to level 120 Kaseya my champion, who was level 52 but already tier 10 for prospecting and weaponsmithing (and could make First Age level 100 legendary weapons in the old system). The first thing she did was make her way to Rivendell to learn more about the new legendary weapon system at the library there. She found that because of new subzones added in Bree-land and the Trollshaws, she doesn't have all the stable-masters unlocked anymore so she will have a bit of sight-seeing to do before she goes beyond Moria. </p><p>I was also able to boost my burglar Vilhildr to level 50 which means she can carry on in Moria where Kaseya left off. I've had some requests for guides on how to play a burglar at higher levels so this is a good opportunity to work towards that.</p><p>On my free-to-play account, my rune-keeper Mynaruun was boosted to level 120 and she is loving the Vales of Anduin. The scenery is beautiful and the quests have been really relaxing and enjoyable, like a Beorning taking a siesta after eating a whole honey-cake. With the gear provided in the Valar package and her new legendary items, she is burning through mobs in no time and having fun too. She might be my favourite character at the moment.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvhvSiAtEvXTTbPnFb3v8yE6oPQG_jddzHLftrbNyyy-qCCtaKu9S8HDqSvvQfjAMDdkuk2XyOZa07l60YA20OkaowLhN93DZ83UtZS0JVuRAavPnlJCzioOW1FleK8ph97PjUtuhA6VmN0F7LBvABarOPyIkFxWqE65yA-xbifKyLtBLc4mwMvILz/s711/mynaldamir_gladden.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="711" data-original-width="406" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvhvSiAtEvXTTbPnFb3v8yE6oPQG_jddzHLftrbNyyy-qCCtaKu9S8HDqSvvQfjAMDdkuk2XyOZa07l60YA20OkaowLhN93DZ83UtZS0JVuRAavPnlJCzioOW1FleK8ph97PjUtuhA6VmN0F7LBvABarOPyIkFxWqE65yA-xbifKyLtBLc4mwMvILz/w114-h200/mynaldamir_gladden.jpg" width="114" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warden Mynaldamir<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><p>I'm also boosting my warden Mynaldamir from level 17 to level 50 so they can visit Moria and beyond. I didn't want them to skip too much content because they will need to earn rep with a lot of factions to unlock the warden travel skills. The furthest I've been with a warden before was level 45 and they stalled grinding through dreary Angmar, so hopefully we'll at least make it home to the Golden Wood (Lothlórien) to visit long-lost kin, but visiting Eryn Lasgalen and seeing how Mirkwood is transforming into the "Wood of Greenleaves" would be even better!</p><p>I definitely want to level a hobbit so they can explore the new Yondershire region - I have a cheerful little hobbit minstrel (Mynimuso) who would be perfect for that. Speaking of music, one of the things I was really pleased about in the Vales of Anduin was that there were lots of Ironfold crafting recipes available, especially a huge variety of recipes for housing items and musical instruments. It's great to see crafting getting some attention and I hope there is a good market for housing decorations and instruments on the auction house or in trade chat.</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLeh7HNEbD9ICEDHQa3hOVeGM76JU7g2hiEK4Jus5cK_4FkcRMxgy0EbV0FdqvN1g6h1dCj8qgKSsJ6OdGuDFEN9_0UG-ULdVgVy4mAfMWCYxdC5QZWa0xmOPGnMRMMlQD3wANBn6QMFhN2epk0nd2LjBc96qKe4YVKu7UreLuRztHsFJG7uI6NjYM/s1680/tyravorth_mordor.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLeh7HNEbD9ICEDHQa3hOVeGM76JU7g2hiEK4Jus5cK_4FkcRMxgy0EbV0FdqvN1g6h1dCj8qgKSsJ6OdGuDFEN9_0UG-ULdVgVy4mAfMWCYxdC5QZWa0xmOPGnMRMMlQD3wANBn6QMFhN2epk0nd2LjBc96qKe4YVKu7UreLuRztHsFJG7uI6NjYM/s320/tyravorth_mordor.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tyravorth in Mordor<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>I revisited my Beorning in Mordor. I hate Mordor because they get there so underpowered and questing is so slow and painful that I end up abandoning my toons and/or the game for months. I did a few quests with Tyravorth using her old system legendaries then went to Rivendell and got some new system legendaries, went back and defeating mobs was a breeze in comparison. I still hate Mordor but now I have some hope of getting more of my characters through it.</p><p>Lots to do, lots to explore - just the way I like it. Enjoy the anniversary and many thanks to Standing Stone Games for being so generous with the gifts.</p><p></p>Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-48518020393190958642020-12-31T16:25:00.004+11:002021-01-04T12:08:17.437+11:00Yule Festival 2020<p>I wasn't planning on taking part in the Yule Festival this year - I've done the event many times before. But ... I saw the new outfit and it was "Ooh, nice. My characters would like that." </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzsBVngbvDBSoX2sb0EcH-xX_cl2JKg8FO4jnRlaIxseryFPKxWmXFK5wI8Ysd6AIEz22jGwgCU-jrAmHelK8LcAVUNNxL2Mv5TBXQRzuOUGRvoLX6Tiz76_274l4gRvqzyHbARuXdMcQ/s656/yule_costume_2020.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="656" data-original-width="411" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzsBVngbvDBSoX2sb0EcH-xX_cl2JKg8FO4jnRlaIxseryFPKxWmXFK5wI8Ysd6AIEz22jGwgCU-jrAmHelK8LcAVUNNxL2Mv5TBXQRzuOUGRvoLX6Tiz76_274l4gRvqzyHbARuXdMcQ/s320/yule_costume_2020.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mynaruun wearing the Poinsettia Crown, Cloak of Flurries and the Gala-worthy Gown<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>There's only a few more days of the Festival to go, so my characters each did the 10 activities and earned at least 35 tokens so they could each buy one piece of the costume for my newest character Mynaruun, a level 9 rune-keeper who didn't have an outfit yet and was wearing mismatched, ugly, quest rewards. Now she looks pretty. </p><p>My lore-master (not Myndariel, another one called Myndibeth) has done the Yule Festival before and had enough tokens left over from last time to buy a festive mount. She also bought the Vestments of the Northern Sky to make a new outfit.</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXK8hU8X6GEgdfmRqVy6YYT4GsW2sh0gLfNZ44s_ss3H9fEebp9glSFDynhaRFQKjjPa9Jvzhq9EZDxZE0x71CRKZPFUzL0zt2E2llsd63sBRnIWA7L-9rkfshQVz4aXEfTLswXIOn1dg/s737/ice_flower_steed.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="737" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXK8hU8X6GEgdfmRqVy6YYT4GsW2sh0gLfNZ44s_ss3H9fEebp9glSFDynhaRFQKjjPa9Jvzhq9EZDxZE0x71CRKZPFUzL0zt2E2llsd63sBRnIWA7L-9rkfshQVz4aXEfTLswXIOn1dg/s320/ice_flower_steed.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ice Flower Steed<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Mynaruun would really like the Yule Gala Steed to go with her outfit, but I don't know if she can get enough tokens in the next few days to buy it during this festival. Plus, she's on my free-to-play account and she doesn't have riding unlocked yet (I make it a rule they have to get to level 20 and earn the LOTRO points themselves before they can ride). Can I get her to level 20 and earn the mount before the end of the Yule Festival? </p><p>* UPDATE * Mission accomplished!</p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa7-B03zRLa9CDikw3msxnSkY9DPpEdf2ok_MMC67OxR4l4ScOfWNskhfTs6czKcw5lqo4n-C_57njQ1dnLMMtnegTOCQPp72jSxqdrlyYtxTHQlo76hfyPln2sXV5GzeW2Wt98OnvKA/s683/yule_gala_steed.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="683" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa7-B03zRLa9CDikw3msxnSkY9DPpEdf2ok_MMC67OxR4l4ScOfWNskhfTs6czKcw5lqo4n-C_57njQ1dnLMMtnegTOCQPp72jSxqdrlyYtxTHQlo76hfyPln2sXV5GzeW2Wt98OnvKA/s320/yule_gala_steed.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yule Gala Steed<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Mynaruun did the Yule daily quests each day and quested through Ered Luin and Bree-land and is now the proud snowflake queen. Cold as ice indeed! Maybe I should try and get her a frosty pet?</p><p>OK, I admit it, I got sucked into the icy vortex of festival deeds and quests and collecting rewards. It was fun and now I'm really looking forward to playing LOTRO in 2021. </p><p>I wish you all a wonderful and happy new year and may you stay safe and well in Middle Earth and real life!<br /></p><p></p>Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-26376411208558064712020-12-31T11:59:00.002+11:002020-12-31T11:59:40.849+11:00My Favourite Plugins for LOTRO <div><p>I'm so happy! I've been using the Steamplay version of LOTRO and I've been missing TitanBar, but I finally found out how to install my favourite mods/addons/plugins ... whatever you want to call them. It was easy using PlayOnLinux (Documents/The Lord of the Rings Online/plugins), but for the Linux Steam version, there's a bit more navigating through the .steam subdirectories (I'll be making a symlink so I can find it more easily in future).</p><p>I found an article on Reddit which was very helpful: <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/linux_gaming/comments/dhtc19/how_to_use_pluginsskins_in_lotro_on_linux_using/">How to use Plugins/Skins in LOTRO on Linux using Steam Proton</a></p><p></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Installing Plugins <br /></h2><p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXob3FlqbJg6lIj5F8gUpUFai0mxdTuUYx1JYBJTjCFbwq6zTTnJu8wkyCbX8tqDKaSfrEhmY3Sr9kISc2RSoUYzeqKcDJjbKBhIufgXboUgz1-RKji5YXMXEIF12x4AFl8-k-vFFHUPs/s1664/lotro-interface.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="836" data-original-width="1664" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXob3FlqbJg6lIj5F8gUpUFai0mxdTuUYx1JYBJTjCFbwq6zTTnJu8wkyCbX8tqDKaSfrEhmY3Sr9kISc2RSoUYzeqKcDJjbKBhIufgXboUgz1-RKji5YXMXEIF12x4AFl8-k-vFFHUPs/s320/lotro-interface.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LOTRO Interface - for all your LOTRO plugins and skins<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p>So, you can download plugins for LOTRO from <a href="https://www.lotrointerface.com/downloads/cat8.html">LOTRO Interface</a>. They come as a zip file which needs to be extracted into the LOTRO "plugins" folder. If the folder doesn't exist, you can create it, but it must be in the right location for LOTRO to find it. The plugins folder location differs depending on what flavour of LOTRO you are using:</p><p><b>Windows:</b> C:\Users\username\Documents\The Lord of the Rings Online\Plugins
</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><b>Mac:</b> ~/Documents/The Lord of the Rings Online/Plugins</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><b>Linux (PlayOnLinux/Wine):</b> ~/Documents/The Lord of the Rings Online/plugins<br /></p><p></p><p><b>Linux (Steamplay):</b> ~/<span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">.steam/steam/steamapps/compatdata/212500/pfx/dosdevices/c:/users/steamuser/My Documents/The Lord of the Rings Online/plugins</span></p><p><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">(Note: the Steam AppID for LOTRO is 212500). <br /></span></p><p><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"> </span></p><p><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">Graphical modifications or "skins" (such as new backgrounds for UI menus and windows or resizing the dressing room) can also be downloaded from the LOTRO Interface and installed in a folder called "ui". So instead of Documents/The Lord of the Rings Online/plugins, skins go in Documents/The Lord of the Rings Online/ui. Again, you can create this folder if it doesn't exist, just make sure you put it in the right place.</span></p><p><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">Once you have installed your plugins or skins, you can start LOTRO and open the Plugin Manager from the menu (the Chevron or up arrow next to the action bar at the bottom of the screen). There, you can choose to load plugins on demand or automatically (auto-load) for all characters on that server or just specific characters. Maybe you only need a DPS meter (Combat Analysis) on your raider, or only your minstrel needs to use Songbook, but everyone can use Titanbar. </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">Trouble-shooting <br /></span></h3><p><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">If your plugins are not showing up in the available options in the Plugin Manager: <br /></span></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">Make sure you have installed them into the right place. </span></li><li><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">Make sure you install the whole plugin folder and not just the subfolders. For example, when you download Titanbar and extract it, you get a folder called "HabnaPlugins" and then there is a folder called "Titanbar" inside that, along with some other important files that LOTRO needs. If you only installed the "Titanbar" folder, the plugin wouldn't work. </span></li><li><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">Check if they have any file dependencies (most LOTRO plugins are stand-alone and don't), and if they do, check the instructions on how and where to install them.<br /></span></li></ul><p><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"> </span></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">Recommended Plugins</span></h2><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"><a href="https://www.lotrointerface.com/downloads/info663-LOTROPluginCompendium.html">LOTRO Plugin Compendium</a> - I haven't used it, but a lot of people recommend it as an easy way to manage your plugins and keep them up to date. </span></li><li><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"><a href="https://www.lotrointerface.com/downloads/info967-TitanBar.html">TitanBar</a> - a bar to display information at a glance like the </span><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">in-game </span>time of day, real-time clock, currencies (including LOTRO Points), reputation/renown, equipment damage, and also check what your character and alts have in their bank, inventory, wallet etc.<br /></span></li><li><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"><a href="https://www.lotrointerface.com/downloads/info532-MoorMap.html">MoorMap</a> - originally just provided extra information on locations and NPCs in the Etenmoors, but now available for all zones and lets you make notes on the map and can even track resource nodes etc.</span></li><li><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"><a href="https://www.lotrointerface.com/downloads/info640-Waypoint.html">Waypoint</a> - provides an arrow above your character's head showing which direction and how far to go to reach a specific location. Can work with other plugins such as MoorMap or Reminders. <br /></span></li><li><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"><a href="https://www.lotrointerface.com/downloads/info881-CombatAnalysis.html">CombatAnalysis</a> - a comprehensive DPS meter and combat log parser. <br /></span></li><li><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"><a href="https://www.lotrointerface.com/downloads/info1075-SkillTimer.html">Skill Timer</a> - keep track of DoTs and other skill cooldowns.<br /></span></li><li><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"><a href="https://www.lotrointerface.com/downloads/info1096-Songbook2LegendaryEdition.html">Songbook2 Legendary Edition</a> - an updated version of the original Songbook, this helps you to load ABC music files for your character to play on their instruments in-game. Can also help with syncing music for a band.</span></li><li><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"><a href="https://www.lotrointerface.com/downloads/info993-Reminders.html">Reminders</a> - a ToDo list for all your characters, reminding you about crafting cooldowns, raid locks, daily/weekly quests, ingredient crates, auctions and your own notes (like "Update the Kin message of the day").</span></li><li><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"><a href="https://www.lotrointerface.com/downloads/info870-ItemTreasury.html">Item Treasury</a> - an in-game database of items with lots of uses, including checking stats on gear, searching for items to use in a cosmetic outfit or finding the perfect housing decoration. </span></li></ul></div><p><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"></span></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">Recommended Skins</span></h2><p style="text-align: left;"><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">There is only one skins compilation I would recommend: <a href="https://www.lotrointerface.com/downloads/info581-JRRSkinscollection-Atributetomiddleearth.html">JRR Skins Collection</a>. This is found in the <a href="https://www.lotrointerface.com/downloads/cat3.html">LOTRO Compilations</a> section (not the Stand-Alone Plugins section like the above plugins) of LOTRO Interface. It contains so many options that you probably won't need anything else to customise your UI to your heart's content. It provides instructions for installation and setup and screenshots of some of the different themes available.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span class="_12FoOEddL7j_RgMQN0SNeU">I hope this helps. You can play LOTRO without any plugins or skins and it has some very good built-in customisation options for changing the UI layout, but sometimes extra tools or changing how something looks to suit you or your computer screen can make the difference between a good gaming experience or a great one.<br /></span></p>Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-88520726228093482842020-11-22T11:16:00.000+11:002020-11-22T11:16:56.919+11:00Installing LOTRO in Linux with Steam (2020)<p>I've been having a few minor issues launching LOTRO in Linux with PlayOnLinux and instead of reinstalling through POL I thought I would try using Steam instead. Proton is really good and a lot of Windows games just work out of the box with it.</p><p>LOTRO was so easy to install, set-up and start playing via Steam. </p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Open Steam. In your Steam Settings, make sure that "Enable Steam Play for supported titles" is ticked.<br /></li><li>Find The Lord of the Rings Online. Select "Play Game". It will be added to your library.</li><li>From your library page for LOTRO click the "Manage" button on the right hand side. Select "Properties".</li><li>Near the bottom of the Properties window is an option to "Force the use of a specific Steam Play compatibility tool". Make sure this is ticked and from the drop-down box, select the most recent version of Proton (I'm using Proton 5.13-2 at the moment). Close the properties window.<br /></li><li>Download and install the game. The launcher will open and there will be lots of updates to complete. It will also ask if you want to install the high resolution graphics (I said yes). Installing and updating the game took me between 15-30 minutes (I went AFK for a quick meal, came back and it was ready to go).<br /></li><li>Finally the launcher will show the login window. Login. Accept the Terms of Service.<br /></li><li>Play LOTRO.</li></ol><p></p><p>Once in-game, you may want to go to Options and click the "Detect Optimal Settings" and Accept. My frame-rate went from 10 fps to 60 fps instantly.</p><p>Note that the LOTRO Store still opens in an external browser and not in-game unfortunately.</p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTv-VeS4rToaglxpbbey8jjwUYKcb81Ti9KztpheH2j0tI-LsL9frlCAmMT3mWZQS3tGRGnGZPUOLh1OkJwEhzSW2u2X9kPjFMgn661xnrOD1tlr610e2MLYMa5zy8yWbOzozyvcVJtdQ/s1168/steam_play_settings.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="858" data-original-width="1168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTv-VeS4rToaglxpbbey8jjwUYKcb81Ti9KztpheH2j0tI-LsL9frlCAmMT3mWZQS3tGRGnGZPUOLh1OkJwEhzSW2u2X9kPjFMgn661xnrOD1tlr610e2MLYMa5zy8yWbOzozyvcVJtdQ/s320/steam_play_settings.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enable Steam Play in Steam settings<br /></td></tr></tbody></table></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPey6k4OLWZBJ55uA-iO7GlgrYfqgkV-7t_IwkI4G-RJ6BpOymvUTwZnd3RwFOGAQKreS8l7hCveGpk4lV_vkoADdSBcXafONQ-6mpXFvJzdDUMROB0kjTfWU_jQMV6lQ75jxt8yTLr24/s934/steam_library_manage.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="934" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPey6k4OLWZBJ55uA-iO7GlgrYfqgkV-7t_IwkI4G-RJ6BpOymvUTwZnd3RwFOGAQKreS8l7hCveGpk4lV_vkoADdSBcXafONQ-6mpXFvJzdDUMROB0kjTfWU_jQMV6lQ75jxt8yTLr24/s320/steam_library_manage.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Manage" button looks like a cog<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAYmIABhwN5lOZJM_XAvJ9OYVYDFUsxdxoapx_k1Sz0amytY8Ovt7FPo08mkz-rIdHsTPGLlhF2gWKQmDN9xgf1MPpJBAcUUfEOUvctwv_qLZOI_xKqtb8o1Wypru126uuFnurHRV_Bxs/s932/steam_lotro_properties.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="862" data-original-width="932" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAYmIABhwN5lOZJM_XAvJ9OYVYDFUsxdxoapx_k1Sz0amytY8Ovt7FPo08mkz-rIdHsTPGLlhF2gWKQmDN9xgf1MPpJBAcUUfEOUvctwv_qLZOI_xKqtb8o1Wypru126uuFnurHRV_Bxs/s320/steam_lotro_properties.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Use latest Proton as Steam Play compatibility tool<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnzrmwhyz4v6RhPFcAzV8ryKvhuEPVfT8k_NsSvfE5t9P15rqGji7SbVFHGmv4m8KcwvweEgnNgo7PhO1YTqcCyWmDNO7bQezLrO098X9_GfGCUAMt2KMje9mne4qt3srWHOIPyXpgd04/s548/lotro_highresolution.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="548" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnzrmwhyz4v6RhPFcAzV8ryKvhuEPVfT8k_NsSvfE5t9P15rqGji7SbVFHGmv4m8KcwvweEgnNgo7PhO1YTqcCyWmDNO7bQezLrO098X9_GfGCUAMt2KMje9mne4qt3srWHOIPyXpgd04/s320/lotro_highresolution.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Optional high resolution graphics download<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG69Q-7PbqlMu12fKGrsMv87f14niDR6fQHbD88BfU8J_HGwMPHbx7wB04vjS7NWD-TPq-HOal8nnDibTJmpjuMgP1RfRuhEUz2kh7PjbJ2otP5Bqaii3FK8zcL_yFUPPiB5o6EZqIvAs/s795/lotro_launcher_login.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="795" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG69Q-7PbqlMu12fKGrsMv87f14niDR6fQHbD88BfU8J_HGwMPHbx7wB04vjS7NWD-TPq-HOal8nnDibTJmpjuMgP1RfRuhEUz2kh7PjbJ2otP5Bqaii3FK8zcL_yFUPPiB5o6EZqIvAs/s320/lotro_launcher_login.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LOTRO launcher login screen<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg76FvJw55lAOJ4TnNDHq689NDRfsvhKbGbh_stSHmNe0EUlcxs0-1_m_pYcb3LGh5qoiznAWLW_WF14T5g6DKr1UhsKxVM6sO34fGMybNFfLgkbGi4FWFyQYTL4I87pqcwFwzNLxxg-Zw/s1680/lotro_ered_mithrin.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg76FvJw55lAOJ4TnNDHq689NDRfsvhKbGbh_stSHmNe0EUlcxs0-1_m_pYcb3LGh5qoiznAWLW_WF14T5g6DKr1UhsKxVM6sO34fGMybNFfLgkbGi4FWFyQYTL4I87pqcwFwzNLxxg-Zw/s320/lotro_ered_mithrin.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Play!<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb7LASChVWwJDUHPFmpvo6USZt2z7-LLQ8QzsAURMrzwvxmEa3-NDgrq8811Hx-5GxHhqjsULEiJcVSl3zgdmhEKVESKWrRuUijqMj9NHCppQ_6ll8_q9RpR93tSA4FJXshzNsL868BTk/s1008/lotro_store_external_browser.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="1008" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb7LASChVWwJDUHPFmpvo6USZt2z7-LLQ8QzsAURMrzwvxmEa3-NDgrq8811Hx-5GxHhqjsULEiJcVSl3zgdmhEKVESKWrRuUijqMj9NHCppQ_6ll8_q9RpR93tSA4FJXshzNsL868BTk/s320/lotro_store_external_browser.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LOTRO store opens in external browser<br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-46821564523074873462020-11-07T20:25:00.000+11:002020-11-07T20:25:48.517+11:00Scenic Tour: Iron Hills<p>Myndariel got the quest from Erebor to go to the Iron Hills and she has loved her short time there (from level 115 to level 117). It's not the most beautiful zone - I think "rugged charm" might be more appropriate - but it's got a great story and lots of Ironfold mining opportunities. It was also really nice to get some gear upgrades without essence slots.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrwPl1uF2X_mxvPkG2mjQ7x5XzNtQQJkFEeeTA51mlVGi7Vf9Q-R72hfU8c_WfZIYH2g2ql5NjXAD54qPvemn3_dDaCCPRrxYGGwU09Ti6QMkdc-F_MYS9kG8hR27Y5uNCjTo9BSE8qoc/s1680/iron_hills_2.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrwPl1uF2X_mxvPkG2mjQ7x5XzNtQQJkFEeeTA51mlVGi7Vf9Q-R72hfU8c_WfZIYH2g2ql5NjXAD54qPvemn3_dDaCCPRrxYGGwU09Ti6QMkdc-F_MYS9kG8hR27Y5uNCjTo9BSE8qoc/s320/iron_hills_2.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dwarven town of Járnfast has been damaged by an earthquake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5t3g9RmZyVkFl1RSglvsDKHfyujcRgjZMm0edimBTXvnOR8v72Ytkwd8kUdCFIPyP1niYK9-PZT_kxl6tymjxl86zPTf5qVA4sFL8INX8nbY8ifVIRvconfJAovLlkQZEO-D5BZFqiBE/s1680/iron_hills.