Smiley and the Demigorgon's Warband

Chapter 19: The Summons of the Elven King

After their meeting with Gandalf, Smiley, D.G., Wesley, Elendir, Vin, and Krag gathered their supplies and began their journey away from the Shire. The peaceful hobbit homeland was now behind them, but its memory remained heavy in their hearts, knowing that the Orc King and Sauron threatened everything they held dear.

As they rode through the lush fields, a distant cawing sound echoed above. Smiley glanced up and spotted a raven, its black feathers shimmering in the sunlight. The bird circled once before diving down, landing on Elendir's outstretched arm. Tied to its leg was a scroll, sealed with an unmistakable royal crest.

Elendir's eyes narrowed as he recognized the seal. "It's from my father."

Smiley's heart skipped a beat. "The Elven King?"

Elendir nodded and quickly unrolled the scroll. His sharp eyes scanned the message, and as he read, his expression grew more intense.

"My father has summoned us to his court," Elendir said, his voice low. "He has gathered envoys from the kingdoms of Men and Dwarves. It seems the time has come to unite against the Orc King."

Smiley nodded in understanding. "We must go. This could be the alliance we need to finally take down the Orc King once and for all."

Without hesitation, the group adjusted their course and headed toward the elven capital of Mirkwood, where Elendir's father, King Thranduil, awaited them.

---

Days later, the group arrived at the magnificent elven city, hidden within the dense trees of Mirkwood. The grand halls of the Elven King were alive with activity. As Smiley and her companions entered the throne room, they were greeted by the sight of envoys from every corner of Middle Earth. Warriors from Gondor stood side by side with grizzled dwarves from Erebor, all gathered under the banner of unity.

Thranduil, the Elven King, sat upon his throne, his face calm and wise. His gaze shifted to his son, Elendir, before moving to Smiley and the others. His piercing blue eyes held a weight of centuries of experience.

"Welcome, Smiley of the Shire," Thranduil began, his voice smooth and measured. "Word of your deeds has reached even the farthest corners of our world. You have faced the Orc King's forces with courage, and now we gather to support you in your final stand."

Smiley, feeling a bit overwhelmed by the formalities, bowed deeply. "Thank you, your highness. We've come this far, but we know we can't defeat the Orc King on our own."

Thranduil nodded solemnly. "That is why this alliance has been formed. The kingdoms of Men, Dwarves, and Elves will unite for the first time in an age. Each race has sent its best warriors to join you on this perilous journey."

The envoys stepped forward one by one. A proud Gondorian soldier bowed to Smiley. "The Men of Gondor stand with you, Lady Smiley. We will fight to protect the future of Middle Earth."

Next, a dwarf clad in heavy armor with a braided beard stomped forward, his voice booming. "The Dwarves of Erebor have had enough of orcs and their filthy kind. We'll lend our axes to this fight!"

Elendir stepped forward, his posture tall and regal. "The Elves of Mirkwood will also join you. Our arrows will strike swift and true."

Smiley felt the weight of responsibility press down on her shoulders, but also the strength of the newfound alliance. For the first time since the journey began, they weren't alone. They had the full backing of Middle Earth's greatest powers.

"We are honored," Smiley said, her voice firm but grateful. "Together, we will put an end to the Orc King's terror."

Thranduil rose from his throne, stepping down to meet Smiley and her companions. "Your resolve is strong, Smiley. Take our warriors with you, and together, you will confront the Orc King at his fortress. But beware, his power grows with every day he spends in the company of dark forces."

Smiley exchanged determined looks with her friends. They had faced countless dangers, but this would be their greatest challenge yet.

---

Meanwhile, deep within his fortress, the Orc King prepared for his next move. His dark castle, shrouded in mist and guarded by countless orc soldiers, buzzed with activity as his army prepared for battle.

The Orc King sat upon his throne, his massive frame hunched forward as he listened to his advisors. His mind was not on the alliance of Men, Elves, and Dwarves, for he had already made a pact of his own—one with Sauron himself.

"Sauron is waiting," the Orc King growled to his closest general. "The time is near. Once we join forces, nothing will stop us."

He stood, towering over the orcs around him, his eyes glowing with an ancient, malevolent power. "Prepare my entourage. We leave for Mordor at dawn."

The Orc King's dark laughter echoed through the halls as he imagined the devastation he and Sauron would soon unleash upon Middle Earth. Little did he know, Smiley and her united forces were already on their way, ready to confront him and put an end to his reign of terror.

The final battle was drawing near.