The Impossibility of the Nine Nazg?l Attacking Lothlórien Without Gandalf's Protection

Imagine a scenario where the Nine Nazg?l are dispatched to attack Lothlórien, the realm of Galadriel and Celeborn. This mission would be perilous even if Gandalf the Grey were present, but without his protective influence, the quest would be destined to fail.

Sauron's Instructive Order

Sauron, the Dark Lord, gives his directive to the Nine Nazg?l to attack Lothlórien. However, the Nazg?l are initially confused, as they do not fully understand the identity or significance of the Fellowship or their mission.

Sauron: Nazg?l, I want you to go to Lothlórien and attack the Fellowship.

Witch King: The Fellowship? Who are they?

Sauron: You know… the Fellowship! The people they sent to destroy… um, never mind. I’m not supposed to know any of that, am I?

The Witch King's Skepticism

The uncertainty and skepticism of the Witch King highlight the greater Nazg?l’s doubt in Sauron's orders, especially considering Gandalf's recent apparent defeat.

Witch King: Oh those people. Whoever they are. They’re in Lothlórien? Isn’t that where Galadriel and those other bitches live?

Sauron’s response is evasive, and the Witch King’s thoughts reveal the underlying doubt in Sauron's commands.

Galadriel's Power and Protection

Galadriel, the Lady of Light, is a formidable opponent. Her power is rooted in the fear that even Sauron dared not confront her fully, despite her lack of the One Ring.

Sauron: Galadriel yes. You guys scream and run away when you hear a certain Vala’s name and that git actually talked with her! Still, I happen to know Gandalf’s not there so…

The Witch King’s shock and the mention of Gandalf’s absence emphasize the potential strength of Galadriel’s protection.

Lothlórien's Defenses

Lothlórien is not just a city but a heavily fortified realm. Galadriel, with her powerful magic, and the trained guards ensure that any infiltration would be repelled.

Galadriel, wielding the Ring of Three, possesses formidable magical defenses and the will to protect her people. The mere thought of a Nazg?l entering Lothlórien without Gandalf would be laughable.

Other Defenses and Individuals

Other individuals and realms also contribute to the security of Lothlórien:

Elrond’s Realm: Rivendell, despite lacking its river, is still well-protected. An Tried Guard: Lothlórien is heavily guarded, making it difficult for any hostile force to breach. Formidable Individuals: Those remaining in the Fellowship, particularly Aragorn and the Hobbits, are formidable fighters. Eagles: Giant Eagles would provide aerial surveillance and protection, making air attack impossible.

Specific Defenses

The specific defenses of Lothlórien include:

Elbereth Gilthoniel: The name of a Vala known for its protective powers. Even just mentioning this name can create fear among the Nazg?l. Hobbit Weapons: The weapons of the Hobbits, enchanted and deadly against the Nazg?l. Galadriel's Fountain: The water from Galadriel’s Fountain holds the light of the Two Trees, preserving the star of E?rendil, a powerful source of magical protection.

Conclusion

In the absence of Gandalf, the Nazg?l would face insurmountable challenges in attempting to enter and attack Lothlórien. The formidable power of Galadriel, combined with the strategic defenses of the realm, would make them uneasy and possibly even deter them from the mission. The Nazg?l would need far more than simple strength to challenge such a formidable opponent.

Without Gandalf’s protection, Lothlórien stands as an impenetrable fortress, a testament to the power of good against the forces of darkness.