"Honor and Courage"

by The Merry Prankster

Chapter 2: Officers Call

Murphy's Laws of Combat #1: Never draw fire, it irritates everyone around you.

Fort McPherson

Atlanta, Georgia

1230 hours

August 8, 2000

Mike pointed to the various buildings as they rode.  Finally, they came to the off ramp to highway 166.  Mike pointed towards the sign, "Okay, this is where we get off.  We will travel east on this road until we hit Main Street.  Luckily the streets are all identified by signs so it will be a short ride."  Turning to Eomer, the teen asked, "How do you want to handle it?  I recommend having one group set up camp in the mess hall while the others proceed to the armory."

Haldir and Eomer followed the boy to a building, surrounded by a strange fence of metal.  The elf watched as Mike dismounted and called the strange vehicle up to him.

The teenager began doing something with the hand held controller but something was not right.  Frustration filled his face as he shook the device a few times.  Finally, he let out a sigh and walking back to the MAP, low mumbling could be heard.

At seeing his frustration David leaned over and yelled, "Have you check the batteries?"

Mike slowly looked up and growled, "No Smartass, it's not the batteries.  There's power to both the MAP and the remote.  Looks like the transmitter was routed through that damaged circuit board.  I'm going to have to do this manually."  With that, he turned back to the vehicle and pressed a button, causing a panel to open up. Reaching inside, the teen swung out a keyboard and monitor.  He quickly began punching in a request for the security code.

"Interesting," Remarked the Lothlorien Marchwarden as he watched the boy work his magic on the disabled machine.

"Mike you better make sure you are punching in the right code.  Remember Erica changed it."  David told him.

Without looking back, Mike retorted, "You think?"  A few seconds later the lights on the panel above the door turned from red to green in quick fashion.  With a click and a hiss, the heavy door popped open, causing the elves present to jump back in alarm.

The two teens ignored the commotion behind them as they walked up to the door.  Upon reaching it, Mike turned around and motioned for the Elves and Rohirrim to come closer.  "Don't worry about the door. It's supposed to do that.  There's an electronic security lock and the entire place is pressure sealed."

"It's magic." One of the Rohirrim warriors mumbled.

David shook his head and grinned, "Not magic, just a higher level of technology."

Mike held up his hand, signaling the others to hold up.  "Listen up, we need to load up the wagons with as much weapons and ammunition possible.  Now to keep this going smoothly, David and I will point out what to get.  Any questions?"

Mike waited for any questions.  Finally, he turned to Eomer, "Lords Eomer and Haldir, would you mind coming with me?"

"Lead the way." 

With a quick nod, the teen entered the building.  Just as he passed by his friend, he paused for a second.  "Uh, David, you remember how you were reading everything you could get your hands on about mortars and artillery back in ROTC?"

"Yeah, what do you have in mind?"  David retorted as he walked over to large stack of ammo and began to change his half empty clip for a full one.

Mike looked around the room for a moment and settled on a nearby stack of books.  Walking over to the bookshelf he quickly found the titles he was looking for.  The teen turned around and tossed the books to his friend, "Here, Catch!"

"I like your line of thinking."  David remarked after examining the title.

Eomer walked into the room at that moment to see Mike throw the books to his friend.

"What is so important about parchment?"  The Horse master asked.

Mike grinned, "One thing I noticed back at Helms Deep was that the good guys lacked artillery.  I'm taking care of that little problem."  Turning back to his friend he intoned, "David, I am appointing you our artillery commander.  Those are the field manuals for the 60mm M224 Mortar.  I want you to know what's in those pages by memory.  Then I want you to train any Rohirrim, King Theoden allows us on how to operate them." 

At first the elf and Rohirrim warrior were unsure of what they boy was saying but when they heard him tell his young friend to train the Rohirrim, their eyes lit up with interest at the thought of learning similar weapons to that the boys used during the Battle of Helms Deep. 

David smiled, "So, I get to be the fire support commander?"

Mike nodded and finally noticed the looks of puzzlement on the adult's faces.  He quickly began explaining what a mortar is, "I can tell you don't have any idea of what I'm talking about so I'll give a quick explanation. Do you remember those hand grenades or exploding orbs we used back at Helms Deep?"

The Rohirrim warrior shook his head no, while the elf nodded yes to the boy's question.

"Okay, a mortar fires a larger orb at a longer distance.  It can shoot a high explosive round over 3000 meters away.  That's compared to a 100 meters range for the normal longbow. You do the math."

The possibilities for this seemed endless to Theoden's nephew while he responded, "Interesting."

"David, grab a couple of Rohirrim and place two tubes in the wagons."

"Yes, Sir," David responded with a mock salute.

Mike picked up a clipboard after David left and began moving towards some boxes.  Haldir and Eomer approached him to see what the boy was doing.  Mike made a few notations on the clipboard.  "Okay, According to the manifest, there are at least twenty cases of M888 60mm High Explosive rounds for the mortars.  Lord Eomer, we are going to need all of these rounds for the upcoming battles."

At hearing his friend David remarked.  "Remember Weight limit." 

"David those tubes have a rate of fire of up to 30 rounds a minute.  If the upcoming battle is as big as I think it is, we'll need every round."

The teen looked back to the Rohirrim and asked, "Eomer, you think your uncle could be convinced to spare four strong lads and around four pack horses?"

"Why is it you need four strong lads and four pack horses?"  Eomer questioned.

Mike looked up from his clipboard and gave the horse lord an evil grin.  "Well, if we are going to allow David his fire support section, we'll need two gunners and two ammunition bearers/loaders for his unit."

"I take it that means you will be teaching them how to use this weaponry?" he asked wanting to learn as well.

"Yup.  If we are to ride with the Rohirrim as planned, with four pack animals, we can carry the tubes on two mounts.  The others will carry extra ammunition.  I figure we can go into the next battle with around 144 rounds of ammo to play with.  Then, there's the extra we'll bring back on the carts and set up in a supply depot within Edoras."

David walked in just in time to hear Mike's answer and grinned. Upon seeing the boy's reaction, Haldir asked, "What are you grinning about?"

Pointing at the other teen, which was busily checking over another manifest, answered, "Murphy was right, Tactics are for amateurs, professionals study logistics and my friend over there is ever the professional."

Mike walked over to a nearby metal wall cabinet.  He reached in and pulled out a Beretta.  Checking to see if the weapon was good, he tossed it to the Rohirrim, "Here, catch!"

The Rohirrim easily caught the pistol thrown to him than looked at the youth as to ask what it was.

"That is the weapon, I demonstrated to your uncle back in Edoras.  I keep one as a backup piece.  It holds fifteen rounds before needing reloading.  When we get done here, I'll show you the basics."

"I heard of it and many of your weapons can do and I look forward to you teaching me.  If there is anything I can do for you just ask," the warrior replied.

"Yeah you can help me with my fencing when Aragorn isn't around," responded the teen.  He turned back to his clipboard and looked towards the door.  Without a word, the teen quickly walked out the room and down the hallway. Eomer looked to Haldir as if to ask if he knew what the boy was up to. The elf responded with a shrug and quickly followed the boy out, Eomer right behind. 

"EUREKA!  I've found the mother load!" shouted the boy.

Upon hearing the shout, both adults quickened their pace to find the boy staring at an opened case, mouth wide open. "I take it you found something important."  Haldir stated.

Mike turned back and grinned.  He walked over to the far side of the room and removed a tarp from another long box.  "Hey David, I found Ma Deuce!!" shouted the teen.

"YEHAW!!!!! Where's that baby at?"  David yelled as he ran inside.

The two adults watched as the two boys, opened the box to reveal a large weapon, with what looked like two handles on the back.

"Why do I have this sudden feeling of dread?"  Eomer asked the elf.

"That's due to the fact you are just becoming used to the children's actions, "answered Haldir. "I, on the other hand having seen them in action on the Deeping Wall and I am completely alarmed."

Turning to David, Mike explained, "According to the manifest, there is an anti-air mount for the weapon.  Not to mention around two thousand rounds of semi-armor piercing rounds. You thinking what I'm thinking?"

"Oh yeah."  David said with a lopsided grin.

"We'll need to grab the Stingers as well.  There should be four on site."

"Oh boy.  Do you realize if Erica doesn't get to shoot at least one she'll kill you?"  David laughed.

Mike slowly turned back to the adults and with a grin, stated, "On the subject of Fell Beasts and Ring Wraiths, I have a plan."

Haldir turned to face Eomer, "I have a feeling that neither we nor your uncle will approve of this plan."

Eomer nodded, "If it's close to some of the stuff they have already pulled, I know my uncle will lock them up until they are old enough to know better."

