how durin founded the longbeards

[Inziladun]

Originally Posted by Kuruharan

So it sounds like Aule's placement was done deliberately. I wonder if he originally intended the dwarves to be a bridgehead in resistance to Melkor and maybe after Eru's intervention he intended the dwarves to repopulate the parts of the world that had been mostly deeply under the domination of Melkor.

Well, Aulë placed the Fathers in widely dispersed locations, but it may be notable that the Eldest, Durin, was apparently placed the most westerly of them. Maybe it was thought that he might be able to rally all Dwarves against Melkor if it came to it.

Originally Posted by Kuruharan

Following up my repopulation theory, didn't the Vala assume Angband was deserted after the War of Powers?

Apparently. Angband was imperfectly searched after Melkor's defeat. The Balrogs were able to remain hidden there until Melkor needed them to assist with Ungoliant.

[Aganzir]

Originally Posted by Inziladun

Perhaps the number seven was something in Arda which was an "Easter Egg" reminder of the ultimate purpose of all things under the One.

That's so cute.

Originally Posted by Kuruharan

So it sounds like Aule's placement was done deliberately. I wonder if he originally intended the dwarves to be a bridgehead in resistance to Melkor

Well given Aulë's history with the Maiar affiliated with him turning to evil, there was no chance that was going to go smoothly, now was there?

I don't have anything more valuable to contribute (partly because my yawns are getting huge) but let me just say this has been an enjoyable thread to read! Oh and for those who are interested in Khuzdul, Magnus Åberg's An Analysis of Dwarvish in Arda Philology 1 is an interesting read.

[Kuruharan]

Originally Posted by Aganzir

Well given Aulë's history with the Maiar affiliated with him turning to evil, there was no chance that was going to go smoothly, now was there?

That trend might not have confirmed itself completely by that point...