Honor and Courage

by The Merry Prankster

UPDATED Finished 1107 The Battle for Helms Deep is over, The Battle for Middle Earth begins as the American teenagers join in the Battle at the Black Gates of MordorLORStand XOVER

10. Chapter 8: Victory in Middle Earth

"Honor and Courage"

by The Merry Prankster

Chapter 8: Victory in Middle Earth

Murphy's Laws of Combat #9: The enemy invariably attacks on two occasions: when they're ready. & when you're not.

Army of Men Campsite
Road to Mordor
1840 hours
March 20, 3019
(Middle Earth)

The march to Mordor was long and the terrain was monotones. Several of the teens had noticed that Mike was no longer cracking jokes and becoming way too serious for his own good. Earl, Erica, Dena, and Reggie got together and decided that they would soon clear up this problem at the next campsite.

Mike had finished making his rounds around the camp when he noticed Earl sitting near the fire with a bag of some beef sauce. Walking over, he asked, "What are you doing?"

"Nothing," a grinning Earl replied as he tried to hide the bag

An equally evil grin came of the other boy's face. "Why am I having flash backs to the Friday before spring break and the jerks on the football team, particularly, around lunch time?"

"Well someone has to get you guys to lighten up." Erica replied from behind the teen.

"Okay, so who gets to be the sick man?" asked the teen. "And who is the eater? More importantly, who is the target?"

There were others listening and one girl became very interested in what was about to occur. The word target peaked the interest of another teen that walked over. "Did I hear target?" Reggie said joining the conversation.

"Well you were the main target but I am thinking those Guards who work for that LORD." Erica answered, "Anyone else is fair game."

Mike nodded, "Okay, I'll be the sick guy. Earl you get to have dinner."

"What do you want Eric and me to do?" Reggie questioned wanting in on the fun.

"I got the MAP's recon saucer taping everything." Erica giggled. "Keep gramps busy or else he might give us away."

"On it" Reggie said as she was off the distract Gandalf

"And just what are you planning Laddy?" Gimli questioned the young prince.

Mike turned around and gave the dwarf his best innocent look. "Oh nothing," answered the teen as he began leading his buddy towards the fire. The new prince walked over and asked the Gondorans if he could sit down.

The Gondorans moved aside and the teen asked, "What are you guys eating?"

The two Gondorans looked at each other. Finally, one decided to answer the teen. "We are eating our rations for the day." one of the guards replied

Mike looked over and began to act sick, "Oh God, I should not have had that MRE. I don't feel so well."

Gimli decided to stick around and observe from a safe distance. The dwarf thought for a moment before commenting to Erica, "Why do I have I feeling a need to go out on patrol or something?"

The girl grinned and answered, "Go ahead I am taping it."

"So it's going to be that bad..." Gimli laughed as he watched from afar. Finally, the dwarf decided to take action and walked up to the men. "The Laddy looks like he's going to loose his dinner." Gimli remarks as he walks up towards them

The guards looked at the prince and then at their food, they dropped and rush to his aid. "Are you alright prince of Rohan." one asked

That was the cue for the second member of this band of Merry Pranksters to act. Earl rushed to the scene and handed the other boy a paper bag. Mike took and made like he had just puked his guts out. He closed the bag and handed it back to Earl, "Thanks, you're a life saver." Earl nodded and asked Mike, "Did you eat supper?"

Mike nodded, "Yeah, I had the beef burrito but I couldn't keep it down."

Earl turned and looked at his friend, "You had the last Beef Burrito and you didn't give me any." To the amazement of the others he pulled out a fork, "Well I'll show you!" The teen then put the fork in the bag and pulled out a brown, soggy mess and began eating it.

Mike raised an eyebrow and asked, "You want some salt with that?"

Several of the warriors present immediately ran off to empty their stomach contents

Gandalf, Aragorn, and Legolas had been speculating the Ringbearer's progress to Mount Doom when the King of Men suggested that they look in on the teens. "I have this nagging feeling that the boys are up to something," mused the White Wizard. They walked over to the last known location and spotted Reggie, Erica, and Gimli looking at something. Without a word, the trio walked up behind the girls. "I take it Earl and Mike are up to their usual?" The White Wizard asked as he heard the distinctive sound of various people throwing up.

"Oh Gramps, I don't know what you are talking about." Reggie said with a big grin.

Mike and Earl weren't paying attention to Gandalf and Reggie. Instead, they concentrated on their prank. The new prince then pulled out a matching fork, "You know this might taste better the second time it goes down." and grabbed a bite.

"Nah, pepper would be nice." Earl said as Mike began to take a bite.

The teens were enjoying watching the Gondorans get sick when they noticed the victims look at something over their shoulders. Mike took another bite and turned around. His hand dropped as he noticed Aragorn and Legolas standing, "Uh Hi guys. When did you get here?

"Since you started your prank," Aragorn firmly replied than asked, "So what did you use for contents of the bag?"

"Aragorn and I used deer meat mussed with rice when we did it," Legolas replied with a smile

Mike turned to the king and answered, "We mixed a beef burrito MRE and water." The teen looked at the looks he was getting from the grown ups and added, "So I take it you saw everything,"

Aragorn tried to keep his stern expression but finally broke into a wide grin. "Yes, we did. However, I should warn you that prank is one of the oldest know to men."

"And elves," added Legolas with a quick nod.

Earl, ignoring the looks he was receiving, looked over to the two grownups and asked, "Want a bite?"

Off to the side, Gandalf smiled and told his grand daughter, "Your plan worked. Michael's spirits has been lifted."

Reggie nodded, "That's what we intended all along Grandpa."

The next morning, the Army of Men was on the march as soon as the sun rose. Before the army had left Gondor, Dena told her friends about Eomer finding his adopted son in one of the wagons. However, she never finished the tale and it was driving Mike crazy. Finally, the new prince decided to get to the bottom of the matter and rode over to Eomer. The teen waited until the horse master looked his way before asking, "I was wondering if you could clear something up for me?"

"What is it my cousin?" Eomer replied

"Before we left Minas Tirith, Dena mentioned something about Matt hiding in one of the wagons instead of riding back to Edoras with the women. Problem is, she never finished the story and I cannot stop thinking about it."

"It is true, my son did defy my order to return to Edoras. I was thinking he has been taking lesson from someone." Eomer said staring at the teen.

The teen's mouth dropped open for a second before he began defending himself. "Now wait a minute, I had nothing to do with the kid hiding out. If I had known what he was planning, I would have made sure he was with one of the ladies at all times."

The Horselord held up his hand to stave off further arguments. "I was merely saying that he has learned to defy orders from someone. And since you, my cousin are very good at that, I would have guessed that you were the teacher." Eomer countered with a smile.

Mike stole a glance over to his father and Aragorn and answered, "I don't do it on purpose. But there are times when a officer has to take the initiative if he wants to see his side victorious. Besides, what did you finally do to Matt?"

