In The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2, the politics of Middle-earth come to the forefront. Episode 3, titled “The Eagle and the Sceptre,” marks a turning point with significant developments that alter the power dynamics, particularly in Númenor.
Now, many are eager to uncover the details of The Rings of Power Season 2 Episode 3 ending. So, here’s everything you need to know.
What happens at the end of Rings of Power Season 2 Episode 3?
In the third episode, Isildur awakens in Mordor and narrowly escapes an attack from Shelob, the giant spider. He meets Estrid, who gives him a map to find his father, Elendil. Together, they travel to Pelargir, where they’re ambushed but saved by the elf Arondir, who is grieving the loss of Bronwyn. At her funeral, Theo tends to Isildur’s wounds but is troubled by questions about his own father.
Meanwhile, in Númenor, tensions rise as Queen Regent Miriel faces criticism. During her coronation, Eärien exposes the palantír, sparking unrest among the crowd. Ar-Pharazôn uses this moment to assert his claim, with a great eagle’s arrival sealing his rise to power. The episode ends with Celebrimbor forging new rings in Eregion, under the influence of Annatar. Meanwhile, in Mordor, Adar prepares for the challenges ahead.
Why did the Eagle choose Pharazôn?
The arrival of the great eagle during Pharazôn’s rise is more than just a symbol of approval; it could signify a deeper connection to the Valar, the god-like beings of Middle-earth. Pharazôn had already reminded Miriel of how an eagle had appeared at her father Palantir’s coronation, seen as a divine blessing. So, when an eagle shows up amid the chaos of Miriel’s own coronation, it’s viewed as a sign that the Valar favor Pharazôn as the new ruler of Númenor.
However, this may not be just a straightforward endorsement. Given Númenor’s troubled future and the reappearance of Sauron, the eagle could be a warning of the dark times ahead. While people might interpret the eagle’s presence as a blessing, it may actually foreshadow the impending downfall of Númenor under Pharazôn’s rule.
Why did Durin IV agree to Celebrimbor’s offer?
In Episode 3 of The Rings of Power, Durin IV finds himself caught in a difficult situation when Celebrimbor approaches him with a tempting offer: a ring of power in exchange for mithril. Despite his reservations, Durin IV is swayed by the dire circumstances in Khazad-dûm, where his people are struggling with food shortages and other hardships.
Durin IV, who has been distant from his father, King Durin isn’t sure how he will react to such a proposal. However, with encouragement from his wife Disa, Durin IV decides to approach his father. They reconcile, and Durin IV persuades King Durin to consider Celebrimbor’s offer. Seeing the potential benefits for their kingdom, King Durin agrees.
The episode ends with the exchange: King Durin hands over the Mithril to Celebrimbor, receiving the ring in return.
