Watcher In The Water

Watcher In The Water's History

The Watcher in the Water was a mysterious and terrifying water-dwelling monster that lived in a dark lake near the West-gate of Moria in Middle-earth. The lake in which the Watcher lived was formed when the Sirannon river was dammed up on the western side of the mines of Moria. At some point, the Watcher took up residence in this body of water and built itself a nest or lair. It acted as a guard or sentinel at the West-gate, attacking any who approached. In T.A. 2988, a group led by Óin son of Gróin visited the West-gate on a reconnaissance mission. As they stood by the shores of the lake, the Watcher emerged from the water and dragged Óin under, killing him. This was witnessed by Óin's companions and was the only direct account of the Watcher's behavior and abilities.

Almost a thousand years later, in T.A. 3019, the Fellowship of the Ring passed through Moria on their quest. When Gandalf opened the doors to the West-gate, the Watcher was disturbed from its vigil. It emerged from the lake with violent speed and anger, lashing out with its tentacles at the Fellowship. Through cunning and teamwork, the Fellowship managed to drive the Watcher back into the lake, but in doing so awakened other nameless things in Moria.