"I did nothing, though I wanted to lock him in a room after I found him. However, Lady Dena convinced me that he only came because he did not want to loose a family he had just found. Though I was upset, I understood why he did come. He is with my sister in Mina Tirith." Said Eomer as he informed Michael of Matt's whereabouts

The teen looked upwards in thought for a moment. "I seem to recall, that Eowyn hasn't been giving her speech about adventure and battle since taking out the Witch King," mused the teen. "Think she has had her fill of battle?"

"My sister has seen battle and what a war can do to those she loves. It has stolen her innocence, but she has been shown the realities of war." Eomer stated looking towards his uncle, the leader of his people.

Mike nodded, "I know how she feels. I think the spirit of adventure wore off for me with that first arrow at Helms Deep. But, I still have responsibilities as long as I wear the uniform."

Eomer rode on. "For now, my sister has chosen the responsibility of charge of my young son. She decided to take upon herself to watch over him, as I go off to battle. Though now, if I were to have anyone is in charged with my life, it would be my sister. She is strong, brave and she truly never needed to prove herself to me."

"Do you think Matt will try to follow us out?"

"He shall not, my sister will see to that. However if he did think of it, I informed Lord Haldir to keep an eye on him. My elven friend will make sure stay there. I also took the precaution of locking him in his room before we left. My sister has the key" Eomer said with a smile.

"I take it Rusty is keeping him company," observed the teen.

"No, your noble dog was nowhere in sight when I locked Matthew in his room with his parrot, but I am assuming that she is safe in Mina Tirith." Eomer reassured Mike.

"You may be right," answered the teen. "That dog survived a couple weeks back in Georgia after the plague wiped everybody out. So she should be able to take care of herself here." Eomer nodded and motioned for his cousin to continue. "Well, I just wanted to find out what became of the little squirt," explained Mike as he began to rejoin his unit. "I seem to recall that we have less than a day to reach the Black gates."

Reggie and Erica had been listening to the conversation and Erica could not help adding some commentary. "If that dog is anything like her master I am betting she's not far behind us." Erica whispered to Reggie.

Reggie looked around to see if anyone else was listening and leaned over to talk privately to Erica. "Well Mr. Cuddles has been looking back towards the city and the surrounding forest. You know how he is around that dog. You would think she was his girl friend." Reggie said scratching her cat's neck

"EEWWWWW bad image!!!! Don't talk like that Reg." Erica hissed.

"What, I was just saying that they are the best of friends, though Mr. Cuddles normally would take down any other dog." Reggie answered with a smile.

Earl grinned and could not help butting in, "Looks like you need to tell the cat and the dogs about the birds and bees."

As soon as the lanky teen made his remark, Mr. Cuddles stuck his head up and began hissing at the boy.

Mike looked back and yelled, "Earl, stop messing with the cat. You know how that makes Reggie"

Reggie and Erica both shook their heads in resignation. "Settle down Mr. Cuddles. Earl, I suggest that you not mention that sort thing around my cat. Remember how he can be," Reggie said a wink.

Earl was about to make another crack when something hard hit the boy's head. The teen slowly turned around to see a smiling Erica bouncing another pebble in her hand.

Up ahead, the teen's banter did not go unnoticed by the assembled adults who found the conversation a welcome relief from the dread that hung over the army. Aragorn chuckled as he listened to the banter going on behind him. He told Gandalf, "It's good to hear the children not being serious for once."

The White Wizard nodded and laughed, "Be careful what you wish for. For when they really get going at their jokes you will long for the serious times."

The teens heard the laugher of Gandalf and Aragorn. Earl turn to Dena asked 'What do you think they are laughing about?"

"US, DUH!" Erica answered.

"Earl, you should really think before speaking." Dena said with a large laugh

Aragorn nodded and thought for a moment. "Perhaps, but let them have their laughter," added the king. "For they shall be serious enough when we reach the Black Gates. I know Michael, will be, as he once put it, all business. I just hope the boy doesn't try taking on the enemy by himself."

"I am afraid that Mike will do what he must to protect those he cares about." Gandalf answered

Aragorn nodded, "He is much like his fathers even though I did not know his first."

Reggie's horse began to pick up some speed and guided her to her grandfather where she over heard their conversation "Michael is brave but not stupid." Reggie commented looking back the teen. She paused, then added, "Well not stupid when comes to battle."

"He does have a habit of taking chances at times," mused the king. "Of course, it is often difficult to find fault with his explanations. In my short time knowing him, the boy has proven to be a solid tactician and a good leader."

"Like I said, my granddaughter, he is just like his fathers," Gandalf smiled back.

"Sure, if you say so." Reggie countered with a wink as she turned horse back towards her friends, and began riding in between the two groups.

A short distance away, Mike turned to Earl and asked, "Why are my ears burning?"

"Why, did Reggie set something on fire again?" Earl answered with another question.

Dena leaned over and remarked, "I am surprised they aren't exploding with the way are talking up there."

The two teenage boys decided that now would be a time to change the subject. "So, Earl, did you get that thermonuclear device like I asked?" Mike asked as he grinned in the adult's direction.

"Of course, do you think that I would leave without it" Earl added with a smile.

Reggie and Dena both rolled their eyes and decided that somebody needed to shut the boy up. So Dena rode up and slapped each boy up side the head.

"Owww, why did you do that?" complained Mike as he rubbed his head. "Do you really think I would try to nuke Mordor without a proper delivery system? At least the fallout will blow back into Mordor."

"YES!" Everyone within earshot replied.

Theoden had become used to the teen's antics and told the girl, "Thank you my lady."

"Any more talk about such things Michael and you are grounded for the next 5 years." Théoden added with a half smile.

Earl leaned over to Mike "Your dad has no sense of humor."

"Mike, we know you better then anyone and we are not stupid." Dena said with a wink

Mike looked back to his father and grinned. "Now, now if I really wanted to do that, I would have found a way to tow a Lance missile with us and fire it as soon as we get within range." The teen rubbed his chin in thought, "You know, there might be a few lying around Fort Stewart. We can always go back and look. The warheads, on the other hand would be in a high security area."

Theoden gave Gandalf a look that screamed, 'That boy is living on borrowed time.' However, teens continued remark was interrupted by Erica voice. "Don't worry he didn't bring one." Erica yelled from the back of the MAP's last trailer as she pretended to look for something.

Gandalf look back and gave both boys the evil eye. "Michael, don't even think it."

"Do I dare to ask what a Lance missile can do?" The new King of Men laughed.

"Lord Aragorn, don't ask. Please don't ask." Reggie pleaded, as she knew that Mike would probably ride up and begin to explain the weapon, in a long drawn monotone speech as he does to explain every major weapon he mentions.

Mike sighed, "Erica, you know darn well a Lance missile is over twenty feet long and weighs over two thousand pounds. Be thankful the army phased out the Davy Crockets a while back."

