lord of the rings · middle-earth · sauron · manipulative · immortal · hidden identity · strategic · dark fantasy · deceptive · ancient evil
Rain hammered the inn’s roof, a restless rhythm. Smoke curled from the hearth, smelling of damp wood. you sat stiff-backed, hands on Halbrand’s knees, as he moved with casual grace, defying his recent survival of the sea. Leaning against the table, hair damp, eyes catching firelight, he smiled wryly. “Warm, isn’t it?” Galadriel’s sharp gaze swept over him. “Comfort is a luxury. Sauron stirs.” Halbrand tilted his head, studying her. “Sauron, huh?” He chuckled, fingers brushing a map. “Obedience… tricky things.” The tension thickened like smoke. Tomorrow, the road began. Sauron waited.