"This looks like a job for Earl and me," chirped the teen and he considered how to best use the new weapons.

++++++++

Western Elm Tree Ranch

Snellville, Georgia

2130 hours

August 8, 2000

Erica sighed and told the elf that they needed to get the silver case he had seen her packing into one of the saddlebags. Entering the house a second time, Erica headed for her bedroom while Legolas looked around the rooms more closely on the main floor.  He noticed several pictures, one of which immediately caught his attention for it included a younger version of Gandalf and two young girls in front of a tree draped with multi colored lights.

Legolas walked over to the picture and focused on the older man.  "Is this your Gramps?"

"Yeah, that was Gramps, Reggie, and me the Christmas before she and her family moved to Florida four years ago."  Erica answered, while coming up behind him dressed in a blue robe with fluffy blue slippers on her feet.

"Looking at this picture almost makes me believe that he and Gandalf are the same person.  If you trimmed the wizard's beard and cut his hair, there would be no difference."

"No kidding. I am going to wash this."  Erica says as she held up the clothes she had been wearing.  "Than I am heading for the shower is there anything I can get for you, before I am unavailable?"

"Fresh water would be nice," answered the elf.

With a smile, the teen led Legolas into the kitchen where she turned on a faucet and filled up a glass. Handing the glass to him, she remarked, "It's not fresh spring water from Middle Earth but it'll have to do. If you want more C is for cold and H is for hot." Erica told him as she headed for the laundry room. The elf followed her into the laundry room and watched her load the washing machine and turn it on all the while amazed the electronic devices and the indoor plumbing.

"Ok, I am going to go and get cleaned up if you decide to go for a walk don't touch any of the fences, they are made to fry anyone when the defenses are on."  Erica tells the elf as she heads up stairs.

Erica made a quick stop in her bedroom for a comfortable change of clothes, which consisted of jeans, tank top and clean under garments.  Once in the bathroom the girl turned on the hot water for the shower while she finished shedding her clothes.  At first she lets the hot water burn her skin to cleanse it of the scent of battle.  Than she began washing her hair three times.  Erica was almost done rinsing out the conditioner when suddenly. 

"AAAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!!!!!! Son of Bitch!!!!!!!!!" The naked teen screamed as she jumped out of the freezing cold water.  Even before the girl could come close to finish cussing out the water, the door slammed open and Legolas entered with his bow ready to shoot whatever caused Erica to scream.

"What happened?"  He asked the teen who was still cussing out the shower.

"Damn fucking water went ice cold for some reason."  Erica sneered than suddenly realized she was naked.  "Honey no sneak peaks before the honey moon."

Legolas just looked at her strangely and answered, "We are not to be married."

"In other words give me the towel or marry me!"  Erica informed the elf who handed the girl the blue towel hanging next to him. Legolas stared at the girl for a moment before he remembered who he was staring at. He was beginning to feel some conflicting emotions and decided to go outside to clear his head and relieve some hidden tension.

"I don't get it."  Erica said about 15 minutes later when she came down the stairs still pissed off with the shower and trying to figure out why it went cold so quickly. By this time the elf had returned from outside.

"What is it you do not get?"  Legolas asked from the kitchen as he rises up for the sink.

"Even with the washer going the hot water should have lasted longer than that, plus it has never gone cold so quickly before."  Erica explained as she noticed that the kitchen sink was on full force.  She walks over to it and shuts it off than turns to the elf and asks.  "How long has that been running?"  But than she heard more water running so she followed the sound and to find that the master bathroom's sinks and tub were both on full force.  After looking through the entire house, Erica discovered that the elf had turned on every facet he could find to full force. As she shut off the last one, the teen turned on the elf and demanded, "Why the hell did you turn all the water on?"

Sheepishly the elf told her, "I wanted to see if I could discover the source of the magic that makes the water hot and cold."

At his answer she just laughed and said, "Follow me."  She than took him to a closet and opened it up and answered.  "It not magic it's called a hot water heater."

While Legolas inspects the hot water heater Erica decides to turn on the Hot Tub and get it warmed up for a soak later.  After setting up the Hot Tub, she entered the kitchen in search of ingredients for dinner.

"Thank God for paranoid Grandfathers."  Erica mumbled to herself as she leaned over the side of the freezer that was still working.

"Why do you say that?" questioned the elf from behind her.

"SHIT!"  Erica screamed as she fell into the chest freeze headfirst.

"Are you alright?"

"Yeah, I am fine, you just scared me."  Erica said as she tried to stand up but only slipped on some ice.

At seeing the girl fall Legolas offered her a hand to get up.  She reluctantly accepted his aid.

+++

Thirty minutes later, Legolas stood in the doorway, watching the girl cook the meal in amazement at how some of the machines she used worked so quickly.  He was about to take a look at the machine she called a microwave when he heard her say, "OUT!"

"Is there something wrong?"

"Yeah no males allowed in this kitchen while I am cooking!"  Erica informs him. 

"Why is that?"

"Simple, it's self defense."  Erica remarked as she tested the noodles for the stir-fry.

The elf raised a questioning eye.

Noticing the elf's reaction, the teen decided to explain. "Ok, you see most of the male humans that I know don't know how to cook.  My grand father was the worst. I learned long ago don't let him cook."  Erica informs the elf.

"Than Gandalf must be your grand father because every elf knows not to let him anywhere near the kitchen," laughed Legolas.

"See that."  Erica said as she pointed the melted remains of metal hang next to the door. "He burnt that pot, and it led to the fire that almost burned down the house.  However, I got this great new kitchen out of it."

"Why do you still keep this?"  Legolas questioned as he steps back from the metal.

"Any time Gramps would offer or want to cook I just point to it and said, "So do I get another new kitchen?"  He would just give me a look of disgust and than ask, "What are you cooking tonight?"  Erica laughed.

"So I take that means you can cook and I wont need any of those pink tablets you gave Aragorn after he eat Eowen's stew," Legolas said with a straight face.

Erica turned and gave him a dirty look and said, "Like an elf would know how to cook."

The teen quickly pointed and introduced the Elf to a variety of foods such as chicken stir-fry with noodles, stuffed mushrooms, and deep-fried breaded jalapenos peppers.  (The peppers will be Erica's revenge on the elf for the shower treatment)

As he opened his mouth to respond Erica shoved a stuffed mushroom into his open mouth and said.  "Tell me what you think you pointy eared MALE," then turned back to her work.

Legolas chewed it for a moment, savoring the flavor, before answering, "It's quite good."

Finally, his continual presences began getting on her nerves. "You're hovering over me is getting on my nerves, so here. Go roll this across the floor, till I tell you to stop," Erica said as she hands him a tin coffee can that she had place some ingredients in.

About 1 hour later Erica started setting the table for the two after placing the last dish on the table. Finally, she turned to the elf, who had kept blowing on his hands from the coldness of the can. 

Suppressing a smile, Erica at last told Legolas, "Ok, go ahead a put that in the freezer.  It is the other door of the refrigerator." 

Following her instructions, he placed the object into the freezer.  "So are we ready for dinner?"

"Yup," Erica said as she started to sit down but Legolas quickly pulled and held the chair for her surprising the teen. His task complete, the elf moved back to his chair and sat down.  Unsure of what dining etiquette was observed he asked, "Is there anything you do before eating?"

"Well since I don't know if you worship God or not I was going to say a silent prayer."

"Any prayer to a higher being will be appreciated," answered the elf.

"Well in this house the eldest or the head of the household usually says the prayer.  So I guess that means you."  Erica told him as she lowered her head.

"Ah but since this your house, shouldn't host say the prayer?"

"Sorry but I have to go by Gramps rules mean the eldest gives the prayer."  Erica remarked with her head still lowered. "Plus I am not the head of this house and it won't feel right for me to give it.  After Gramps died, I always had Mike give it."

Legolas closed his eyes and began reciting, "adarem i ne menel, aer ess lin aen, rdh lin angleena, iest lin aen, ne menel a ned Amar, si anno i mast vin orui ammen, ah amen arrano reagath vin, be arannam an raesdain vih, ah u-dogo na-vael ammen dan leitho ammen ed ulug."

Erica listened to the elven prayer and thought to herself. " Lord, give me patience."

Finally, Legolas raised his head, "Lets eat."

"Amen to that."  Erica said as she took up her fork and began eating the stir-fry chicken with Almonds.

Legolas picked up what appeared to be some kind of meat and placed it to his lips.  Taking a small bite, chewed it for a moment.  Watching for Erica's expression, he teased, "Well at least it is better than Eowyn's stew."