Earl grinned and was about to say something when he noticed Mr. Cuddle's stand straight up and began looking around. "What's with the cat?" he asked Reggie

"Earl what are you talking about?" Reggie said as she turned to see Mr. Cuddles jump off her horse and run into the forest. "Mr. Cuddles, where are you going?" Reggie called after her cat.

"Looks like the cat got other ideas." Erica remarked

"So who's going after the fur ball?" asked Earl as his friend's eyes glowed blue.

Reggie ignored both of her friends and began looking around. "I don't like him taking off like that." Reggie said as she finally turned her horse in the direction her cat went off in

Gandalf saw that the girl was about to leave and yelled out, "Reggie stay here you must watch over your cousin." However, the wizard's order was being ignored as the teen rode off towards the bush area still insight of the column, looking for her cat.

Reggie turned around and argued with her grandfather, "He is my cat; I am going to find him."

Earl watched the girl ride off before asking Erica, "You going after her?"

Erica shook her head, no, then turned back towards her cousin had ridden and yelled. "Don't worry cus. He's just going to have a little fun."

Gandalf was not pleased that his grand daughter was disobeying him and made that fact known. The White Wizard would have none of that and ordered, "No you will stay with us! Your cat will be fine."

Reggie did not listen and started to enter the forest in search of her cat, defying her grandfather.

Mike and Earl looked to each other in silent questions. Finally, Mike asked, "You want to go after her or should I do it?"

Earl shook his head, pulled out his pistol and looked it over. "So I guess, I'll go get the cat and the girl."

The lanky teen began to pull away, when Eomer appeared in front stopping him, "You don't have to go. Gandalf has already taken care of his granddaughter."

Earl looked to where the Horsemaster was pointing and saw that the White Wizard had stopped his friend and was talking to her in a quiet tone. He turned back to Eomer and answered, "I believe you are right. Thanks."

The brunet was rather upset that she was not allowed to go after animal friend. She was afraid she would never see her friend again, after all Mr. Cuddles had been with her through everything, he was her guardian. Reggie dismounted her horse and began setting up her camp area for her and her cousin. She erected their tent and sat down in a huff on near by log wondering where and how Mr. Cuddles was doing out in the woods of Middle Earth all alone.

"I should have gone after him." Reggie mumbled as a tall white bearded man approached her from behind. "I don't want to talk to you!"

"You should not take that tone with your grandfather." Gandalf replied as he placed his hand on Reggie's head.

"Yes I should, you wouldn't let me go after my cat. You know how important he is to me." Reggie hissed as she tried to get up and leave but was stopped by Gandalf hand still present on her head.

"You have much anger built inside you my dear firefly. I suggest you work out your aggression."

"Why, are you volunteering?"

Off in the distance the other teens along with Gimli, Aragorn and Legolas could hear Reggie and Gandalf's conversation and bets were being taken.

"I will give you ten to one odds that Reggie will not be able to lay a hand on Gramps." Earl said offering odds that anyone would take.

"I'll take those odds." Erica said with a large chuckle. She knew that Reggie was pissed off enough that she could take her grandfather on, but she doubted that her cousin would win the sparring match.

"Hey Mike you want in on this action?" Earl questioned his friend.

"Well since the furball is nowhere in sight, I'm in." Mike laughed.

"Do you think it is wise to be betting on your grandfather and the lass?" Gimli said questioning Erica.

"They would be making similar wages if they were in my place. Who knows maybe I will share my winnings with them. Nahhhh." Erica snickered.

"How do you think the lass will fair against Gandalf?" Gimli asked with a large smile

"She will get her share of the punches, but without a doubt in my mind Gramps is going to swipe the floor with her." Erica laughed.

Erica's laugh could be heard by the two bickering family members, as they turned around to see the conversation occurring behind them in the distance.

Two miles north of the Army of Men
Road to Mordor
0630 hours
March 21, 3019
(Middle Earth)

Mr. Cuddles raced through the forest sensing one he knew. The feline reached a break in the trees where he found a familiar friend. One he had left behind

Is that you Mr. Cuddles? A female mind called out.

Who else could track your scent, my dear Rusty? Mr. Cuddles replied

Good. It's seems that I am not the only one tracking the army.

A short distance away, a swarthy, dark skinned man crept among the trees. He appeared to be watching the army of men advance into Mordor.

Both animals caught the scent of the enemy scout. Do you smell that? Mr. Cuddles said sniffing the air

Yes. I smell him. Rusty replied. I like the odds. Shall we go and introduce our foes to our true selves my friend?

The Easterling scout adjusted his scarf and continued to track the army, just out of sight.

Though I can do much damage in this body, with my true form, I can do far more. Cuddles added with a snarl.

The scout heard a snap and turned around. There was nothing he could see in the forest behind him so he returned his attention to the army of men.

The dog and cat began to stalk their new prey with their fierce spiritual beings

Shall we begin keeping count my friend? Rusty asked as she started growing larger and larger till her body is that equal to a small horse and her teeth were big enough to punch through thick leather.

I'll begin, countered the transformed cat as he pounced on the scout before the man could give off a shout.

A thousand yards away, the rest of the man's scouting party heard a disturbance and a muffled shout. Finally, the leader called out, "Muhammad?"

"My turn." The dog now wolf snarled as he ran for the approaching enemies than rips in to the closes one

The enemy soldiers listened as the sound of some large creature bounded through the underbrush towards them. As the second enemy soldier fell to the beast's claws, the leader hissed, "Slay that creature," and attacked with his sword

"As if they could." Mr. Cuddles laughed as his 6 inch teeth tore in to the belly of another

The leader could not believe his eyes at the creatures that attacked his men. He turned to one group and ordered, "You five attack that dog creature. The others kill that feline!"

"The leader is mine." Rusty called out as she headed butted another soldier

The Easterling saw the dog-creature charging after him and he dragged two of his comrades into its path. "Take care of the creature. I'll go report to Sauron."

"We're going to loose him. I need a boost." Mr. Cuddles says as he uses Rusty's back to give him an air advantages.

The enemy leader looked behind him as he began running to where they had left the horses. He was just about to make it when the large saber-toothed tiger landed in front of him and roared

The man rolled and tried to avoid the beast's slashing teeth. He looked over his shoulder and saw his sword lying a short distance away and he scrambled to retrieve it.

The cat looked at the man with a menacing smile which said. "Go ahead bub, make my day."

With a snarl, the man pulled a knife from his boot and lunged for the cat.

"Oh please." The cat snickered to its self while it jumped to the side and swiped its long claws across the mans side while avoiding the knife

The Easterling clutched his side, trying to keep his innards within his body. Finally, the desperate man picked up his knife and threw it at the cat.

