The trio arrived back at camp in a good mood. The final battle was just about to begin, and the small victory over the orcs had them feeling confident.

"Legolas, I've got to hand it to you. That was some impressive shooting back there," Gimli said, patting him on the back.

"With a rifle like this, it's almost too easy,” said Legolas with a grin.

Aragorn nodded. "You're a skilled warrior when you aren’t drunk. And a half-decent warrior when you are drunk. I'm glad to have you on our side."

“That feels like an insult, but I’ll take it,” said Legolas. “It does feel good to be victorious."

A wide grin formed on Gimli’s face. "Speaking of victorious, I've got a little victory of my own to celebrate. If you know what I mean."

Legolas and Aragorn raised their eyebrows in surprise. "With who?" Legolas asked.

Gimli wiggled his eyebrows. "Ah, let's just say a certain lady who enjoys a big axe. And let me tell you, she was a real...well, you know."

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Merry and Pippin giggled as they ate their potato breakfast. They couldn't help but overhear the bravado.

"Gimli, you dog," said Pippin.

Éowyn approached the group and rolled her eyes. "There's a time and a place for that kind of talk. And right before a battle is not it."

Gimli chuckled as he stretched his arms over his head. "Ah, Éowyn, don't worry. I'm all business when it comes to battle. But I can't help it if I have a little...extra spring in my step today."

“Let’s celebrate with a drink," said Legolas. He reached for his flask and encouraged others to do the same.

“No, no, stop. Legolas, put that away.” Aragorn sighed. "Everyone, gather round. We have a battle to focus on. Let's save the celebrations for later."

Gimli nodded. "Aragorn’s right. But I have to admit, I'm feeling pretty pumped up right now. I can't wait to take on Sauron and his orcs."

“Now it’s time to execute part two of the plan,” said Aragorn with a serious tone. “Gimli, Legolas, and I will make our way to Sauron’s lair while the rest of you stay with the legion of riders. The final battle will be epic, and Sauron won’t be expecting us to sneak into his lair while the battle is still raging. It’s a fool-proof plan without a single flaw.”

Suddenly Aragorn pumped his fist in the air. “Are you guys ready to fucking do this?!”

The group shouted yes in unison, their spirit pumped up and ready for battle. Confidence was high among the men, but Éowyn couldn't shake the feeling that it wouldn’t be so easy to defeat Sauron.