"Whatever."  Erica remarked trying not to let the mischievous elf get her goat just before she popped two breaded jalapenos peppers in to her mouth.

The elf nodded, "Yes, it is at least edible.  I'll give you that."   With that he took another bite.

"Here try one of these I guarantee it will really enhance you taste buds."  Erica remarked as she pointed to one of the jalapenos on his plate.

Legolas picked up the bean like object and placed it in his mouth.  Once again, he carefully chewed it to get it's full flavor.  Finally, he swallowed, saying, "That was really good.  We must bring back more of these they really spice up the food."

"Five... Four.. Three.. Two...One.."  Erica says then suddenly the elf reached for the water in front of him.

"That was for the cold shower."  Erica snickered as she easily ate two more.

Legolas took a slight swallow, then smiled, "It went down the wrong way.  Do you have any more?  They were most delicious."

"Sure honey, there are at least 20 more if you want," Erica said to the lying elf.

"Why thank you, I could use some more."

In reply, Erica dumped the rest of them on to his plate and suggested, "You know it's an insult to the cook if you don't eat everything that is place on it."

Legolas looked at the food on his plate, remembering the old adage, "Be Careful What you wish for."  Finally he gracefully stood up, "However, it would appear that I am full at the moment.  I would like to offer them to my hobbit friends and get their opinions."

"I don't' see any hobbits here and you have even come close to eating half your plate."  Erica smiled ever so evilly at him.

Finally he conceded her victory, "You have won, this time." 

"Legolas don't take it bad.  Here let me make up for it."  Erica offered as she got the ice cream he worked on out.  "I am making what is known as Root beer Floats.  It's for dessert.  I promise you'll like it."  Erica said as she thought the elf took her joke a little too hard.

His plan working, the elf allowed himself to be led through the door.  "It is nothing really."

Erica quickly scooped out two large portions of Vanilla ice cream and place them in to large glass mugs than she pour Root beer into them all the while with a nagging feeling as if she'd been had.

Waiting for the girl's back to be turned, Legolas quickly ate one of those Jalapenos he had carried with him.  I really hate to tell her, but these are quite good, thought the elf.

Legolas sniffed at the aroma and asked, "Does this drink have any of this caffeine you warned me about?"

"Nope," Erica replied as she sipped a drink

Giving the girl a nod, the elf took a sip and swished it around his mouth.  "You know this is not bad either,  You will have to show me how you make it."

"MALES!!!"Erica huffed.

+++

After helping clear the table Legolas step out for a short walk. Erica quickly got changed into her swim suite and headed for the hot tub to soak her aching back. A while later, Legolas returned and walked through the front door moving towards the kitchen, hoping to find Erica.  The object of his search not there, he called out, "Erica, where are you?"

"Out back," Erica replied as she reaching over to eat another one of her cousin chocolates.

The elf walked out the back door and was about to say something when he spotted the girl in the hot tub.  Embarrassed, Legolas uttered, "You didn't tell me you were undressed.  I'll be inside waiting for you to finish."

"I am not naked.  I am in my swimsuit.  What did you want?" asked the teen just before she finished off her cousin's last chocolate candy.

The red-faced elf averted his view of the girl, "In my kingdom, females would not allow themselves to be seen in such a state.  So, I'll be waiting inside."

"Whatever! Like you haven't seen the goods already. Just what did … Oh shit …" Erica said as she jumped out of the tub and grabbed her robe and ran into the house.

Hearing the door slam, Legolas looked back "What is the matter?"

"It's electrical storm.  So I am not staying out there."  Erica remarked as she put on her robe.  "So what did you want?"

"I noticed that it was getting late and your cousin has not returned.  Do you want to go look for her tomorrow?"

"Yeah …but, I 'm not too worried about her, she can normally take herself, let just say she taught me how to fight dirty. But you are right, if she is not here by morning we'll go look for her. I guess we should get some rest than…Why don't you take the spare bedroom."  Erica answered as she pointed to a ground level guess room.

"Very well, shall we set watches?"

"You have been hanging with Mike too much.  I'll already have my alarm set for 5:30 am."  Erica laughed than in a more serious and careful tone of voice she says.  "Good night Legolas."

"I mean stand guard," countered the elf.

"Standing guard is pointless here.  Gramps Security system will let us know if anyone should try and come with in 1 mile of this place."  Erica remarked than added in a more serious and caring tone of voice.  "Good night Legolas."

"Very well," answered the elf as he made his way to the room.

Erica headed up stairs and quickly changed out of her wet clothes and into a two piece silk night gown.  Rest did not come easy for the teen. As she fell asleep, unspoken nightmares entered her head.  These night terrors took her to the Mines of Moria, watching Gandalf fall into a darken abyss.  Then her dreams led to her Grand father, as she once knew him dying and having to burying him again.  Finally, the nightmare took her to a very different outcome of Helm's Deep where she stood looking down at the dead rotting corpses of her friends and allies.  In her nightmare she started to bury them, but as she placed Mike's body down, his dead arm reached up and grabbed her demanding to know.  "Why did you fail us?"  At that, all the other bodies started to reanimate and chased her.  She ran but there is nowhere to run. Shw was cornered by the corpse and were about to kill her when...

A loud scream awoke the sleeping elf.  He jumped out of bed and raced upstairs to the source of the scream.  He quickly opened Erica's door.

Legolas easily dodged the lamp that was thrown and was by the girl's side in seconds.  Cradling her head, he gently shook her awake.

"STAY AWAY FROM ME YOU UNDEAD PILE OF SHIT!"  Erica screamed at the figure as she tried to focus on where she was.

"Erica, wake up.  You are safe."

"Huh..."  Erica slurred as she started to realize it was a nightmare. However, she had to know for sure so she reached over to turn on the light and fell out of bed.

Legolas gently wrapped his arms around the girl.  "It's alright, you are safe."

"Then you are alright..." Erica said as she looked into the moonlit face of the elf to make sure he wasn't the rotting corpse he had been in her dream.

"Yes, I am fine.  It was just a bad dream."  Legolas told her as he held her close.

"Then the others are ok too," Erica said. Suddenly, the memories of the dream hit her hard and she cried.  "Oh God, It seems so real, Parts of it were real but other...." 

"Shhh, go to sleep.  We have a busy day tomorrow, so get your rest."

The elf gently lifted her back into bed.  He waited a minute than sat on the edge of the bed and began singing her to sleep.

With a small yawn Erica said.  "Thank you."  With that, the teen drifted into a more peaceful sleep, still holding the elf's hand.

+++

The next morning, sunup

BRING~~~~~~~~~BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!

Erica's alarm screeched as it pulled her from a restful sleep. She didn't even bother opening her eyes but slammed her fist down on the alarm to shut it off.

Legolas had been up even before the first rays of sunlight came through the window.  Hearing the alarm, he went to Erica's door and knocked.  "Erica, time to get up!"

"Yeah I know!  Give me 10 and I'll be ready."  Erica replied as she stumbled out of bed.

"10 what?" asked Legolas.

"I've said before and I'll say it again, you've been hanging with us too long."  Erica remarked as she changed into her cleaned Army clothes.  "But I'll be down in 10 minutes.

"I'll be waiting," answered the elf.

About twenty minutes later the couple was out in the barn, getting ready to leave. Erica turned to Legolas and said as she finished saddling her horse, "Billy's Country Market is right down the street.  He and my gramps both believed in backs for their back ups.  So his store should have power.  Plus Gramps installed his security system so we can get in with out breaking in. After getting some supplies will look for my pain the ASS cousin." 

"Do you need any of this coffee that you refer to when Master Michael first wakes up in the morning. You seem a little grumpy like Master Michael is before he has his first pint of it." Legolas said commenting on Erica's mood earlier.

"No, I'll grab some soda pop at the market and I will be just find." Erica sneered at the elf.

"What are we getting there?" asked the elf.

"Just a few extra supplies for women, and a few surprises for my group."  Erica told him as she mounted her horse than tied the mule's lead to the horn.

Legolas held out his hand, "Then lead the way."

The trip took but a few minutes and the two were in the parking lot in front of the store. Erica dismounted and easily disarmed the store's security system. Entering the store, she grabbed a couple of carts.  Legolas finished tying the horses and mule to a light pole and followed the girl. Not seeing her at first, he called out, "Erica, where are you?"

Legolas had not walked a few steps inside when a singing voice came from above him

Startled, the elf turned to see just what was happening, when he saw what appeared to be a stuffed fish of some kind come to life.  The creature turned to the elf and began singing "Take me to the river; drop me in the water...."

At hearing the fish Erica yelled.  "Don't mind The General, l he's just alert Bill that people are here." 