"Stop playing around and kill him." Rusty snapped at her friend

"You're no fun." The cat complained as he just slapped the badly aim knife away from him with its large paw. Mr. Cuddles slashed the Easterling neck with a swipe of his mighty paw. "Are you happy now?" The cat asked his female counter part

Three miles south of the Black Gate
Mordor
0900 hours
March 21, 3019
(Middle Earth)

"Are we there yet?" Erica jeered at the elf. "I am serious this time, how much longer do you think it will be till we get there."

The sun beat down on the group with an unforgiving heat causes the tempters of many the warriors to be set off at the littlest of things...

King Aragorn had just finished settling a dispute between a Rohirrim and a Gondoran with it seemed another would start up again somewhere else in the formation.

Mike noticed the worried expressions on many of their faces and rode over to Earl. "Looks like all is not well among the troops," intoned the teen.

Earl looked towards where his friend was pointing and nodded, "Yeah, the tension is so thick you could cut it with a knife."

"You could say that again. I swear if we don't get into a fight with Sauron's army soon, we are going to have Gondorans and Rohirrim at each other's throats."

"If you think that's bad I can feel the Phoenix fire building in me at the thought of another battle." Erica said

Mike looked around and noted the adult's position and asked Earl in a not so quiet voice, "What do you think about moving our positions a few yards from the Gate. At least then we can open up with the machine guns as soon as they open."

"Well, that would give us the chance to use the Claymores again," added Earl.

"Mike are you nuts, your dad will kill you." Reggie said entering conversation from behind the teens.

The two teens ignored her. "You think we have any artillery shells in the supply train?" asked Mike

"Hey Watch those damn Pot holes Reg!" Erica screamed from the back. "Or someone up there is getting a fire ball in the Butt!"

Mike turned back to Reggie and asked, "Why do you say that? Besides, did you see any artillery rounds in the wagons?"

Reggie turned back to her cousin and hissed, "I am! Just rest you crazy annoying person in the back of the M.A.P." Reggie then turned back to Mike and replied, "I saw some, but that does not mean you get to use them. If you even think of leaving that hill and your father catches you, you are going to be dead meat, and you'd wish you are grounded until your 21." Reggie informed the over zealous boy

Mike nodded and turned back to Earl, "What do you think about riding ahead with the rounds, dig them in near the gate and put pressure plates on the fuse. When the orcs rush out KABOOM!"

Reggie put hand in front of her face, and muttered to herself, "Boys and their toys."

The White Wizard caught the beginning of the conversation and decided to step in before Theoden could. "Michael whatever you are planning, don't!" Gandalf said as he rode up to them.

Mike turned around and gave the wizard an evil grin. The teen was the picture of innocence as he answered the White Wizard, "Whatever do you mean?"

"Michael, I am not stupid and remember I know you and your thinking so don't even try." Gandalf informed the boy.

Lowering his voice, Mike asked, "Did my father and the other adults overhear the conversation as well?"

"No I just saw the smile on your face and knew that you were planning something." Gandalf replied with a snicker

"Drat," cursed the teen. "I was hoping to get the other's minds off the upcoming battle. I figured that line of thinking would do the trick. Are the others still stressing out?"

"Michael you wanted your father to hear you? You are crazier then I would have thought to give you credit for." Gandalf said with a laugh "I can inform him of you like?"

The teen grinned back, "Hold on, I got a plan. So I think I'll draw their attention onto me instead," answered the teen. Turning to Earl and in a loud voice, he asked, "What do you think about our Double Secret Dark Lord plan?"

Everyone heard the teen's remark and turned to look at the boy. Theoden rode to Mike's position. In a low voice, the king asked, "Michael, what are you talking about?"

The teen turned and answered, "Oh, did you hear that last remark?"

"Yes, what are you talking about?" Theoden demanded from his son.

"To be perfectly honest, absolutely nothing, I noticed that you, Aragorn and most of the other adults have been on edge for most of the day. So, I figured hearing of one of my hair brained schemes would turn you attention away from whatever is worrying you."

Giving his father an evil grin, the teen commented, "Looks like my plan succeeded."

"That it did. You have distracted us," admitted the king. "However do not do that again."

Mike shook his head and laughed, "I gave you my word, I would stay on the hill and I meant it. Besides, wasn't my louder than normal tone a giveaway?"

Theoden laughed and patted the boy on the shoulder, "No, my son, it was not a giveaway. I just thought you got overly excited with one of your now-famous schemes."

Mike was about to voice a reply when what appeared to be a black cloud approach the army. However, it was flying against the wind.

"Shit Gramps we got a problem!" Erica yelled as she pointed up towards the sky and a bunch of birds flying towards them

Earl looked up and asked, "What's the problem?"

"Sauron's spies!" Gandalf hissed.

Mike nodded and began shouting orders, "Earl, get the fifty and deploy on the hill. Think you could convince them to go somewhere else?"

"On the way" Earl said giving Mike a salute.

Mike nodded and growled, "Good, shred those sons of bitches."

"Will do" shouted Earl as he rode towards the hill with his beloved weapon

Mike followed his friend up the slight hill and quickly dismounted. The teens and some Rohirrim recruits had the machine gun unpacked and set up on the anti-aircraft mount in minutes. Mike pulled out his binoculars and trained them on the approaching birds, or at least that's what he planned before being stopped by the Wizard. So he asked Gandalf as a distraction, "Are the other adults still sniping at each other?"

"Don't Mike." Gandalf ordered, "Just let them see us for now. However, do let them see any of your toys. Remember why we have come."

The teen looked into the Wizard's eyes and saw how serious he was. Finally, he turned back to Earl and yelled out, "Stand down and hide the toys." Looking back to Gandalf, the teen said, "I hope you are right. I really do."

Gandalf smiled, "Don't worry. Trust me."

The Army rode straight through the day and following night, their journey broken by many short rest stops. Finally as they neared the Black Gate, Aragorn called for one final rest before proceeding to the battlefield. Mike immediately took advantage of the rest and called for the teens and the Boulder scouts to gather round.

The Boulder scouts were first to arrive on scene to meet Mike.

"Okay guys, this is the final stop before Aragorn butts heads with Sauron. Now before we head out there are some things I wanted make clear." said the teen as the others showed up.

"Shoot." Xander says as he lighted a cigar, which was grabbed by one of the girls.

"There is going to be enough smoke in the final battle, we don't need to inhale it now. Karen informed the man. "Go ahead Mike." Karen says just after she took a puff of the cigar before she put it out

Mike pulled up a map and motioned for the others to gather round. "Okay, I managed to acquire this rare map showing the area around the Black Gates by means that will remain confidential as Aragorn and my father are in listening distance."

"Did you acquire with the five finger discount?" Reggie said with a giggle

"I will neither confirm nor deny that statement, especially with my father nearby." The teen looked over towards the two grownups, who were making final plans of their own. Shaking his head he turned towards his friends, "Karen, Dena, what's the situation with the MASH Unit?"

"We got all that aren't going to be in the battle setting up the tents and a perimeter just incase some tango's get by you guys." Dena reported.