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5t3g9RmZyVkFl1RSglvsDKHfyujcRgjZMm0edimBTXvnOR8v72Ytkwd8kUdCFIPyP1niYK9-PZT_kxl6tymjxl86zPTf5qVA4sFL8INX8nbY8ifVIRvconfJAovLlkQZEO-D5BZFqiBE/s320/iron_hills.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Utterby has been invaded by Easterlings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDfI6pk9KZVNT9hdztuVA8j5Nr1UWLkjnEmUcvhodL7_cHwPIm05Kal_S1dOqUOQKdAuJ_eeZxvtJMjkTTgxBAqsw7U6qRLjTntI6JxQ87uldT5mbGOZYCfCwUfnGvDwa2sShpPb5psbI/s1680/tuhal_iron_hills.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDfI6pk9KZVNT9hdztuVA8j5Nr1UWLkjnEmUcvhodL7_cHwPIm05Kal_S1dOqUOQKdAuJ_eeZxvtJMjkTTgxBAqsw7U6qRLjTntI6JxQ87uldT5mbGOZYCfCwUfnGvDwa2sShpPb5psbI/s320/tuhal_iron_hills.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myndariel in disguise to help Tuhâl rescue some refugees</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-66939983580830849072020-10-24T09:50:00.000+11:002020-10-24T09:50:46.416+11:00Scenic Tour: Eryn Lasgalen and the Dale-lands<p>Myndariel couldn't wait to leave Mordor and enter the beautiful lands of Eryn Lasgalen and the Dale-lands in Northern Mirkwood. The region is also known as the Strongholds of the North. It's a really interesting place with Men, Elves and Dwarves all living in close proximity and they each have their own history and problems to deal with.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Elves of Felegoth</h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FLYUEwlavGlOrgu_i-_OxWM-cAlp3noPV5s3Kyxeje_O1trR2McSxUlA7QASiFOR7SGBgOconBgKyVucLqtRQb4IaLS57Nz5UUnXta2tT3fxSLhfuYLCKvCQRufW2RvvjRP_XVBARlA/s1680/loeglond.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FLYUEwlavGlOrgu_i-_OxWM-cAlp3noPV5s3Kyxeje_O1trR2McSxUlA7QASiFOR7SGBgOconBgKyVucLqtRQb4IaLS57Nz5UUnXta2tT3fxSLhfuYLCKvCQRufW2RvvjRP_XVBARlA/s320/loeglond.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loeglond</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiceOnraz0EONtixIUi4GioCHbNnfpe3HWP1m8oF6Cy9K7polvlh9j9cb-SlniBxfga2rn6zIIjib1oavYcyRMPXnHcdKNCAmgQJ3J8SxRSFNuUFJg10_j-edSv-cngd3E-7QRZuS8sIBQ/s1680/eryn_lasgalen_2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiceOnraz0EONtixIUi4GioCHbNnfpe3HWP1m8oF6Cy9K7polvlh9j9cb-SlniBxfga2rn6zIIjib1oavYcyRMPXnHcdKNCAmgQJ3J8SxRSFNuUFJg10_j-edSv-cngd3E-7QRZuS8sIBQ/s320/eryn_lasgalen_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entrance to Felegoth</td></tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx4lwSP0EJ6yOuHz6oZRy6a2WgqRdLeTdLtu1REjzjFxyh2f1DIriDPcFrciBSYQOmkN4kQGNSNQZofoSKJ3mDXl54ck8REmdi4CiFV7pEmy4wS2GtnVNLqWL4fdvYKO8PxD0msWM89V4/s1680/eryn_lasgalen.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx4lwSP0EJ6yOuHz6oZRy6a2WgqRdLeTdLtu1REjzjFxyh2f1DIriDPcFrciBSYQOmkN4kQGNSNQZofoSKJ3mDXl54ck8REmdi4CiFV7pEmy4wS2GtnVNLqWL4fdvYKO8PxD0msWM89V4/s320/eryn_lasgalen.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eryn Lasgalen</td></tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>King Thranduil dwells in the isolated caverns of Felegoth, deep within the forest of Eryn Lasgalen (formerly known as Mirkwood). Raft-elves live in Loeglond and want more trade with outsiders. <br /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">The Men of Dale</h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkey6OBqQ_69uF3jcPZKKaSa3q3TPlmw1VrJYQuCL4bXHQBKUKRTjnEbL6fzW79mbowpqCUBunROKK3YtRy3OBMwQejk47xXkz5L0Kpzv0OK8YaOg8dx3PsWserxzCfpQ45cXbLTEG9ZM/s1680/laketown.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkey6OBqQ_69uF3jcPZKKaSa3q3TPlmw1VrJYQuCL4bXHQBKUKRTjnEbL6fzW79mbowpqCUBunROKK3YtRy3OBMwQejk47xXkz5L0Kpzv0OK8YaOg8dx3PsWserxzCfpQ45cXbLTEG9ZM/s320/laketown.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laketown</td></tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF4VsC4rgct8TDYNzBYvEiUf6jQJ5bJ5AJDFgf2LvcSntqHLqk-VKgtuNxlWc3kP8WbRc7R1dphwIcqdW5i_bEvOfl0Fya82fgEWfNuWrKeYHi46DeoyCtLT57_9oYJAzgAC91NdTIr24/s1680/dale.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF4VsC4rgct8TDYNzBYvEiUf6jQJ5bJ5AJDFgf2LvcSntqHLqk-VKgtuNxlWc3kP8WbRc7R1dphwIcqdW5i_bEvOfl0Fya82fgEWfNuWrKeYHi46DeoyCtLT57_9oYJAzgAC91NdTIr24/s320/dale.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dale</td></tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Laketown seems to be a magnet for trouble, with a murder mystery to solve. Dale is filled with refugees fleeing from the Jangovar.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Dwarves of Erebor</h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
<tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyrNiNTN7ESnIK_W71kU02Dujl__zWh0bCS0cLyKQDmryQYSY7qW7wHaDf8ZC0lGi0ZWRvdvo8_d7CntE9v-Xyv7rWkZ2Rm1iSnOYBGi4cfF_gVXaXMbgQ1sO3W59LhqpSGJNd6LQUiME/s1680/erebor.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1680" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyrNiNTN7ESnIK_W71kU02Dujl__zWh0bCS0cLyKQDmryQYSY7qW7wHaDf8ZC0lGi0ZWRvdvo8_d7CntE9v-Xyv7rWkZ2Rm1iSnOYBGi4cfF_gVXaXMbgQ1sO3W59LhqpSGJNd6LQUiME/s320/erebor.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Erebor</td></tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="text-align: left;">The dwarves love a good treasure hunt and the Secret Stone is a worthy challenge. The Stout-axe dwarves of Mordor are looking for a new home and it seems a good time to celebrate and strengthen dwarven alliances.<br /></p>Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-54024907313716429042020-10-19T21:24:00.001+11:002020-10-19T21:24:04.464+11:00Long Time No See<p>It's been a long time (2 years) since I've played LOTRO regularly but I've got that itch again. I've mostly been playing Rimworld (including creating my own hobbit shire, elven villages in the mallorn woods and dwarven mead-halls, thanks to the Lord of the Rims mods) and Elder Scrolls Online (which, like LOTRO, has a rich lore). The main reason I stopped playing LOTRO was because I was so frustrated with Mordor. Maybe now I've had a long holiday it won't be so bad. Maybe there have been improvements - so far it seems a lot has changed in game. I've got a lot to catch up on and I'm excited to experience the new stories beyond Mordor - for example, I just saw Myndariel has an invitation in her mailbox to attend Aragorn and Arwen's wedding!</p><p>So I just wanted to say, "Hi! I'm back." I look forward to exploring more of Middle Earth and updating some old articles and writing some new ones soon. Thanks to everyone who has visited or commented on my website - I really appreciate your support and hope you have a great time playing LOTRO.<br /></p>Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-2159082045886601612018-08-19T10:57:00.000+10:002018-08-19T12:03:17.996+10:00Introducing the Warden: Level 1-20The warden seems very much an Elven tradition. Some elves must have stood sentry or patrolled their part of the forest or the road or city for centuries, elves like Haldir, marchwarden of Lothlórien. Such dedication to the protection of their homeland, with time to really hone their skills. Wardens are agile and adept with both spear and javelin to fight either melee or ranged foes. The warden's legacy has been shared and adapted for Men and Hobbits too, with the Dunédain Rangers of the North defending Eriador from the threat of Sauron, and the Bounders of the Shire, defending their villages and way of life.<br />
<br />
Wardens would probably make good chess players - they're always thinking ahead, planning how to join a sequence of skills into a powerful Gambit. They have a unique combo system which has a large learning curve, but determination and dedication is rewarded with a strong class that can handle almost any situation. Wardens can tank or deal damage and with the right moves, can offer group support with some buffs and a little healing. They can be very good at soloing.<br />
<br />
The warden class is not readily available to free-to-play players: you will need LOTRO Points to buy the class (795 points) or the Moria expansion which includes the class (2495 points). <br />
<br />
Here I'll record my experience levelling a warden from level 1 to 20, talking about skills, specs and anything else that might be useful to know. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3LP31YwLzmcPQGEo1Mvqrl6A9FXvzQx-Iyvx0v0FXxf-7I6Qml_fIehW6yYfgqMR4RJA1ZQAG_uwg3-JzMXtSYIUe7ZU7NzvxzGbHu3v4VGAF6ip9bjo7cXnqV49MR17r-J17aikILLA/s1600/lvl1_warden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="643" data-original-width="709" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3LP31YwLzmcPQGEo1Mvqrl6A9FXvzQx-Iyvx0v0FXxf-7I6Qml_fIehW6yYfgqMR4RJA1ZQAG_uwg3-JzMXtSYIUe7ZU7NzvxzGbHu3v4VGAF6ip9bjo7cXnqV49MR17r-J17aikILLA/s320/lvl1_warden.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Level 1 Woman Warden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Here's our brand new warden and some information about her:<br />
<ul>
<li>Wears medium armour</li>
<li>Wields a spear and a Warden's Shield (can also use other one-handed melee weapons)</li>
<li>Primary stat is Agility (although prior to Update 10 it used to be Might and as you can see above, their starting gear still has Might as the highest stat)</li>
<li>Starting abilities are: In the Fray Stance (a melee combat stance), Assailment Stance (a ranged combat stance), Quick Thrust (a fast melee attack), Shield-bash (attack enemy with your shield), Warden's Taunt (a cry that causes Light damage-over-time), Gambit Default (a weak basic melee attack if used by itself, or after the right combination of skills it updates to a special Gambit), and Marked Target (a ranged attack that reduces your enemy's physical mitigation).</li>
</ul>
<br />
Since we only have a melee weapon at the moment, we'll start off in In the Fray Stance for melee combat. The first quest in the introduction provides a satchel with some weapons - a spear, a javelin and a shield. So now we can go melee or ranged. You can swap stances in combat too, so use whichever stance is appropriate. Note that when you change to ranged stance, many of your skills change automatically to a ranged version that has a similar effect.<br />
<br />
When you use your builder skills, icons fill up the Gambit display. There are three icons:<br />
<ul>
<li>a red Spear (often abbreviated as "Sp") activated by using Quick Thrust (melee) or an orange Javelin activated by using Quick Toss (ranged)</li>
<li>a green Shield (often abbreviated as "Sh") activated by using Shield-bash (melee) or Behind the Shield (ranged)</li>
<li>a yellow Fist (often abbreviated as "Fi") activated by using Warden's Taunt (melee) or Warden's Aim (ranged)</li>
</ul>
To remember that the Fist is for your Cry ability, I think of someone angry shaking their fist and shouting at their opponent.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2H5Kq_FVvAYmhW1T9upSdpZ3JdJfo3w74eZK7tuuP1x2uJ8gK3nayFvbZ-_Sx8FVxy39cKEsVn3gtcn5RnfCgzUVSQUFcU6QbdMQDfJw2Dcr0fiyKo2HtF7-bHAIGrPICjyPWSVS6cbM/s1600/gambit_default.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="120" data-original-width="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2H5Kq_FVvAYmhW1T9upSdpZ3JdJfo3w74eZK7tuuP1x2uJ8gK3nayFvbZ-_Sx8FVxy39cKEsVn3gtcn5RnfCgzUVSQUFcU6QbdMQDfJw2Dcr0fiyKo2HtF7-bHAIGrPICjyPWSVS6cbM/s1600/gambit_default.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Gambit display out of combat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx04qwIPWlRzYdnkL03-1S7eXcx0tRBgR1lwnP1alYvcXIWVBXZPRDcLxBfGfiauxRUjznG9MZ-MwLduMhKlF6u7Lmh9GeRI7KXEs8R-E2NU4QaKBgER_swF2jd1tX71I7aDtQRQ3S0bs/s1600/power_attack.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="110" data-original-width="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx04qwIPWlRzYdnkL03-1S7eXcx0tRBgR1lwnP1alYvcXIWVBXZPRDcLxBfGfiauxRUjznG9MZ-MwLduMhKlF6u7Lmh9GeRI7KXEs8R-E2NU4QaKBgER_swF2jd1tX71I7aDtQRQ3S0bs/s1600/power_attack.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gambit display after Spear, Shield and Fist builder skills have been used. See how the final gambit box icon and name of the Gambit updates.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGhxifPELBRfSfC-kKJDP7yfcencTadZG46XBUOe9Vz8YJlHA7aNa_F57J0y-8cgIPR_vCtbN_0Cs1liLYU3in0G08fjJMFvrhpoTy08stDphFIWOBZywLFl67Rw7pHFdoDgYg7rXq-wc/s1600/ranged_power_attack.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="113" data-original-width="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGhxifPELBRfSfC-kKJDP7yfcencTadZG46XBUOe9Vz8YJlHA7aNa_F57J0y-8cgIPR_vCtbN_0Cs1liLYU3in0G08fjJMFvrhpoTy08stDphFIWOBZywLFl67Rw7pHFdoDgYg7rXq-wc/s1600/ranged_power_attack.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The red Spear skill is replaced by an orange Javelin skill in ranged stance. The final icon and Gambit name is slightly different too.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A Gambit may be made up of 2, 3, 4 or 5 builder skills. You unlock the ability to use different Gambits as you level.<br />
<br />
When you reach level 2, you are instructed to visit the Warden trainer. They want you to practice using Defensive Strike on a Training Dummy. This is a Gambit that becomes available after using 2 Shield-bash in a row.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vOf5bcSQJPcTQMzAZmGeEVR-MjH6KwuAIKyZv7MzyHX1zkB4-395OTP3paQAsQwd-q5VhyphenhyphenEgZno5XptRg21t7uSNFSqJYjQfsHJoVo5Sbr17tBcPPpXaxg3QFry0qNLGzJ_K6RThhso/s1600/defensive_strike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="121" data-original-width="322" height="119" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vOf5bcSQJPcTQMzAZmGeEVR-MjH6KwuAIKyZv7MzyHX1zkB4-395OTP3paQAsQwd-q5VhyphenhyphenEgZno5XptRg21t7uSNFSqJYjQfsHJoVo5Sbr17tBcPPpXaxg3QFry0qNLGzJ_K6RThhso/s320/defensive_strike.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shield + Shield = Defensive Strike</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
If you open your Skills panel (default key = K), there is a tab which shows all the Gambits you can currently use. It says that Defensive Strike is a weak shield attack that increases your block chance. If you activate a gambit and don't know what it does, or you forget how to activate a specific gambit, you can look it up there.<br />
<br />
Here are some other basic 2-builder gambits (some are not available until level 13):<br />
<br />
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; border: thin solid silver; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><thead>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><th>Builders</th><th>Melee Gambit</th><th>Ranged Gambit</th></tr>
</thead> <tbody>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Sp + Sp</td><td>Deft Strike (melee attack)</td><td>Deft Toss (ranged attack)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Sp + Sh</td><td>The Boot (interrupt)</td><td>Ranged Boot (ranged interrupt)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Sp + Fi</td><td>Offensive Strike (double attack, morale-tap)</td><td>Ranged Offensive Strike (ranged attack, reduces enemy outgoing damage)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Sh + Sh</td><td>Defensive Strike (shield attack, buffs block)</td><td>Defensive Strike (shield attack, buffs block)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Sh + Sp</td><td>Persevere (melee attack, buffs block, HoT)</td><td>Ranged Persevere (ranged attack, HoT)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Sh + Fi</td><td>Impressive Flourish (melee Light DoT, buffs mitigations)</td><td>Impressive Flourish (melee Light DoT, buffs mitigations)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Fi + Fi</td><td>Goad (AOE taunt, AOE Light DoT)</td><td>Goad (AOE taunt, AOE Light DoT)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Fi + Sp</td><td>Precise Blow (melee attack, Light DoT) </td><td>Precise Throw (ranged attack, reduces enemy defences)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Fi + Sh</td><td>War-cry (AOE melee Light attack, AOE Light DOT, evade buff)</td><td>War-cry (AOE melee Light attack, AOE Light DOT, evade buff)</td></tr>
</tbody> </table>
<br />
A morale-tap is a where the enemy takes damage over time (DoT) and the warden gains health over time (HoT) - you're tapping into <i>their</i> morale pool!<br />
<br />
At level 6 you gain the Hampering Javelin skill, which lets you throw your javelin at a target and slow them down. You can also choose a specialisation.<br />
<br />
The specialisation options are:<br />
<ul>
<li>Blue = Determination - focuses on tanking. You also gain healing and defensive buffs and the skill Warning Shot which is a ranged attack that reduces enemy outgoing damage.</li>
<li>Red = Recklessness - focuses on melee damage, with single-target bleeds and AOE attacks. You gain buffs to attack speed, melee damage and DoT effects, but your healing is reduced. You also gain the skill Shield Piercer which is a ranged attack that reduces enemy block chance.</li>
<li>Yellow = Assailment - focuses on ranged damage and group support. You gain buffs to ranged damage and range from which you can attack, and your gambits have a chance to increase your fellowship attack speed, crit chance or heal allies when they attack your target. You also gain Improved Hampering Javelin which roots and slows a target.</li>
</ul>
<br />
They all sound really good, so I'll try them all!<br />
<br />
At level 7 you get your first trait point that you can spend on your chosen specialisation. You get a new trait point every odd level.<br />
<br />
After completing the introduction, don't forget to check your mail for the adventurer's gift. It contains several useful items and starts a couple of quests, including one that rewards 5 Tokens of Salutations which can be traded with the Barterer for a pocket item that increases run speed plus some health or power potions. The run speed buff can be quite helpful, especially if you don't have a mount.<br />
<br />
I've been levelling in Archet, and I was amazed at the recent revamp of the zone. It looks great - the river is much more interesting with an island in the middle, lovely water reflections and tall marsh grasses; the spider ruins look much more impressive and ruined; and a lot of the cliffs around Archet are gone (so you can run to Chetwood or the Bree-fields). I wish I had before-and-after screenshots to compare.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQRtarNdMQm1mVVWdHHM5ikvHwiz-GAkWP3i1gAZWd27a8R3QHo-qKdqZN9HIaFZ2L89qf6ue9myZtg6onIyHmmbt1mq-eDqz9gpzWJezuxdhyphenhyphensYpJNIk74ZmWbfyeUJ2IJEFEOMaWv5M/s1600/new_hunting_lodge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQRtarNdMQm1mVVWdHHM5ikvHwiz-GAkWP3i1gAZWd27a8R3QHo-qKdqZN9HIaFZ2L89qf6ue9myZtg6onIyHmmbt1mq-eDqz9gpzWJezuxdhyphenhyphensYpJNIk74ZmWbfyeUJ2IJEFEOMaWv5M/s320/new_hunting_lodge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Longer bridge to the Hunting Lodge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzm-aj5ECIWxsaizY8k8NMyoWWG2f4SA3dcdDUA97WRVE8PVgplZmwVJ49xEoquLiSeKdO0R49236NddzJ_y_02Bc8rZcGGA2sBYqlWUYMwedcyZGm-dZ7LXWJZSIPrYgx8oZ0RjrSY7A/s1600/new_archet_lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzm-aj5ECIWxsaizY8k8NMyoWWG2f4SA3dcdDUA97WRVE8PVgplZmwVJ49xEoquLiSeKdO0R49236NddzJ_y_02Bc8rZcGGA2sBYqlWUYMwedcyZGm-dZ7LXWJZSIPrYgx8oZ0RjrSY7A/s320/new_archet_lake.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New island in the middle of the Archet lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiihf9d0g4exqlJnqp2qR8dJYF_Wkxtz3N_2WfA6834i_V4iDOnJi-hUIOgT-7w0mih64JD9zfyJjUmVvyiZfS6YNb2I-FP8pL0UeHth81tSCsTWWZ76SHCqu_vHyEaUQLe-5vq0QdZMRg/s1600/new_spider_ruins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiihf9d0g4exqlJnqp2qR8dJYF_Wkxtz3N_2WfA6834i_V4iDOnJi-hUIOgT-7w0mih64JD9zfyJjUmVvyiZfS6YNb2I-FP8pL0UeHth81tSCsTWWZ76SHCqu_vHyEaUQLe-5vq0QdZMRg/s320/new_spider_ruins.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spider ruins with more ruins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Combe has also been updated. The lumber-mill has developed and has a waterfall nearby and the hills between Chetwood Forest and Midgewater Marsh have been flattened, so they seem much closer.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn44OF_SbLQC1Xjr17hxMVE6y18eENKwTc-_hzhODkBSEks0TW3lR27X_Zd7US67nrGfqav0KUTaHR11BPeMHX4tflz5v33sqRRrV6rdiom_xNoHvt32xNJ2YC8Ki5Oujli499r0XuqUg/s1600/new_combe_lumbermill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn44OF_SbLQC1Xjr17hxMVE6y18eENKwTc-_hzhODkBSEks0TW3lR27X_Zd7US67nrGfqav0KUTaHR11BPeMHX4tflz5v33sqRRrV6rdiom_xNoHvt32xNJ2YC8Ki5Oujli499r0XuqUg/s320/new_combe_lumbermill.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bigger Combe Lumber Camp with a waterfall nearby now</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
So, back to the warden's adventures! At level 10 you get several new abilities: Ambush is a slow-to-cast ranged attack that can daze an enemy and increase your run speed (so you can close the gap quickly). Targets that have been Ambushed or dazed are more vulnerable to the next new skill Critical Strike, which is a melee attack. You also gain some skills to help reset your Gambit display: Quick Recovery will remove the most recent gambit added, while Recovery will remove all gambits.<br />
<br />
You are also now eligible to take part in Epic Battles such as Retaking Pelargir, but although you get scaled to level 100, without all the equipment slots filled and with limited abilities you will be very vulnerable, so it may not be a very successful or satisfactory experience.<br />
<br />
At level 12 you learn a couple of new gambits that are activated by Fist + Spear/Javelin: Precise Blow (melee) and Precise Throw (ranged). Both deal damage, but Precise Blow also adds a Damage over Time component, while Precise Throw makes the enemy more vulnerable to critical strikes.<br />
<br />
At level 13 you can use War-cry, an AOE gambit activated by Fist + Shield that deals Light damage to up to 10 attackers within 10m and also has a Damage over Time effect. It is the same whether you are in melee or ranged stance.<br />
<br />
At level 14 you get Forced March, which is a toggled out-of-combat run speed buff (unfortunately you have to turn it back on manually each time you leave combat unlike the hunter version which is automatic, so I generally forgot to use it), and Careful Step which puts you in stealth mode while out of combat for 20 seconds (and removes the cast time for casting Ambush).<br />
<br />
Around level 13-15 you should get some quests sending you to Bree. At level 15 you will get a class-specific quest, asking you to visit Daisy Appledore at the Bree Jail. She recommends you join Warden Oakhurst's spear training session. When you meet him though, he tells you the training session has been cancelled because there is a real threat to deal with: a group of bandits approaching Bree. He asks you to help hold the line.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHNoRuDAtL_3I4w-H3jdS-zD498KRD0LhtjDHgqLz1ceitTqQ8jM6DEAawX16d_AonJObOXEJM2anbrQB3wwhLNNp4WjlHiuKmNQqCh-dsDrPXcaeUP6HoytRVSevZj-na7kBQdeusadw/s1600/lvl15_classquest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHNoRuDAtL_3I4w-H3jdS-zD498KRD0LhtjDHgqLz1ceitTqQ8jM6DEAawX16d_AonJObOXEJM2anbrQB3wwhLNNp4WjlHiuKmNQqCh-dsDrPXcaeUP6HoytRVSevZj-na7kBQdeusadw/s320/lvl15_classquest.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wardens making an organised defence against bandits</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As a reward for your assistance, you receive a Warden's shield and the title "Spearman of the March". It's a very nice shield.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5lwhYXkG1PjAIufRdQOU2fOTmbk0O_f609KtKtn_D67LALitC7ZvlLK9SZdSeCgfxCCW_azNr4n71w0cshvhyphenhyphenPyk32hqPFJoJbIw20N3WMq0jarIcj5VFKrkJeNS2T5Yn593jrolrbPY/s1600/lvl15_classquest_shield.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="537" data-original-width="413" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5lwhYXkG1PjAIufRdQOU2fOTmbk0O_f609KtKtn_D67LALitC7ZvlLK9SZdSeCgfxCCW_azNr4n71w0cshvhyphenhyphenPyk32hqPFJoJbIw20N3WMq0jarIcj5VFKrkJeNS2T5Yn593jrolrbPY/s200/lvl15_classquest_shield.jpg" width="153" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shield of the Southern March</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At level 16 you get First Aid, which removes a debuff such as poison, disease, wounds or fear from you or an ally. You also learn some more complicated gambits.<br />
<br />
