Disclaimer: Not mine, don't sue.

On the Paths of the Dead

The three of us walked onwards into the darkness and the unknown. My friends decided to follow me knowing that none have walked this way and survived. Their faith sustains my heart. I do not know whether we will walk out of the mountain alive, but I also know that I have no choice but to come this way and face the Dead.

We entered the gateway and went onward. I had seen the ghost leader beckoning to me; I knew he wanted to claim another victim, he did not believe that I was the one who could draw them out. The one who could release them from their entrapment. The only one who could undo my ancestor's curse.

Before Elrond arrived I did not believe that I could be that one; but now, with Anduril in my hand I am beginning to believe. I know that I have to try. I have to do what my destiny demands, what my heritage demands. If I am to be King of Gondor then I have to face up to my bloodline. The blood of Isildur is in me and his actions are now dictating mine. If I am to go onwards and if we are to win then I need to face the Oathbreakers. I have to see those to left my ancestors to die. It is then that I will see once more whether my bloodline can redeem itself.

I know I am not Isildur, I have passed the test he failed now though I must face another test. One I must pass if I am to prove my worth, one I must pass if I am to keep my life and the lives of my friends. I do not know what awaits us in the mountain but I know I have no choice but to go onward.