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Another notable example of Melkor’s influence is found in what was once known as Eriador's verdant forest, Eri'n Gallen. While not directly corrupted by Melkor, it fell prey to the shadow of Sauron, his most loyal lieutenant. This transformation into the sinister Mirkwood illustrated how Melkor's malevolence seeped into the very fabric of Arda, causing vibrant life to become a realm of darkness and dread.
The forest became home to terrifying dangers, such as massive spiders, echoing Melkor’s legacy of corruption and fear, which continued long past his defeat.