The loss of Gil-galad

12

The Second Age of Middle-earth was a time of great change and growing darkness. Sauron, the deceiver, had risen to power, spreading his influence across the lands of Middle-earth. Under the guise of a fair and wise lord, he had taught the Elves of Eregion to craft the Rings of Power, but his true intentions were revealed when he forged the One Ring, seeking dominion over all free peoples.

The Elves, realizing the extent of Sauron's treachery, rebelled against him, and war erupted. Eregion fell, and its great city of Ost-in-Edhil was destroyed. Sauron's forces marched westward, seeking to conquer all. In this time of need, Gil-galad, the High King of the Elves, called upon the strength of his people and the aid of his allies to stand against the shadow.

In the kingdom of Lindon, nestled between the blue peaks of the Ered Luin and the shimmering waters of the Great Sea, Gil-galad gathered his strength. With him was Thariel, a beacon of hope and wisdom, her presence a source of comfort and inspiration to those who prepared for the coming conflict. Together, they sought to build an alliance strong enough to challenge Sauron's growing power.

One bright morning, as the sun rose over the sea, a fleet of ships appeared on the horizon, their white sails catching the light. These were the ships of Númenor, led by Elendil the Tall, a lord of great wisdom and a friend of the Elves. Númenor, once a land of peace and prosperity, had been cast into turmoil by Sauron's influence, but Elendil and his sons, Isildur and Anárion, had remained true to the old ways, resisting Sauron's corruption.

Elendil's ships docked at the harbors of Mithlond, the Grey Havens, where Círdan the Shipwright awaited them. Word was sent to Gil-galad, and the High King, accompanied by Thariel, rode to meet Elendil. They arrived at the Grey Havens as the Númenórean lord disembarked, his tall form cutting a noble figure, his eyes keen with wisdom and resolve.

"Welcome, Elendil, son of Amandil," Gil-galad called, his voice clear and strong. "The realm of Lindon greets you as a friend and ally. Your presence brings hope to us in these dark times."

Elendil bowed respectfully, his eyes meeting Gil-galad's with a mutual understanding. "Hail, Gil-galad, High King of the Elves," he replied. "I come seeking alliance, for Sauron's shadow stretches far. Together, we can stand against him."

Thariel stepped forward, her gaze warm as she regarded the tall Númenórean. "You are welcome here, Elendil," she said. "We have heard of your wisdom and strength. The bond between Elves and Men is an ancient one, and now, more than ever, we must renew it."

Elendil's eyes softened at Thariel's words. "Lady Thariel, your renown has reached even Númenor," he said with a respectful nod. "It is said that your courage and wisdom are unmatched, and that you have stood against the darkness before. We will need such strength in the days to come."