Not only do wardens combine individual gambit builders like the Fist or the Spear to make a gambit, they can combine gambits to make a "gambit chain" which are named after the first skill in the sequence. Generally these involve starting with a 2-builder gambit, then a 3-builder gambit then finishing with a powerful 4- or 5-builder gambit. You can skip steps and go straight to the finisher for example, but you will miss out on the accumulated benefits of completing the chain (i.e. small DoT + medium DoT + large DoT > large DoT)<br />
<br />
Remember Impressive Flourish? Now we have some follow-up moves:<br />
<br />
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; border: thin solid silver; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><caption><b>Impressive Flourish Gambit Chain</b></caption> <thead>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><th>Builders</th><th>Skill (Effect)</th></tr>
</thead> <tbody>
<tr><td>Sh + Fi</td><td>Impressive Flourish (melee Light DoT, buffs mitigations)</td></tr>
<tr><td>Sh + Fi + Sh</td><td>Maddening Strike (melee attack, buffs mitigations)</td></tr>
<tr><td>Sh + Fi + Sh + Fi + Sh</td><td>Conviction (heals nearby allies, buffs mitigations)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We also gain a finisher for the War-cry gambit chain, however, there is a middle skill that you won't learn until later. The War-cry gambit chain skills all have a similar effect, but get more powerful as the number of builders increase.<br />
<br />
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; border: thin solid silver; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><caption><b>War-cry Gambit Chain</b></caption> <thead>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><th>Builders</th><th>Skill (Effect)</th></tr>
</thead> <tbody>
<tr><td>Fi + Sh</td><td>War-cry (AOE Light attack, AOE Light DOT, evade buff)</td></tr>
<tr><td>Fi + Sh + Fi</td><td>Brink of Victory (AOE Light attack, AOE Light DOT, evade buff) [level 34]</td></tr>
<tr><td>Fi + Sh + Fi + Sh</td><td>Surety of Death (AOE Light attack, AOE Light DOT, evade buff)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Longer gambits usually involve alternating two builders. You gain skills later that make it easier to quickly apply several builders at once so you can complete the gambit or chain faster.<br />
<br />
At level 18 you learn the Power Attack and Ranged Power Attack gambits. This is a melee/ranged attack plus a strong melee DoT. It uses Spear/Javelin + Shield + Fist.<br />
<br />
Level 20 is quite a milestone. You get two new skills - Diminished Target which is a ranged attack that reduces the enemy's tactical defences, and Steadfast which breaks you out of crowd control effects like daze or stun. You also gain some passive abilities:<br />
<ul>
<li>you can equip a carving in your class slot which increases your stats and buffs a specific builder (spear/shield/fist) - these are made by woodworkers,</li>
<li>you can use a specific builder battle-hymn during combat to reduce power costs and increase damage for 10 seconds - these are also made by woodworkers,</li>
<li>you can apply shield-spikes to your shield to increase your critical strike chance or change your damage type for a limited time - these are made by metalsmiths, </li>
<li>and you can apply fire oil to your javelin to do ranged fire damage for a limited time - these are made by scholars.</li>
</ul>
You can also take part in skirmishes and train at the skirmish camp. Skirmishes are similar to dungeons where you fight waves or groups of mobs, some elites and a final boss, but can be done solo or in a group and you can have a NPC companion who assists you. You can also buy gear from the skirmish camp, so since some of my questing gear was low-level, I went to the skirmish camp to find some upgrades.<br />
<br />
Here's how my warden looks now at level 20:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4iz-oIArJxnO0XYRF9ToA4MWlvkN2cuAkn8A2KG1wLXNiT9HseXOYP051B5pDY8AHWNaio3KIeT8LGOD-M154VS9HoloP3blA3GLupF3t9u2wMM8g9G1RsSGFs1MJhIq73UZMeV-8uNI/s1600/lvl20_warden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="710" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4iz-oIArJxnO0XYRF9ToA4MWlvkN2cuAkn8A2KG1wLXNiT9HseXOYP051B5pDY8AHWNaio3KIeT8LGOD-M154VS9HoloP3blA3GLupF3t9u2wMM8g9G1RsSGFs1MJhIq73UZMeV-8uNI/s320/lvl20_warden.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Level 20 Woman Warden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Perhaps the hardest part of being a warden is knowing which gambits to use in which situations. These are only suggestions from my limited experience (and using skills available by level 20) and at higher levels there are recommended rotations and tips for dungeons and raids on the forums, but maybe these will help new wardens.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Easy Single-target mobs</h4>
<br />
These may defeat an enemy in one gambit, or could be combined to deal damage quickly. The ranged versions of these skills could be used in ranged stance.<br />
<ul>
<li>Power Attack: Sp + Sh + Fi (powerful attack and DoT)</li>
<li>Offensive Strike: Sp + Fi (double attack plus DoT, plus HoT)</li>
<li>Precise Blow: Fi + Sp (attack plus DoT) </li>
<li>Deft Strike: Sp + Sp (attack) </li>
</ul>
<br />
<h4>
Harder Single-target mobs</h4>
These mobs could be dangerous, so I would start with some defensive skills then once my buffs are up, use some more offensive skills, refresh defences, then apply more damage et cetera et cetera.<br />
<br />
Defence:<br />
<ol>
<li>Marked Target (ranged attack and reduces enemy's physical mitigation) </li>
<li>Impressive Flourish - Sh + Fi (attack plus DoT, plus buffs mitigations)</li>
<li>Persevere - Sh + Sp (attack, buffs block, plus HoT)</li>
</ol>
Offence:<br />
<ol>
<li>Offensive Strike - Sp + Fi (double attack plus DoT, plus HoT)</li>
<li>Precise Blow - Fi + Sp (attack plus DoT)</li>
<li>Power Attack - Sp + Sh + Fi (powerful attack and DoT)</li>
</ol>
<br />
<h4>
Groups of mobs</h4>
Round them up, DoT them up, increase your defences and self-healing, then finish them off individually.<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Goad - Fi + Fi (AOE taunt, AOE DoT)</li>
<li>Warcry - Fi + Sh (AOE attack, AOE DoT, buffs evasion)</li>
<li>Surety of Death - Fi + Sh + Fi + Sh (powerful AOE attack and AOE DoT and buffs evasion)</li>
<li>Conviction - Sh + Fi + Sh + Fi + Sh (HoT, buffs crit defence and mitigations)</li>
<li>Offensive Strike - Sp + Fi (double attack plus DoT plus HoT) to each target</li>
</ol>
<br />
<h4>
Emergency</h4>
If you're in over your head and want to try to escape to fight another day:<br />
<ol>
<li>Hampering Javelin (ranged attack and slows movement speed)</li>
<li>Switch to ranged stance if needed</li>
<li>Ranged Persevere - Sh + Sp (ranged attack plus HoT)</li>
<li>Kite mob while spamming Persevere until they're defeated or you've healed up enough to survive the encounter, or they've given up chasing you. </li>
</ol>
<br />
I then went to the training dummies in the Training Hall in Bree and tested each spec's unbuffed DPS over 3 minutes and took a screenshot at the end to eliminate the effects of DoTs that kept going after I stopped attacking. This was repeated three times for each spec and the best results recorded below. For virtues I had 2 tiers of Patience and 1 tier of Honour and with my 7 trait points I focused on damage-boosting traits where possible. <br />
<br />
Here are my DPS results (collected with CombatAnalysis plugin):<br />
<br />
<table style="border-bottom: thin solid #999; border-collapse: collapse; border-top: thin solid #999; width: 100%;"><thead>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><th>Statistics</th><th>Determination (Blue)</th><th>Recklessness (Red)</th><th>Assailment (Yellow)</th></tr>
</thead> <tbody>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Stance</td><td style="text-align: center;">Melee</td><td style="text-align: center;">Melee</td><td style="text-align: center;">Ranged</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Damage</td><td style="text-align: center;">10168</td><td style="text-align: center;">13054</td><td style="text-align: center;">13065</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Time</td><td style="text-align: center;">3m 0.6s</td><td style="text-align: center;">3m 0.3s</td><td style="text-align: center;">3m 0.4s</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Average DPS</td><td style="text-align: center;">56.3</td><td style="text-align: center;">72.4</td><td style="text-align: center;">72.4</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Minimum Hit</td><td style="text-align: center;">2</td><td style="text-align: center;">8</td><td style="text-align: center;">10</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Average Hit</td><td style="text-align: center;">34.1</td><td style="text-align: center;">39.0</td><td style="text-align: center;">75.1</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Maximum Hit</td><td style="text-align: center;">149</td><td style="text-align: center;">201</td><td style="text-align: center;">277</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Attacks</td><td style="text-align: center;">324</td><td style="text-align: center;">363</td><td style="text-align: center;">188</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Critical Strikes (%)</td><td style="text-align: center;">54 (16.7%)</td><td style="text-align: center;">67 (18.5%)</td><td style="text-align: center;">45 (23.9%)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Power (%)</td><td style="text-align: center;">763/1038 (73.5%)</td><td style="text-align: center;">613/1038 (59.1%)</td><td style="text-align: center;">824/1038 (79.4%)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999; vertical-align: top;"><td>Skill Priorities</td><td><ol>
<li>Marked Target</li>
<li>Impressive Flourish</li>
<li>Persevere</li>
<li>Offensive Strike</li>
<li>Precise Blow</li>
<li>Power Attack</li>
</ol>
</td><td><ol>
<li>Marked Target</li>
<li>Impressive Flourish</li>
<li>Persevere</li>
<li>Offensive Strike</li>
<li>Precise Blow</li>
<li>Power Attack</li>
</ol>
</td><td><ol>
<li>Marked Target</li>
<li>Ranged Deft Strike </li>
<li>Ranged Persevere</li>
<li>Ranged Offensive Strike</li>
<li>Precise Throw</li>
<li>Ranged Power Attack</li>
</ol>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The melee rotation flowed nicely and was fairly easy to maintain, and is the same rotation I was using successfully against elite mobs in the Barrow-downs. I did notice that occasionally a builder would be used and you saw the animation and damage, but it didn't register in the gambit display panel.<br />
<br />
The damage and DPS is lower than I would have expected, but in the Barrow-downs there was a hunter in the same barrow as me and he did kill the mobs a lot quicker. I guess when you wield a shield you can't attack as fast or as strong as someone transferring all their energy into their weapon or weapons. Also, wardens use a lot of builders and the builders themselves are quite weak attacks, but at higher levels you can combine the builders and use the gambits more frequently, so I would expect DPS to be much better then. <br />
<br />
<h4>
General Observations</h4>
<br />
It's great when you can go from mob to mob, and if you defeated one mob before you got to use your gambit, you have a powerful gambit all ready to unleash on the next target. It makes questing feel fast and fluid.<br />
<br />
Persevere was able to provide enough self-healing most of the time, but health potions are still useful. Power potions not necessary at all. First Aid was also really helpful, and even though it only removes one debuff at a time, it has only a short cooldown, so you can get rid of most ill effects quickly.<br />
<br />
Using The Boot gambit for an interrupt was really awkward - usually they could cast a spell faster than I could complete the gambit so it was a waste of time trying. An instant interrupt (i.e. a javelin skill) with a cooldown would be much preferable.<br />
<br />
By level 20, wardens have lots of skills for different situations and they get more as they level and become more efficient which is great. One of the other great things about wardens that isn't available at level 20 is the Muster skills which lets you teleport yourself to specific major towns. The first Muster skill is Muster in Ost Guruth at level 26. Something to look forward to which will be very useful for completing the epic quest and <a href="http://myndariel.blogspot.com/p/travel-skills.html">travelling around Middle Earth</a>. <br />
<br />
<h4>
Specialisations</h4>
<br />
Blue - Determination: The trait tree gives bonuses to skills like Persevere to help with self-healing and Warcry to help with multiple targets, which is great for tanking. The play style was very similar to Red spec and I believe that people who like to round up the mobs they need for quests and burn them down might enjoy this spec which has good survivability.<br />
<br />
Red - Recklessness: I really enjoyed levelling in this spec and found it ideal for taking on single-targets but I could deal with groups or ranged mobs if needed. I would definitely recommend this spec to new wardens for levelling.<br />
<br />
Yellow - Assailment: The ranged damage of individual attacks was a lot higher than in Red or Blue spec, but mobs generally don't stay at range while questing so I found myself changing to melee stance and losing most of the benefits of being in Yellow spec. It was also quite unreliable when building gambits in ranged stance and often would not update the gambit display properly so I had to repeat builders or use a different gambit from what I intended. I think this spec would be most suitable for a DPS/support warden in groups with a tank who could keep the mobs away from the warden so they can get their ranged shots in.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Stats</h4>
<ul>
<li>Agility - your main stat that increases your damage and mitigations (parry/evade)</li>
<li>Critical Strike - increases your damage</li>
<li>Mitigations and Resistances - reduces damage taken</li>
<li>Morale and Vitality - bigger health pool increases survivability </li>
</ul>
<br />
These stats should help make the levelling process a bit easier in the beginning. Look for medium armour or jewellery with agility and critical rating, morale or vitality. If a piece of gear has Fate on it, it will also increase your critical strike chance. The best place to get Mitigations and Resistances at low levels is probably from virtues.<br />
<br />
You can use other melee weapons than a spear, but the spear really is ideal, especially as it has an intrinsic chance to cause a bleed effect and Red spec gives bonus bleed damage.<br />
<br />
Here are some virtues that may be helpful for wardens and how to get them by level 20:<br />
<br />
<table style="border-bottom: thin solid #999; border-collapse: collapse; border-top: thin solid #999; width: 100%;"><thead>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><th>Virtue</th><th>Activity</th><th>Deed</th></tr>
</thead> <tbody>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>INNOCENCE<br />
(physical mitigation, tactical mitigation, resistance)</td><td>Complete 75 quests in The Shire</td><td>Life of a Bounder (Final)(The Shire)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>TOLERANCE <br />
(agility, tactical mitigation, in-combat morale regeneration)</td><td>Explore all the farms in The Shire</td><td>Farms of the Shire (The Shire)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>COMPASSION<br />
(physical mitigation, tactical mitigation, non-combat power regeneration)</td><td>Complete 15 quests in The Shire<br />
<br />
Complete 20 quests in Ered Luin</td><td>Life of a Bounder (The Shire)<br />
<br />
Defender of Ered Luin (Ered Luin)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>DETERMINATION<br />
(agility, morale, in-combat morale regeneration)</td><td>Defeat 60 slugs in The Shire<br />
<br />
Defeat 90 wolves in Ered Luin<br />
<br />
Defeat 90 barghests in Bree-land</td><td>Slug Slayer (Advanced)(The Shire)<br />
<br />
Spider-slayer (Advanced)(Ered Luin)<br />
<br />
Barghest-slayer (Advanced)(Bree-land)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>ZEAL<br />
(morale, physical mitigation, armour)</td><td>Defeat 90 goblins in Ered Luin<br />
<br />
Defeat 90 spiders in Ered Luin<br />
<br />
Defeat 90 Barrow-spiders in Bree-land</td><td>Goblin-slayer (Advanced)(Ered Luin)<br />
<br />
Spider-slayer (Advanced)(Ered Luin)<br />
<br />
Brood-hunter (Advanced)(Bree-land)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>HONOUR<br />
(resistance, tactical mitigation, vitality)</td><td>Defeat 60 spiders in The Shire<br />
<br />
Defeat 90 spiders in Bree-land</td><td>Spider-slayer (Advanced)(The Shire)<br />
<br />
Spider-slayer (Advanced)(Bree-land)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h4>
Pros of the Warden Class</h4>
<ul>
<li>Versatile playstyle - can deal melee or ranged damage to groups or single targets</li>
<li>Has a range of buffs, debuffs and utility skills (e.g. crowd control, stealth, cleanse, out-of-combat speed buffs, teleport spells)</li>
<li>Has good survivability</li>
</ul>
<br />
<h4>
Cons of the Warden Class </h4>
<ul>
<li>Big learning curve - lots of gambits to learn, memorise and use appropriately</li>
<li>Gambit display panel not always responsive, can disrupt rotation</li>
<li>Low DPS (at least at low levels)</li>
</ul>
<br />
I hope this has been helpful. Feel free to leave any questions or advice for new wardens in the comments below.Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-33019023687231355422018-08-04T07:56:00.000+10:002018-08-04T07:56:11.269+10:00Free-to-play ProgressAfter levelling 10 free-to-play classes to level 20, I had enough LOTRO points to get several characters riding and I bought the Evendim quest pack. After taking a few classes through Evendim, I was able to get the Angmar pack and so I have taken a hunter to level 50 and completed Volume 1 of the epic quest and had a great time. I must say, hunters are a fantastic choice for completing the epic quest because their travel skills make it so easy to get around, and they didn't have too much difficulty with any of the quests. It was also nice to revisit Angmar thoroughly - usually I'm rushing to get to Moria around level 46 or so, but the instances in Angmar are awesome, hence why I wrote <a href="http://myndariel.blogspot.com/2018/07/instances-angmar-cluster.html">some guides</a> to them - I had fun there and I hope you will too.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN0UAqRHBK0Oc_CnD_rm412YdbF43gs8A7geGyJNIHRESwOst-P6VkZ54fYRhjOhebCt217ALwkINHeaZxeW_qCWxRME7Xd2yD-f_-oxweRDpB9AqI8bec-wKgazBxZ4IQYW8A5xIseC4/s1600/carn_dum_outside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN0UAqRHBK0Oc_CnD_rm412YdbF43gs8A7geGyJNIHRESwOst-P6VkZ54fYRhjOhebCt217ALwkINHeaZxeW_qCWxRME7Xd2yD-f_-oxweRDpB9AqI8bec-wKgazBxZ4IQYW8A5xIseC4/s320/carn_dum_outside.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carn Dûm in Angmar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As part of the epic quest, my hunter went to Eregion and I was surprised to find that even though I hadn't unlocked the quest pack, I was able to get some LOTRO points for some exploration deeds and the Tham Mírdain instances. Unfortunately, climbing to the <a href="https://lotro-wiki.com/index.php/Ridge-racer">lookout</a> on top of the Hollin hills didn't count, but there's still a great view to enjoy.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKa96RnYPGxL7fpOu2WnA2jLwaO-dIezo7dDeoeyLgVA_NOV0bhpkpC53zSyE9EjsP0NchkLK6pocokoMdAl6bmQ_Ejv77XNyzFbiF-sU2-zQDMJ3NcP7RlePFY_NiKfpVrPlGRnElPM8/s1600/hunter_ridgeracer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKa96RnYPGxL7fpOu2WnA2jLwaO-dIezo7dDeoeyLgVA_NOV0bhpkpC53zSyE9EjsP0NchkLK6pocokoMdAl6bmQ_Ejv77XNyzFbiF-sU2-zQDMJ3NcP7RlePFY_NiKfpVrPlGRnElPM8/s320/hunter_ridgeracer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My hunter on top of the Hollin Ridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After levelling a hunter to 50, now I want to level all the other classes to 50 on my free-to-play account. I've started with the burglar and she's in her early 30s now. Such a completely different play-style to the hunter really makes it feel like a fresh new experience even though I'm doing the same quests. I was worried about the burglar not having many AOE or ranged skills, but she's managing just fine.<br />
<br />
I've been saving up my LOTRO points to get the Moria expansion, so I can get all the quests, instances, the Rune-keeper, Warden and two more character slots per server. I was half-way there, then they had the summer sales and the Eriador bundle was 75% off. Such an amazing good deal I just had to get it even though it cost me all my points. That gives me an extra 5 zones I can quest through and lots more opportunities to earn LOTRO points, so I think it's worth it, but it will take a bit longer to get to Moria. <br />
<br />
I've almost finished levelling my new warden (on my VIP account) to level 20 for the <a href="http://myndariel.blogspot.com/p/class-guides.html">Introducing X Class Series</a>. I've been impressed with the environmental changes in Bree-land, especially around Archet and Combe, but also in the Old Forest. It looks really nice and adds a lot of atmosphere - Archet seems more tranquil, Combe more industrious and the Old Forest is more creepy. It's great to see the developers giving some of the older graphics a fresh coat of paint, so to speak. LOTRO continues to be the game I take the most screenshots in because there are so many beautiful places where the lighting and water reflections and scenery just makes me go "Wow! I wish was there."<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0COf7B8EBjDML3yhevbgwV_qn6GVkjVYseu2UfO3FgMpDBsfa0FHSEKmHRj3TmVR6bhU860i3ViybLYruDVp0BYMs1kLnOjW8hvps4Z_GjmMBvkUb7OxjoyE6fsM3r1CpicL7CSGJJY/s1600/new_archet_ruins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0COf7B8EBjDML3yhevbgwV_qn6GVkjVYseu2UfO3FgMpDBsfa0FHSEKmHRj3TmVR6bhU860i3ViybLYruDVp0BYMs1kLnOjW8hvps4Z_GjmMBvkUb7OxjoyE6fsM3r1CpicL7CSGJJY/s320/new_archet_ruins.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Updated Archet lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-89468229443199096012018-07-08T16:50:00.000+10:002018-07-08T16:50:54.400+10:00Instances: Angmar ClusterAngmar is where the major confrontations with the Witch-King's minions take place in Volume 1 of the Epic Quest, and likewise, the instances here are also epic.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Barad Gúlaran - 6 person instance (level 50)</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLJOsqEdXbCQUBhM4zZUz4DJ4L5XpKvRGxb-9eP9dAHg_xHvXLNvIEiDR_JD_rT7KyVkl148RaeiX8KuQiZvGAvph_9L4q6S2skj-rVUr54H78FF54jdFgUK8Jqs55TECRtFFF-AJRRcA/s1600/barad_gularan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLJOsqEdXbCQUBhM4zZUz4DJ4L5XpKvRGxb-9eP9dAHg_xHvXLNvIEiDR_JD_rT7KyVkl148RaeiX8KuQiZvGAvph_9L4q6S2skj-rVUr54H78FF54jdFgUK8Jqs55TECRtFFF-AJRRcA/s320/barad_gularan.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barad Gúlaran</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The shortest instance, Barad Gúlaran is a fortified tower in the barren wasteland of Angmar where the Witch-King and his servants studied dark arts.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTOyvaCNeuGv_eXX-GKavCyfr1dTmaQdqGNKW1Sh07p4qp3zxWU5v5xCkKNJw0HODvECRkc6wq3L3lKv0qc7jtPVZ2Zu5g-n5Mff6cfCBPDSQtpMsu4Zgl75zR1iVuh-vcWmmAJh978FM/s1600/forvengwath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTOyvaCNeuGv_eXX-GKavCyfr1dTmaQdqGNKW1Sh07p4qp3zxWU5v5xCkKNJw0HODvECRkc6wq3L3lKv0qc7jtPVZ2Zu5g-n5Mff6cfCBPDSQtpMsu4Zgl75zR1iVuh-vcWmmAJh978FM/s320/forvengwath.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forvengwath's chamber</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The first boss, Forvengwath, is at the end of a large hall with a fiery floor. Go around the sides and defeat his guards. He casts a strong aura of dread, so hope tokens may be helpful. He also summons minions who will heal him if they reach him.<br />
<br />
There is a side-hall to the west with stairs leading up to a library. In there is Coblaith, the Gúlaran Sorceress. She drops a piece of Withered Parchment with tips on defeating the Rogmul, and a Staff of Dark Shadows which will also weaken him. On the east, is another library with Afraig, the Gúlaran Sorceress. She also drops a Withered Parchment and a Scroll of Ruin to use against the Rogmul. <br />
