Episode 1 of Season 2 of "The Rings of Power" unfolds in a somber past, where Fordwaith's Sauron declares his intention to ascend as the new master of the Orcs in Mordor, vowing to enslave the peoples of Middle-earth to his twisted will. Adar stands witness, as whispers of doubt ripple through the ranks of the Orcs, until Sauron's ruthless execution of a dissenter silences them all, claiming the crown with bloodied hands. But in a sudden twist, Adar betrays him, driving the crown deep into his own skull, sparking a chaotic battle where Sauron, ultimately vanquished, perishes in a blast of dust and darkness, his blackened blood seeping like a toxic venom through the cracks, seeking refuge deep within the bowels of the caves.
This malevolent essence, a dark mimicry of life, incubates, awaiting its moment to emerge, devouring all that comes near. Eventually, it slithers forth, taking the guise of Halbrand, a human form cloaked in deceit and vengeance. Driven by a relentless thirst for retribution, Halbrand stumbles upon a caravan of travelers, fleeing the desolation of their shattered world, and elects to join them, his path diverging from the relentless pursuit of death towards the promise of a new life across the sea.
In the present, the stakes are raised as Galadriel, in hot pursuit of Elrond, is apprehended by the vigilant elf guard, who escort her before Gil-Galad. The High King's dismay at the revelation of the Rings and Galadriel's deception echoes through the halls. She acknowledges the truth – that Halbrand is no mere mortal, but Sauron reborn.
As Galadriel attempts to deflect blame onto Elrond's own struggles with the mountain's secrets, Gil-Galad cuts through the subterfuge, his resolve firm. He demands to see the Rings, advocating for their use, heedless of the corruption Sauron may have wrought upon them. Elrond, steadfast in his refusal, plunges into the depths with the Rings, his determination a beacon against the encroaching darkness.
Thus, the stage is set for a conflict that will shake the foundations of Middle-earth, as old enemies rise anew, and the fate of all hangs in the balance.
Meanwhile, deep within the ominous realm of Mordor, Sauron finds himself ensnared, his fate inextricably linked to his impending confrontation with Adar, the formidable King of Orcs. Confronted by his captor, Sauron, under the guise of Halbrand, attempts to negotiate, his words laced with the threat of dire consequences should Adar refuse to acquiesce. However, Adar skillfully maneuvers, instilling doubt in the hearts of his fellow Orcs, assuring them that Sauron's return is but a distant dream, now that he is firmly imprisoned.
Elsewhere, the enigmatic Stranger, an entity not quite Gandalf, embarks on a solitary journey, his footsteps echoing through the desolate wilderness. Along this path, fate intervenes, presenting him with a staff that eerily mirrors Gandalf's own, a haunting vision from recurring dreams materializing before his eyes. Accompanied by Nori, they wander, unaware that their every move is shadowed by an unseen presence.
Drawing inspiration from the timeless dialogue of Sam and Frodo's arduous journey in The Two Towers, their exchange resonates with a sense of familiarity amidst the unfamiliar. In a desperate bid for sustenance, the Stranger harnesses his latent powers, only to unwittingly unleash a chaotic explosion that propels him backward. Amidst the chaos, a silver lining emerges as a swarm of insects emerges from the chaos, offering a makeshift meal for the weary travelers.
Unbeknownst to them, Poppy has been their silent sentinel, her perseverance fueled by Sardoc's map, guiding them through the treacherous terrain. Together, they recite an ancient Walking Song, its subtle melodies serving as a compass, leading them to the distant shores of Rhun.
Back in Mordor, Sauron endures unspeakable torment, his chains a constant reminder of his captivity. Yet, even in this darkest hour, he wields the power of the Black Tongue, his command over the ferocious Wargs a testament to his indomitable spirit.
Meanwhile, in the tranquil haven of Lindon, by the Grey Havens, Elrond emerges, his form miraculously restored despite the treacherous plummet into the waterfall's depths. Cirdan, a wise and benevolent presence, recognizes Elrond's arrival, aware of the latter's plight. As Elrond reveals his predicament, Cirdan offers solace, acknowledging that he has nowhere else to turn. The stage is set for a new chapter, fraught with uncertainty yet brimming with the promise of redemption and renewal.
Gil-Galad's proclamation resounds, revealing Halbrand's true identity as Sauron, and his quest expands beyond mere discovery, delving into the enigmatic whereabouts of Elrond. Galadriel, convinced of Elrond's collusion with the Elder for his own designs, presses forward. Yet, Elrond's resolve burns bright, steadfast in his mission to eradicate the Rings, even if it heralds the twilight of the Elves' epoch.
As Galadriel and Gil-Galad descend upon Lindon, she leads the way, seeking solace in the wisdom of her old friend. But the tables are swiftly turned, as he confronts her, demanding clarity on her sanity amidst her relentless rationality—a pattern this tale mirrors from The Lord of the Rings with cunning finesse.
Meanwhile, the Rings hover perilously on the brink of the sea, their fate hanging in the balance as Cirdan hesitates, mesmerized by their allure. Yet, he pulls back from the brink, sensing their treacherous grasp.
In Mordor, Adar and Sauron forge an unholy alliance. Trusting the elves' confidence in Adar, Sauron is granted his freedom, with the promise of Adar's armies turning against him in any form he assumes. The pact sealed, Sauron slips the bonds of captivity.
With the last vestiges of autumn's foliage shedding from the sacred tree, Gil-Galad rallies his forces, poised to abandon Middle-earth. But Cirdan's sudden return, bearing the Rings, alters the course. Galadriel, unhesitating, slips one upon her finger, Gil-Galad following suit, and Cirdan joining them in a trio of perilous temptation. Though it seems they teeter on the brink of Sauron's corruption, the Rings unexpectedly illuminate the tree, casting a radiance that belies their darkness.
Elrond recoils in disgust, retreating from the scene, while Celebrimbor toils in his newfound forge, accompanied by Mirdania. A messenger from the Southlands arrives, cloaked in the guise of negotiation, but revealing the sinister hand of Sauron behind the veil.