"And we have gathered enough supplies to last the battle and then some." Karen added

"Good," confirmed the boy. "I'm expecting some heavy casualties, considering the expected size of the enemy we are facing." The teen pointed towards the map, "Okay you see this line of hills about one mile from the Black Gates?"

"Yeah," Earl said noting the position with his finger for all the gang to see

"I want you set up the field hospital in this area. It should provide concealment as well as good defensive works."

"Already started," Dena said in a matter of fact voice.

"It sounds like Mike is going to be out of a job, if Dena keeps anticipating Mike's orders." Reggie whispered to Karen.

"He's okay." Karen added

Unknown to the teen, engrossed in his planning, Aragorn and Theoden had completed their plans and had come over to listen in. Mike then turned to Xander Cage and asked, "How are you with a 50 cal machine gun?"

"It is my favorite of all machine guns," Xander replied

Mike nodded and pointed to another point on the map, "Okay, here's what I want you to do. This hill is about 600 yards Northwest of the Gate. I managed to eavesdrop on Aragorn's battle plan and the army will be deploying just South of the hill. I want you to take the fifty and three troopers and dig in on the crest. You should have enough cover to mask your set up."

"Who the hell used the MAP recon saucer and didn't put it away?" Erica bellowed as she walked up.

Mike looked up and raised an eyebrow, "Okay, what are you screeching about now?"

"Someone used the MAP's Recon Saucer and didn't put it away." Erica said as she looked directly at Mike.

The teen jerked a thumb towards Reggie, "Blame her, she's the last one with the MAP."

"Mike, I was merely driving it. Believe it was Earl who was using the recon saucer to get a handle on the positioning you told him to get, so it is your fault." Reggie countered

"It wasn't either of them Mike. It was your password that was in it." Erica replied

"So in any case, our recon capacity has been shot. Guess we'll have to direct the mortars the old fashioned way," decided Mike.

"Nope it isn't I put in back and it's charging now. It should only take about 20-30 minutes for it to be fully charge." Erica replied. "Just next time, put the toys away when your done."

"Mike can we get on with the plan," Reggie prompted Mike to continue with planning

Mike nodded and turned back to Xander, "Well you up to taking a fire team with the sixty to that hill? You will be in perfect position to hose the orcs when they open the Gate."

"That sounds like I am going to be seeing some action tonight" Xander announced, "Ok, I got that but I see one problem."

"You are right about it," answered Mike. "What's the problem?"

"Well actually it's more than one and they are winged." Xander replied

Mike grinned, "Don't worry about that. I have a plan!"

"Oh No! I do not like the sound of that." Reggie said putting her hand in front face on her forehead

The teen ignored Reggie and turned to Earl and Sgt. Haldraada, "Sgt Haldraada, welcome to your first staff meeting. Now to your mortar section's deployment area."

Theoden had heard enough and decided it was time to rein in his youngest son. "I agree with her."!!!" King Theoden announced.

"Great daddy is here" Earl whispered to Mike

The teen slowly turned around to see his father and Aragorn standing two feet away. "Hello father," greeted the teen. "I thought you and Aragorn were making plans for the army?"

Theoden walked in front of the teen and growled through clinched teeth, "YOU WILL NOT PULL ANY HAIR BRAINED STUNTS AGAIN AT THIS BATTLE!! OR I WILL BIND AND GAG YOU AND SEND YOU HOME!"

"We have finished in time to hear yours, and by the sound of it I am not going to like them." Aragorn added to the Kings rant

Gimli pulled out a length of rope and informed the two kings, "I got the rope. Where shall I tie up young Michael?"

"Have I ever pulled a hair brained stunt before?" Mike innocently asked. The two kings were about to answer so the teen added, "No, before you answer that. Every one of my plans were based on sound military planning and designed to maximize our assets and minimize the enemies."

"Master Michael, I do not believe it would wise to proceed with any plans that may upset your farther." Legolas said, approaching from another end.

"Okay, I won't pull any hair brain stunts," conceded the teen. Turning back to Earl and Haldraada, Mike pointed to the map, "You see this line of steep hills about three thousand hundred yards due west of the Gate?"

Theoden grasped the teen's shoulder and turned him around to face him. "Not good enough my son I want your word on your former families life that you will NOT do any hair brain stunts." Mike's father demanded as he forced his son to look at him

"Father, all joking aside, I do not pull hair brain stunts when other people's lives are hanging on what I do. Back in Minas Tirith, I promised that I would not pull any stunts and I will keep that promise."

"Swear to me my son now or go home." The king demanded.

"I swear," conceded the teen. "Now if you will, I'll finish giving out deployment orders to my people." He turned back to Haldraada, "I want you to set up the mortars on the other side of the hill. Lt. Beegle will be nearby and operate the fire direction center."

Satisfied that the crisis was over, Theoden and Aragorn walked off to finish their planning. "Mike you can leave any hair brain stunts to me and Erica." Reggie whispered when the King was out of earshot. At that, the White wizard, who had been standing nearby, decided to discipline his grand daughter and used his staff to swat her on her behind. "No hair brains stunts from anyone." The white wizard warned

Reggie rubbed her sore posterior and moaned, "Owww." The girl slowly turned around to see her grandfather, not looking too pleased with her. "Sorry grandpa."

Earl ignored the altercation and asked Mike, "And where will you be?"

Theoden stopped and called out over his shoulder, "That is a good question, I would also like to know that answer."

Mike glanced over at his father and took a breath before answering, "I'll be at the top of the hill with my RTO to spot for the mortar. If the map is accurate, it should be high enough to see over the Black gate into Mordor."

"So what are we going to do about the winged one's?" Erica asked.

"I have sent for help." The white wizard answered with a knowing smile.

To Mike's horror, his friend unknowingly guessed correctly his plan to deal with the flying threats. Earl grinned, "We can always shoot the Fell Beasts out of the sky with the fifty and have you girls mop up the Nazgul when they get back up."

"Shut up Earl." Mike hissed.

Earl stopped and looked back to his buddy in shock. "Don't tell me that was you bright plan?" asked the lanky teen. "I didn't think you would try the same stunt twice."

Mike glanced back at the adults, "Uh that in no way was my plan. I swear." Theoden raised an eyebrow and gave the boy a look that clearly stated he did not believe the boy.

Gandalf decided to intercede and stop this discussion. "That will not be needed for I have sent for special help." The wizard informed them in a matter of fact tone.

Mike looked back to the wizard and decided to press his luck, "Okay, because I really had no access to the Patriot SAM batteries I was wishing for."

Erica slapped Mike. "Ok boy you know what time is? It's time for you to shut up before we're all get sent home." Erica warned.

The teen rubbed the back of his head. "Okay, okay," conceded the teen as he motioned for the two kings to come closer. "Basically I have a simple battle plan that does not involve any stunts that you fear."