<br />
Upstairs leads to the Solar, partially open to the sky, where the wraith Castellan Wistán presides. The sense of dread increases as the fight goes on, so burn him down quickly. He drops a Castellan's Chest Key to open the chest beside him. Inside is the Horn of Arnor and a Withered Parchment, for weakening the Rogmul, and the Key to the Summoning Chamber.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTBdqTocvSxpULz-JRjUTzDLoIBEsD5tAyVJ5nFklm0Ewzw_kU5qg5EUG0JWHDAIIy8F-NcJbQ0ZdLDNU39uq97QIz3R6tTMew0qJ3P5_rLIIGlHKLUe06GePsJvd1kmArD6GSgMhGhm8/s1600/summoning_chamber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTBdqTocvSxpULz-JRjUTzDLoIBEsD5tAyVJ5nFklm0Ewzw_kU5qg5EUG0JWHDAIIy8F-NcJbQ0ZdLDNU39uq97QIz3R6tTMew0qJ3P5_rLIIGlHKLUe06GePsJvd1kmArD6GSgMhGhm8/s320/summoning_chamber.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Summoning Chamber</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The Summoning Chamber is beyond the doors Forvengwath guarded. Inside, Múlvuirë the High Sorceress has Udúnion the Rogmul bound. He fought with Thaurlach during the Breaking of Thangorodrim at the end of the First Age, but was captured by wizards and banished to the realm of shadow. Now he seeks freedom.<br />
<br />
When you approach, Múlvuirë cries that we're all doomed if Udúnion gets free. Then she guesses that you have a powerful staff and she wants it, so she sends her three Caretakers after you. When that doesn't work, she sends tormented spirits and then attacks you herself.<br />
<br />
As soon as she is defeated, Udúnion starts casting streams of fire, so avoid these as well as the fiery immolation zone in the middle of the room. When he calls out his signature ability, get to the appropriate sigil on the ground, use the item to interrupt him, and cleanse any debuffs he applies or it is instant death. <br />
<br />
When he calls:<br />
<ul>
<li>"Shadow take you!" - use the Staff of Dark Shadows on the West sigil.</li>
<li>"Burn!" - use the Horn of Anor on the North sigil.</li>
<li>"Come dark fire!" - use the Scroll of Ruin on the East sigil.</li>
</ul>
<br />
This is a tricky battle with precise timing required. The events can happen very quickly so stay alert. <br />
<br />
<h3>
Carn Dûm - 6 person instance (level 50)</h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6lk0iEPlTdYCXQXCSx90API5HbeWk5Aa5QpjREwI0kZm60u4poBOIBZ4pXMXhzltObVxPbJq5aUmmQVPiu21rV-beDcHUHzXzSJnfL373gayR-DTtMwVST-imJBqQytVmla4mncSmGug/s1600/carn_dum_outside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6lk0iEPlTdYCXQXCSx90API5HbeWk5Aa5QpjREwI0kZm60u4poBOIBZ4pXMXhzltObVxPbJq5aUmmQVPiu21rV-beDcHUHzXzSJnfL373gayR-DTtMwVST-imJBqQytVmla4mncSmGug/s320/carn_dum_outside.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carn Dûm seen from near Tármunn Súrsa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5EzAnTKoK73AJEyW8kmZQZI50kTP5fnUjbNB8aViN8TOAPzkJ9PNpLhpIxRJEnCj6pa-O6NiV4ZBKrMtVp2wDT0CIlumVV-xORWij4XY8kGLifz1X0lz8JEnzELuZXTZ89W5bc6SuxA/s1600/entrance_carn_dum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5EzAnTKoK73AJEyW8kmZQZI50kTP5fnUjbNB8aViN8TOAPzkJ9PNpLhpIxRJEnCj6pa-O6NiV4ZBKrMtVp2wDT0CIlumVV-xORWij4XY8kGLifz1X0lz8JEnzELuZXTZ89W5bc6SuxA/s320/entrance_carn_dum.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to the instance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Carn Dûm is a massive fortified city in the north-west of Angmar that was the Witch-King's strong-hold, and is still controlled by forces loyal to Sauron. The instance is part of the city and is accessed by winding streets full of trolls, orcs, goblins, wargs and Angmarim who don't take kindly to visitors (or, via the instance finder).<br />
<br />
There are several short-cuts to various areas if you have the right keys.<br />
<br />
Once inside, the path leading towards the castle is blocked by a gate that requires the Ornate Grate Key. Without that, take the path to the left heading down to the huts in the Slave-pens near the toxic water.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAqcQRdkwMtLdvyE4VRM3UZxSysnKZZXTpx8UfzPtmrDA9rsDDY9tL9oat88RlJCVAK7NL9zOGLZAnzYiHy2G9K4mjBdgTdTwF0FmZu8Y5uSq3YT0-ZLs0qeo2FQyZDEUSVtL-hFOfk3U/s1600/huts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAqcQRdkwMtLdvyE4VRM3UZxSysnKZZXTpx8UfzPtmrDA9rsDDY9tL9oat88RlJCVAK7NL9zOGLZAnzYiHy2G9K4mjBdgTdTwF0FmZu8Y5uSq3YT0-ZLs0qeo2FQyZDEUSVtL-hFOfk3U/s320/huts.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Head downhill towards the Slave-pens</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In the cliff-face is an iron gate which requires the Iron Grate Key. Without that, take the ramp nearby past the Fell-water Source to another iron gate guarded by Urro. Defeating him unlocks the gates to the Carn Dûm Sewers.<br />
<br />
The sewers are home to leeches and stealthy hornblowers on the raised platform. The passage way opens onto a ledge where trolls and pale-folk are mining the cliffs under Angmarim supervision. Be careful not to get knocked off the ledge! Eventually there is a Gorthorog Guardian and when he is defeated you hear Baraschal call out. Fight past the Guardians and eventually the path will lead up to Baraschal himself. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3HPw-Prr4dsFodpxb-jS45b5pNeq9h5nDfo-2EgeBguJpnGYd_BpGdhWm8wo5eHjq-qoImvUPxinW6rlwiQl7Yt9IogQx_SfbiQG4r_f6n-yJ95Od1lEXr22-WEkElIFo99wdsxb-Fmc/s1600/baraschal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3HPw-Prr4dsFodpxb-jS45b5pNeq9h5nDfo-2EgeBguJpnGYd_BpGdhWm8wo5eHjq-qoImvUPxinW6rlwiQl7Yt9IogQx_SfbiQG4r_f6n-yJ95Od1lEXr22-WEkElIFo99wdsxb-Fmc/s320/baraschal.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baraschal's Domain</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
He causes dread and tries to heal himself and knock you back. When defeated he drops the Ornate Grate Key.<br />
<br />
Head back down. There's a place where you can drop off one platform onto a platform below it with two doors - the one on the left says "Gate" and the one on the right says "Ornate Grate". The Ornate Grate door will take you back into another part of the Sewers, with bigger leeches and Merreveil. One path leads you to some optional Merreveil elites (Bolgrukh, Zûrtith and Tarbâm), the other path leads to a large underground chamber with Helchgam in the middle.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbQHocH9r0zPOlR_htnGCRZIXGEseHWofL-vkL5XFjhhDTo1ND8WbqwkGPN2i5INhiHmxotLYcdgn9_eUxqcp3ahapHqVmS2qVF6BzKhr2o1RkkZ9Io_7lB3AZDRSCxU3W_fUX9irsGg/s1600/helchgam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbQHocH9r0zPOlR_htnGCRZIXGEseHWofL-vkL5XFjhhDTo1ND8WbqwkGPN2i5INhiHmxotLYcdgn9_eUxqcp3ahapHqVmS2qVF6BzKhr2o1RkkZ9Io_7lB3AZDRSCxU3W_fUX9irsGg/s320/helchgam.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Helchgam</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Defeat any tentacles and make your way around the pool to the other side of the cave. He pulls down a pillar and you can get close enough to damage him, but once he grabs onto the floating pillar its time to get back to shore, before he pulls you under along with the pillar. Defeat more tentacles near the next pillar and then he pulls that one down for you to attack him. After a few pillars you should be able to defeat him.<br />
<br />
Exit via the tunnel on the opposite side of the cave from where you entered. It will take you back into another part of the Sewers then follow the left path, but when you see the door that requires an Iron Grate Key, turn right towards the entrance to a ruined tower.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIe-zUkWe7iNK84Nflfy0PZ-3ppFkYM23rnAbYB6cHG38CFqMS4RpuyJVF9BqNIg5B2-cDUuH28ycavs9ZZ2_TDq-WxZY9ug1YNhJZcZNrkTKG9GcTr_zHZ4W17TJUuYaUTYfkJk4yD_k/s1600/sewers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIe-zUkWe7iNK84Nflfy0PZ-3ppFkYM23rnAbYB6cHG38CFqMS4RpuyJVF9BqNIg5B2-cDUuH28ycavs9ZZ2_TDq-WxZY9ug1YNhJZcZNrkTKG9GcTr_zHZ4W17TJUuYaUTYfkJk4yD_k/s320/sewers.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iron Grate door to the left, ruined tower to the right</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Climb the stairs until you see the torches with a gate at the end of the hall, hear Sálvakh talking and see pale-folk. Clear the side rooms. Approach the boss and he will call some Angmarim to help him. Once defeated, the gate opens revealing another door behind it.<br />
<br />
The door opens to a courtyard ahead with Avalgaith surrounded by High Priestesses. There is also a path leading uphill to the north and a path leading south towards some Angmarim guarding a housing area. Go north to a cave with Merreveil and Azgoth. She causes dread and drops the Iron Grate Key which will be useful. Return to the edge of the courtyard. If you have the quest to rescue Erscin, take the path south to the Duvárdain Quarter. If not, or once completed, enter the courtyard but stay away from the boss.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUSEuN463Fsp39IiZpKBYHzzr-pGPeBNcbwt6Vo3-ycgsyqtA11GqHUH591JnVjSEk9YUgAttXX6vELD3aY6t6eEMuYJdT3Q7MVyYsNbAA0dUJQAzzEd7_RFuz_oae2x0wcAcXOOvxNng/s1600/avalgaith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUSEuN463Fsp39IiZpKBYHzzr-pGPeBNcbwt6Vo3-ycgsyqtA11GqHUH591JnVjSEk9YUgAttXX6vELD3aY6t6eEMuYJdT3Q7MVyYsNbAA0dUJQAzzEd7_RFuz_oae2x0wcAcXOOvxNng/s320/avalgaith.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Avalgaith (the Cargûl in red) surrounded by priestesses and mobs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Clear out the Gorthorog and other mobs around the edge first. When you approach the boss, he will call on the healers and become invincible and cast an aura of dread. Attack a priestess and she will summon several pale-folk and then join the attack herself. Once all priestesses are defeated Avalgaith will attack. He has the Terrible Retribution buff - he will reflect Shadow damage at anyone who uses Common, Westernesse, Ancient Dwarf or Fire damage. Once defeated, a small gate beside a banner opens.<br />
<br />
The path winds between some buildings then out onto a wide street with a gate that requires the Ornate Grate Key to the south (leading to the entrance), and a gate requiring the Iron Grate Key to the north (leading to the castle). Head north.<br />
<br />
Tárlakh guards the inner gate to the castle. He summons waves of Angmarim from behind you then attacks. You enter the castle and come into a room full of occupied cells. The door at the end of the room is locked. Clear out the cells and Târlug will come through the locked door to investigate. Stairs lead to a similar room but the cells are empty, and there is an aura of dread. Mormoz and several Merreveil hang from the chandelier in the middle of the room! Focus on Mormoz because when the Merreveil take damage and drop down they run to the cells and summon bats.<br />
<br />
Continue upstairs. Rodakhan is sleeping on the floor in the middle of a chamber, with Angmarim and Dúvardain in cells around the room. Defeat them first or she will summon them to aid her. When she is almost defeated, she becomes invincible and collapses. Múra then comes and heals her to full health. Defeat Múra then defeat Rodakhan.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjspsB-pj7LikO2Rh6LzfPDOumjI0Nqd9KyQeNXZZbjL7oWRAIzKNXiBYwuWgWqWT61m5st7Vjh4qT6heeiwHKMY9iwSxsl2kLuoRdQxjvULSiT3yAcn77fKxpSWmsVSMDvI-KXAIYdDhE/s1600/rodakhan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjspsB-pj7LikO2Rh6LzfPDOumjI0Nqd9KyQeNXZZbjL7oWRAIzKNXiBYwuWgWqWT61m5st7Vjh4qT6heeiwHKMY9iwSxsl2kLuoRdQxjvULSiT3yAcn77fKxpSWmsVSMDvI-KXAIYdDhE/s320/rodakhan.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rodakhan at rest</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Continue upstairs and Gúrthul the wraith waits ominously in the middle of the room. He has the Terrible Retribution buff and an aura of dread and splits into 6 spirits that attack one by one, each calling out a particular class to stun for 30 seconds. After the 6 spirits, Gúrthul reforms in the middle and can be defeated.<br />
<br />
Continue upstairs and you come to a hallway, with a door to the right. The long hallway to the left leads to another door that opens to the Witch-King's Watch, a balcony that looks out over Carn Dûm. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw6LkBcinIB-3rHXfg83MWk-4CJxAYQGPzcVzMKxTAeR0bZyNdZZzaLjC6O8juslZjB3xxp8DsKJsVIMCCMOOEkhN48kcTb9OjLNMBcJGsLIPpJXJxrjaTMapYHa8kXe9g6GjXFtXOmwA/s1600/balcony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw6LkBcinIB-3rHXfg83MWk-4CJxAYQGPzcVzMKxTAeR0bZyNdZZzaLjC6O8juslZjB3xxp8DsKJsVIMCCMOOEkhN48kcTb9OjLNMBcJGsLIPpJXJxrjaTMapYHa8kXe9g6GjXFtXOmwA/s320/balcony.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the Witch-King's Watch balcony</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Once you reach that door, turn around and open the doors along the corridor. A group of Angmarim, then bats and Morroveil, then Gorthorogs and a Cargûl will come out of the side rooms. After the Cargûl, the final door will open to reveal the Witch-King's throne room.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJxzsMCrvuEwjkIb0Gup8Ftkm8jOh8StXSVSwhsFHvW7LQAufKmgD-QlK1Kwzc31x3XlXx-hUPvQXBhV3bH1ND6CeQflCd_Ky5ij6U-hkCnCZrnVtsAfe3NatUrNc5gRYTlcGBhhKBH0Q/s1600/throne_room_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJxzsMCrvuEwjkIb0Gup8Ftkm8jOh8StXSVSwhsFHvW7LQAufKmgD-QlK1Kwzc31x3XlXx-hUPvQXBhV3bH1ND6CeQflCd_Ky5ij6U-hkCnCZrnVtsAfe3NatUrNc5gRYTlcGBhhKBH0Q/s320/throne_room_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seat of the Witch-King</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Mordirith is on the throne. He is impressed you made it so far, but he wants to prove he's stronger. Make sure you have hope tokens for this and possibly power potions. He goes through many phases, splitting into different forms at times: ghosts, crawling hands, forest-trolls, giants. Some forms will try to knock you back into the lava. Eventually he calls on Mordor for aid and the pattern of the Eye of Sauron glows on the floor and he gains a strong dread debuff. He summons several fallen spirits and tries to remove any hope effects so that you'll be weakened. Use defensive cooldowns if needed and burn him down. <br />
<br />
<h3>
Urugarth - 6 person instance (level 50)</h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8u4hMgMS3cekLvUbC6l5X_1_t9Etjtf6Qzqr63eQ_QgcvWHtn-MDsvGcAKhzMMU7xGkWLZprGEwZR9lozDq9N1Hp_uOnhlbzVUXDa9_H1bboZdBELwpf4p-2YqH23v4zVqnaQlkTpboA/s1600/entrance_urugarth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8u4hMgMS3cekLvUbC6l5X_1_t9Etjtf6Qzqr63eQ_QgcvWHtn-MDsvGcAKhzMMU7xGkWLZprGEwZR9lozDq9N1Hp_uOnhlbzVUXDa9_H1bboZdBELwpf4p-2YqH23v4zVqnaQlkTpboA/s320/entrance_urugarth.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to Urugarth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Urugarth is a fortress on the outskirts of Carn Dûm, home to some of Angmar's armies.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenH8ZZb_KEQ8B6Jd3w52emDCy7sY9ylj7popLwUIzmkf_HFBC2w0utogi6twinoUC-q3Zb3lG3Xv7diUyxInsiyBmM44DKC-G16tZggTxZZqhCeZ5RAsaAh1vDLg-4nlElIJTnkRjzGg/s1600/urugarth_inner_entrance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenH8ZZb_KEQ8B6Jd3w52emDCy7sY9ylj7popLwUIzmkf_HFBC2w0utogi6twinoUC-q3Zb3lG3Xv7diUyxInsiyBmM44DKC-G16tZggTxZZqhCeZ5RAsaAh1vDLg-4nlElIJTnkRjzGg/s320/urugarth_inner_entrance.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near the entrance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Upon entering, there are three paths: A bridge on the left, a bridge in the middle and a path leading uphill towards the entrance on the right.<br />
<br />
The bridge on the left is guarded by a few goblins. Across the bridge is a flock of birds and two Uruk bosses, Sorkrank and Burzfîl. They summon more birds during the fight.<br />
<br />
The path on the right leads to Dushkâl's Lair, the feasting-hall of Dushkâl, the leader of the Krahjarn trolls and his followers. He summons a few allies who try to smash you with their giant maces. <br />
<br />
The bridge in the middle will take you to Akrûr, the leader of the goblins, who tries to heal himself. Once defeated, a gate opens on the left beside his platform and leads you onwards.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWubg_aFHBNpJVzAl7Kmc0sYTEiLseW8eDYHjLoxKCK0-qY0gzNbsTz1yBjSgEhTQsogwmeGsLeG0zc2aDC7zFGb2cTH-K59rD0KsdmHp_j7fTaCKW1hQs8IbY8wsHE18BWGg6xpHVUrQ/s1600/akrurs_throne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWubg_aFHBNpJVzAl7Kmc0sYTEiLseW8eDYHjLoxKCK0-qY0gzNbsTz1yBjSgEhTQsogwmeGsLeG0zc2aDC7zFGb2cTH-K59rD0KsdmHp_j7fTaCKW1hQs8IbY8wsHE18BWGg6xpHVUrQ/s320/akrurs_throne.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Akrur's Throne; left gate to Lhugrien's Roost, right gate to Gríshakrum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6hi2jVLBHBX8KayYnFbCLPvHYtJeDkZXyH5tpGF7B5aNmxrb-M2MNUi_5t9ugjtsXJ-pVUrKXkKzkVFfA24NW26eELjwPybVRzFsqv7lVTWeg7NaHUCmaAQsPL62bc6bLYXkN_LCLMLY/s1600/lhugriens_roost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6hi2jVLBHBX8KayYnFbCLPvHYtJeDkZXyH5tpGF7B5aNmxrb-M2MNUi_5t9ugjtsXJ-pVUrKXkKzkVFfA24NW26eELjwPybVRzFsqv7lVTWeg7NaHUCmaAQsPL62bc6bLYXkN_LCLMLY/s320/lhugriens_roost.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lhugrien's Roost</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Some goblins stand on the bridge until they are incinerated by Lhugrien returning to roost on the mountain beyond. Defeat the hatchlings and wardens, then Lhugrien flies down for revenge.<br />
<br />
There is a door to Asht-Shâpol that requires a Steel Key. Without the key, return back to Akrûr's throne and a gate has opened on the other side. The path leads downhill and Gríshakrum and some orcs dance around a bonfire. Just a little further down the hill is the South-western Foul Idol. There are five foul idols and near each one is a torch to burn them down (which summons three guards from Lagmas' Court). The Central Foul Idol is directly east of the first idol. The path then continues northwards through some guarded gateways to the Northern Foul Idol which overlooks a sickly green waterfall. <br />
<br />
The path leads to the Urugarth Kennels which is full of wargs and ruled over by Athpukh and his pet Lâmkarn. You fight the wargs first, then Athpukh.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge_ho9pFlaXBvEaqwgkI3lv-dCNd8fkaczJeOG0QPiMxHCxlJ9jemXH7JBgvOeSBvbRriXWtjWcRIq-tMyXokfTmka3KATqv17UR78eNTxoDT5YEOHIq_PHcC9Af4I1oKxVJgz_Y95Hl0/s1600/urugarth_kennels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge_ho9pFlaXBvEaqwgkI3lv-dCNd8fkaczJeOG0QPiMxHCxlJ9jemXH7JBgvOeSBvbRriXWtjWcRIq-tMyXokfTmka3KATqv17UR78eNTxoDT5YEOHIq_PHcC9Af4I1oKxVJgz_Y95Hl0/s320/urugarth_kennels.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Urugarth Kennels</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Head back past the Northern Foul Idol and turn left at the gateway. It leads to a bridge and a path heading down towards the green river. Follow the path north by the river to the Fell-water Falls and the North-western Foul Idol. Follow the path back, under the bridge and continue south along the river, across a low bridge to the Southern Foul Idol. Head back to the big bridge.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKT6oLn5OWiFIcuHS3iRBE96BOZ1EDGtPcslUQ4M-kDn0CS5gYCWbuYTNaVSTWH9_A6qMb3WJKaSrXpUaydG0co7VoYaw5YpIu1RMKSJMjKaxO4ybZutm7YkC8a-8lntcZ6W-MpdDEIAw/s1600/lagmas_court.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKT6oLn5OWiFIcuHS3iRBE96BOZ1EDGtPcslUQ4M-kDn0CS5gYCWbuYTNaVSTWH9_A6qMb3WJKaSrXpUaydG0co7VoYaw5YpIu1RMKSJMjKaxO4ybZutm7YkC8a-8lntcZ6W-MpdDEIAw/s320/lagmas_court.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bridge to Lagmas' Court</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The bridge leads to Lagmas' Court. Just before the entrance to the courtyard, a path leads down beside the river. At the end of that path, Gruglok and two allies are waiting on a mesh platform over the green water. As you approach, they disappear through a door, the gate closes behind you and you feel a sense of dread as you are trapped in an arena and waves of mobs attack. Finally Gruglok attacks and once he is defeated, you obtain the Steel Key needed to open the door to Asht-Shâpol.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJv55olV2hXWWLsRuTBh_IypKGveCGw9dW0oaynkPkoBZ_XEzy7HjK99-V73F_yK1dGQvd-dsWdFQKK5yxsdlL7Lv9Lr_apl4TMuz3mxCBxUTd2MV2rACGCDRiKir39MRoRb3LHdlrVs/s1600/gruglok.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJv55olV2hXWWLsRuTBh_IypKGveCGw9dW0oaynkPkoBZ_XEzy7HjK99-V73F_yK1dGQvd-dsWdFQKK5yxsdlL7Lv9Lr_apl4TMuz3mxCBxUTd2MV2rACGCDRiKir39MRoRb3LHdlrVs/s320/gruglok.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gruglok's arena</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In Lagmas' Court, Morthrâng the Uruk and his trolls Brízrip and Thordragh await, along with additional guards (depending on how many foul idols you burnt). If you enter the court they will all attack at once, but you may be able to pull smaller groups from range or by using crowd control.<br />
<br />
The ramp at the back of the courtyard leads to the door to Asht-Shâpol. Even outside the door, you feel a strong sense of dread. Inside is Lagmâs and his birds. He started out in the Ettenmoors but proved to be such a tyrant he was promoted to commanding the armies of Urugarth. He has an aura of Piercing Talons that reflects 15% of damage and his birds slow your attacks.<br />
<br />
<h3>
The Rift of Nûrz Ghâshu - 12 person instance (level 50)</h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTXY5empKH93MWl5gTCe0sU7rMVk2EpnvI43t0yPfNIqgaLYVanaWOFtdvS3XUvdzCBtwwtk-r5GtkW9GAjrf95onDsJ6UIB-tj53vFAUza3j9AH2UC-3JBf1xwph-60THVxiiv6oxM4/s1600/rift_entrance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTXY5empKH93MWl5gTCe0sU7rMVk2EpnvI43t0yPfNIqgaLYVanaWOFtdvS3XUvdzCBtwwtk-r5GtkW9GAjrf95onDsJ6UIB-tj53vFAUza3j9AH2UC-3JBf1xwph-60THVxiiv6oxM4/s320/rift_entrance.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to the The Rift</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio7SZL6Vv39oMCGrSPq2Eb4mqIrQlcl1iMNUy4ewRyKDasge0Gu59vFs9M2qgTrPe71Y1VbkQUHLCEVfskSp-iiXNHpDyScdO-cf-mp-7K7z_QGbz83YA6MvZaa-LepwuJx0q3WDHrcMQ/s1600/inside_entrance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio7SZL6Vv39oMCGrSPq2Eb4mqIrQlcl1iMNUy4ewRyKDasge0Gu59vFs9M2qgTrPe71Y1VbkQUHLCEVfskSp-iiXNHpDyScdO-cf-mp-7K7z_QGbz83YA6MvZaa-LepwuJx0q3WDHrcMQ/s320/inside_entrance.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the entrance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Angmar's armies seek to mine the Rift of Nûrz Ghâshu in the far north-east to make weapons, but they have uncovered the Eldgang - fire-giants - and an ancient evil that should not have been disturbed. This is a very story-driven instance. All the bosses have a dread aura so hope tokens are recommended.<br />
<br />
The miner slaves and overseers are afraid of displeasing their tyrannical masters Barz and Zurm. As you reach the bottom level of Bornabar, you find miners taunting a friendly giant called Asmólf of the Eldgang. He asks you to defeat Barz and Zurm before they can dig into his home.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYRdtOphPHrkZ-KWc3Z8TMtrISoQTXX9lHqS2Ss-qO-oiwskdVGOk2GTM7UHZFkrG7JGO25f4R1jztuqqjZJwAkDhUK3rpf-MHwDSS9hWpjynfJt7eB64TXXlP1Sk7eUBeJlwyXmsyO9Y/s1600/asmolf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYRdtOphPHrkZ-KWc3Z8TMtrISoQTXX9lHqS2Ss-qO-oiwskdVGOk2GTM7UHZFkrG7JGO25f4R1jztuqqjZJwAkDhUK3rpf-MHwDSS9hWpjynfJt7eB64TXXlP1Sk7eUBeJlwyXmsyO9Y/s320/asmolf.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Asmólf under attack by miners</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Barz and Zurm are at the opposite ends of Bornabar but both summon slaves to aid them. Once defeated, Asmólf leads you to the Eldgang camp in Upper Nuruidor. They ask you to help defeat the Ghâshfra - fire orcs - who have invaded their home. You find the troll Frûz and his minions not far away. He summons allies whose presence give him the Strength in Numbers buff which heals him.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQdmFNyL73hQXh4AHUHWnP4v3_J78nhmh40GpOqfkG6fReFN8kdALQzQyLskwOl3ebPK3AJQzJVPSOcMSYC8SUvbwo5wpa09Hm0YdvOfIM2UbWgAu-aaIcKngJbi4CosnguumqJxxTuAE/s1600/eldgang_home.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQdmFNyL73hQXh4AHUHWnP4v3_J78nhmh40GpOqfkG6fReFN8kdALQzQyLskwOl3ebPK3AJQzJVPSOcMSYC8SUvbwo5wpa09Hm0YdvOfIM2UbWgAu-aaIcKngJbi4CosnguumqJxxTuAE/s320/eldgang_home.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Eldgang home in Upper Nuruidor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7fu6Vwwmm_8R5EaOsQbdSPX_UMjx7eRsgpyhtf-0FpctZMbGGOsKpMaMOkWVcaXJatmv6JsvSG6XPjWZXrWJ7OsVJgykzFn_cfubC5zZ4L1B3jaM6J3I3eOu6jK-sFUiS4yfIQ_Wh78/s1600/zogtark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7fu6Vwwmm_8R5EaOsQbdSPX_UMjx7eRsgpyhtf-0FpctZMbGGOsKpMaMOkWVcaXJatmv6JsvSG6XPjWZXrWJ7OsVJgykzFn_cfubC5zZ4L1B3jaM6J3I3eOu6jK-sFUiS4yfIQ_Wh78/s320/zogtark.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zogtark and the fire drakes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In Lower Nuruidor, Zogtark and his minions are trying to control fire-drakes. If you get close to his elder fire-drakes he will fight to defend and heal them, while the drakes cast fireballs at you.<br />
