<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Spirit of Mist 
Posts: 528</TD><TD></TD></TR></TABLE> 
Re: dragons 
 
  This is just a theory but it is based upon JRRT's early writings.  The Fall of Gondolin in BoLT introduces dragon-like constructs made of iron and other metals. They were capable of carrying orcs into battle.  They were animated by "spirits" (shades of the "Wolves" thread, no pun intended).  Carrying this forward, dragons were likely large reptiles made greater by an infusion of Morgoth's power (perhaps similar to the Nazgul steeds) and then inhabited by lesser Maiar.  The advantage to the Maia would be that not only would it have its native power, but also the physical strength of the dragon-creature.  JRRT, to my knowledge, does not explain the origins of dragons.   
 
--Mithadan-- 
  "The Silmarils with living light 
  were kindled clear, and waxing bright 
  shone like stars that in the North 
  above the reek of earth leap forth." </p>
		 
		
		
		
		
		
		
			
				__________________ 
				Beleriand, Beleriand, 
the borders of the Elven-land.
			 
		
		
		
		
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