The loss of Gil-galad

13

The three leaders, accompanied by their closest advisors, journeyed to Gil-galad's halls in Lindon, where a council was held to discuss the threat of Sauron. Maps were spread upon tables, and reports of Sauron's movements were shared. The mood was grave, for Sauron's power was growing, and his armies swelled with orcs, trolls, and corrupted men who had fallen under his sway.

"We cannot stand alone against Sauron," Gil-galad said, his voice firm. "He seeks to dominate all lands, to bend every creature to his will. If he is not stopped, Middle-earth will fall into darkness. We must unite our peoples and form an alliance, one that can challenge his power."

Elendil nodded in agreement. "My sons, Isildur and Anárion, have established realms in Middle-earth—Arnor and Gondor. They stand ready to join the fight. If we can unite the Elves, Men, and Dwarves against Sauron, we may yet have a chance."

Thariel listened thoughtfully, her gaze fixed on the map. "Sauron's strength lies not only in his armies but in his deceit and manipulation," she said. "He has already turned many hearts to darkness, promising power and wealth. We must be vigilant, not only in battle but in keeping our hearts and minds free from his influence."

Gil-galad turned to Thariel, his eyes filled with respect and admiration. "Your counsel is wise, Thariel," he said. "You speak with the wisdom of the Valar. Together, we will build this alliance, and we will stand against Sauron, whatever the cost."

As the council concluded, Gil-galad, Thariel, and Elendil stood together on a high balcony overlooking the sea, the sun setting in a blaze of gold and crimson. The time had come to seal their alliance with an oath, a bond that would unite Elves and Men against the darkness.

Gil-galad raised his hand, his voice ringing out over the waves. "Let it be known that this day, the Elves of Lindon stand with the Men of Númenor. We swear to fight against the shadow of Sauron, to defend the free peoples of Middle-earth, and to protect the light and beauty of this world. As long as we have breath, we will not falter."

Elendil placed his hand over his heart, his voice solemn and steady. "And let it be known that the Men of Númenor, the faithful who remain true to the Valar, stand with the Elves of Lindon. We will fight by your side, shoulder to shoulder, against the darkness that seeks to claim this world. Together, we are stronger than any foe."

Thariel stepped forward, her eyes shining with determination. "As a daughter of the Eldar, and of the Maia, I pledge my strength and my light to this cause. We shall face Sauron, not with fear, but with hope and courage. Our hearts are as one, and together, we shall prevail."

With their oaths spoken, Gil-galad, Thariel, and Elendil clasped hands, their bond sealed. The stars began to appear in the evening sky, a sign of hope that even in the darkest night, there was light to guide the way.