<br />
Behind the drakes was a door that leads to the Norbar Approach, which is a lava pit. At the end of the islands (defeat the fumaroles ASAP to reduce fire damage taken) is the Ever-Seer (who has a very strong dread aura) reproaching Narnûlubat. Starting the fight is tricky. You have to step onto the platform near the Ever-Seer, and kite Narnûlubat away from the Ever-Seer and the fire Seers, but not too far or he resets. He hits hard and reflects all damage while the fire Seers live, so the tank will need lots of healing. Wait for the Ever-Seer to leave, then eliminate any Darklings approaching the void hole and the fire Seers (from range because they have a fire aura) to remove the protection from the boss so that he can be defeated.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCqz-wq47yX_ovBTtnBCQ3SDO5Y8kRDaFWt4NBsEqeodGxmn76H2c5WcZ4oKQVjzkGUhFWNsJCAQMrQNitjM6AIeMLQmR_YLchxElZr8Rz0vmpm32TQlKMOG0297ol57cnQud_flrBlE/s1600/ever_seer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCqz-wq47yX_ovBTtnBCQ3SDO5Y8kRDaFWt4NBsEqeodGxmn76H2c5WcZ4oKQVjzkGUhFWNsJCAQMrQNitjM6AIeMLQmR_YLchxElZr8Rz0vmpm32TQlKMOG0297ol57cnQud_flrBlE/s320/ever_seer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Ever-Seer and Narnûlubat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The door opens into Norbar. The Shadow-Eater and Stone-biter are visible behind a gate, so make sure everyone is ready before opening it. Defeat any Darklings that approach and aim to defeat both bosses at the same time as defeating the Stone-biter first causes several adds to spawn. The Shadow-Eater also casts Channelling the Void for a short while which deals shadow damage to anyone nearby.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqex8eIbxNXqAaElTb62bym4s-jpjgIo7PG_pYXqPsbhb6eaIhpCTx6endWFr318JmCbXrcv05Zr9qgWGwx3ykB5A7fSdiAUKmOoxd5pu51Ax1vh7nWQbuWMc9B8rrqOzff7BiOpQILT8/s1600/eimyr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqex8eIbxNXqAaElTb62bym4s-jpjgIo7PG_pYXqPsbhb6eaIhpCTx6endWFr318JmCbXrcv05Zr9qgWGwx3ykB5A7fSdiAUKmOoxd5pu51Ax1vh7nWQbuWMc9B8rrqOzff7BiOpQILT8/s320/eimyr.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thrang's arena</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The next door leads into a fiery arena and the Ever-Seer is giving orders to Eimyr of the Eldgang to destroy "the little people" (i.e. you) who have brought the orcs. He agrees to obey despite his doubts. After you descend the stairs into the arena, Eimyr will attack. He will need to be kited (but avoid hurting him) while waves of fire-orcs attack from the stairs. Defeat the fire-orcs and Eimyr starts to believe you are more friend than foe and leaves. Thrâng, the leader of the Ghâshfra, and four shamans arrive. Defeat the shamans first so Thrâng is no longer invincible or reflects all damage. He still has the Tempered by Flame buff which reduces the damage he takes, so kite him near a fumarole to remove the buff. He occasionally deals a fire AOE that stuns anyone nearby. Once he is defeated Eimyr returns with the Eldgang and thanks you.<br />
<br />
The Eldgang no longer trust the lying Ever-Seer. Thaurlach the Balrog has plagued the Eldgang for centuries, until Glathlírel the Elf and the Blue Wanderers chained him up. Now the Ever-Seer wants to set the Balrog free for his own purposes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieGj2xTr-_j1F5l7IoVWCGkM8rR5O_uASn31skUrjXMrnjKQzi6Rr6q7inqPSSvC3n3WUJpYUq7uJfTDo50L_KGJh6fg-1RQW4macpmtbT5_10Y43E_J5vDUgFOZeXRdM0MbvJCcXX8cs/s1600/glathlirel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieGj2xTr-_j1F5l7IoVWCGkM8rR5O_uASn31skUrjXMrnjKQzi6Rr6q7inqPSSvC3n3WUJpYUq7uJfTDo50L_KGJh6fg-1RQW4macpmtbT5_10Y43E_J5vDUgFOZeXRdM0MbvJCcXX8cs/s320/glathlirel.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glathlírel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLr3DFBaAVjAxst9QbhQ2NKGtIVbI6NaMabBuXIZ4_rraP-Jq2LNh7aJjITa2GhVY-1U8Ax4l4MttwbuzweI2DuU7b8Bzxhu6-uQCBDCDWtRW1WzUfFA_77qqWmVtGxzhJACyV8S1aX4/s1600/thaurlach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLr3DFBaAVjAxst9QbhQ2NKGtIVbI6NaMabBuXIZ4_rraP-Jq2LNh7aJjITa2GhVY-1U8Ax4l4MttwbuzweI2DuU7b8Bzxhu6-uQCBDCDWtRW1WzUfFA_77qqWmVtGxzhJACyV8S1aX4/s320/thaurlach.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thaurlach's prison</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
You enter the Gorthban Approach which leads to Thaurlach's prison. Inside Gorthban itself, you meet Glathlírel and she tells you her history, then takes you to check on Thaurlach. He is agitated and getting stronger, and the water has been corrupted. You must protect her from Darklings and World-eaters while she purifies the water. Once done, she returns to Thaurlach, just as he breaks free from his chains.<br />
<br />
Note: if Glathlírel dies, it's an instant wipe. <br />
<br />
<h4>
Group Strategy:</h4>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpVxV3xACenGIadEVMxURCX-aMMKdXwqqwYDsz_BaEXeTYBXQYPnFbTOm5ilw-cejMFqpZfD8iuzkXl8hURWJoIApV-xcg_YxEIWQNDAmibjXY3BkUaJmMplsLymYScyz44mUlX1uNww/s1600/everseers_room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpVxV3xACenGIadEVMxURCX-aMMKdXwqqwYDsz_BaEXeTYBXQYPnFbTOm5ilw-cejMFqpZfD8iuzkXl8hURWJoIApV-xcg_YxEIWQNDAmibjXY3BkUaJmMplsLymYScyz44mUlX1uNww/s320/everseers_room.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ever-Seer's room at the back</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A tank and a healer stay to keep the elf alive, while everyone else runs to the Ever-Seer's room behind Thaurlach. In there, defeat the Darklings then damage the Ever-Seer and remove any debuffs he applies. Once defeated, turn levers 2 and 3 to unlock the door and remove the Eldritch Renewal healing buff on Thaurlach then return to the elf. Thaurlach will cast Baleful Roar which removes any hope buffs and causes shadow damage. Position him so DPS can avoid his frontal melee AOE attacks and tail swipe. As his health drops he will cast random effects (like dealing more damage or healing) and occasionally put debuffs on anyone in front of him. Once his health gets down to 50k, he starts flying around and landing with an AOE splash that is instantly fatal to anyone nearby touched by the toxic water. When he gets down to 10k he will attack the elf so needs to be taunted off her ASAP, then finish him off quickly.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Solo Strategy:</h4>
A high level ranged player could potentially solo Thaurlach if they:<br />
<ul>
<li>stand behind and to the side of him (be in position before he gets free from his chains) and DPS him faster than he can heal (10k HP/10 sec) or kill the elf (about 40 seconds) (e.g. hunters)</li>
<li>stand near the elf and both DPS him and heal the elf (e.g. minstrels)</li>
</ul>
Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-88975185372933851112018-07-02T12:42:00.000+10:002018-07-02T12:42:52.439+10:00Public Instance: Sarnur<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifRYdyKyT-VkvDWzrm8Umg2Rlek0r9E28iIt1oNHaSLMfndixaw2KYSvDEMKJzttw4tcDkCZSlqLXvaXgxB8gbmCYjAmMLMdwop6TmcpKobvFyf9m7vlHCc1xVwStYmSJW94YTHPbV4VU/s1600/sarnur_entrance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifRYdyKyT-VkvDWzrm8Umg2Rlek0r9E28iIt1oNHaSLMfndixaw2KYSvDEMKJzttw4tcDkCZSlqLXvaXgxB8gbmCYjAmMLMdwop6TmcpKobvFyf9m7vlHCc1xVwStYmSJW94YTHPbV4VU/s320/sarnur_entrance.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to Sarnúr</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sarnúr is a large cavern in the ruins of Orodost, not far from Thorin's Hall in Ered Luin. There is a Dourhand dwarven stronghold, but below are caves filled with trolls and creatures that like the cold, including a dragon. It is a public dungeon with mobs between level 45-50 and a great place to get Thorin's Hall rep (tokens drop from most mobs) and complete some deeds. <br />
<br />
There are several quests available from NPCs in front of The Blue Garrison in Thorin's Hall that give rep. You can reach kindred with Thorin's Hall in a few hours (the goat may be useful in Moria!). There is also Ancient Iron/Ancient Silver and beasts drop Exceptional Hide. Lots of Master (tier 5) recipes drop as well.<br />
<br />
Many of the mobs are resistant to any damage type except Ancient Dwarf, so it would really help to use an Ancient Dwarf type weapon. Most mobs also respawn fairly quickly so keep moving. Safe spots to rest are near the entrances to the Great Hall and the Keep.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAthkrp8cvWzsHj89rY6wP21RBTO2bTVajjXp_4fzQOvijJk9vx-zHm0jo2N4fGDCUYDv7j903BuQo8TtFV2ZTpymANdcv0FNBA5dDwsWaHh5QGgEgFBior1smFqhFbzjv-lyrhIwIEMw/s1600/sarnur.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAthkrp8cvWzsHj89rY6wP21RBTO2bTVajjXp_4fzQOvijJk9vx-zHm0jo2N4fGDCUYDv7j903BuQo8TtFV2ZTpymANdcv0FNBA5dDwsWaHh5QGgEgFBior1smFqhFbzjv-lyrhIwIEMw/s320/sarnur.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarnúr Great Hall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
The Great Hall</h4>
<br />
The entrance level can easily be soloed as it has single or small groups of Dourhands, hendroveil and cave claws (level 46-47). Northpaw is a rare stealthed lynx that patrols and is resistant to most damage except Ancient Dwarf. Latub is a rare goblin that can spawn near the bridge in the middle of the Great Hall, or near the tunnel or stairs leading down to the caverns.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfAZ67hFQ6Bhgow3oU6WQXsRPwlk8zQwq5grY1rl84XDPTcbysgvM1hF0AhTKQzKixQqEgfI9tt4nwPL-97HzKepdQiGH4I38_i7KAnNare70_-qp_fM7PUW2HqzCcRiIzZWPN4n8TKjo/s1600/sarnur_keep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfAZ67hFQ6Bhgow3oU6WQXsRPwlk8zQwq5grY1rl84XDPTcbysgvM1hF0AhTKQzKixQqEgfI9tt4nwPL-97HzKepdQiGH4I38_i7KAnNare70_-qp_fM7PUW2HqzCcRiIzZWPN4n8TKjo/s320/sarnur_keep.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarnúr Keep</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
Sarnúr Keep</h4>
<br />
In the northwest corner of the Great Hall are some large doors leading to the Keep. Inside the Keep are more Dourhands, plus wargs and goblins (level 48-49); they are resistant to most damage except Ancient Dwarf but can still be soloed. Faded parchments for the quest "Gathering Ancient Scrolls" can be found in the main chamber and downstairs.<br />
<br />
There is a tunnel on the right of the entrance that leads up two floors with some chambers and narrow ledges, but ultimately dead ends.<br />
<br />
There are stairs on the left of the entrance that lead to a cave with the Forge of the Blue Dwarves. Beware the freezing water! <br />
<br />
Glúmir is a rare Dourhand that has several spawn locations (dead end tunnel on the left, in the lower cave near the water or on the stairs overlooking the hallway). Defeating him is the objective of the quest "Retrieve the Rune-shards".<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVth5h7X1qAsLKyDCDCJrhwjA0WauMA6UGARo721jbGfyeDKwoGzdP_iuwaOywzmLVIwBuT_tZyIrBdc3XqdkihaX3aru21DUQ98e5xE3n-z_XH6uQ29L3uh9cuojBJIFEke3w5Ez1IJU/s1600/sarnur_caverns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVth5h7X1qAsLKyDCDCJrhwjA0WauMA6UGARo721jbGfyeDKwoGzdP_iuwaOywzmLVIwBuT_tZyIrBdc3XqdkihaX3aru21DUQ98e5xE3n-z_XH6uQ29L3uh9cuojBJIFEke3w5Ez1IJU/s320/sarnur_caverns.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarnúr Caverns</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
Caverns</h4>
<br />
On the right of the Great Hall is a tunnel guarded by Dourhands that leads downstairs. This area is recommended for fellowships as the mobs are in larger groups and there are more elites.<br />
<br />
In the first chamber there are some Dourhands and cave claws fighting some elite Snow-Trolls (level 46-47). Clear out the Dourhands and cave claws then you can kite the trolls if needed. Watch out for their stun and knock back attacks. There are two quests requiring defeating trolls: "Dispatch the Snow-Trolls" and "Cleanse the Ruins of Sarnúr".<br />
<br />
The tunnel continues down and opens into a large area with a shallow river and elite snow-trolls, snow-beasts and snowbears. This area can be seen from the Great Hall as the bottom floor.<br />
<br />
Gâdhâp is an elite level 48 troll who may be guarding the bottom of the tunnel, or patrolling the bridges. Icerender the Snowbeast is a rare level 47-48 elite master that can be found near the river. Brúllug is a rare level 49-50 nemesis of a drake who flies and patrols the caverns. These rares are resistant to most damage except Ancient Dwarf. The fellowship quest "Defeat the Cavern Horrors" asks you to defeat either Gâdhâp or Brúllug. <br />
<br />
<h3>
Deeds</h3>
<br />
Some of these may also count for Ered Luin deed completion (e.g. defeating Dourhands and hendroveil).<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Betrayer's Bane (5 Lotro Points and "Betrayer's Bane" title) - defeat 80 Dourhands</li>
<li>Betrayer's Bane Advanced (10 Lotro Points) - defeat 160 Dourhands</li>
<li>Master of Beasts (5 Lotro Points and "Master of Beasts" title) - defeat 80 beasts</li>
<li>Master of Beasts Advanced (10 Lotro Points) - defeat 160 beasts</li>
<li>Troll-kicker (5 Lotro Points and "Troll-kicker" title) - defeat 40 snow-trolls</li>
<li>Troll-kicker Advanced (10 Lotro Points) - defeat 80 snow-trolls </li>
<li>Avenger of Sarnúr (10 Lotro Points and "Avenger of Sarnúr" title) - defeat the 6 rares </li>
</ul>
<br />
Quests, deeds and tokens from Sarnúr can contribute to notoriety with Thorin's Hall:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Known to Thorin's Hall (5 Lotro Points and "Known to Thorin's Hall" title) - acquaintance</li>
<li>Friend to Thorin's Hall (10 Lotro Points and "Friend of the Hall" title) - friend</li>
<li>Ally of Thorin's Hall (15 Lotro Points and "Ally to the Hall" title) - ally</li>
<li>Kindred to Thorin's Hall (20 Lotro Points and "Thorin's Hall Monitor" title) - kindred </li>
</ul>
Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-53502724221261076122018-06-17T17:22:00.001+10:002018-06-30T06:48:53.208+10:00Level 115 GearMyndariel finally reached level 115 while doing some Erebor quests in Northern Mirkwood. It's been a slow and arduous journey levelling from 105 to 115 and I hope they don't make any regions like Mordor again because it wasn't fun. Northern Mirkwood, on the other hand, is beautiful and a joy to explore and quest through.<br />
<br />
Now that I'm 115, I need new gear. So where do I get level 115 gear?<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Crafted gear</li>
<li>Quests in Northern Mirkwood </li>
<li>Dungeons/raids/instances</li>
<li>Barter with factions</li>
<li>World drops </li>
<li>Auction hall</li>
</ul>
Unfortunately, skirmish camp gear only goes up to level 105 at present.<br />
<br />
The maximum level for legendary items is still level 100.<br />
<br />
<h3>
World Drops</h3>
<br />
These scaled items have no Light of Eärendil and generally no essence slots. Item levels range from about 304 to 315. They can drop from mobs, be found in treasure caches, or for sale at the auction hall. <br />
<br />
<h3>
Quests</h3>
<br />
Some quest chains in Northern Mirkwood reward you with level 115 gear with item level 340. I got gloves from Dale, a helmet from Erebor, and boots from Felegoth.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Crafted Gear</h3>
<br />
Some crafted gear have essence slots and most have Light of Eärendil. Recipes must be purchased from barterers. Crafted gear may be for sale at the auction hall.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Conquest of Gorgoroth (Mordor)</h4>
The Quartermaster (Conquest of Gorgoroth Crafting) has Doomfold recipes for item level 323 to 326 armour, weapons, jewellery and minstrel instruments. There are also superior minstrel instrument recipes for item level 336 instruments.<br />
<br />
The Quartermaster (Gorgoroth Crafting Vendor) has superior versions of Doomfold recipes for item level 333 to 335 weapons, armour and jewellery. Ally standing with Conquest of Gorgoroth is required to purchase recipes.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Men of Dale (Northern Mirkwood)</h4>
The Quartermaster (Men of Dale Crafting) has Doomfold recipes for item level 345 helmets, Will pocket and Will necklace. Kindred standing with the Men of Dale is required to purchase recipes.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Elves of Felegoth (Northern Mirkwood)</h4>
The Quartermaster (Elves of Felegoth Crafting) has Doomfold recipes for item level 345 helmets, Agility pocket and Agility necklace. Kindred standing with the Elves of Felegoth is required to purchase recipes.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Dwarves of Erebor (Northern Mirkwood)</h4>
The Quartermaster (Dwarves of Erebor Crafting) has Doomfold recipes for item level 345 helmets, Might pocket and Might necklace. Kindred standing with the Dwarves of Erebor is required to purchase recipes.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Barter with Factions</h3>
<br />
Gear can be earned by completing quests and tasks to impress various factions and collecting the appropriate tokens of barter.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Conquest of Gorgoroth (Mordor)</h4>
The Quartermaster (Gorgoroth Rewards Vendor) has item level 330 off-hand weapons and shields for barter. Ally standing with Conquest of Gorgoroth is required to purchase items. <br />
<br />
The High Enchanter (Elf-smith) has item level 330 armour and jewellery for barter using Ash of Enchantment. Ally standing with Conquest of Gorgoroth is required to purchase items.<br />
<br />
The Keeper of Mysteries (Vendor of Rare Oddities) has item level 337 armour for barter using Ash of Enchantment. <br />
<br />
<h4>
Men of Dale (Northern Mirkwood)</h4>
The Quartermaster (Men of Dale Rewards Vendor) has item level 340 light armour and jewellery for barter. Acquaintance standing with Men of Dale is required to purchase items (some items require higher levels of reputation).<br />
<br />
<h4>
Elves of Felgoth (Northern Mirkwood)</h4>
The Quartermaster (Elves of Felegoth Rewards Vendor) has item level 340 medium armour and jewellery for barter. Acquaintance standing with Elves of Felegoth is required to purchase items (some items require higher levels of reputation).<br />
<br />
<h4>
Dwarves of Erebor (Northern Mirkwood)</h4>
The Quartermaster (Dwarves of Erebor Rewards Vendor) has item level 340 heavy armour and jewellery for barter. Acquaintance standing with Dwarves of Erebor is required to purchase items (some items require higher levels of reputation).<br />
<br />
<h4>
Allegiance Halls</h4>
Quartermasters for the Court of Lothlórien, Durin's Folk, The Kingdom of Gondor, and Hobbits of the Company have item level 330 armour and jewellery for barter.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Instances (dungeons/raids/challenges etc.)</h3>
<br />
The Featured Challenge Rewards Vendor has item level 340 class sets of armour (with set bonuses) for barter.<br />
<br />
The Plateau of Gorgoroth instances (The Court of Seregost - small fellowship, The Dungeons of Naerband - fellowship, The Abyss of Mordath - raid) are designed for level 105-115 and has gear drops with Light of Eärendil. The item level will depend on the instance level (based on preliminary data from Lotro-Wiki, it appears that at level 115 the item level will be at least 330).<br />
<br />
<h3>
Essences</h3>
<br />
You can purchase Tier 10 essences from:<br />
<ul>
<li>Keeper of Mysteries (Vendor of Rare Oddities)</li>
<li>Quartermaster (Men of Dale Rewards) - requires Kindred standing with Men of Dale </li>
<li>Quartermaster (Elves of Felegoth Rewards) - requires Kindred standing with Elves of Felegoth</li>
<li>Quartermaster (Dwarves Rewards) - requires Kindred standing with Dwarves of Erebor </li>
</ul>
<br />
Crafting essences of your choice may also be an option:<br />
<br />
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; border: thin solid silver; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><thead>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><th>Essence</th><th>Item Level</th><th>Recipe Source</th><th>Requirements</th></tr>
</thead> <tbody>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Shadow Essence</td><td>326</td><td>Conquest of Gorgoroth Crafting</td><td>...</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Empowered Shadow Essence</td><td>330</td><td>Gorgoroth Crafting Vendor</td><td>Ally (Conquest of Gorgoroth)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Abyssal Essence</td><td>337</td><td>...</td><td>...</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Empowered Abyssal Essence</td><td>345</td><td>...</td><td>...</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid silver;"><td>Northern Stronghold Essence</td><td>345</td><td>Men of Dale Crafting<br />
<br />
Elves of Felegoth Crafting<br />
<br />
Dwarves of Erebor Crafting </td><td>Kindred (Men of Dale)<br />
<br />
Kindred (Elves of Felegoth)<br />
<br />
Kindred (Dwarves of Erebor) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I will try to update this if changes occur or I learn of other sources of level 115 gear. <br />
<ul></ul>
Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-60131435168720362182018-06-16T09:57:00.000+10:002018-06-16T09:57:48.880+10:00Introducing the Rune-keeper: Level 1-20Rune-keepers attune themselves to words of power that let them unleash fire or lightning damage, or healing. Both elves (including high elves) and dwarves have a significant history with runes and secret or lost languages and are the only races who can become rune-keepers.<br />
<br />
Rune-keepers wield a rune-stone as a weapon, and carry a special satchel for storing it. Jewelers can make rune-stones and there are three types with slightly different stat priorities: fire, lightning or ice. RKs (as rune-keepers are often called for short) are spell-casters so usually stay at range, although in the lightning spec they often need to be close to their targets. <br />
<br />
The rune-keeper class is not readily available to free-to-play players: you will need LOTRO Points to buy the class (795 points) or the Moria expansion which includes the class (2495 points).<br />
<br />
Here I'll record my experience levelling a rune-keeper from level 1 to 20, talking about skills, specs and anything else that might be useful to know. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdIQivCG-ltBFBeMHG3oPizWalqfz3lf0UaZYggWpk-hKTPpbp87hmtWAmp44jtazc7W8I3Us4Ay3Y1F9d896C8MRKhQjirksqFVKu5kzPU263pTZlcoUfLzgZhZnK171PnZO0yY2he8/s1600/runekeeper_lvl1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="642" data-original-width="707" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdIQivCG-ltBFBeMHG3oPizWalqfz3lf0UaZYggWpk-hKTPpbp87hmtWAmp44jtazc7W8I3Us4Ay3Y1F9d896C8MRKhQjirksqFVKu5kzPU263pTZlcoUfLzgZhZnK171PnZO0yY2he8/s320/runekeeper_lvl1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Level 1 Elf Rune-keeper</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Here's our brand new rune-keeper and some information about her:<br />
<ul>
<li>Wears light armour</li>
<li>Wields a rune-stone (counts as a two-handed weapon but it looks like you're dual-wielding them in combat)</li>
<li>Has a rune-satchel equipped in the class slot</li>
<li>Primary stat is Will (although strangely, Agility is shown as the highest stat at level 1!?!)</li>
<li>Starting abilities are: Fiery Ridicule (a fire damage over time spell that stacks up to 3 times and increases Battle attunement by 1 point), Scribe's Spark (an instant lightning damage spell that increases Battle attunement by 1 point), Shocking Words (an instant lightning damage and stun spell that has a 20 second cooldown and returns attunement to Neutral), and Prelude to Hope (a heal over time spell that increases Healing attunement by 1 point).</li>
