The Necromancer and the White Council

Gandalf's involvement with the White Council's attack on the Necromancer, a subplot that runs parallel to the dwarves' quest and affects the wider world.

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Gandalf's Departure from Mirkwood

The Wizard's Business The Reason Gandalf leaves the company to deal with the Necromancer, a dark power in southern Mirkwood. He is needed for a council of wizards. The Importance This subplot is mentioned but not detailed. It shows that Gandalf has larger responsibilities. The Impact Gandalf's absence makes the journey harder for the dwarves, but his actions elsewhere benefit the world.

The Council's Victory

The Necromancer's Defeat The Battle The White Council, including Gandalf, drives the Necromancer from his stronghold. This is a victory for good magic. The Consequence With the Necromancer gone, Mirkwood becomes safer. This also indirectly helps the dwarves. The Revelation Bilbo learns of this at Rivendell after the battle. It ties the story to the larger legendarium.

At the edge of Mirkwood

During the events of the story, offstage