The elf raised an eyebrow, "Is that what you call this?"

"It a machine set to any movement threw the door, and that it's name.  It's a joke on Uncle Bill; you see he has been trying to catch a certain huge fish for years and that fish named The General. So last year on his birthday the gang and I got sick of his fish tales of never catching The General so we gave him that."  Erica tells the elf then stops dead in her tracks and starts to sob.

Legolas stepped forward and embraced her, "It's alright.  He's in a better place."

"That was uncle Bill...." Erica told the elf through her tears as she pointed to the rotting corpse sitting behind the cash register with a load shot gun next to him and his faithful dog lying dead next to him.

Getting up the courage the girl walks over to the body.  "Always vigilant, but know is the time for rest."  Erica says as she picks a couple of old army blankets and covers both the man and dog. Than she pulls out her wallet and places her credit card on the counter and tells the dead man.  "This should cover what we need."  Then she takes a cart and heads down the closest isle.

Legolas crouched over the body and said a few words in elvish in honor of both.  Standing up, he followed the girl, saying, "We should seal this place."

"I'll set the security system for that."  Erica says as she start dumping square boxes that said Kotex Security and other that said Always.

The elf looked at the objects and asked, "What did you get?"

"Things that only females use during times of the month and this truly scares males shitless."  Erica remarks as she clears the last of them off the shelf.

The elf merely nods in understanding Erica statement.

She than walks up to the counter and leaves the cart to get another and head down the next isle, first stopping for a cold soda out of a cooler.  "Uncle Bill was just a paranoid as Gramps.  He wasn't my real uncle but he was like one.  When Gramps and mom both had to work, I would come here and listen to him tell tall tales of his fishing and hunting trips." Erica said to break the silence.

Legolas placed his arm around the girl, "Then remember the good and keep that memory as long as you live."

Erica stopped and turn to look at the elf than she place a kiss on his cheek and said. "Thank you for being here."

Than she handed him a cold root beer and walk off with a diet coke heading for the next isle.

"Is there anything else you need?"

"Yeah. You remember how unaware Mike is in the morning I thought I'd bring him and the gang backs a surprise."  Erica said as she placed a blanket down in the cart and than started placing several glass bottle of filled with different colors.

+++

Fort McPherson

Atlanta, Georgia

0800 hours

August 9, 2000

The scene outside the armory and mess hall was one of controlled chaos. Mike and David were outside, directing the adults on which weapons they need to take. Both men and elves were helping load the wagons. The elves in particular being able to lift more than some of the men were making a few of the Rohirrim uncomfortable. David finished securing his wagon and noticed the unease. The teen bit his lip, trying to decide what to do. Finally, he went off in search of his friend.

Mike walked over to opened box of loaded rifle magazines and began stuffing his pouches.  Turning back to David, he called out, "Hey David, why don't we bring those two 'Prick 25s?' (Portable Radio Communicators, worn on back.)  We might need the ability to call in indirect fire on some targets."

"Sure. Mike."  David responded after noticing the continuing looks some of the men were giving the elves behind their backs.

"What's up?" asked Mike seeing that his buddy was somewhat distracted.

"Some of the Rohirrim are starting to get on my nerves with the way they are sneering at the elves behind their backs.  It reminds me of how those KKK guys treated Mickey," answered David. "He was only 14 when they beat him to death because of the color of his skin.  The elves stood by us, and I think we should say something."  David remarked still feeling the old guilt.

Mike turned back to the humans.  For a moment he pondered what to do, finally he made his decision.  Walking over to the group that had been favoring the elves with harsh looks, the teen addressed the leader, "I noticed that you do not appear to be happy that our Elven allies are with us.  Is something wrong?"

At first, the Rohirrim ignored the teenager. After all he was but a child in the horseman eyes and beneath the rider's notice. This attitude did not go unnoticed by others and Eomer began paying attention to the unfolding scene.

Mike rested his right hand on his holster and looked the warrior straight in the eye.  With a cold tone of voice, he repeated his inquiry and added, "When an officer asks a question, you are expected to respond."

"You are neither my superior nor even a man. I do not take orders from you, "sneered Rollo, the leader of the malcontents

Eomer decided that enough was enough and walked up behind the teen and told his men in a low growl, "But I am, and you will answer his question." 

Mike reached up and pulled his collar that had a single bronze bar sewn onto it, "In the United States, you respect the rank and not the man.  Now what is your problem, trooper?  Or, should I ask Lord Eomer here to begin the Rohirrim equivalent of a court martial?"

Eomer did not say a word but rested his hand on the hilt of his sword, ready to draw it at the first sign of violence.

Out of the corner of his eye, Mike noticed some of the elves listening in.  Placing as much scorn into his voice, he added, "After all, Lord Elrond sent 200 to help defend Helms Deep, knowing very well that they faced certain death."

More ears listened in to see how this contest of wills would turn out. Haldir and the elves loading a nearby wagon stopped to see what was going on. The March warden nodded in agreement to the young man's words.

"So I ask again, just what the hell is your problem, trooper?"

Noticing that the King's nephew was listening, Rollo answered, "Nothing Sir."

Shaking his head, Mike addressed the group, "In a way, I cannot comprehend the looks I'm seeing from you.  Many of you were on the Deeping Wall when it blew that night.  You saw the elves give their lives, so that Rohan would survive.  My companions and I were right beside you to the end, risking death as well.  Have you no shame that you have to turn against your allies?  Where is the honorable Riders of Rohan who fought against the darkness that is Sauron?"

The teenager's words were beginning to have an effect on most of the malcontents who began to drop their heads in shame. One by one they walked past Mike and apologized for their actions. All, that is but the one named Rollo.

As the last Rider stood defiantly, Mike continued in a low voice that the others could barely hear, "I have met only one Rohirrim that disgraced his heritage and his people in such a manner and that was Grima Wormtongue.  Are you also one who sides with our enemies?"

"I do not side with traitors!"  The Rohirrim sneered looking directly at the elves.

Eomer notice Mike reaching for his Beretta and place his hand on Mike's shoulder to calm him down. At the same time, Haldir came up and told the man, "The only person I see siding with the Dark Lord is you. Do not continue the path you have chosen for it is rocky and ultimately fatal." Grasping the boy's other shoulder, he continued, "This man is not worth staining your soul with what you are contemplating. Let it pass.

A hand gripped Mike's shoulder tighter and the teen looked back to see Eomer giving him a 'don't do it' look and nodding towards the holster.  Mike followed the adult's eyes and shook his head for a second.  "I need to go get a drink and cool off.  Would you mind taking over here?"

Eomer simply nodded and pointed towards where the drinks were located.  Finally, when the boy was out of sight, he told Rollo, "If Gandalf had not said we needed every man I would kill you myself for such words you have spoken to the elves or Mike, for they are showing more honor and loyalty than you are right now."

Rollo wilted under his lord's rebuke and began moving away. Mike paused a moment to glance back and see the malcontent slink away in disgrace.  Shaking his head, he returned to his walk.  Haldir and Eomer shared an unspoken thought and the elf quickly moved to catch up to the teen.

"Michael you must calm yourself.  We are used to such reactions among men.  But it is good you saw the treachery and dealt with it quickly for that many will respect you."  Haldir told the boy but than asked, "But tell me what is the KKK and why did they treat Mickey so badly?" 

"Let's just say some bigoted bastards kidnapped a friend and murdered him because of the color of his skin."  Facing the March warden, he continued, "Mickey was good soilder.  There was a saying here that in the army, the only colored that mattered was the green of your uniforms.  Luckily the police caught the killers and sent them to prison.  I actually hope they survived the plague only to starve in prison."

Haldir placed a hand on the boy shoulder and said, "Death of friends is never easy but remembering who they are will help them to live on."

The Rohirrim and Elves worked through the day, transferring weapons and ammunition to the waiting carts.  Finally Mike stood alone in the doorway as the last man came out with his load.  The teen walked over to David, "Well that pretty much cleans out that armory.  If we need anything else, we'll have to go to either Fort Benning or Fort Stewart."

It started to rain as they closed the armory and headed for the mess hall. The two walked in silence until David commented, "After what happened today, I do not think we should tell the girls anything about this or they may do something about him."

"No shit," commented Mike.  He sniffed at the air, "At least the stench isn't so bad now.  However, I still can't wait to get back to Middle Earth.  Being here is too much like staying in a cemetery."

"I think a grave yard would smell better than here."  David remarked.  "I was talking to Haldir earlier and he told me that the stench of death is so strong it interferes with their heightened senses."