</ul>
<br />
This is the Attunement Metre:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpbdG_i0L9Rhfrf8rTtWntsaFkW1-u2RU4jt-kvyFDlI_0ztpsyOBPJp2XGLrMh3AAzSIa3BL7wD_Bwu7btfvNSP4CH4X37jfxrncCp4WLzN3tWcMpKnW1tLwJpOdq2r9jsL4riprKu9Y/s1600/rk_attunementbar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="74" data-original-width="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpbdG_i0L9Rhfrf8rTtWntsaFkW1-u2RU4jt-kvyFDlI_0ztpsyOBPJp2XGLrMh3AAzSIa3BL7wD_Bwu7btfvNSP4CH4X37jfxrncCp4WLzN3tWcMpKnW1tLwJpOdq2r9jsL4riprKu9Y/s1600/rk_attunementbar.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rune-keeper attunement bar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When you are out of combat for awhile, or use certain skills, your attunement returns to Neutral (or Steady-state) in the middle of the attunement bar. Damage skills increase the Battle attunement and little bars will turn yellow to red from the middle towards the left. At 10 points of Battle attunement, the bar to the left will be completely lit up red. Using healing spells will move the attunement towards the right. At 10 points of Healing attunement, the bar to the right will be completely lit up green (but if you were in full Battle attunement, it would take 20 points to move the attunement to full Healing attunement).<br />
<br />
When you start a new rune-keeper, you will find an item in your inventory called "Rune-keeper -- Attunement" and it gives a brief overview of the class that you might find useful (for example, the characters marked on the attunement bar; the symbol like an "F" represents the Sindarin word "Dagor" and means "battle", the symbol like a "b" represents the Sindarin word "Thalas" and means "steady", and the symbol that looks a bit like a "m" represents the Sindarin word "Nestad" and means "healing").<br />
<br />
The first quest in the introduction provides a satchel that contains a better rune-stone. At level 2 you are sent to the rune-keeper trainer who wants you to practise using Fiery Ridicule against a training dummy. They give you a new rune-stone and a handy hint - skill icons that increase Battle attunement will have a red background and skill icons that increase Healing attunement will have a green background.<br />
<br />
At level 6 you get a new skill. Chilling Rhetoric does frost damage and reduces your target's movement speed, but it has a 20 second cooldown which really limits its usefulness.<br />
<br />
Also at level 6 you get to choose a specialisation. The options are:<br />
<ul>
<li>Blue = Benediction of Peace - focuses on healing, especially with heal over time (HoT) skills. You also gain several skills: Rune-sign of Winter is a HoT that also reduces damage taken while Writ of Health is a HoT that can stack up to 3 times.</li>
<li>Red = Cleansing Flame - focuses on long-range DPS, especially with fiery damage over time (DoT) spells that are channelled or have a cast time. You also gain Smouldering Wrath (a fire DoT that is channelled) and Writ of Fire (a fire DoT that can stack up to 3 times).</li>
<li>Yellow = Solitary Thunder - focuses on short-range DPS with instant lightning damage. You also gain Sustaining Bolt which does an instant burst of lightning damage and reduces power costs for skills for 15 seconds, but also resets attunement to Neutral and has a 15 second cooldown, and Writ of Lightning which deals lightning damage and reduces the target's lightning resistance.</li>
</ul>
<br />
So for questing and levelling, Red or Yellow are the main options. For healing in groups or instances, choose Blue. From what I've heard and experienced myself so far, Red has stronger DPS but you have to stay still while you cast. Yellow has instant-cast skills which gives more mobility, and more crowd-control skills, but you have to get close to your target (and you've only got light armour so you're rather squishy), you have cooldowns to wait for and the DPS is more spiky (lightning *is* spiky hahaha, but I meant more affected by procs and crits or lack thereof). However, because they have such different play-styles you should probably try both specs and see which one you enjoy most.<br />
<br />
After completing the introduction, don't forget to check your mail for the adventurer's gift. It contains several useful items and starts a couple of quests, including one that rewards 5 Tokens of Salutations which can be traded with the Barterer for a pocket item that increases run speed plus some health or power potions. The run speed buff can be quite helpful, especially if you don't have a mount.<br />
<br />
At level 7 you get your first trait point that you can spend on your chosen specialisation. You get a new trait point every odd level. <br />
<br />
Here's a cosmetic tip - rune-satchels are typically turquoise and brown, but that might not look good with your beautiful outfit. However, you can dye a rune-satchel and add it to your cosmetic outfit panel, or you can add a rune-satchel to the wardrobe and apply several dyes to match different outfits. Unfortunately there are not many styles of rune-satchel to choose from.<br />
<br />
<table style="font-size: small; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4TSSejVA4FTZR4tAvFN3jKyireP7U-uZLEvXRy-v943MdxKJNxM-vkIPLOKTySd-dW1VPbXmkIiW6xVf_GSn3Si3ur3RrnJq8CAbjY7VVI-c8uExv74V_xxHTSVMYPHxVsVankRo18eg/s1600/default_rune-satchel.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="344" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4TSSejVA4FTZR4tAvFN3jKyireP7U-uZLEvXRy-v943MdxKJNxM-vkIPLOKTySd-dW1VPbXmkIiW6xVf_GSn3Si3ur3RrnJq8CAbjY7VVI-c8uExv74V_xxHTSVMYPHxVsVankRo18eg/s200/default_rune-satchel.png" width="186" /></a><br />
Default Rune-satchel</td><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg3zna59LkgD-zwvNpUqMTxatPIze7FjqBe7jsHLfMBzxypDzh3K7dpnPg4xV0xyCuf8kQA6NqQWwoT6WVvcfOeZ5AaD16zZYtu_wYE2LOOg0aOiSgomXkxYNL-u7Q-fbULvAP9Zti2zk/s1600/dyable_satchel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="585" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg3zna59LkgD-zwvNpUqMTxatPIze7FjqBe7jsHLfMBzxypDzh3K7dpnPg4xV0xyCuf8kQA6NqQWwoT6WVvcfOeZ5AaD16zZYtu_wYE2LOOg0aOiSgomXkxYNL-u7Q-fbULvAP9Zti2zk/s200/dyable_satchel.jpg" width="159" /></a><br />
Rune-satchel dyed Rust</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Here's another tip - you can purchase a Simple Chisel or Simple Riffler from the Rune-keeper Trainer (or metalsmiths can craft better versions) which goes in your ranged weapon slot. Chisels give extra stats (such as increased tactical mastery which increases damage/healing plus either finesse, in-combat power regeneration or critical strike) while Rifflers increase stats and can alter some attributes (such as increased tactical mastery plus either reduced threat, increased Prelude to Hope healing or all Writs have reduced power costs).<br />
<br />
At level 8 you get Shocking Touch, a melee-range lightning spell that dazes the target and moves attunement 3 points towards Neutral. It also has a 20 second cooldown.<br />
<br />
At level 10 you become eligible for Epic Battles such as Retaking Pelargir, but although you get scaled up to level 100, without all your equipment slots filled and with limited abilities, it may not be a very successful or satisfactory experience.<br />
<br />
The next new skill is learnt at level 14. Word of Exultation is a bubble that grants extra health temporarily. It requires you to be in healing attunement, so it may be difficult to apply to yourself in the middle of a fight. If in battle, use a skill to return you to neutral attunement then cast Prelude to Hope (or another healing spell) to activate healing attunement, then quickly use Word of Exultation when it becomes available. The effect lasts 12 seconds and has a 30 second cooldown.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4xD13ichEpwmJKKi7NLcsOeIYlkJ5507eRbcxv_Urh7zocFe4kKkXZ9LRrfI2E2y_dc1Zr9-QaBiO6u_Kl-qCicbN14Y2Nw2Za5Xe7UnMRoazvHKHhv0U9dMB-sNIEsZ7a_z09URD9A/s1600/word_of_exultation.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="385" data-original-width="385" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4xD13ichEpwmJKKi7NLcsOeIYlkJ5507eRbcxv_Urh7zocFe4kKkXZ9LRrfI2E2y_dc1Zr9-QaBiO6u_Kl-qCicbN14Y2Nw2Za5Xe7UnMRoazvHKHhv0U9dMB-sNIEsZ7a_z09URD9A/s200/word_of_exultation.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Word of Exultation bubble</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I've been trying out both fire and lightning specs and I had an interesting experience in the spider grove in Rath Teraig in Ered Luin. In fire spec, I was getting higher DPS if I alternated between Writ of Fire and Fiery Ridicule, but that ended up pulling several spiders into combat with me. I dotted them all up and burned them down but I was taking quite a lot of damage while casting and had to use Prelude to Hope to heal myself. I changed to lightning spec and alternated between Writ of Lightning and Scribe's Spark and I was pulling each spider individually, killing them in a couple of hits and not taking any damage.<br />
<br />
At level 15 Rune-keeper trainers can sell you a better rune-satchel. Basic Rune-satchel of Dagor increases Shocking Words damage by 2%, Basic Rune-satchel of Nestad increases Prelude to Hope pulses by 1 and Basic Rune-satchel of Thalas reduces target resistance to Shocking Touch. Tailors can make even better rune-satchels for level 20+. You also get a quest to visit Techeryn outside the Forsaken Inn in The Lone-lands. They can teach you more about the power of words and runes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ7htIS5aAK0FxUsubEkd6lZji69X0xtTvuv_J07LsANag533CsMl_0_St_RfckyDbl6wsSSx-aeenX2j3QaC6EaoO3bvgr2PmofovWsPdRK8AMNyB9OZr5lus4isq2uNMb6cCSmgm3Yw/s1600/forsaken_inn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ7htIS5aAK0FxUsubEkd6lZji69X0xtTvuv_J07LsANag533CsMl_0_St_RfckyDbl6wsSSx-aeenX2j3QaC6EaoO3bvgr2PmofovWsPdRK8AMNyB9OZr5lus4isq2uNMb6cCSmgm3Yw/s400/forsaken_inn.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Forsaken Inn with Weathertop in the background</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Techeryn asks you to join her on Weathertop for the lesson. A storm rages as you place rune-stones on top of flat stones at Weathertop's summit. Orcs try to drive you off the mountain, but you must hold your ground and wait. Lightning strikes each of the rune-stones then Techeryn explains the rune on the stone represents "thunder-bolt" - you effectively told the lightning where to hit and it did. That is the power of the rune-keeper. As a reward, you are given a new rune-stone and the title "Eye in the Storm".<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJhDTgl4uKqkdXHPtdkvJXoOAiZ6w5claZlWvbz2hDE5zp54AH0Al4icPyQNGcOKEaJWsFXDebC2wV6VEV0ePz9mkNkZ4b7smKd5cYS1nvsR8H2PkpCwrsJ1nkFIP1epNoD4vMwF9YzM/s1600/eye_of_the_storm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJhDTgl4uKqkdXHPtdkvJXoOAiZ6w5claZlWvbz2hDE5zp54AH0Al4icPyQNGcOKEaJWsFXDebC2wV6VEV0ePz9mkNkZ4b7smKd5cYS1nvsR8H2PkpCwrsJ1nkFIP1epNoD4vMwF9YzM/s320/eye_of_the_storm.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "thunder-bolt" rune-stone rests on the flat stone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At level 18 you get two new skills: Scribe a New Ending is a cleanse that removes a debuff (wound/poison/disease/fear) from you or an ally every 2 seconds for 6 seconds (up to 3 debuffs in total - very helpful!). Epic for the Ages is a direct heal with a long cast time, a 15 second cooldown and requires healing attunement.<br />
<br />
You also get two new skills at level 20. Nothing Truly Ends is an out-of-combat resurrection skill and Break the Bonds breaks you out of crowd-control effects.<br />
<br />
Some of my gear was quite low level, so I upgraded my armour and jewellery at the Skirmish Camp. Now Fate is my highest stat, followed by Vitality and Will. Skirmishes become available at level 20 so I did the introduction quests for that too.<br />
<br />
Here's how my rune-keeper looks now at level 20:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Cf8Ej8uRBQMXHKrpDTDGtU3H_n3fopei8O2mWCLY_n6AlTU0gUzJvEEyIiDThSTAC6UAhrpfI7ioz9XytuX3lRatdd-_OeZwY7lU43FpuvoZiHIKnt9K2Cw3Y6McTS_iXAbtB_s_kA8/s1600/runekeeper_lvl20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="709" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Cf8Ej8uRBQMXHKrpDTDGtU3H_n3fopei8O2mWCLY_n6AlTU0gUzJvEEyIiDThSTAC6UAhrpfI7ioz9XytuX3lRatdd-_OeZwY7lU43FpuvoZiHIKnt9K2Cw3Y6McTS_iXAbtB_s_kA8/s400/runekeeper_lvl20.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elf Rune-keeper at level 20</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Then I headed to the Training Hall in Bree and tested Red and Yellow specs' DPS with no consumable buffs active over 3 minutes or until I ran out of power, and took a screenshot at the end to eliminate the effects of DoTs that kept going after I stopped attacking. I repeated this three times and recorded the best result below. For virtues, I had one tier of Compassion and three tiers of Charity. With my 7 trait points, in Red spec I placed 5 points in Deliberate Address for +5% Tactical Damage and 2 points in Conflagration of Runes for +6% Fiery Ridicule Damage, while in Yellow spec I put 5 points in Confounding Principles for +5s daze effect and +25% damage from Shocking Words, and 2 points in Cutting Remarks for +2% Tactical Critical Chance.<br />
<br />
Here are my DPS results (collected with the CombatAnalysis plugin):<br />
<br />
<table style="border-bottom: thin solid #999; border-collapse: collapse; border-top: thin solid #999; width: 100%;"><thead>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><th>Statistics</th><th>Red (Cleansing Flame)*</th><th>Yellow (Solitary Thunder)</th></tr>
</thead> <tbody>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Total Damage</td><td>5912</td><td>11977</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Time</td><td>1 m 24 s</td><td>3 m 0.2 s</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Average DPS</td><td>70.4</td><td>66.5</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Minimum Hit</td><td>5</td><td>54</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Average Hit</td><td>61.6</td><td>113.0</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Maximum Hit</td><td>266</td><td>382</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Attacks</td><td>96</td><td>106</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Critical Strikes (%)</td><td>19 (19.8%)</td><td>18 (17.0%)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Power (%)</td><td>1207/1300 (92.8%)</td><td>1290/1300 (99.2%)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td style="vertical-align: top;">Skill Priorities:</td><td><ol>
<li>Writ of Fire</li>
<li>Fiery Ridicule</li>
<li>Smouldering Wrath</li>
</ol>
</td><td><ol>
<li>Sustaining Bolt </li>
<li>Writ of Lightning</li>
<li>Scribe's Spark</li>
</ol>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>* Data collected by manually reviewing combat log</b><br />
<br />
For Yellow, I tried including Ceaseless Remarks (from the yellow class traits tree) in the rotation but it used a lot more power (only 25-30% power remaining after 3 min instead of 99%) and average DPS was about 60. Instead, using Writ of Lightning and Scribe's Spark until Sustaining Bolt is available worked better. If in melee range, using this rotation and Shocking Words on cooldown produced slightly higher DPS than shown above (about 75 DPS) and also used neglible power.<br />
<br />
For Red, I had a lot of trouble recording the combat because it kept stopping while Smouldering Wrath was channelling. With three stacks of Writ of Fire and Fiery Ridicule, then using Smouldering Wrath, I was getting around 90-110 DPS before it stopped recording, usually around the 15 second mark (so no indication of sustained damage potential).<br />
<br />
So I manually timed 3 minutes of attacking the training dummy then reviewed the combat log. It did not show the full 3 minutes, only the last 90 seconds or so. I recorded the type and damage of each attack (e.g. Fiery Ridicule: 89, Writ of Fire Tier 3: 63 or Searing Words: 45) and whether it was a crit or not. I repeated this three times and recorded the best result above. Under the circumstances this seems to be the best estimate I can provide.<br />
<br />
<h4>
General Observations</h4>
I was disappointed with the rune-keeper - it feels like it doesn't have enough abilities at level 20 to really give you a good idea of what it's capable of at higher levels. Spamming two builder skills and an execute doesn't take much strategy, although maybe keeping track of stacks and procs does (I've heard the BuffBars plugin is recommended). The DPS was much lower than I expected too. It seems this is just the tip of the iceberg and there's a lot more complexity to come. I guess you just have to be patient, but I don't really like waiting for a class to get better - I want it to be fun and interesting from the start. I have two other rune-keepers levelled to 42 that I want to like, but they are still a chore to play.<br />
<br />
If you're going into a difficult battle, try using Prelude to Hope before starting combat so that your health keeps getting topped up as you fight. It's only a small heal though so you may still need potions.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Stats</h4>
<ul>
<li>Will - your main stat that increases damage and healing</li>
<li>Fate - increases survivability (morale/power regeneration), damage and healing (increases critical strike chance)</li>
<li>Morale and Vitality - increases survivability</li>
<li>Critical Strike Rating - increases damage and healing</li>
<li>Mitigations and Resistances - reduces damage taken</li>
</ul>
<br />
These stats should help make the levelling process a bit easier in the beginning. Look for light armour with will and maybe some jewellery with critical strike rating or fate. Morale is always helpful (vitality also increases morale). The best place to get mitigations and resistances at low level is probably from virtues. <br />
<br />
Here are some virtues that may be helpful for Rune-keepers and how to get them by level 20:<br />
<br />
<table style="border-bottom: thin solid #999; border-collapse: collapse; border-top: thin solid #999; width: 100%;"><thead>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><th>Virtue</th><th>Activity</th><th>Deed</th></tr>
</thead> <tbody>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>INNOCENCE<br />
<br />
(physical mitigation, tactical mitigation, resistance)</td><td>Complete 75 quests in The Shire</td><td>Life of a Bounder (Final)(The Shire)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>COMPASSION<br />
<br />
(physical mitigation, tactical mitigation, non-combat power regeneration)</td><td>Complete 15 quests in The Shire<br />
<br />
Complete 20 quests in Ered Luin</td><td>Life of a Bounder (The Shire)<br />
<br />
Defender of Ered Luin (Ered Luin)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>WISDOM<br />
<br />
(will, in-combat power regeneration, resistance)</td><td><br />
Explore Elf-ruins in Ered Luin<br />
<br />
Explore the Old Forest in Bree-land<br />
<br />
Find pages from the Journal of Cardolan in the Barrow-downs</td><td>Elf-ruins Exploration (Ered Luin)<br />
<br />
The Old Forest (Bree-land)<br />
<br />
Lore of the Cardolan Prince (Bree-land)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>IDEALISM<br />
<br />
(will, fate, resistance)</td><td>Find relics of the Dúnedain in Bree-land<br />
<br />
Find flowers in The Old Forest in Bree-land</td><td>The History of the Dúnedain (Bree-land)<br />
<br />
Flowers of the Old Forest (Bree-land)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>PATIENCE<br />
<br />
(physical mitigation, resistance, in-combat power regeneration)</td><td>Explore Dwarven settlements in Ered Luin<br />
<br />
Retrieve spoiled pies in The Shire<br />
<br />
Deliver mail between settlements in The Shire<br />
<br />
Explore the ruins of Bree-land<br />
<br />
Explore the Barrow-downs in Bree-land</td><td>Places of the Dwarves (Ered Luin)<br />
<br />
No Place for Spoiled Pies (The Shire)<br />
<br />
Restoring the Quick Post (The Shire)<br />
<br />
The Ruins of Bree-land (Bree-land)<br />
<br />
The Barrow-downs (Bree-land)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>ZEAL<br />
<br />
(morale, physical mitigation, armour)</td><td>Defeat 90 goblins in Ered Luin<br />
<br />
Defeat 90 spiders in Ered Luin<br />
<br />
Defeat 90 Barrow-spiders in Bree-land</td><td>Goblin-slayer (Advanced)(Ered Luin)<br />
<br />
Spider-slayer (Advanced)(Ered Luin)<br />
<br />
Brood-hunter (Advanced)(Bree-land)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>FIDELITY<br />
<br />
(tactical mitigation, vitality, power)</td><td>Explore landmarks in The Shire<br />
<br />
Explore Dourhand strongholds in Ered Luin</td><td>The Sights of the Shire (The Shire)<br />
<br />
Scouting the Dourhands (Ered Luin)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h4>
Pros of the Rune-keeper Class</h4>
<ul>
<li>Potential to have good DPS at high level (red spec is popular for raiding)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<h4>
Cons of the Rune-keeper Class</h4>
<ul>
<li>Has either limited mobility (red spec) or range (yellow spec)</li>
<li>Can be squishy</li>
<li>Limited AOE at low levels</li>
<li>Low DPS and healing at low levels</li>
<li>Doesn't reach full potential until high level</li>
<li>Lots of debuffs to keep track of </li>
</ul>
<br />
I hope this has been helpful. Feel free to leave any questions or advice for new rune-keepers below.<br />
<br />
Coming soon in the Introducing X Class series: the Warden. <br />
<ul></ul>
Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-70284680215974516252018-05-15T07:00:00.000+10:002018-05-15T07:00:12.499+10:00Instance: Garth Agarwen ClusterGarth Agarwen is the "Fortress of the Blood-maid" in the north-eastern part of The Lone-lands. The story of the Red Maid is told in Volume 1, Book 2 of the epic quest. Radagast the Brown finds that nature has been twisted and the undead have risen around the Red Swamp. Originally the Red Swamp was a pure spring, protected by a river-maid, but war stained the spring with blood and the river-maid was lost. Ivar the Blood-hand is a powerful necromancer and gaunt-lord from Angmar who serves Sauron. He is responsible for raising the dead warriors of Rhudaur as wights, and raising the river-maid as the Red Maid, turning her from a nurturing life-force into a corrupting force of death and decay. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6d7p4dKuKLnKe-hGa_p4KqBcbIcOFmR-Dkn_ncktV_liDRgT4dOL7P9cSfnYNvioh2obYSrjFfm4P_D5ehyvkKfcyGIjaQ7px-AfRSR3McuKQgWOLYBD6Cs0DlOzLcV69yV7noz0t9ns/s1600/ga_entrance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6d7p4dKuKLnKe-hGa_p4KqBcbIcOFmR-Dkn_ncktV_liDRgT4dOL7P9cSfnYNvioh2obYSrjFfm4P_D5ehyvkKfcyGIjaQ7px-AfRSR3McuKQgWOLYBD6Cs0DlOzLcV69yV7noz0t9ns/s320/ga_entrance.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Outer Gates of Garth Agarwen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At the Outer Gates of Garth Agarwen, there is a campfire, a travelling vendor, an Eglain barterer and a quest-giver.<br />
<br />
These instances are scaled to level 32.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Garth Agarwen: Barrows - 3 person instance</h3>
From the entrance of Garth Agarwen, the Barrows is located to the left and up a hill (to the northeast). <br />
<br />
Once a burial ground for the Men of Rhudaur, Ivar the Blood-hand, a servant of Angmar, now inhabits the barrows raising an army of wights and Créoth fanatics loyal to the Red Maid.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq0VK21ZFl7GTd7Ph5z9S5QvFLbxInTkJEKZr2MFsxcrVIpb5d1JMtfurHKcNJgaX-yLWob9pWr37__c0ekczzog1BpBJWDubFGMxDUc6GhM3J3cgwreltRywmqMDccTkz14J9HHzURWQ/s1600/ga_barrows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq0VK21ZFl7GTd7Ph5z9S5QvFLbxInTkJEKZr2MFsxcrVIpb5d1JMtfurHKcNJgaX-yLWob9pWr37__c0ekczzog1BpBJWDubFGMxDUc6GhM3J3cgwreltRywmqMDccTkz14J9HHzURWQ/s320/ga_barrows.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ivar's Crypt in The Barrows</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
You find Sara Oakheart cowering in the Barrows and begging for someone to save her and escort her to safety. After defeating Blogkritar (who heals himself 3 times and summons a wight to aid him each time, and spreads an aura of disease), the gate to Ivar's Crypt opens. He has banners which buff him and he summons minions throughout the fight. There is a challenge to defeat him without killing his banner-wights.<br />