Mike looked up at his father and Aragorn, "I'm going to set up on the hill directly behind the army and begin directing mortar fire directly behind the gate to harass Sauron's forces before they come out. When the gate opens, I'll. shift fire to the opening. At the same time the two machine gun teams will open up on the orcs as they emerge. I expect that the enemy will be depleted somewhat before they get to the army. As you can see. This is fairly conservative as my plans go." "So, does this put you mind at ease?" asked the teen to his father

"For now...." Theoden replies with hesitation in his voice

"Now, I should be the one to worry," countered Mike. "You are going to be in thick of battle with Aragorn going hand-to-hand while I'm safely above the fight taking potshots."

"But that is what a true leader does for he is an example to his men." Theoden answered.

"Watch your back," said the teen. "I already buried one set of parents; I don't want to bury another."

"I will do my best." Theoden replied as with a smile and said. "But that is your job."

"So Aragorn, are you okay with my deployment?" asked the teen.

Earl stood nearby and looked at his watch. "Ok Mike, it's time....."

"For what, to move?" Reggie asked as she started to get up.

Erica shook her head and answered, "No for his speech." .

"Oh great..... Where's my ear plugs when I need them." Reggie moaned.

"That is putting it mildly." Erica snickered.

"So Aragorn, are you okay with my deployment?" asked the teen.

"Yes but what about the good luck speech your friends keep pestering you about." Aragorn replied.

Walking up next to her friend, Erica slapped him upside the head says.. "You forgot again didn't you?"

Mike rubbed his head and gave his friend a sheepish look. "You mean the speech?"

Everyone but the Boulder crew answered ." DUH!!"

The teen stood up and walked over to the shade of a tree. Standing there, he motioned for the rest of the unit to gather around. He stood in front of the mix of Americans and Rohirrim and began, "For those who joined the unit in Rohan, my comrades and I have this tradition dating back to our time in Georgia. Before any major contest, we always had a good luck speech to motivate the troops. Here's the situation...." The teen took a deep breath, "We are about to enter the valley of the shadow of death where you will watch the back of the man beside you as he will watch yours. Make no doubt about, we are going up against a formidable and skillful foe.

"Brainless brutes he means." Reggie whispered to Erica who just elbowed her in the gut in an effort to shut her up.

They all nodded their heads in agreement with the boy

Mike took a deep breath, "Well, I don't want to preach to you. You know who we are and what we are here to do. But if you are going to fight with us, there's a few things I want you to know." He bowed he head, avoiding the eyes of the assembled soldiers and clasped his hands behind him.

"Do I need to start singing the national anthem?" Reggie questioned but only got a foot from Erica planted hard on her own

"When my friends and I joined this unit, back in Georgia, there were over fifty officers and cadets on muster. Five of us survived the plague to escort a group of young children to safety in Rohan. There's not many of us around." He glanced up briefly, "But what's left is choice."

Reggie was about to say another smart ass comment when her mouth was covered by her grandfather and she clearly heard her cus say. "Another peep out of her and I will bind and gag you myself."

"And I will assist." Gandalf warned quietly.

"Some of us volunteered to fight for Rohan. Some came in because we were bored at home and this looked like fun. Still others came because we were ashamed not to. Many of us came..... because it was the right thing to do. All of us have seen people die. But freedom..... it is not just a fancy word found in great libraries." The teen walked closer and looked up into the sky. "This is a different kind of army. If you look at the history of Middle Earth or the world my friends came from, you will find men fighting for pay, or women, or some other kind of loot. They fight for land, or because a king makes them, or just because they like killing. But, we are here for something different....We are an army going out to fight for the freedom of Middle Earth."

"Damn Straight." Erica agreed.

The bent teen down and picked up some dirt and let it fall through his fingers. He was beginning to warm to the speech. "This dirt, on the boundaries of Mordor is free ground. Sauron doesn't hold sway over this part of Middle Earth yet. It's not the land we fight for. It's the idea that you and me are worth more than dirt. I never saw any ground worth dying for, but I'm not telling you to fight for dirt. What we are fighting for in the end is each other."

Finally, the boy had nothing left to say. He looked over to where Aragorn, Legolas, Théoden, Eomer, Gandalf and Gimli were listening. He felt the embarrassment return and turned back to the soldiers, "Sorry, I didn't mean to preach. I..... just thought you should know who we are." The boy began to walk off but stopped and turned back, "I think if we lose this fight, the war will be over. So if you choose to come with us, I'll be personally grateful. But for now we move out."

Aragorn walked over to the boy. "If King Théoden had not made you his son I would love to have you as mine."

"I was never into those big holier than thou speeches some make," admitted the teen. "So you like it?"

"Yes and as you can see, so did everyone else." Aragorn said as he pointed the boy towards the large group who all were nodding in agreement and some even with a tear in their eye.

Mike nodded and walked over to his father and cousin, "What do you say we go do what we came here to do?"

"You got it." Erica says as she was about to mount a horse. However, the girl was prevented by Aragorn who rode up next to her and said, "My lady I do believe that is the wrong horse and that this is the right one."

"Damn." Erica muttered under breath as she relented and got on behind the King of Men.

Mike mounted his own horse and called out, "Hey Erica, looks like Aragorn is not letting you out of his sight and for good reasons."

"Shut up or I have the MAP display your baby pictures on the Black Gates." Erica teased back.

"But they will also be joined by yours, Blue Bear." countered the teen.

"Nope I erased those!" Erica jeered back.

Earl could not help but join in, "You know that wasn't what Gramps told me back in Minas Tirith!"

At which Gandalf laughed and said. "That's enough you two or I will show everyone those Halloween pictures." That caused all of the teens to gulp in fear

Mike and Earl turned back to Erica, "Truce?"

"Sure for now." Erica quickly agreed.

"I presume as the teens would say I get a copy of those pictures?" King Theoden asked Gandalf

Mike quickly rode next to his father, "Uh, Dad you really don't want those. Trust me."

Eomer had been nearby and heard everything. He rode over to his uncle and commented, "I, however, want copies as well."

"You both shall have them." Gandalf said than winked at the boy, saying, "I didn't say when I'd give them to them."

Mike turned to Erica, "What do you say to a covert snatch and grab operation when this is over?"

"Already tried that, Gramps has one of is passwords that alert him to us trying." Erica said as she rubbed her butt. "And trust me you don't want what happens when he catches you."

"We could generate a electromagnetic pulse if necessary to wipe out the memory," suggested Earl.

"Go ahead and try." Gandalf answered with a smile that caused a chill to go up the teen's spine.

Mike turned to his friends and suggested, "Lets leave that part until after the war is over."

"Good idea." Erica said as she saw the black gates coming into view and gulped.

"Are you sure you wish to come, my lady?" Aragorn asked her quietly.

"I am no coward and freedom doesn't come free." Erica answered.