Mike took a slow look around.  "Yeah, I still wonder about what happened here.  Why did it happen or more importantly why did God let this happen?"

"Mike you can't blame God.  Because that virus sure wasn't normal I figured it was man made.  Plus remember if it hadn't had happened we never would have met the beings we have."  David told his buddy.

"Plus think about at least we can finally find a guy for Erica, so none of us ends up with her," David joked.

"Yeah, you're right," conceded the teen as they walked back to the others.  "And, to be honest, we have gotten lucky with the treatment we received from Aragorn, Legolas, Gandalf, Gimli, Theoden, Eomer, Eowyn and the elves.  Yeah, thank God for that."

"You know having Erica go after Legolas may not be the best thing for Leggy.  Think we should protect him or just throw him to the proverbial wolves?"

"Well it's better than Reggie going for him.  Remember Reggie fights a whole hell of a lot dirtier than Erica," David laughed

"That's only because she lived in Florida and that is why she fights dirtier." Mike retorts than nudges David in the arm and nodded towards Haldir.  "What about Reggie and you know who?"

At that David visibly shakes at the fear of you know who and Reggie getting together than says.  "I still wonder if she and her family made it through.  Erica sure was bound and determine that we leave that note for her family telling them where we were going incase they did make it."

"What note?"

"Ooopps I am so dead."  David says.  "Yeah I know you ordered her not to but she did anyways.  But she left it on the computer coded."

Mike stopped and slowly turned around, "What did the message say?"

"Not sure other than she told her family she was safe and heading for CO."  David answered.

"Well there's not much chance of anybody breaking into the ranch anyway. We need to get going is we are going to reach the rendezvous point in time," stated Mike as they walked up to the adults.

+++

The Market

Snellville, Georgia

1145 hours

August 9, 2000

As Erica and Legolas were getting ready to leave The Market when Legolas spotted an approaching female that didn't look like the girl in the pictures. Quickly drawing his weapon Legolas said. "We have company and I don't believe she looks like your cousin."

"Do you see anyone else?" Erica replied as she drew her weapon without turning around.

Legolas shook his head "NO" in reply. The girl Legolas had spotted, wearily approached the two and called out Erica's name.

"Who are you?" Erica asked as she turned and faced the woman, her gun at the ready.

"If you are Erica my name is Karen. I am a scout from Colorado and your cousin rescued me but she was caught by a group of nut cases who are enslaving the survivors."

"How do I know you are telling the truth?" Erica snapped still not trusting the woman.

"Reggie told me to tell you she didn't trash your room she only rearranged it." Karen answered.

Lowering her weapon Erica smiled and asked, "Just how bad of situation is my cousin in?

"They plan on publicly beating her to death as an example to those who would disobey this Leader guy by the name of Jake Lyons." Karen informed them.

"That son of Bitch survived!" Erica sneered.

"Do you know this man?" Legolas asked.

"Yeah I do. He was the quarter back for the football team up until I broke his throwing arm after he raped a friend of mine." Erica said obviously perturbed with the news that the asshole was still alive.

"Then we should do something to make sure he doesn't get his way," answered the elf.

"Ok, here's the plan my friend Legolas and I will go check things out and see about taking out the look outs. Meanwhile you go to jail." Erica told the girl.

"Jail?"

"Yeah when you get there, yell out Thunder! They should respond Flash. Ask for Mike and tell him everything you told me and what I am doing." Erica remarked as she gets on her horse "Do you know how to use this?" Erica asked she handed her an old Smith and Wesson repeating rifle.

"Yes, but how will I get there," answered the girl



Erica looked around and thought for a moment. "You can take Uncle Bill's rig because he would come back from the dead if I let anything happen to Reggie." She walks over to the Ford Explorer with Karen following her. Erica searches the back driver side tire to switch off the alarm that would blow up anyone who tired to steal it.

"Which jail do you want me to go to?"

"Dekalb County Jail do you know where that is?" Erica remarks as she gets in and starts the vehicle for her.

"Yes I do." Karen says as she steps back as Erica gets out.

"Ok, Uncle Bill had this thing made special. It's bullet proof and if it's not started a certain way it will blow up." Erica says as she points to three colored buttons on the steering column. "First White, Then Red and finally the blue as you turn the key.

Karen nodded than shut the door and headed for the Jail.

"Well, Legolas it time to go save the day again." Erica remarks as she get on her horse.

+++

Dekalb County Jail

Atlanta, Georgia

1230 hours

August 9, 2000

Mike looked at his watch for what appeared to be the hundredth time in the past five minutes. "Where the hell is she," mumbled the teen.

The elves began pointing to an unknown object. One of the elves came running up and said, "There is a strange Machine coming this way."

Eomer nodded and quickly waved his men to take cover.  Turning to the teens, "I would suggest that you two get behind something."

Mike and David dove behind a nearby shrub and readied their rifles.  David answered the Rohirrim, "Way ahead of you on that."

The teens waited as a dark blue Ford Explorer drove up Memorial Drive and slid into the Jail's parking lot.  A woman rolled down her window and yelled," THUNDER! THUNDER! THUNDER! THUNDER! THUNDER!" 

Mike shook his head and nonchalantly observed, "Well I guess Erica sent her, she knows the password all right.  Follow my lead."  Standing straight up with his rifle in one hand, he yelled back, "FLASH!"

At hearing the response the girls steered the car towards the boy and slammed on the brakes coming to a stop with in 2 inches of him.

"You do realize if you hit me, breathing would not be an issue for you." observed the teen with a raised eyebrow as she got out of the car.

"I didn't, so deal.  But right now that crazy blonde Erica is going to try and rescue a bunch of people.  One of which is her cousin and the odds are not good," the woman told him

Mike lowered his weapon, "How many bad guys? Where are they and what kind of weapons do they have?"

"There are 15 baddies. They are at Snellville, Brisco Park.  Weapons it seems to only be limited to hand guns and shotguns and one or two uzis," the woman said as she finally noticed the some of the men there had pointed ears.

Mike nodded and turned back, "EOMER, HALDIR! Could you guys come over for a minute?" The teen waited for the two to come over before explaining, "Looks like Erica managed to stick her neck out and we now have a situation on our hands."

"What do you mean she stuck her neck out and how could we have a situation because of it?"  Haldir asked.

Mike pointed towards the woman, "According to the young lady, Erica's cousin managed to survive the plague but has gotten herself captured along with some other survivors and needs us to pull her butt out of the fire.  There are fifteen bad guys involved armed with civilian firearms.  The prisoners are being held at a local park."

"Well Reggie's cat must have not made it through," David pointed out with a happy face.

"Why, do you say that?"  Mike asked.

"Because if that THING survived we wouldn't be needed," David remarked with a shiver.

"What are your plans Michael?"  Haldir asked.

Mike thought for a moment, calculating the chances of his plan succeeding. "The good news is that I know that area like the back of my hand.  There is a lot of cover in the form or trees and houses that will hide our approach to the edge of the park."  Turning to Eomer, he said, "We are going to need to split our forces."

"What do you have in mind?"

The teen gave the adults a frightening grin.  "Haldir, would you mind commanding the force guarding the supply train? I've got a plan."

"I don't see a problem but none of us know how to work that machine," Haldir commented as he pointed to the M.A.P.

"Don't worry we'll be taking it with us."

"Hey what about me?" the woman demanded. "On a horse?  I don't thinks so... I don't know how." She informed them.

Mike pointed over to Eomer, "You can ride with him.  But back to the plan, I plan on sneaking up to the edge of the park, say a hundred yards away from the bad guys. When in position, we charge them.  They aren't trained soldiers and should not be able to handle the shock of being charges.  We capture those that surrender, those that don't; well they won't be around to cause trouble."

"What about the slaves?"  The scout asked.

"Well they have a choice, go to Colorado or stay here.  It's up to them," answered the teen as he climbed onto his mare.  He pulled out his Beretta and attached to a lanyard.  Making sure the weapon was loaded, he said, "You guys ready to go?"

"Yes.  Lets get going before Erica kills everyone there."  David remarked.

"So Eomer, we have fifteen Rohirrim, you, David and myself.  That should be enough to shock and awe the bad guys."

Eomer nodded and began giving orders to his people.

With that, the column moved out of the parking lot and onto Memorial Drive.  Mike turned back to Eomer, "Just follow my lead.  We are in my backyard.  We'll follow the highway straight into Snellville and circle South to the East side of the park."

+++

Shopping centers lined both sides of the road as did burned and crashed cars as exited the Stony Mountain Expressway.  Mike pointed off to their right, "Okay, we'll take this side street and circle around."  He turned back to the scout, "Did Erica say where she'd meet us?"