<br />
Ivar's Banner is an item obtained after defeating Ivar that can be taken to a taxidermist and turned into a housing decoration.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Temair the Devoted</h3>
Southeast of the entrance, within Garth Agarwen, Temair the Devoted (a Créoth priestess in service to the Red Maid) patrols around a bonfire on a raised platform. She heals herself and any Créoth near her. She respawns within 5 minutes after being defeated but has no special loot.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAymhu6clwSKO3EmZ4wUvGriUrk3dbF67GfWyyqnVMlU2B7egI3JAg4G1njgT7lIz-bD-VpshGvfJLKdXMS7_tur6QBMEdlCqfbJqJQ3Giei8PWucso6wuWjMIUfDfVdk6dKks7VSgy74/s1600/ga_temair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAymhu6clwSKO3EmZ4wUvGriUrk3dbF67GfWyyqnVMlU2B7egI3JAg4G1njgT7lIz-bD-VpshGvfJLKdXMS7_tur6QBMEdlCqfbJqJQ3Giei8PWucso6wuWjMIUfDfVdk6dKks7VSgy74/s320/ga_temair.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temair the Devoted</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Behind Temair's platform, The Arboretum is accessed through an archway, while to the left of her platform and up some stairs lies the heart of The Fortress.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Garth Agarwen: The Aboretum - 3 person instance</h3>
The Aboretum was once a lush garden, but the Red Maid's corruption has tainted it and its caretaker. Gloom-waters paddle in stagnant red pools, bog-prowlers doze and twisted tree trunks bend away at your approach to reveal hidden paths that lead around the edge of the garden and finally into the center where Grimdark, a corrupted tree covered in beehives, stands guard near some ruined stairs to nowhere. The challenge is to defeat Grimdark without destroying the beehives.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh71MG59KyfoyjZXUJxIUioVSFiQKntRR8YFx4ws7lOIhVU3RDgDZGpWdVgqRw1eg9Z2YATXeWeWPm8dPTWKIlSluFR5gNBHqXzsCdb_gBu7n6qobShvVnWZrSOwu_ZBXInr9bhGMuLItw/s1600/ga_aboretum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh71MG59KyfoyjZXUJxIUioVSFiQKntRR8YFx4ws7lOIhVU3RDgDZGpWdVgqRw1eg9Z2YATXeWeWPm8dPTWKIlSluFR5gNBHqXzsCdb_gBu7n6qobShvVnWZrSOwu_ZBXInr9bhGMuLItw/s320/ga_aboretum.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grimdark</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
Garth Agarwen: The Fortress - 6 person instance</h3>
Near the entrance, Créoth soldiers train while the wight brothers Edan and Esyld guard the Garth Agarwen Gate which leads deeper into the Fortress. Esyld is a ranged healer while Edan is melee and they give each other a damage buff when close together.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg07eBHp7l4mPlJE1uZdmu4rvFkwkc3iW2t25YZdv4lTvviWqXrw0DnIsJzFUu_CcCLYGYfDPMUVed50RLoi-iPVospX1L3ZAGJlAok_Y8u8iSnUJXcKqAqtBw81BYv8kk-f43RWqtJbJ0/s1600/ga_fortress_brothers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg07eBHp7l4mPlJE1uZdmu4rvFkwkc3iW2t25YZdv4lTvviWqXrw0DnIsJzFUu_CcCLYGYfDPMUVed50RLoi-iPVospX1L3ZAGJlAok_Y8u8iSnUJXcKqAqtBw81BYv8kk-f43RWqtJbJ0/s320/ga_fortress_brothers.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stairs leading to the Garth Agarwen Gate</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
To the right of the gate (south), stairs lead down to some ruins where Dúnlang has mind-controlled several Eglain into serving the Red Maid. The challenge is to defeat him without killing the Eglain who will attack the players to defend their new master. This may be done by holding threat on the Eglain and healing as needed until Dúnlang enters the fight, then burn him down with single target attacks. The Eglain are then freed of his control and wish to return to their families and homes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC0BLCy3HLqvnV61f41qXTgB7YJbL7khGoha7hx4No_0JU9fcLthOZfrN3CtsqtXbaMFPBGzjMOs1ou1yWq1RTG-eJOrmvamOX2Z0EWnN8v8YMGBQOVg1FSq55vWvUeMI2tAtKX-dsJOk/s1600/ga_fortress_dunlang.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC0BLCy3HLqvnV61f41qXTgB7YJbL7khGoha7hx4No_0JU9fcLthOZfrN3CtsqtXbaMFPBGzjMOs1ou1yWq1RTG-eJOrmvamOX2Z0EWnN8v8YMGBQOVg1FSq55vWvUeMI2tAtKX-dsJOk/s320/ga_fortress_dunlang.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dunlang and his enslaved Eglain </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Through the Garth Agarwen Gate, wights patrol around a large pool with stairs leading to an antechamber guarded by Vatar. He shows you a vision of how previous heroes who tried to free the Red Maid failed and then attacks. Once he is defeated, crawlers spawn and once they are killed the door opens to the Spring of the Red Maid. Taking the engraved stone from the Old Chest towards the altar will summon the boss. The challenge is to let her followers sacrifice themselves to make her stronger, then defeat her. Once defeated, she is cleansed of corruption and remembers that she was once Naruhel, a river-maid and sister to Goldberry of the Old Forest in Bree-land. She vows to restore Garth Agarwen.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM4AGjr977GZrcLVWIRmLC-tqFyEAZVwryrja8e1tlyjvluo2_SBjB5v1Z6atN1K_cykNcOpS_O99dIcv38Ezo3sHEyloYClGL0dLy6qri0bNE5z_mFIhUOfvyEE1r6We_zyvH8JqMYuo/s1600/ga_fortress_naruhel1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM4AGjr977GZrcLVWIRmLC-tqFyEAZVwryrja8e1tlyjvluo2_SBjB5v1Z6atN1K_cykNcOpS_O99dIcv38Ezo3sHEyloYClGL0dLy6qri0bNE5z_mFIhUOfvyEE1r6We_zyvH8JqMYuo/s320/ga_fortress_naruhel1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Red Maid (before)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMQiSobXFXYemyLclGZ4lhaIR2eGhEXjurRwKsNDOeYkKgEvK1HjT_IcpsOTHp1UP5VPN_vV2OsCan4xyZ-UxYPXDcOQzp2AorNj3vw3qPBGboWoUjpJphi6Z2GwEUiixpla4vP2u2OI/s1600/ga_fortress_naruhel2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMQiSobXFXYemyLclGZ4lhaIR2eGhEXjurRwKsNDOeYkKgEvK1HjT_IcpsOTHp1UP5VPN_vV2OsCan4xyZ-UxYPXDcOQzp2AorNj3vw3qPBGboWoUjpJphi6Z2GwEUiixpla4vP2u2OI/s320/ga_fortress_naruhel2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Naruhel (after)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Naruhel's dress may be obtained after defeating the Red Maid and taken to a taxidermist to turn into a housing decoration.Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-89872199910751931792018-05-14T08:44:00.000+10:002018-05-14T08:52:10.245+10:00Introducing the Minstrel: Level 1-20Minstrels in LOTRO are one of the most unique classes I have ever played in a MMORPG - they wield a musical instrument as a weapon for healing or damage. There are lots of different instruments to choose from and each provide different bonuses, such as drums increase damage, theorbos increase healing, flutes reduce power costs of certain skills and bagpipes can increase critical chance. When you're not busy fighting or healing, you can also use those instruments to play music in-game and there are some amazing orchestras and bands that perform in taverns and towns across Middle Earth (there is even an annual concert called <a href="https://lotro-wiki.com/index.php/Weatherstock">Weatherstock</a> on the Landroval server). Musical instruments can be <a href="http://myndariel.blogspot.com.au/p/woodworker-minstrel-instruments.html">crafted by woodworkers</a>, or purchased from a bard in major towns. <br />
<br />
Minstrels also have three stances, Dissonance provides a DPS buff, Melody allows both limited DPS and healing, and Resonance provides group healing buffs.<br />
<br />
Here I'll record my experience levelling a minstrel from level 1 to 20, talking about skills, specs and anything else that might be useful to know.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibXbaUlzK0Vk8iWqOZSzHbfAMIVcKLtzw0mDS8ug-UZHxLA1le_b6SbXc_zD71hHy7lWmnRRlYxKgOHv97LsT-9ZM4x28Z98Tl2Og_mFaAW8amsXsATreDyXZNrUnytl8VIQsXRl6QssE/s1600/minstrel_level1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="644" data-original-width="710" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibXbaUlzK0Vk8iWqOZSzHbfAMIVcKLtzw0mDS8ug-UZHxLA1le_b6SbXc_zD71hHy7lWmnRRlYxKgOHv97LsT-9ZM4x28Z98Tl2Og_mFaAW8amsXsATreDyXZNrUnytl8VIQsXRl6QssE/s320/minstrel_level1.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Level 1 Hobbit Minstrel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Here's our brand new minstrel and some information about her:<br />
<ul>
<li>Wears light armour</li>
<li>Can wield one-handed weapons (e.g. mace, club, dagger, sword)</li>
<li>Primary stat is Will</li>
<li>Starting abilities are: Dissonance Stance, Melody Stance and Resonance Stance (only one stance can be active at a time), Minor Ballad (a ranged attack that also provides buffs), Dissonant Strike (Dissonance)/Hero's Strike (Melody)/Healer's Strike (Resonance) (a melee attack that heals you or your group depending on stance), Coda of Fury (a ranged finishing attack/heal that requires 3 ballad buffs active), and Raise the Spirit (a direct healing spell for you or an ally)</li>
</ul>
<br />
Minstrels have glowing hands! The first quest in the introduction provides a satchel that contains a better weapon. At level 2 you learn Major Ballad, another ranged attack that also buffs (except in Resonance stance where it only buffs). You are also sent to the minstrel trainer who wants you to practice using your ballads. As a reward you receive another weapon and a basic lute instrument. The lute goes in your ranged weapon equipment slot. Now when you use your skills they will have sound effects specific to your equipped instrument.<br />
<br />
At level 4 you gain Piercing Cry, a powerful ranged attack that also interrupts. This can sometimes one-shot weak mobs. At level 5 you unlock the passive ability to use Fiddles.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9GrgO5BKfj5GHnRSmfuHI78kjBbudN7KBIuCLqB_BwldG4prrlMFGaVFQQqnzE67K3Ez1ngAh1aek2YqWmycI7eThNBO6eSJxn3-mxXo5K6oMf6LMAmZF0R1KGVtIdmGVvkYnBlintB0/s1600/fiddle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="935" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9GrgO5BKfj5GHnRSmfuHI78kjBbudN7KBIuCLqB_BwldG4prrlMFGaVFQQqnzE67K3Ez1ngAh1aek2YqWmycI7eThNBO6eSJxn3-mxXo5K6oMf6LMAmZF0R1KGVtIdmGVvkYnBlintB0/s320/fiddle.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playing the fiddle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At level 6 you gain two new skills, Anthem of War (a group damage buff that requires 3 ballad buffs active) and Perfect Ballad (a ranged attack that also reduces power costs for skills). So now you have three ballads which deal damage and provide buffs, an anthem that provides a damage buff (good for long or hard fights) and a coda which provides strong burst damage. This forms the basic combat rotation. For easy fights you will probably want to be in Dissonance Stance, but for harder fights Melody Stance will really help with passive healing. Resonance Stance is really just for healing so is more useful in groups and instances.<br />
<br />
Also at level 6 you can choose a specialisation. The options are:<br />
<ul>
<li>Blue = The Watcher of Resolve - focuses on providing strong heals. You also gain the skill Soliloquy of Spirit which is a heal-over-time skill, and increased Will and Fate stats.</li>
<li>Red = The Warrior-Skald - focuses on DPS. You also gain Call to Fate which is a strong ranged attack skill, and a buff to damage and range from which skills can be used.</li>
<li>Yellow = The Protector of Song - focuses on on providing healing and group buffs. You also gain Anthem of Prowess which buffs your fellowship's armour, evade and attack speed, codas give extra fellowship buffs and you can have two anthems active at once.</li>
</ul>
<br />
For questing and DPS, Red is the obvious choice. If you want to play a healer, both Blue and Yellow have a lot to offer and it may depend on your group for which will be most useful. At level 7 you get your first trait point that you can spend on your chosen specialisation. You get a new trait point every odd level.<br />
<br />
After completing the introduction, don't forget to check your mail for the adventurer's gift. It contains several useful items and starts a couple of quests, including one that rewards 5 Tokens of Salutations which can be traded with the Barterer for a pocket item that increases run speed plus some health or power potions. The run speed buff can be quite helpful, especially if you don't have a mount.<br />
<br />
At level 8 you gain Timeless Echoes of Battle, a damage-over-time skill that also debuffs enemies, but is only usable in Dissonance stance.<br />
<br />
At level 10 you become eligible for Epic Battles such as Retaking Pelargir, but although you get scaled up to level 100, without all your equipment slots filled and with limited abilities, it may not be a very successful or satisfactory experience.<br />
<br />
Level 12 provides Invocation of Elbereth, a skill that causes a mob to run away in fear. At level 14 you gain Enlivening Grace, a skill for resurrecting defeated allies out-of-combat.<br />
<br />
You learn how to use two new instruments at level 15: the theorbo and the bagpipes. You also receive a class quest, advising you to see the Minstrel Trainer at The Prancing Pony inn in Bree-land. The Trainer tells you the renowned minstrel Piper Prescott is in town and has heard of your talent. He has a challenge for you: Leland Underhill is a hobbit adventuring in Bree-land and likely to get into trouble. You should accompany him as he raids a bandit hideout then compose a song about the experience and perform it at The Prancing Pony. The crowd loves it and Piper Prescott says you deserve the title "Song Warrior" and a new club to help protect you on your adventures.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYMZUEh8s_WlFeUu_JtVtgF9FmTd8HYaNLKmmT_-70wsqhIKTu-qTkcJWBo8xBjjiLE_5kzxRK0dzHrvsswP-Cod7H_n7W4G1aZQcF-hmfTPuMaKYYP_WHQ1uU_d-SptB6dm6AP1O38o/s1600/prancing_pony_level15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYMZUEh8s_WlFeUu_JtVtgF9FmTd8HYaNLKmmT_-70wsqhIKTu-qTkcJWBo8xBjjiLE_5kzxRK0dzHrvsswP-Cod7H_n7W4G1aZQcF-hmfTPuMaKYYP_WHQ1uU_d-SptB6dm6AP1O38o/s320/prancing_pony_level15.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perform at The Prancing Pony in Bree</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At level 16 you gain some more healing skills: Bolster Courage, a direct heal with a long cast time, and Story of Courage, a cleansing skill that removes a Wound, Poison, Disease or Fear debuff from the target.<br />
<br />
No new skills until level 20, but then you get a lot of changes! You get a group heal, Inspire Fellows, and Spirit of Freedom will break you out of most crowd-control situations. You can use shields in your off-hand and journeyman woodworker crafted instruments with bonus effects become available to use.<br />
<br />
You can also take part in skirmishes and find gear at Skirmish Camps. Some of my questing gear was low level or non-existent (e.g. I never got a necklace), so after I hit level 20 in the Barrow-Downs I headed to the Skirmish Camp to find some upgrades.<br />
<br />
Here's how her stats look now at level 20:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzow9P-PhOrRDdtjsX2PZCGgshktcwA2wRdVvcu-MAoFAqD7VrTJ7qFv2iGizhOMjV1wSoPlGVC_GJVbSsdUC1Bo8-iZHOIW8A941f4C5vtVchJFDnVROTrQzq4AoTyAdqEe92kS0LOTw/s1600/minstrel_level20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="642" data-original-width="710" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzow9P-PhOrRDdtjsX2PZCGgshktcwA2wRdVvcu-MAoFAqD7VrTJ7qFv2iGizhOMjV1wSoPlGVC_GJVbSsdUC1Bo8-iZHOIW8A941f4C5vtVchJFDnVROTrQzq4AoTyAdqEe92kS0LOTw/s320/minstrel_level20.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Level 20 Hobbit Minstrel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Then I headed to the Training Hall in Bree and tested Red spec's DPS (in Dissonance stance) with no consumable buffs active over 3 minutes or until I ran out of power, and took a screenshot at the end to eliminate the effects of DoTs that kept going after I stopped attacking. I repeated this three times and recorded the best result below. For virtues, I had two tiers of Innocence and one tier of Honour. With my 7 trait points, I had 5 points in The Fundamentals (increases Ballad and Coda damage) and 2 points in Discordant Cries (increases damage of Cries).<br />
<br />
Here are my DPS results (collected with the CombatAnalysis plugin):<br />
<table style="border-bottom: thin solid #999; border-collapse: collapse; border-top: thin solid #999; width: 100%;"><thead>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><th>Statistics</th><th>Red (The Warrior-Skald)</th></tr>
</thead> <tbody>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Total Damage</td><td>19172</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Time</td><td>3 m 0.2 s</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Average DPS</td><td>106.4</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Minimum Hit</td><td>48</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Average Hit</td><td>197.6</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Maximum Hit</td><td>891</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Attacks</td><td>97</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Critical Strikes (%)</td><td>17 (17.5%)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>Power (%)</td><td>534/1326 (40.3%)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td style="vertical-align: top;">Skill Priorities:</td><td><ol>
<li>Minor Ballad</li>
<li>Major Ballad</li>
<li>Perfect Ballad</li>
<li>Anthem of War</li>
<li>Call to Fate</li>
<li>Dissonant Piercing Cry</li>
<li>Coda of Fury </li>
</ol>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h4>
General Observations</h4>
I really like how the minstrel has both sustained and burst damage and they can work together to make a really smooth rotation. Plus since all the skills are instant-cast, she can maintain great mobility and kill most mobs before they get near her. But wait there's more: great self-healing, especially in Melody stance. And while she didn't have any AOE skills in Dissonance stance by default, you can put a trait point in Call of Oromë for an AOE attack that hits 3 targets, or in Melody stance Coda of Fury becomes Coda of Melody which does AOE damage. She didn't have a lot of utility skills, but it seemed to be enough. Levelling the minstrel was a breeze.<br />
<br />
At higher levels you gain some more heals, bubbles which absorb damage, AOE damage skills, threat-reducing skills and a combat resurrection. From Moria onwards, you will be able to get legendary melee weapons and a music book that goes in your class slot. You can also learn to mentor other players and teach them how to use various musical instruments. <br />
<br />
<h4>
Stats</h4>
<ul>
<li>Will - your main stat that increases damage and healing</li>
<li>Fate - increases survivability (morale/power regeneration), damage and healing (increases critical strike chance)</li>
<li>Morale and Vitality - increases survivability</li>
<li>Critical Strike Rating - increases damage and healing</li>
<li>Mitigations and Resistances - reduces damage taken</li>
</ul>
<br />
These stats should help make the levelling process a bit easier in the beginning. Look for light armour with will and maybe some jewellery with critical strike rating or fate. Morale is always helpful (vitality also increases morale). The best place to get mitigations and resistances at low level is probably from virtues. <br />
<br />
Here are some virtues that may be helpful for Minstrels and how to get them by level 20:<br />
<br />
<table style="border-bottom: thin solid #999; border-collapse: collapse; border-top: thin solid #999; width: 100%;"><thead>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><th>Virtue</th><th>Activity</th><th>Deed</th></tr>
</thead> <tbody>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>INNOCENCE<br />
<br />
(physical mitigation, tactical mitigation, resistance)</td><td>Complete 75 quests in The Shire</td><td>Life of a Bounder (Final)(The Shire)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>COMPASSION<br />
<br />
(physical mitigation, tactical mitigation, non-combat power regeneration)</td><td>Complete 15 quests in The Shire<br />
<br />
Complete 20 quests in Ered Luin</td><td>Life of a Bounder (The Shire)<br />
<br />
Defender of Ered Luin (Ered Luin)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>WISDOM<br />
<br />
(will, in-combat power regeneration, resistance)</td><td><br />
Explore Elf-ruins in Ered Luin<br />
<br />
Explore the Old Forest in Bree-land<br />
<br />
Find pages from the Journal of Cardolan in the Barrow-downs</td><td>Elf-ruins Exploration (Ered Luin)<br />
<br />
The Old Forest (Bree-land)<br />
<br />
Lore of the Cardolan Prince (Bree-land)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>IDEALISM<br />
<br />
(will, fate, resistance)</td><td>Find relics of the Dúnedain in Bree-land<br />
<br />
Find flowers in The Old Forest in Bree-land</td><td>The History of the Dúnedain (Bree-land)<br />
<br />
Flowers of the Old Forest (Bree-land)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>PATIENCE<br />
<br />
(physical mitigation, resistance, in-combat power regeneration)</td><td>Explore Dwarven settlements in Ered Luin<br />
<br />
Retrieve spoiled pies in The Shire<br />
<br />
Deliver mail between settlements in The Shire<br />
<br />
Explore the ruins of Bree-land<br />
<br />
Explore the Barrow-downs in Bree-land</td><td>Places of the Dwarves (Ered Luin)<br />
<br />
No Place for Spoiled Pies (The Shire)<br />
<br />
Restoring the Quick Post (The Shire)<br />
<br />
The Ruins of Bree-land (Bree-land)<br />
<br />
The Barrow-downs (Bree-land)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>ZEAL<br />
<br />
(morale, physical mitigation, armour)</td><td>Defeat 90 goblins in Ered Luin<br />
<br />
Defeat 90 spiders in Ered Luin<br />
<br />
Defeat 90 Barrow-spiders in Bree-land</td><td>Goblin-slayer (Advanced)(Ered Luin)<br />
<br />
Spider-slayer (Advanced)(Ered Luin)<br />
<br />
Brood-hunter (Advanced)(Bree-land)</td></tr>
<tr style="border-bottom: thin solid #999;"><td>FIDELITY<br />
<br />
(tactical mitigation, vitality, power)</td><td>Explore landmarks in The Shire<br />
<br />
Explore Dourhand strongholds in Ered Luin</td><td>The Sights of the Shire (The Shire)<br />
<br />
Scouting the Dourhands (Ered Luin)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h4>
Pros of the Minstrel Class</h4>
<ul>
<li>Good mobility</li>
<li>Good healing</li>
<li>Reasonable burst and sustained damage against single targets</li>
<li>Fun, unique playstyle using musical instruments</li>
</ul>
<br />
<h4>
Cons of the Minstrel Class</h4>
<ul>
<li>Can be squishy</li>
<li>Limited AOE damage at low levels</li>
<li>Noisy - musical sounds effects and shouting may get annoying</li>
</ul>
<br />
I hope this has been helpful. Feel free to leave any questions or advice for new minstrels below.<br />
<br />
Coming soon in the Introducing X Class series: the Rune-keeper. Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-75576047384512489472018-04-22T11:12:00.000+10:002018-05-17T05:37:22.264+10:00LOTRO's Eleventh AnniversaryI've been taking a break from LOTRO for a few months because I got frustrated questing in Mordor. I've been playing Elder Scrolls Online and Path of Exile instead, but when I heard about LOTRO's 11th Anniversary coming up, Myndariel was quick to return to The Party Tree (a week too early). While I waited for the festival, Myndariel has been levelling in The Wastes instead of Mordor, finished off the last of the epic quests (now completed all four volumes) and bought a premium home in Belfalas because her personal home near Bree is full of decorations collected over time and across Middle Earth.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwX4YaTEtnIeF1Nk_B0pHwxAjr16q-OZ4A72sHCQS9AwQiw9jhPV-sliyknZ3dNvSB5WLU2RgO56oQQET31q-NX99BotE9ZXCswub8JzHmnMzJ8LmLCo_xniCrWII1tw1H0MAo14dCc6E/s1600/myndariels_belfalas_house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwX4YaTEtnIeF1Nk_B0pHwxAjr16q-OZ4A72sHCQS9AwQiw9jhPV-sliyknZ3dNvSB5WLU2RgO56oQQET31q-NX99BotE9ZXCswub8JzHmnMzJ8LmLCo_xniCrWII1tw1H0MAo14dCc6E/s320/myndariels_belfalas_house.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myndariel's holiday home in Belfalas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Finally, the 11th Anniversary arrived and to my delight I found Myndariel had heaps of tokens left over from last year so she could buy the new mount and cosmetics straight away. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-size: small; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD2GWZEZ_pEcwAy5GvmXPntw0TI2l27yFUbCcOoAfEORZkTCxVOHmwqYuApZ4JehZg9FJxlkBXAJVWGOrLZz_yIUvYArsEjV4XjwFp0wv8gySfbTnmxqYqOchA7tPEudgboPbwQ0eEics/s1600/anniversary11_front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="633" data-original-width="433" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD2GWZEZ_pEcwAy5GvmXPntw0TI2l27yFUbCcOoAfEORZkTCxVOHmwqYuApZ4JehZg9FJxlkBXAJVWGOrLZz_yIUvYArsEjV4XjwFp0wv8gySfbTnmxqYqOchA7tPEudgboPbwQ0eEics/s320/anniversary11_front.jpg" width="217" /></a><br />
