Círdan the Shipwright

Patron

Círdan the Shipwright

As they came to the gates Círdan the Shipwright came forth to greet them. Very tall he was, and his beard was long, and he was grey and old, save that his eyes were keen as stars…

Círdan is perhaps the most ancient Elf still living in Middle-earth. He has witnessed three ages of the world, and has been given many titles. Today, he is mostly known as the Shipwright, and the Master of the Grey Havens. He is accounted among the Wise and the Great, and has served as a member of the White Council for many long centuries. For a time, he was the keeper of one of the three Elven Rings of Power, for he bore Narya, the Ring of Fire, until he gave it to Gandalf the Grey.

Círdan is currently the chief of all Elves residing west of the Blue Mountains, in Lindon. He has been leading them since Gil-galad died fighting Sauron in the War of the Last Alliance. Many consider him to possess the greatest gift of foresight, and thus to be able to see further and deeper than any other in Middle-earth. That is perhaps why the task of preparing the ships that all Elves board when leaving Middle-earth to cross the sea to Valinor is appointed to him.

Círdan the Shipwright: Emissary, Lore-master

Distinctive Features: Courteous, Lordly, Wise

The Elendil Stone

Círdan and the Elves of Lindon guard one of the seven “seeing stones” brought to Middle-earth from Númenor by Elendil. It is locked away in the tower of Elostirion, in the Tower Hills. Also known as a palantír, this stone is a perfectly smooth globe, made of a dark, glassy material, about a foot in diameter. According to old lore, the palantíri allowed their owners to see things from a distance, and could communicate with each other. Only few among the Wise know whether the Elendil Stone is still capable of revealing any vision, as the other stones are deemed lost, or destroyed.

Encountering Círdan

Círdan dwells with his people at the great port of Mithlond, on the banks of the Gulf of Lune. He rarely ventures forth from the Grey Havens, but all who are of good spirit and come in peace are welcome to come and see him there. Galdor of the Havens is his herald and envoy, and often travels across Middle-earth representing the Shipwright wherever needed, and speaking with his full authority.

In person, Círdan is very tall, even for an Elf. His appearance is that of a grey but vigorous individual, with a long, silver beard, a rarity among the Fair Folk. He is gracious and hospitable, receiving all guests with full courtesy and kindness. His bright eyes are keen, yet profound — If anyone was to look into them for a few moments, they would see a deep well of memory and experience, telling of the countless things that Círdan has accomplished over his long lifetime.

Círdan as a Patron

Círdan knows that the Grey Havens play a role of primary importance in the war against the Shadow. The Five Wizards landed here when they came to Middle-earth almost two thousand years ago, and it is here that many great fleets armed for the defeat of Sauron found safe harbourage. In the twilight of the Third Age, Mithlond serves as the last refuge for those who desire to leave Middle-earth, and Círdan considers it his duty to ensure that their passage is made as safely as possible.

The Grey Havens also guard a great wealth of knowledge. Círdan’s memory goes back to a time before the light of the Sun and Moon, and his knowledge rivals that of Elrond, greatest of lore-masters. The Lord of the Havens and that of Imladris seek the counsel of one another, and their messengers can be often found on the great East Road on errands from their masters.

Fellowship Bonus: +1

Advantage: The Shipwright's Foresight

You can spend Fellowship points to repeat any one roll.

By choosing the Meet Patron undertaking to go and see Círdan you additionally receive a rumour from the Loremaster.