A New Power is Rising! 1.0

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• 1.0

This is an alternate history deck that explores the question of what would happen if Ugluk had captured all four of the hobbits, and brought them back to Isengard. The deck summary is first, followed by my story that goes with it. This deck is an extremely fun deck to play if you are someone that likes having MANY decisions to make every turn.

Threat: This deck is constantly adjusting its threat. Saruman prevents any effects that would drop it by more than 1 point at a time, so this deck features two cards aimed at providing consistent and reliable threat reduction in Galadriel and Council of the Wise. In order to prevent threating out, it is also essential to find Saruman's Staff as quickly as possible. The interesting thing with the threat meter here is that you can always exchange threat for a bonus in game, essentially turning it into a new resource. Threat can be used to get money with Gríma, to get cards with Steward of Orthanc and to get an option of several things from Magic Ring and the The One Ring. Since most turns will have your threat dropping by two, you can always choose one or two benefits to gain from your threat increase.

Overall Goal: This deck has a lot going on. You get to decide how much doom you take early to get out amazing allies early on, or you can play it safe and focus on reducing threat hand saving up the Doom cards for later on in the game. I have found this deck tends to have Saruman as a good early game quester and devastating late game attacker (Thank you Strength and Courage). Grima ends up being a good (not great) defender with the Golden Shield, and Galadriel makes sure I draw my hole deck as quickly as possible. While they are getting built up, I recruit about one high cost elf ally a turn. This deck started out as a funny what if scenario, but actually turned out to be one of the most fun decks I have played in a very long time. Hope you enjoy it!

CLAIMING THE RING

Saruman descended from his tower eager to see what his Uruk-hai had brought him. Laying on the ground surrounded by Saruman’s men lay four hobbits, bound and gagged. “They are unharmed?”

Ugluck nodded and growled, “Wasn’t easy keeping my boys at bay, but they are unspoiled.”

“Excellent. I promise you shall have spoils in the coming days to reward you for my prize.” Saruman strolled forward and knelt next to the hobbits. Their eyes went wide as he quickly and methodically searched them. His pulse began to race as hobbit after hobbit proved not to possess what he yearned for. But after searching the forth, Saruman felt something smooth and cold. Yanking the chain off of the hobbits neck, Saruman held up the Ring and a smile spread across his face.

HALL OF THE HORSE LORD

Gimli, Legolas and Aragorn strode through the gates of Edoras, disarmed and disheartened. The Uruk-Hai had outrun them. The hobbits, and the ring, were with Saruman. “We must convince King Theodan to ride out and challenge Saruman before he has a chance to consolidate his strength.” Aragorn murmured to the other two as they made their way into the throneroom. “He is a good king, and should listen to reason.” The three hunters made their way into the throneroom, but were brought up short.

“I’m told you are here to see King Theodan…” A smooth voice floated across the darkened hall. “But i’m afraid he died sometime in the night… Old age finally granting relief for a troubled mind. His last act was to name me as his heir.” Grima Wormtongue rose from his throne, gesturing to his guards who line the walls. “My first act, to protect the strength of my kingdom, was to remove certain undesirable elements from Edoras. After Eomer attempted to seize control of Rohan for himself, I had no choice but to purge the ranks of the rohirrim and leave only those that are loyal to the crown. It is customary to kneel before a king.” Grima spoke, spreading his hands in invitation to the three hunters. None of the hunters changed their position. “Very well. Grima turned his back and lifted his hand in command, “Kill them.”

THE NAZGUL

“Their fellowship is over my lord.” King Grima spoke triumphantly as he dismounted from Snowmane outside of Orthanc. “Ugluk took care of the hobbits, I disposed of Aragorn and his companions, and Gandalf fell in Moria. I have secured Rohan for you and pledge my lands undying loyalty to Saruman and the power he bears at Isengard. What is your next move, so that I may prepare my armies?”

“You have done well Grima.” Saruman spoke as he strolled forward. “Our next move is against Sauron.” Grima flinched at the name and looked at Saruman.

“But sire, I thought we were allied with Sauron.” Grima murmured, fear lacing his words. “Can you turn his armies against him now that you bear the one ring?”

“Sauron’s armies are loyal to Sauron alone. Even his Nazgul have been too long influenced by his essence. Though I may be able to claim their loyalty, I would never trust them as I would nine of my choosing. Fear not though Grima, My power is greater than Sauron’s now that I possess the One. And he may have his nine Nazgul, but you shall find they are no match for my three.” The gates of Orthanc swung slowly open as three figures draped in grey and black robes walked out and kneeled in front of Saruman.

“My lord are those….” Grima trailed off.

“Yes Grima. These are the Lords of the Noldor Elrond and Galadriel. They both bear an Elven ring of power. When Sauron first placed the ring on his finger, they could sense his influence and removed them before they fell prey to the Dark Lord. I made sure not to repeat that same mistake.” Grima’s eyes flitted to the third figure. “Gandalf the White showed up shortly after the hobbits did. It seems he slew the Balrog he engaged in Moria. He returned here claiming to be Gandalf the White. He is Gandalf the Black now, and he has finally learned his place.”