Armour of the Waking Wood (front)</td> <td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOahcKPB4Z0giIQR2g-korC80rqVTFemw4pR0BsA1lov00kigAV4tV81W141OIvCXANiSRKRs_mjDsNAu8cnKAZxVS1KmChgfGb547-D-4yPr0SeTuuzqXLWvHfLwHdKNIAf4qjq3GHAA/s1600/anniversary11_back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="584" data-original-width="363" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOahcKPB4Z0giIQR2g-korC80rqVTFemw4pR0BsA1lov00kigAV4tV81W141OIvCXANiSRKRs_mjDsNAu8cnKAZxVS1KmChgfGb547-D-4yPr0SeTuuzqXLWvHfLwHdKNIAf4qjq3GHAA/s320/anniversary11_back.jpg" width="198" /></a><br />
Armour of the Waking Wood (back)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I especially like the outfit - it looks beautiful and would probably suit an high elf or Northern Mirkwood theme. The outfit comes with chest-piece, shoulders, gloves and quiver.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOaM4TEj7kEIkq8ZGdAfSOQUrub_uLsQWBtYd95fP1fspjiHzaWEME2GLgOdKLurlzqb1wCpSAt5k2p8bpth-2OUpaUcuunp4sNlzfptVVpcEZFliFgK-lGy4GfOFpPCXlagiiIAZDF3I/s1600/seaward_steed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="604" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOaM4TEj7kEIkq8ZGdAfSOQUrub_uLsQWBtYd95fP1fspjiHzaWEME2GLgOdKLurlzqb1wCpSAt5k2p8bpth-2OUpaUcuunp4sNlzfptVVpcEZFliFgK-lGy4GfOFpPCXlagiiIAZDF3I/s320/seaward_steed.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea-ward Steed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I'm not sure what to think about this steed. It reminds me of Dol Amroth with the little wings around the face and shoulders and the ship on the blanket. I have a hobbit minstrel who really likes that bright blue so she'd probably like sitting on her Sea-ward Steed playing one of the new fiddles - the Bardic Fiddle or the Traveller's Trusty Fiddle. As far as I know, these new fiddles have a greater range of notes that can be played than the original fiddles that were released recently.<br />
<br />
Myndariel also got an anniversary present - for playing LOTRO for four years she received the Festive Azure cosmetic outfit. Next year, she'll get the Festive Azure steed.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-size: small; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMjZNFLXb9NFQlhWi_6Qxpg5E2oK2zwTqteZoaMTS11hHVwYEMGDfyNXrE5x_7zVJB-9MGNuY93NVcz58aFEPajDMyksmx7xMwGXB0PIMIzlAHg6iTWWl-gWQ4Be4H4devFNCo9Whl-P4/s1600/festive_azure_dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="398" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMjZNFLXb9NFQlhWi_6Qxpg5E2oK2zwTqteZoaMTS11hHVwYEMGDfyNXrE5x_7zVJB-9MGNuY93NVcz58aFEPajDMyksmx7xMwGXB0PIMIzlAHg6iTWWl-gWQ4Be4H4devFNCo9Whl-P4/s320/festive_azure_dress.jpg" width="209" /></a><br />
Festive Azure Dress and Cloak</td> <td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSUl0lw6-zhk-RS_CoDQMAQEaqS3VZcSBK8boAmVygUiR1IuLjioqGkBOdzcrwxUxHxkZTysUrLZrz2_30e4OENc_-iTBRn666Q6OLBmcDctGnGmcjrHjgqrAAJQQM0rYvGcoESmga7EE/s1600/festive_azure_tunic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="596" data-original-width="426" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSUl0lw6-zhk-RS_CoDQMAQEaqS3VZcSBK8boAmVygUiR1IuLjioqGkBOdzcrwxUxHxkZTysUrLZrz2_30e4OENc_-iTBRn666Q6OLBmcDctGnGmcjrHjgqrAAJQQM0rYvGcoESmga7EE/s320/festive_azure_tunic.jpg" width="228" /></a><br />
Festive Azure Tunic and Cloak</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The Scavenger Hunt continues! The reward for completing one of the Year 11 scavenger hunts is a Gollum Festival Mask cosmetic item and the Ent Horn emote. Below are some tips on where to go.<br />
<br />
For more information about the previous 10 years of scavenger hunt quests and rewards, see my guide to <a href="http://myndariel.blogspot.com.au/2017/04/lotros-10th-anniversary.html">LOTRO's 10th Anniversary</a>. <br />
<br />
<h4>
Year 11 Tales: Gollum</h4>
<ul>
<li>Search for the Precious in Gollum's Cave - Goblin-town, Misty Mountains</li>
<li>Gather 3 Remembrances in Gollum's Cave - Goblin-town, Misty Mountains</li>
<li>Find the open shackles along the road west of Barad-dûr - Dor Amarth, Mordor</li>
<li>Find the cell where Gollum was held by wood-elves in Felegoth - Felegoth, Eryn Lasgalen</li>
<li>Visit the Memory of the Creature at Garbert's Cottage - Tâl Bruinen, The Trollshaws</li>
<li>Find the tree Gollum climbed in pursuit of Frodo on the edge of Lothlórien - Talan Haldir, Nimrodel, Lothlórien</li>
<li>Swim in the Anduin south-east of Floodwend - Nîn-stazg, The Wold, East Rohan</li>
<li>Gather 2 Remembrances in the Dead Marshes and the Noman-lands - The Dead Marshes, Western Gondor (base camp and through portal to the Noman-lands)</li>
<li>Swim in the Forbidden Pool - Henneth Annûn, North Ithilien</li>
<li>Listen to Gossip in one of the markets of Dale - Dale, Dale-lands</li>
<li>OPTIONAL: Visit the Memory of the Ring-bearer south of the Camp of the Host and experience the session "The Precious, At Last" - North Ithilien</li>
</ul>
<br />
<h4>
Year 11 Travels: Ruins of Middle Earth</h4>
<ul>
<li>Gather 24 Remembrances (remembrances available shown in brackets below)</li>
<li>Explore the ruins of Midgewater Marsh - Marshwater Fort, Midgewater Marsh, Bree-land (x3)</li>
<li>Explore the ruins of the Misty Mountains - Iskeld's Lookout, Bruinen Source West, Misty Mountains (x3)</li>
<li>Explore the ruins of Annúminas - Gwaelband, Annúminas, Evendim (x2)</li>
<li>Explore the ruins of the Barrow-downs - Ost Gorthad, Southern Barrow-downs, Bree-land (x3)</li>
<li>Explore the ruins of Emyn Lûm - Ost Galadh, Emyn Lûm, Mirkwood (x3)</li>
<li>Explore the ruins of Bâr Húrin - South Ithilien, Eastern Gondor (x3)</li>
<li>Explore the ruins of Haerondir - Noman-lands, The Wastes (x3)</li>
<li>Explore the ruins of South Ithilien - Brangobel, South Ithilien, Eastern Gondor (x3)</li>
<li>Explore the ruins of Lebennin - Ruins of Ethillorn, Lebennin, Central Gondor (x3)</li>
<li>Explore the ruins of South Trollshaws - Ost Dúrgonn, South Trollshaws, The Trollshaws (x3)</li>
<li>Explore the ruins of the Trollshaws - Echad Gauradan, Tâl Bruinen, The Trollshaws (x2)</li>
<li>Explore the ruins of Kingsfell - Ost Lagoros, Kingsfell, The North Downs (x2)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<h4>
Year 11 Trifles: Long List of the Ents</h4>
(I needed some help from <a href="https://lotro-wiki.com/index.php/Quest:Year_11_Trifles:_Long_List_of_the_Ents">Lotro-Wiki</a> to find these ones)<br />
<ul>
<li>Eldest of all, the elf-children - House of Celeborn, Caras Galadhon, Lothlórien</li>
<li>Dwarf the delver, dark are his houses - The Endless Stair, Foundations of Stone, Moria</li>
<li>Ent the earthborn, old as mountains - Wellinghall, Entwood, West Rohan</li>
<li>Man the mortal, master of horses - Meduseld, Edoras, West Rohan</li>
<li>Beaver the builder - Dale-lands (below waterfall NE of Dale)</li>
<li>Buck the leaper - High Moor, The Trollshaws (NW of hunter's camp site)</li>
<li>Bear bee-hunter - Buckland, Bree-land</li>
<li>Boar the fighter - The Greenway, North Downs (NW of the Tarkrîp Assault Camp)</li>
<li>Hound is hungry - Bree Mess Hall, Bree, Bree-land</li>
<li>Hare is fearful - Field of Cormallen, North Ithilien (near river)</li>
<li>Eagle in eyrie - Dómstoll, Misty Mountains</li>
<li>Ox in pasture - Starkmoor, Dunland (on a hill SE of Cartrev Andras)</li>
<li>Hart horn-crowned - Eryn Lasgalen (near bridge NW of Caras Tilion)</li>
<li>Hawk is swiftest - Torech Andraug, Eregion</li>
<li>Swan the whitest - Wyrmdenn, Rushgore, The Great River</li>
<li>Serpent coldest - Tyrn Fornech, Evendim (near border with Forochel)</li>
<li>The hobbit children, the laughing-folk, the little people - The Party Tree, The Shire</li>
</ul>
Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-68139455338655736742017-12-24T17:37:00.000+11:002017-12-24T17:37:12.155+11:00The Blameless Burglar of the Yule FestivalMy burglar finally left the shores of Lake Evendim for the chilly mountain retreat of Winter-home in Frostbluff and earned herself a Winter Elk and an Ornate Winter Dress. She also stood up to the corrupt mayor and saved the villagers from hunger, unemployment and poverty.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMIO-fqX8wvzGf_hYxWOtobvDNf1D4uUf83tUvXSttqzZdql3BEVyiXk_EXuNljMUJx78fD3-key-Trq9H2ndemgjiYlPvqvi8QD6bUCbF8H9SKzAUQemC4gZ-ccxiQcvW86KknUnmcsU/s1600/winter_elk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="622" data-original-width="622" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMIO-fqX8wvzGf_hYxWOtobvDNf1D4uUf83tUvXSttqzZdql3BEVyiXk_EXuNljMUJx78fD3-key-Trq9H2ndemgjiYlPvqvi8QD6bUCbF8H9SKzAUQemC4gZ-ccxiQcvW86KknUnmcsU/s320/winter_elk.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Winter Elk mount</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table style="font-size: smaller; text-align: center; width: 100%;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2aI_xinqS98iQp4fRJgBbklJ9tPFFC2fw4wdRWoUj7_SfXK7Nm13Zj4vAGYCkmE6WLJj1SVsPZcWanHkqmrGRLSbnGgsim2DAzgrZwL_GBR8l_mkBwpm8fzrRaIwMxBcVQ70MF-od2dA/s1600/ornate_winter_dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="590" data-original-width="379" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2aI_xinqS98iQp4fRJgBbklJ9tPFFC2fw4wdRWoUj7_SfXK7Nm13Zj4vAGYCkmE6WLJj1SVsPZcWanHkqmrGRLSbnGgsim2DAzgrZwL_GBR8l_mkBwpm8fzrRaIwMxBcVQ70MF-od2dA/s200/ornate_winter_dress.jpg" width="128" /></a><br />
Ornate Winter Dress (original colour)</td> <td><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieq_cZoJuI3fZM6md33kSAnxDpQL6E6IbnhReS7HskQsr0o3FfG67hx3WxJChQqIrT1hpVNQvC3sPXsWXYlWao_ks-v4ORiO7czFmi_8qv_ZF3fmN_45WUln-TmFIQRgjad3fFuTXfEes/s1600/ornate_winter_dress_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="494" data-original-width="355" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieq_cZoJuI3fZM6md33kSAnxDpQL6E6IbnhReS7HskQsr0o3FfG67hx3WxJChQqIrT1hpVNQvC3sPXsWXYlWao_ks-v4ORiO7czFmi_8qv_ZF3fmN_45WUln-TmFIQRgjad3fFuTXfEes/s200/ornate_winter_dress_2.jpg" width="143" /></a><br />
Ornate Winter Dress (dyed navy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My burglar normally wears black but I like this outfit on her. The elk reminds her of Mirkwood and her hopes of returning to Dale soon, so I think she will keep this combination for a while.<br />
<br />
There are some other new cosmetic items, such as a Woodland Crown, some puffy shoulders (the Fur Mantle), a tunic outfit (Ornate Jacket and Trousers) and the cloak (Ornate Winter Cloak) but I'm not too keen on them. The Snowball Arena looks like it would be a fun housing addition - it has a cooldown and the flavour text says "Gather your friends for a snowball fight" so I think it's interactive - if only I had a huge yard for it. It would be great for kin houses.<br />
<br />
Been there done that, looks like Yule Festival is over for me. Well almost - a few other characters would like the elk mount too.<br />
<br />
I was just reminded by LOTRO-Wiki that there are some Yule-themed quests in Thorin's Hall Inn and the Festival Garden in Ered Luin, The Festival Grounds in Bree-land, and the Party Tree and Hobbiton in the Shire. Some of the quests are once-only and some are repeatable, but if you need more festival tokens to buy some <i>cool</i> new items, check them out.<br />
<br />
Have a safe and enjoyable Christmas and holiday season, and best wishes for 2018. Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-2026540363411168802017-11-23T07:13:00.001+11:002017-11-23T07:13:46.917+11:00Developer's Letter: Beyond MordorWe've just got a <a href="https://www.lotro.com/en/game/articles/letter-executive-producer-rob-ciccolini-look-ahead">letter from the Executive Producer</a> of LOTRO and I'm excited. We're going to Northern Mirkwood and Dale and Erebor and Laketown and Thranduil's Court! There's all these places on the map of Middle Earth we've heard about but never seen and maybe next year, we'll get to see some of them. I can't wait! I love exploring and visiting new places.<br />
<br />
Also, I have a burglar from Dale who got caught stealing jewellery and brought shame to her family, so she got sent to live with an aunt in Bree. She's been trying to make up for her past but she never thought she'd get to see her hometown or family again. Now I'll have to level her up so she can go home a hero!<br />
<br />
It's great to hear there will be new additions to the Anniversary event and Summer Festival and the quest-line that began with Bingo Boffin at Harvestmath will continue. I love holiday events but they need to keep updating so they don't get boring "been there, done that". It sounds like we'll be able to get an elk mount at the Yule festival, and if so, that will definitely be on my wish-list. First horses and goats, then reindeer and now elks - mounts are slowly getting more variety.<br />
<br />
There's a new raid coming out before the end of the year, The Abyss of Mordath. I haven't raided for a long time, but it sounds like it has a really interesting story behind it that makes me want to see it.<br />
<br />
One disappointment is that there are lots of new housing decorations being added, but many will be locked behind the raid and Gorgoroth lootboxes. Grrr. I'm grateful that housing is getting more attention, but I wish nice decorations were more readily available - they're mostly either gated behind limited time holiday events, high level content or the LOTRO store. Why can't low level characters enjoy decorating their houses too? The Housing Furnishers in the housing neighbourhoods have a very limited range. We don't all have the patience of elves for slowly collecting one piece of nice furniture now and then over years and years. I think I've been spoilt by housing dimensions in Rift, as no other MMO housing system I've seen has been anywhere near as comprehensive or accessible.<br />
<br />
Musicians will finally be able to play the fiddle! Imagine the concerts as bards all over Middle Earth embrace the instrument and compose new songs! Will it have any special effects for minstrels? Will woodworkers be able to craft fiddles? Will this be the beginning of a new golden age for Middle Earth music?!?<br />
<br />
Oh and Dwarves and Hobbits will be getting their avatar makeovers. Some of my women and elves weren't very happy with their new look, but I've either got used to it now or visited the barber to make small adjustments. Overall I don't think the makeovers were worth it; it's not like the characters went from looking awful to looking amazing. More appearance options would have been just as good as changing the base avatars. I guess it was something that players demanded for a long time and the developers felt like they had to do it.<br />
<br />
Well, it seems there is a lot planned for 2018. I really need to get a few characters through Mordor so they can continue the journey beyond. And I need to level up my burglar - she's only 30. Maybe I can do a levelling marathon over the Christmas holidays? I can't believe this year is almost over! Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6956970727397869288.post-33395310108210692012017-11-12T19:02:00.001+11:002017-11-12T19:02:46.988+11:00Character-boosted Minstrel in Mordor Level 105: UdunI decided to boost another character to level 105 so they could enter Mordor. It was a close competition between my champion and my minstrel. Both have their crafting professions up to Doomfold level and can make level 100 legendary items (my champ is a weaponsmith and my minstrel is a tailor). Both are enjoyable to play and can manage most content with ease. In the end, I chose my minstrel because my champ was having fun questing in Moria while my minstrel was parked in Enedwaith feeling a little bored. She needs more action!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9i0QnD6IsLtMq7zjrCMRX6zmeG0CiVCYm_wyRW0qCzgvHYjvV7lkwI2qQVZWuwyHxKLwPXOEYdAQ7E4u0DF8QPQx5XocJ6dm16f7_7cjPfoQaoo_ho3m5_CMEAeAM_4DtJBL2Q_e4zEI/s1600/cantara_evernight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="320" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9i0QnD6IsLtMq7zjrCMRX6zmeG0CiVCYm_wyRW0qCzgvHYjvV7lkwI2qQVZWuwyHxKLwPXOEYdAQ7E4u0DF8QPQx5XocJ6dm16f7_7cjPfoQaoo_ho3m5_CMEAeAM_4DtJBL2Q_e4zEI/s200/cantara_evernight.jpg" width="119" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cantara the minstrel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Time to compose Cantara's new chant "Misadventures in Mordor".<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHlhzXjqxX6fpIxcxf_-FuwecM3bOuYtOsOsha50X_vE08PiLINV7ftoomIX1auc_uWfYLKutRLfmsc1UdW3GU5QNdQR8DyPUmYyIudaib4ZNioNtaoZ88JW1R14CCIUSF2FxcmrA4C80/s1600/aria_of_the_valar_mordor_package.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="229" data-original-width="238" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHlhzXjqxX6fpIxcxf_-FuwecM3bOuYtOsOsha50X_vE08PiLINV7ftoomIX1auc_uWfYLKutRLfmsc1UdW3GU5QNdQR8DyPUmYyIudaib4ZNioNtaoZ88JW1R14CCIUSF2FxcmrA4C80/s200/aria_of_the_valar_mordor_package.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Character boost package</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Cantara opened the Aria of the Valar upgrade package, looked at all the new goodies then clicked on the Aria of the Valar. There was a loud ringing of the gong then she was whisked away to the Camp of the Host in The Wastes and found herself standing before Aragorn and Gandalf as a level 105 minstrel. She quickly equipped her new armour, weapons and skills.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91MZuh_6IU2zjmtKGcdRK-sFDrWOXsa4pZF9l-_eICKZFaZct3t-gjjMQYl-A0pkuUV3wzS0mfwtbsJYpDhkACYdF2x_vCKyu89RkFwUWKlKhNWqTBaXUj79jxBTlXAaMktgP2G54ofY/s1600/cantara_105boostcharpage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="705" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91MZuh_6IU2zjmtKGcdRK-sFDrWOXsa4pZF9l-_eICKZFaZct3t-gjjMQYl-A0pkuUV3wzS0mfwtbsJYpDhkACYdF2x_vCKyu89RkFwUWKlKhNWqTBaXUj79jxBTlXAaMktgP2G54ofY/s320/cantara_105boostcharpage.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cantara's stats after being boosted to level 105</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Aragorn had an epic quest for her, Volume IV, Book 8: The Black Gate. She got a glimpse of what was happening with Frodo, Sam and Gollum sneaking into Mordor by a secret path, while Aragorn and his host prepared for a more direct approach.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkWlDjJScro848HJfX_134hZOY6V8pkhulH3UMGdXC6QN9RHngiOxRNHfSOouFlMzMIHx2wR5bfYuy6cpRI5LZ7BzNVL82ht3QVa8Wnp0KXRjs1ZkqPDe3fspsjzgQrRLE0ZrFNIcDcw/s1600/minstrel_battle_of_morannon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkWlDjJScro848HJfX_134hZOY6V8pkhulH3UMGdXC6QN9RHngiOxRNHfSOouFlMzMIHx2wR5bfYuy6cpRI5LZ7BzNVL82ht3QVa8Wnp0KXRjs1ZkqPDe3fspsjzgQrRLE0ZrFNIcDcw/s320/minstrel_battle_of_morannon.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playing the wardrums at the Battle of the Morannon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Since I'm playing a minstrel, I have to mention how awesome the background music for the Battle of the Morannon quest instance is. It feels so momentous, with the sense of frenzy and the direness of the situation - sometimes it sounds so ominous like disaster is imminent and other times it soars as though heroic deeds taking place across the battlefield are beacons of light and hope bursting out of the darkness. It sends chills down my spine and has me on the edge of my seat, waiting for the next bar of dramatic music to unfold. Brilliant.<br />
<br />
Finally, the epic quest was over and the victors celebrated and recovered at the Fields of Cormallen. Two out of the three legendary items Cantara got in the upgrade pack are due for reforging and her bags are almost full, but Cantara has been sent back to the Black Gate and a new adventure begins - The Black Book of Mordor.<br />
<br />
At Cirith Gorgor, just inside the Black Gate, Cantara met some NPC adventurers who will also be heading into Mordor, for knowledge, treasure, memories and the desire for proof that Sauron is truly gone. At the Udûn Foothold, she hears that Captain Lachír is missing and rumours that the forgeworkers have a secret way of communicating via signal flags. So she has some missions to prepare for. Narthavron, the Master Smith at the Foothold, introduces the Ashes of Gorgoroth mechanic for deconstructing unwanted Mordor equipment into ashes which can be bartered for useful equipment.<br />
<br />
Cantara called on my other characters to get some second age legendaries crafted. The symbols for a First Age were a bit too expensive (hopefully by the time she reaches level 115 she can obtain them) and she will need to level several legendaries to get the right legacies and enhancements. She also needed a new pocket item because that didn't come in the equipment pack with the upgrade.<br />
<br />
The mobs in Udûn are at least level 106 and were certainly a lot more difficult to defeat than the mobs at the Battle of the Morannon. While Cantara was still level 105, I tried to mainly fight the swarm ones with the green portrait frame border, such as the gore-crows, slag-slugs and frenzied nurnhoth as they were much easier and had a smaller health pool. A lot of the quests are picked up from the landscape rather than from a quest-giver so you really have to look around and check everything to see if it is useful or interactive.<br />
<br />
Gorgoroth wood and skarn were fairly common, especially along the road near Anglach, but hides are rather rare due to the lack of beasts around. I guess I will be relying on the crafting chests found in ruins and strongholds (although level 106 is required to open the Gorgoroth Crafting Bundles in the chests).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLrwdgY39g4q9OhyphenhyphenJd09rBtTclvQwevrWs_Ws-E2M9WVgrnbWJ87H-g1xYfxttF5tITJpQjTh9oOa-nbuOHmgY0wGeaeAMc3j7lepUZBDnjGCEpM3ladiIBAG7j9yYAJe1f_A3aKqClPc/s1600/udun_rustysmallchest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="694" data-original-width="694" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLrwdgY39g4q9OhyphenhyphenJd09rBtTclvQwevrWs_Ws-E2M9WVgrnbWJ87H-g1xYfxttF5tITJpQjTh9oOa-nbuOHmgY0wGeaeAMc3j7lepUZBDnjGCEpM3ladiIBAG7j9yYAJe1f_A3aKqClPc/s200/udun_rustysmallchest.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rusty Small Chests contain Gorgoroth Crafting Bundles <br />
with random Doomfold crafting materials</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I got my first piece of Mordor gear from a quest, a ring with +2 Light of Earendil which will help counter the debuffs from the Shadow of Mordor which reduce your damage and healing. My quests took me into Anglach, where Captain Lachír was last seen, but most of the mobs there are level 107 and they do a lot more damage to me than I do to them. Buff food and consumables will come in handy in Mordor.<br />
<br />
I also found several Gorgoroth Steel-bound Lootboxes. These require a special Black Steel Key which can be earned from max-level dailies (doesn't help me) or from the LOTRO Store (grrrr). They could contain some really good gear, but since I can't open them and they're not worth much on the auction house or in trade (because most other people can't open them either), I'll be throwing them away so they don't clog up my bags. Seems like a waste but oh well.<br />
<br />
Cantara reached level 106 and has picked up quite a few quests. Hopefully she will get some more Mordor gear soon and can delve further into Udûn.<br />
<br />
First verse:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The gloom, the gloom, the gloom of Udûn</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Forges and slaves abandoned to doom</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Shadows of Mordor drain all power</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Till nothing can live, not even a flower. </div>
Galaedriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05776463335628848387noreply@blogger.com1