"No she just said her and her friend would take out the lookouts." 

"Mike why don't you try the Walkie-talkies we should be in range."  David pointed out.

"Okay, Eomer, we'll need to hang a left at this next street."  Mike pulled out his radio, "Proud Mustang 6 to Blue Bear.  Come in Blue Bear."

"SON OF A BITCH!!! HOW THE HELL DID YOU FIND OUT?"  Erica's voice boomed out over the walkie-talkie causing several of the elves to jump at the menacing voice.

Mike turned to the adults and grinned.  Finally, he responded, "A good reporter never reveals his sources.  Lets just say that is but one secret I am aware of."

After a low growl Erica asked in a more neural tone, "How far away are you?"

Looking up at a sign, he replied, "About three klicks west of Highway 124.  We should be coming out 1 klick short of the park."

"Shit!  They are going to execute Reggie in less than 5 minutes at least that is how long winded I think their leader is."  Erica informs than says.  "I can give you guys an extra 3 minutes in addition to that."

"Erica what do you have in mind?" Mike asked.

David looked around, getting his bearings, observed to the adults, "That should give us time to get into position."

"Good just keep your minds on the business at hand.  Erica going silent."  Erica replied as she turned off her walkie-talkie.

"Mike I wonder what she's up too."  David remarked

Mike punched some keys on the remote. "Whatever it is I'll have the recon saucer flying overhead to record everything."

"This should be good."  David snickered.

+++

A few minutes earlier Erica and Legolas had snuck into a sound booth that had been hastily erected near the open field. They came across a gathering of the people about to be killed. Legolas pointed towards a teenage girl who matched Erica's description of her cousin. Erica picked up her binoculars to get a better look and muttered a heartfelt, "SHIT! That's her all right."

"Well, then we had better do something. It looks like they are about to execute her," observed the elf.

Erica glanced around the sound booth observing a certain round silver object; a devilish grin appeared on her face. Getting an idea, Erica quickly showed Legolas how to operate some switches and buttons, when a voice came over her walkie-talkie saying.

"Proud Mustang 6 to Blue Bear.  Come in Blue Bear."

"SON OF A BITCH!!! HOW THE HELL DID YOU FIND OUT?"  Erica's voice boomed back.

Mike responded, "A good reporter never reveals his sources.  Lets just say that is but one secret I am aware of."

Calming down after a low growl, Erica responses in a more neural tone, "How far away are you?"

Mike replied, "About three klicks west of Highway 124.  We should be coming out 1 klick short of the park."

"Shit!  They are going to execute Reggie in less than 5 minutes at least that is how long winded I think their leader is."  Erica informs than says.  "But, I can give you guys an extra 3 minutes in addition to that."

"Erica what do you have in mind?" Mike asked.

"Good just keep your minds on the business at hand.  Erica going silent."  Erica replied as she turned off her walkie-talkie.

"Just how do you plan on giving them more time?"  Legolas questioned the girl.

Erica just smiled at the elf as she removed her shirt to reveal a black sports bra. Then walks over to the unconscious lookout and grabs his black Australian hat and long black leather trench coat. As she is walking out the door she mischievously winks at the elf who stares after her astonished at her actions.

***

Down below on the soccer field, the criminals had assembled their prisoners so they could witness the teenage girl's execution.

"Do you have any last requests before we beat you to death?" asked an executioner with a snap of his bullwhip.

"Yeah, be a real man and untie me so I can kick your fucking ass!!!!!!!!!" The sixteen-year-old brunet sneered.

That was not one of the answers he had been prepared to receive. The would-be, now befuddled, executioner turned and asked his boss what he should do.

"No, we are not going to let her go. We need to make an example so that the other prisoners won't get the wrong idea. Besides, this trash is related to the girl who ended my football career. I want her to die a long and slow death. So gag the bitch," answered the leader.

Not too far away, Erica clearly heard her cousin and started snickering, saying "That's my cousin, she's still pissing people off."

+++

Mike led the column through back streets to Highway 124.  They then cut across some fields and turned north.  Finally, they reached a copse of trees east of the park.  Mike dismounted and told the horse, "Wait here, I'll be right back." The teen crawled to the edge of the shrubs and took a quick look.  "What the hell is that Erica doing?" thought the teen.  With a shake of his head he quickly made his way back.  Moving up to Eomer, he reported, "There are fifteen guards like the scout reported.  Erica is providing a distraction which will allow us to get to the jump off position undetected."

Mike recognized the song and groaned. "Eomer, I've would mind a suggestion as to getting the job done?" asked the teen.

"It seems that Erica and Legolas have already taken out the lookouts so while the group is distracted we can move quickly in and as we get closer have your friend with the horn sound off, causing confusing," answered Eomer.

Mike grinned, "It's good to see we are thinking along the same lines.  However, I would recommend have a few riders circle around and wait for the signal."

David shook his head, "Lord, now he's infected the King's nephew with his attitude.  We are in trouble now."

Eomer nodded but than also suggested, "We should have some of the elven archers be ready to kill any who go for the prisoners."

The teen shook his head. "These are not trained soldiers and I believe they will break at the sight of our charge."  Mike pulled a lanyard from his pocket and wrapped it across his shoulder.  The free end was attached to his pistol.  "Any who stand will be cut down with out mercy.  The trees will screen our advance to the jump off point."

Mike and David positioned themselves next to Eomer as the riders formed a line and drew swords and readied javelins.  Mike pulled his Beretta from his holster and raised the pistol in preparation to the charge.  "With your permission, I'll have David sound the charge," said the teen

Looking to his men to check Eomer nodded for him to proceed.

"David sound the charge," ordered Mike.

+++

Erica glanced back to the sound booth and made a quick gesture with her hand. The song by Leann Womack called Buckaroo began blaring from the speakers, which drew the attention of both prisoner and guard alike. Stepping into view, the girl began a very suggestive dance, moving closer and closer to the guards, who's hormones took control so they stood drooling at the girls movement. Two of the guards began moving closer to the stage as the girl dropped her trench coat. Finally the song ended and the Tangos began their attempt to capture the teen.

Up on stage she had just finished up the sexy dance number by sliding suggestively down a pole when she heard the all two familiar noise of David's bugle.   She watched as several of the men look around in confusion and others went for guns.  Using the pole, Erica kicked up to knock an advancing tango back down the stairs where he was greeted by Legolas.  "Surrender or Die."  The elf told the man who was at the wrong end of Legolas's sword. While up on stage Erica ran to set her cousin free, but was prevented by the would-be executioner. The man snaps his whip at the approaching teen, she doges the whip by stepping to the side. As he goes to snap the whip, Reggie step firmly on the end, allowing Erica enough time to punch him in the face sending him backwards.

Glancing at her cousin, Reggie says with a smile. "About FUCKING time. Now untie me so you don't get all the fun."

With a "I don't give a shit smile", Erica says. "Like I need your help to kick their Asses." Then she reaches into her pocket and pulls out a switchblade knife to free her cousin.

While in the slave pit an older man smiled at the old familiar sound and quietly told his two grandchildren, "Here comes the cavalry.

The last note still lingered as Eomer yelled out, "CHARGE!"

The line advanced to the tree line at a cantor.  Upon reaching the edge, they swiftly galloped towards their foes, metal, glistening in the sunlight.  Mike held the reins with his left hand, the Berretta in his right.  Most of the bad guys stood in shock, not quite believing what they were seeing.  First one, and then another shook their heads and began to run, throwing their weapons to the ground.  A dark skinned, Hispanic man stood alone and raised his Uzi at the oncoming riders.

Out of the corner of his eye, Mike spotted the lone gunman and dropped him with three well-placed shots.  Finally, they had reached the area where the hostages were being held. 

"EOMER, LOOK OUT!" shouted David, as he spotted a scarred gang banger in a Hells Angel jacket point his pistol at the Rohirrim.

The Rohirrim quickly ducked just in time while an arrow came from the darkness to kill the Hell's Angel.

Getting off his horse near the stage, Mike noticed that the rest of the bad guys were raising their hands in surrender and moved over to Eomer.  "See, I told you they would break and run."

The teen jumps back as he doges the falling body of the would-be executioner that lands at his feet and he clearly hears someone yelling.  "And that's for ruining my favorite shirt, you fucking jackass."

"Yeah, that proves it. Reg is definitely still alive."  Mike muttered.

"And is this the woman you boys are scared to death of." Questioned a grinning Eomer.

Both teens nod their heads as they back away from the stage area than David turns to Mike and said, "Well at least the psycho cat of hers didn't make it through."

