Warning: SPOILERS ahead for The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power episode 5.Númenor's ruler, Queen Míriel, envisions future destruction that influences her to assist Galadriel in a war against Orcs in the Southlands.
During this period, Galadriel discovers that Halbrand is not a random stranger, but is instead the heir of the Southlands, attempting to escape his role as king. Citing his blood ties to those who fought alongside the Dark Lord Morgoth in the War of Wrath, he does not wish to return to his homeland. Even so, Galadriel needs his knowledge of the Southlands for her coming battle with the Orcs. Galadriel's abrasive personality in The Rings of Power coupled with Halbrand's insistence he stays behind leads to a heated argument between the duo in episode 5.
In the latest episode of Deadline's Inside the Ring from Prime Video, Rings of Power star Charlie Vickers talked about how important Galadriel and Halbrand's altercation is for Halbrand's development and the pair's relationship. Vickers discussed the complexity of Halbrand's character, stating the scene was able to reflect his mistrust of Galadriel, but also revealed his hope that she's doing what's right. Check out what Vickers said below:
"I think there’s just a huge amount of conflict in Hal at that moment. He has this whole new life set up for him. But there’s this person that he is connected with, and I think he knows full well that she is gonna be using him. He’s gonna be used. But there is something within him that is drawing him back to that. Something in his, I guess, destiny, he feels like is written in the stars for him to go with her. I think he spends that whole thing grappling, but I think what he really wants from her is just some kind of truth."
What's Next For Halbrand In The Rings Of Power
Vickers' comments about Halbrand's inner conflict are reflected in episode 5, as Halbrand soon chooses to accompany Galadriel to the Southlands despite his wish to flee from his royal roots. Their journey there will not be easy, though, as Queen Míriel's decision to help Galadriel already influenced royal advisor Pharazôn's son, Kemen, to destroy a Númenórian ship. Halbrand's decision may also result in recognition by citizens of the Southlands, another factor prompting him closer to a leadership role he doesn't want. His relationship with Galadriel, despite Halbrand's hope for honesty, is also bound to put him in a position he wanted desperately to avoid.
Galadriel and Halbrand's conversation in episode 5 acts as the first stepping stone that will lead Halbrand back to the Southlands. It will be intriguing to see how the pair's relationship influences Halbrand's decisions moving forward, as well as how much trust he'll be willing to put in Galadriel's words. Despite some theories that The sees Halbrand's downfall, it's too early in the show's projected five-season run to say how his return to the Southlands will impact his storyline. Galadriel's relationship with the runaway king should also prove to be an important element of both characters' stories as The Rings of Power continues.
Source: Deadline's Inside the Ring/Prime Video