Mike motioned for Xander, Earl, and Sgt. Haldraada to gather around. "Okay, you guys know your jobs?"

"Yes SIR!" They responded than as they turned to go to their spots, Xander turned to Mike and said with a pat on his shoulder. "Patton had nothing on your speech today."

Aragorn motioned for the others to remount their steeds and soon the army was continuing the march to the Black Gates. Aragorn, Erica, and Theoden rode at the head of the column, followed closely by Reggie. Mike and Earl followed close behind with their unit.

The army advanced into the mountainous wasteland and it was not long before the Black Gates of Mordor rose in front of them. "When the fighting begins, do not wander off," the king said to Erica.

"Ha-ha like that pointed eared a...hole would let me." Erica hissed.

Aragorn shook his head, "Legolas only cares for your well being as do the rest of us. Be happy that you have such friends."

"Yeah well he doesn't have to be such a jerk about it." Erica told him. "I am not his daughter, sister, or wife and he acts like he has some right over me to tell me where I can and can't go. Sorry buddy but I am a U.S. Soldier and my fellow warrior of my country didn't give their lives for my freedom to be controlled by anyone but me."

"Be that as it may. It doesn't change the fact that you are loved as a little sister by many and daughter by others. But go easy on Legolas, he cares more deeply for you than you can imagine."

"Don't worry about my cus, picking a fight is how she warms up when a battle is coming." Reggie informed him

"Shut the F... up.." Erica snapped at Reggie.

"See what I mean.." Reggie answers than quipped. "You can do better than that."

Aragorn merely shook his head and was about to comment when Mike rode alongside. The teen saluted and said, "We are nearing the Black Gates. With your permission, I'd like to break my unit off from the main body and deploy on that line of hills."

"You have my permission." Aragorn replied.

"Mike you get hurt or dead I swear I am going to kill you." Erica snapped at her friend

Mike looked back, "Now why would you say such a thing? You of all people should know I'm the very picture of discretion." At his remark the three present start laughing

Aragorn chuckled at the banter. He watched the detachment ride off for a few moments before returning focus on the road ahead. Off to his side, Theoden was visibly unhappy with his young son's participation in the upcoming battle. "Be at ease, my friend," consoled the former ranger. "Michael promised that he would not pull any brash stunts. I believe he will keep his word."

"I bet twenty that Mike will do something to make his dad want to kill with in 10 minutes of the fighting starting." Reggie wagered.

"I'll take that bet I say it will be with in 5 minutes." Erica replied

"I believe that certain young ladies should refrain from such betting if they value their skins," added Gandalf. Touching Reggie lightly with his staff, the Wizard asked "Am I understood?"

"Ok, but are you in or out?" Erica answered with a wink

"Erica....." warned the wizard in a no-nonsense tone.

"Yes Grandpa." Erica replied innocently.

Eomer had been riding nearby and leaned over to ask Reggie, "Do you really think my cousin will so blatantly break his promise to his father?"

"Without a doubt if Mike feels it necessary to save someone else life." Reggie replied. "There was this one time he was grounded but when Kimmy called him and told him that she was at a party that was getting out of hand and she couldn't get out. Mike called us all and we met him at the party and we proceeded to get her and her friend Ren out. Mike was grounded for a month after that stunt. But hell, the Frat boys learned not to must with us." Reggie giggled as she remembered the Gang having to fight their way out.

"Yeah most of them left the party in the ambulance." Erica said

"Oh really," asked the Horsemaster. "So my new cousin is too much a white knight?"

"That is putting lightly. Hell the cops didn't even come after us after we left." Erica snickered.

"Well yeah do you really think College guys would admit to first their being

under age girls at the party than having the girl friends who are also under age show up and beat the shit out of them." Reggie laughed

"Then, I too fear for Michael's well being if he acts as you predict. My uncle is somewhat overprotective of the boy." Eomer rubbed his chin, "I have a feeling those two boys are going to find themselves confined to the palace by the time this is over."

"I would find somewhere better to lock them up if you like your palace." Erica snickered.

"Yeah Earl and Mike like to blow things up." Reggie giggled.

"Oh yeah forgot to tell you Earl lost his deposit for science class this year." Erica told Reggie

"Again?" Reggie laughed.

Theoden had been listening and broke in, "And just how did Earl lose this deposit for science class and why do I think Mike had a part in it?"

"Lets just say Earl and Mike have permanent reserved seats at the principles office." Erica answered with a large grin.

"Would you explain yourselves?"

"Hey did Earl's Science partner ever grow his eyebrows back?" Reggie laughed.

The girl looked up to the sky as she remembered something else. "I notice you didn't tell him you also have a reserved seat there too." Reggie informed them.

"Watch it cus. Yours has still gotten your name on it." Erica snapped back, "And if you hadn't moved you would have been seating there right beside us."

The two kings looked at each other and grinned at the banter. Finally Aragorn asked a question that had been on the back of his mind since meeting the teens. "Was there anybody among your group who did not get into trouble?" asked Aragorn.

Erica rubbed her chin for a moment, in thought. "Hhhhhhhhmmmmmmmmmmm.......... Let me think.... That is such a hard question............ I would say HELL NO!" Erica answered.

"Hey what about Dena?" Reggie asked. "When did she become a trouble maker?"

"What about Dena?" asked Eomer, who had been listening in.

"She has a seat there too.. Especially after what she did to the editor of the school paper," Erica replied.

"Oh really what did she do?" Reggie demanded.

"Actually the question you should be asking is what didn't she do?" Erica answered with a shiver.

The army rode closer to the gates and Aragorn decided it was time to end the banter. "While, I enjoy learning more about my young friends, that is a subject best postponed till after the battle. For we have arrived."

"Oh shit. Sam and Frodo are almost to the bottom of the hill." Erica answers as her eyes began to glow blue.

"Granddaughter calm your nerves for Sauron will try to read you vision and we must not let him know where the ring is." Gandalf replied with a hand on her arm.

"I am but the power within me is wanting to aid Sam so bad." Erica answered and took a deep breath."

Mike, Earl, and Xander, led the unit away from the main body into the hills. Reaching the first hill, Mike motioned for the others to stop. "Okay Earl, I want you to take your team and set up behind that hill," ordered the teen

"Yes Sir." Earl replied with a saluted as he went into soldier mode.

"Hold up, did you get word to the supply column to meet us here?"

"Yes Sir just look over your shoulder." Earl replied as he saw the supply column coming

Mike turned around and smiled, "Great, now we don't have to worry about the mortars running low on ammo halfway through the battle." He turned back to the lanky teen, "Park the column behind the hills and next to your section. Set up your fire direction center and radio me when everything is good to go. Any questions?"

"Yeah where do you want me to set up the MASH unit?" Karen asked from behind Mike

Mike pointed to another set of hills farther to the west. "Set up the hospital behind that range. Oh, be sure to have a secure perimeter as well. There's bound to be bad guys crawling all over."