"What in the hell took you so long?"  Reggie demanded of the two teens. Suddenly, a loud scream drew everybody's attention towards a man running with a very strange piece of living patchwork fur that was hissing and digging its claws into his face came out of the shadows only to knock himself out by running into the goal post.

"Awe, there you are Mr. Cuddles," Reg exclaimed as her rambunctious psycho cat came and jumped onto her shoulder.

"Let get the hell out of here," David said to Mike as they remembered there last encounter with the psycho kitten from hell four years ago.

Mike ignored his friend and decided to answer the girl instead. He shook his head and replaced his pistol, "Well, you know I had to get a haircut, see a movie, and decide on the right time to make a dramatic entrance."

The cat hisses at the teen for his rudeness and got ready to pounce.  The grin swiftly left the teens face as he began backing away.  Turning to Eomer, he said, "I think I'll go check on the prisoners."

At seeing the fear coming from the two young boys, Eomer asked, "How can you two be so afraid of a cat after what you two have faced?"

"I rather face more orcs then that cat any day of the week!"  Mike informs him.

Eomer asks.  "Why?"

Both boys look at him and say, "Erica gave her the cat… enough said."  They turned and got on their horses.

The Rohirrim shook his head in amusement then turned to Erica's cousin.  "I would assume you would be Lady Erica's cousin."

Reggie did not hear the Rohirrim as she was too busy embracing and arguing with her cousin about how she didn't wreck her room.  "I did not trash your room I just improved it."

However, Erica had heard the warrior and said, "Yes she is. But not by my choice."

"As if I would pick you for family." Reggie laughs.

"Well then are you injured in any way?" asked the Rohirrim.

"Only my shirt the Son of a Bitch shredded it and I'll I got to wear is my bathing suite and pants." Reggie said as she held up what was left of her shirt. The girl yelled toward Mike, "Mike we are going shopping."

Being the gentleman, he was, Eomer offered his cloak to her until she could get more clothes.  Meanwhile Mike walked over to where the hostages were being held, "HELLO, any of you guys from Boulder Colorado?"

"NO SIR!  THEY ARE THE ONES UP ON STAGE SIR!"  An old man with two young boys reported with a salute.

Mike asked you old man, "I take a guess that you are prior military."

"YES SIR!"  James Roberts responded with regrets.  The eighty year old man continued, "I was with the 26th Cavalry Philippine Scouts at Bataan in 1942.  When General Wainwrite surrendered, I took to the hills with some of my men and spent the next two years fighting a guerilla campaign against the Japs."

Mike nodded, "So you were in the last horse cavalry unit to see action, impressive."

"Hey Mike we got a problem!"  David yelled.

"What's up?" asked Mike

"Erica is beating the leader senseless!  He's down and she is not letting up."   David warned him

"I'm coming!" responded the teen as he walked over to Erica.  Recognizing leader and what he did, Mike began stalking closer raising the flap on his holster yet again.  He did not even notice Eomer standing nearby.

"What are you going to do?" Eomer questioned the youth, trying to stop him.

"I am going to inflict some serious lead poisoning on that SOB," Mike growled in response.

"Why?"

"Cause he raped a friend and classmate," responded the teen.  "After all that has happened at Helms Deep and here, what's one more scum bag?  Besides as they used say in some parts of this country, he needs killin." Mike said as he turned away from the Rohirrim.

"Yes, but do you really want to murder a defenseless maggot?" The Rohirrim questioned, causing Mike to pause.

"Then what would you have me do?"

"Jail," answered David.

"LET ME GO!  JUST ONE MORE HIT!"  Erica screamed at Vidmor and Legolas who pulled her off the weeping pile of vomit on the ground.

Mike turned around as Eomer directed two of his men to apprehend the gang leader.  Walking over to the Boulder scouts, he asked, "Who's in charge here?"

"The guy on the ground." one of the bad guys replied, pointing to the pile of half dead maggot on the ground

"I mean, who's in charge of the Boulder crew?  Some lady requested our help."

"That would be me, Name is Xander Cage." A tall bald man said as he got up. Mike recognized him from several extreme sports videos.

"Find any more survivors?" asked the teen.

"A few here and there, this is the largest group so far.  But we've been hearing reports of a larger one in Los Vegas but the scouts we sent that way haven't reported back yet."  Xander reports as he rubbed his wrists that were just cut free.

"That's good to hear.  My group found a bunch of little kids but we managed to find homes for them."

"Oh really where?  And where on Earth did you come across those horses?"  Xander asked.

Mike shook his head and grinned, "You wouldn't believe me if I told you." Turning around he waved his hand towards the Rohirrim and shouted, "Hey Eomer, I got someone you will want to meet."

Meanwhile Legolas and Vidmor finally managed to calm Erica down enough to reason with her. 

"Fine I wont kill him for now.  But that Son of a Bitch tried to kill my cus!"  Erica sneered at them.

"Erica you must think of the others they look like the need some food and medical attention."  Legolas tells her as he hands her back her shirt than points to the older man with the two half starved boys.

David walked over to Reggie, "Hey Reggie, you need to talk some sense to Erica.  Those refugees take precedence over revenge."

"ERICA!!! TIME TO GO SHOPPING for everyone!"  Reggie yelled at her cus and motioned her to come to her.  Erica walks over to her cousin and asks demandingly, "Where?"

"Shit face locked all the goods in there so we need to break the locks off the doors," Reggie told her. 

David asked, "You want me to shoot off the lock?"

"Nope!  Erica just pretends the lock is Shit head!"  Reggie said causing Erica to smile evilly, and then she did a solid roundhouse kick in the center of doors breaking the lock as the doors flew apart.  The door's lock was shattered by her kick, Erica looked to see if anyone was watching. Once she was satisfied, she limped off to check her aching limb.

Mike turned back at the crashing noise.  "Well at least she's working off her aggression," murmured the teen.

Mike turned back to the former extreme sportsmen and said, "If you'll excuse me, there are hostages to be fed."  The teen suggested to Eomer, "Why don't we have some of our people distribute food to the hostages?"

Reggie pick up the shit head leader by the scruff of his neck and ordered him. "Move shit head!"

"But I am injured!"  He whined. 

"I said move it or I'll make you think what my cousin did was light hearted fun."  Reggie sneered at him, causing him to run and fall into the slave pits whimpering like a whipped pup.

+++

As Eomer approached the teen a second time Mike introduces him. "Lord Eomer this is Xander Cage.  He led the scouts from Boulder in search of supplies and survivors."

"Xander, in return I'd like to introduce Eomer, nephew of Theoden, King of Rohan and the leader of the Rohirrim we brought back from Middle Earth."

"Yeah right I've read Tolkien's series.  And Middle Earth doesn't exist."  Xander told him just as Haldir approached with the rest of the elves.

Mike grinned, "On the subject of nonexistent creatures, coming up are some figments of Tolkien's imagination.  May I present Haldir, Marchwarden of Lothlorien?"

Xander, with a look of sheer sarcastic disbelief says as he pointed to his crew one at a time "Yeah, and this is Mary Poppins, and that's Cinderella, and over there is Snow White. Come on guys take off the make up and lets get to doing what needs doin!"

Haldir raised an eyebrow in amusement, "He does not believe who we are?  Then perhaps he should accompany us back to Middle Earth. I'm sure he will change his mind if he sees it in person."

"Uh Haldir, remember he is one of the good guys," pointed Mike.

"Are you saying that I'm supposed to believe that there is some world where you guys have magically gone to somehow and brought back elves, trolls, hobbits and what ever other things Tolkien imagined up, some world created just for Tolkien's characters? Pa lease"

Mike's smile disappeared as he told the man, "Actually, we didn't bring trolls, hobbits, just elves and men.  My group was on the way to Boulder after loading up at Fort McPherson when we found ourselves on a grassy plain that we later learned to be Rohan.  King Theoden gave us sanctuary and we accompanied the Rohirrim to Helms Deep."  Remembering the fight, Mike sat down and continued, "By the end of the fight my five friends were down to less a couple rifle mags each.  If Gandalf had not found Eomer, well, you would still be prisoners."

"We didn't come back to rescue survivors but to stock up and rearm for the fight.  The sooner we leave this cemetery, the better."

"Fine leave the make-up on I can play along, let's get the hell out of here."  He agrees.

"Hey Haldir, any suggestion to convince the man we are telling the truth?"

"I could show him."  Erica says as she limped painfully over to them with a menacing look on her face.

"You want someone to take a look at your leg?" asked Mike.

"I'm fine but if the Asshole doesn't believe us, we could always take him back with us so he can be introduced to Sauron."  Erica responded with glee

Mike gave the adults a sly grin as he considered his response, "Yeah, he would get an EYEful!"

