Sauron's lair was a place that would make even the bravest warrior soil their armor. It was a grotesque, twisted version of a castle, with jagged spires that seemed to reach for the sky like a giant, middle finger to the gods.

Legolas, Gimli, and Aragorn were inside the lair and making their way to the top chamber as the sound of Sauron's maniacal laughter echoed off the walls.

"I think we should turn back," Gimli said, holding his axe and looking around.

Legolas brought the flask down from his mouth and slid it back into his pocket. “Don't be such a chicken, Gimli. We've faced worse before.”

Aragorn nodded. "Legolas is right. We can do this. We just need to stay focused and stay together."

Gimli sighed. "But don’t you hear that laughing? I can barely think straight."

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"You're just nervous. Here, have a swig of miruvor. It'll calm your nerves,” said Legolas as he handed Gimli his flask.

Gimli brought the flask to his lips. He hesitated. "I don't know if this is such a good idea. I'm already feeling a little...off."

Legolas raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

Gimli clutched his stomach before handing back the flask. "Well, to be honest, I've got the shits. I don't think I should be drinking anything right now."

Legolas pat his friend on the shoulder. "Gimli, you always were a little...delicate. But don't worry. We'll find a nice, secluded spot for you to do your business."

“No we won’t. We need to stick to the plan,” corrected Aragorn. “Any deviations to the plan and bad things will start happening. Don’t you guys watch movies? But I’ll admit, I'm starting to get nervous myself."

"I didn't think you were the nervous type, Aragorn,” said Legolas.

"Even the bravest warriors get a little nervous before a big battle. But I find that distracting myself helps. For instance, have you seen the size of my sword? It's a real beast." Aragorn grinned.

Legolas and Gimli looked at each other, eyebrows raised.

"Was that an attempt at a joke?” asked Gimli.

“Nevermind,” said Aragorn. “Let's get moving. The sooner we get to Sauron's lair, the better."