Mike looked to the scout then back to Erica, "Show Xander the video.  Let me know when you are finished, we have to be getting back to Rohan.  King Theoden is counting on us."

Looking at the remote just handed to her Erica screams.  "MIKE YOU DIDN'T Do what I think you did?  If so you better hand me the tape right now if you value your life." 

The teen walked slowly back to the vehicle and pressed a few buttons saving the video in multiple places.  "Why Erica whatever do you mean?"

"Hand over the tape or you don't get this."  Erica says as she held up a gray cylinder that

had the letters STARBUCKS printed on it.

Mike turned around and held up second cylinder, "Nice try I picked up one at the base exchange.  You know, if I were to have actually taped that little number, I'm sure Gram-I mean Gandalf would find it veeery interesting."

Vidmor turns to David and asked. "That seems not much of a threat, what magical hold does that cylinder have over your friend?"

"Coffee. Is Mike's only true weakness." David laughs.

"I see your regular coffee and raise you an espresso machine with all the trimmings."  Erica says with an evil grin on her face.

"I could always threaten to sick my cat on him."  Reggie piped in.

Mike thought about it for a long moment than turned around and began whistling on his way, "The tape is much more valuable.  Imagine the possibilities.  I could show it to Aragorn, Gimli, not to mention the elves."

"Mr. Cuddles sick him."  Reggie ordered as the cat started to stalk the teen.

Mike turned around and positioned himself in front of Haldir strategically.  Waiting for the last second he rolled to the side.

"What's with that cat did it get dumped into a vat of nuclear waste than run over by a lawn mower?"  Xander asks to no one in particular then recoiled from a loud slap as Reggie says.  "Don't dis the cat."

Meanwhile the cat was caught in his mid air attack by the elf at which Mr. Cuddles started to purr and settle in the elf's arms.

Mike stared dumfounded at the cat then back at the elf, "Dang, the furball actually likes someone." Collecting his senses, he yelled out, "HEY DAVID the furball actually let someone else pick it up.  Where's the camera?"

"That not possible that cat hates everyone but Reggie and Erica."  David replied.

Mike pulled his friend by the arm, "LOOK and tell me what you see!"

"Now we know who is going to marry Reggie."  David remarked in awe.

Mike looked at his friend as if he had lost his mind, "Just what the hell are you talking about?"

"Simple, anyone one who doesn't get attacked by that cat is going to end up marrying her.  So now we've found him."

With a look of concern and resignation, Mike walked up to the elf in question and patted him on the shoulder, "You have my deepest condolences." The cat turned around and began hissing at the boy.

Mike looked at the cat and simply shook his head.  Turning about, he moved over to Eomer.  Motioning towards the hostages, he says, "The way I see it we have three choices."

"Which are?"

"One, they go to Colorado, after medical attention and accumulated supplies.  Two, they stay here and three, they come back to Rohan with us.  If we give them a choice, I figure there will be a mixture of the three."

"Well if it's up to me I would like to send most back to Colorado but a few of us would like to come with you and I one of them."  The leader of the Colorado group interjected.

"I thought, you believed that my companions and I were either lying through our teeth or completely off our rockers.  Why come along?" asked the teen.

"I a fan of Tolkein myself it the place is real I would love to see it." Xander honestly replies.

"SON OF A BITCH!"  Reggie screamed from the supply room.

David looked back to the supply area, "Wonder what set her off?"

"What's up Cus?"  Erica yelled.

Reggie stalked out of the supply room with several design dresses in hand.  She eyes everyone of the slave than spots a young woman clinging onto one of the Rohirrim.  She than ran over and punched the girl as she yelled "Nice try Bitch!"  Her doing so saved the Rohirrim from being stabbed in the back.

Eomer and the teens began running towards the hostage holding area.  Authority showing, the Rohirrim asked the nearest person, "What is going on here?"

"Bitch.. Here ... is... actual... leader..."  Reggie said between the punches she sent at the woman.

Eomer looked to one of the other hostages, "Is this true?"

"I believe so."

"So what shall we do with her?" asked David

"Probably, save her before Reggie kills her." Mike suggests

"After that?" Erica asks as she pulls her cousin off the Bitch queen who is immediately apprehended by two elves.

"Save me and let me go, I'll tell you about the scouts sent to Los Vegas."  The woman whined.

"You do realize she will say anything to save her life," observed Mike.

"No I swear! I know there were the three men and one teen age boy are."  The woman said as she spouted out the correct information.

"In that case, I believe that the leader of the Boulder Scouts should decide her fate," decided Eomer.

At hearing the correct information Xander says. "She's telling the truth."

The Rohirrim turned to Xander, "Then what is your decision?"

"We get the information."  Xander says with a look of death on his face.

"You're the good guys. You don't kill."  The woman sneered back.

"Who said anything about killing." Xander replied as he stalk towards her with a look that even the devil would fear.

Eomer began walking away, telling Xander, "In any case I will stand by your decision."

"Let me go and I will tell you everything."  The woman pleaded.

Mike watched for a second, then turned back to see Erica rubbing her ankle.  Walking over to his friend, he asked, "How are you doing?"

"I am fine."  Erica says as she stopped rubbing her limb trying to hide the fact that she was hurt.

"I was referring about finding out Reggie being alive after all this?"

"It really hasn't set in fully yet.  I am glad but I am just not sure what to tell her about Gandalf."  Erica says as pops some advil than took a drink of water from her canteen.

"How do you think she'll react to meeting Gandalf?"

"Not sure.. I am still not sure about him."  Erica honestly answered.  "But I know as soon as she realizes we heading back for the house and finds out about me eating all her Ferroero Rocher candies in the hot tub last night, she's going to be piss off."

Mike grinned, "Think she'll want to come back to Middle Earth with us?"

"Only to get revenge on me."  Erica snickered.

A quick look of pain settled over Mike's eyes that vanished just as quickly.  "At least you had other family to make it through."

"Mike don't give up hope, who knows who out there on Middle Earth that is someone else's family."  Erica says as she placed a hand on his shoulder.

The teen smiled, "Yeah, I know.  But for now, you guys will have to be it.  We need to get the refugees ready to move."

"Just don't keep it all bottled up inside you. You have many friends who are there for you," answered Erica. "That reminds me aren't you going to ask your idol for an autograph?"  Erica snickered remembering how Mike was a big fan of Xander Cage's stunts.

Mike hugged her for a moment, "Maybe when this is all over and we have time to rest and relax. But for now let's get back to the ranch for the night, rest up, and be ready to move out in the morning."

+++

Reggie watched as her cousin and friend talked then felt someone approaching from behind. Turning around she asked David, "You wanted something?"

"Hey Reggie, how did you know that the leader was her?"  David asked

"Simple the supply room was full of MV Designer originals.  The leader being female is the only reason to have those there.  I suddenly remembered that one of the slaves was wearing the same thing," Reggie explained. "So I put two and two together and kick the shit out of the bitch."

David smiled, "I am glad you are on our side."

+++

TBC

Author's Note: Thus ends the second installment to Honor and Courage. In case you were wondering the Chapter title: Officer's Call refers to the old cavalry bugle call that signaled the officers of the cavalry unit to report to the commanding officer for instructions. I'm going heavy with the cavalry theme as the teens become more integrated with the Rohirrim. Next "Ma Deuce" is the nickname given to the M2HB 0.5 inch heavy machine gun. Entering service in 1921, the weapon continues to serve the armed forces over eighty years later. It will be interesting to introduce 'Ma Deuce' to the Fell Beast.

The Stinger is the FIM-92A Stinger Weapons System which is a hand-held surface to air missile. The weapon can engage targets up to 4000 yards away. Of course with a 2.2 lb HE warhead, the Stinger may end up not hurting a Fell Beast but make it mad.

"Chapter Three: The Reveille", will see the resupply column head back to Middle Earth with new friends and new toys. Sauron had better watch out!

To my reviewers, I wanted to give thanks for the encouragement I have received from all of the replies. Now to answer some questions brought forth. First, the Indiana Jones stunt that Mike and Earl pulled had Mike jumping from a horse onto a moving truck, then being dragged while using the whip to pull himself back up on the vehicle. It was one of my favorite scenes from Raiders of the Lost Ark

Second, I have corrected the spelling for the Lady of Lothlorien on Chapter 2 and will go back on Chapter 1 and fix it at a later time.

Before I go, I'll leave with this last bit of wisdom from Murphy's Laws of Combat, "When you have secured the area, make sure the enemy knows it too."

Merry Prankster