"Got them covered, my unit already on it." Dena replied

"Good," Mike turned his attention to Xander Cage. "Xander, I want you to take your team and deploy the fifty cal like we talked about. How is your radio holding up?"

"Fully charge, Erica made sure all were in working order last night." Karen replied

"That should be all then." The teen looked up, "In that case, I'll take my team up on the ridge and get ready to spot the rounds."

"Oh one thing Mike. I think it would be best to leave the MAP with us at the MASH unit incase we need some firepower." Dena remarked.

"Deal," agreed the teen. "I'm going to need to inconspicuous if I want to pull this off. The MAP is a tad too large to hide in such a short notice."

"I'll have the MAP's recon saucer watching and recording everything..." Dena replied as she takes the remote from his hands.

"Okay people, let's act like we got a purpose," ordered Mike. "The army should be nearing the Black Gates any minute and I want to be ready."

"Yes Sir." Sounded through out the soldiers

"Stay here," ordered the teen as he crawled to the edge of the hill. The hill was high enough for him to observe the rest of the battlefield and even past the Black Gate. He pulled out his binoculars and began scanning the wall.

Minutes passed as Aragorn set up his army on two hills in front of the teens. Mike watched for a few more minutes, then motioned for Leofric to crawl over.

"Yes Sir!"

Leofric handed the handset over to Mike who began speaking, Serpent Red 6 this is Serpent 6. Come in Serpent Red 6."

"Serpent Red 6 Here, what the mission good buddy." Earl replied back over the radio

"You guys in position? over." responded Mike.

"Yes sir!" Earl replied

"Okay, hold fire until I give the signal." Mike took another look over the battlefield and decided to see what was going on with the main force. "Blue Bear this is Serpent 6. Come in Blue Bear."

"Blue bear, is currently away, her calls have been forward to Firefly. What can I do for you?" Reggie voice answered mike's call

Mike shook his head, "Is the Big Cheese listening in?"

"I am going to kill him for calling me that." Erica mumbles at hearing the radio talk

"Is Aragorn there?"

"Within a ear shot, what happening?" Reggie answered.

"Put him on."

Reggie passed the radio up to Aragorn "Here it is for you."

Aragorn just looks strangely at the Radio

"You better answer for him Cus." Erica told her.

"Aragorn, are you there?" asked Mike. "I am in position and ready to start the party."

"You press this button and talk into here." Reggie said but then added "Here I'll do it for you."

"Mike said he is ready to begin the attack if you are my lord." Reggie informed Aragorn

Looking strangely at the little device Aragorn answers. "We are almost up on the Black Gates."

Erica turned to Reggie, "Tell Mike when Aragorn charges the Black Gates is the signal for the battle to begin."

"Yeah, I can see," answered the teen. "I am currently looking over the edge of the hill directly to your rear. From my position, I can see on the other side of the wall. There is a large mass of orcs and trolls standing near the gate. Do I have permission to open fire?"

"Serpent 6 , after we begin the charge start your attack, over." Reggie replied

Reggie looked to Erica, and then to Aragorn, "Well does he?"

Mike repeated his request, "Do I have permission to drop a few bombs into Mordor?"

"My Lord, he is asking to fire upon the massing army on the other side. Can I inform him to do so or not?" Reggie asked

"Inform him that if any clear the gates to kill them." Aragorn answered.

"So does that mean no strikes inside the Black Gates?" asked Mike

"If any one from the massing force comes through the gate, go ahead and show them no mercy." Reggie informed Mike. She paused and then clarified the message, "That would a negative good buddy."

Mike shook his head, "Dang. Well, okay my people are in position and we'll be there when you need us."

"Mike will be ready when you need him my lord" Reggie said to the King of men and then replied to Mike "Good to know, Firefly out"

"Roger that, Serpent Six out." The teen swung his binoculars over to the other hill and contacted Xander Cage, "Serpent Blue Six, this is Serpent Six. Come in Serpent Blue Six, over."

"Serpent Blue Six, here. What is happening." Xander Cage's voice replied over the radio

"Just got the word. We are to hold our fire until further notice. I say again, we are to hold our fire until further notice. You have the fifty set up?"

"Up and ready to lay down cover fire for our forces down below."

"Roger that. Just hold up and keep an eye on that gate. I'll let you know when we are free to fire."

"Yes Sir!"

Mike handed the receiver back to his radio operator. "So we hold up and watch until King Aragorn gives us the okay to engage the enemy."

"Yes Sir!"

Down below, Aragorn turned to Gandalf and asked, "Do you think Michael will be able to wait until we tell him?"

"Most likely no." Gandalf answered with a small smirk.

Aragorn turned back towards the Gate. "Very well, then I believe we should let Sauron know we are here."

"It is about time we started this party." Reggie said to her cousin with a wink

When all was in order, the Captains rode forth towards the Black Gate with a great guard of horsemen and banners, and trumpeters and heralds.

There was Gandalf as chief herald, and Aragorn with the sons of Elrond, and Theoden, and Eomer of Rohan, and Imrahil; and Legolas, and Gimli, and Peregrin were bidden to go also so that all the enemies of Mordor should have a witness. (pp.170-171) In addition to the before mentioned hosts, rode two young maidens from Earth and granddaughters of Gandalf the White, Erica and Reggie.

Aragorn led his party up to the Gate and waited for the trumpets to finish blaring before issuing his challenge. "Come forth!' he shouted. "Let the Lord of the Black Land come forth!" Justice shall be done upon him. For wrongfully wrestled its lands. Therefore, the King of Gondor demands that he should atone for his evils, and depart then for ever. Come forth!" (p.171)

The Gondoran king's challenge was met with silence. They waited for a few minutes but there was nothing from the other side. As an eerie silences filled the land

Aragorn was about to lead the others back to the main army when the stillness was shattered by the rolling of great drums and blasts from horn. Finally the gate began opening with a great break

"Hmmm, it seems that Sauron is afraid of us." Reggie whispered to Gimli who was riding behind Legolas. The Black Gates began to open, causing the teen to change her statement. "Maybe not" The teen remarked

From within the depths of Mordor came Sauron's embassy. At it's head rode a tall and evil shape, mounted upon a black horse, if horse it was; for it was huge and hideous, and it's face was a frightful mask, more like a skull than a living head, and in the sockets of its eyes and in its nostrils there burned a flame. The rider was robed all in black, and black was his lofty helm; yet this was no ringwraith but a living man. The Lieutenant of the Tower of Barad-dur he was, and his name is remembered in no tale; for he himself had forgotten it and said, "I am the mouth of Sauron." (p.171)

"Okay now that is a freaky looking horse." Reggie mumbled to herself and looked at Erica who eyes began to glow

"Is there anyone in this rout with authority to treat with me?" he asked. "Or indeed with wit to understand me? Not thou at least!" he mocked, turning to Aragorn with scorn. "It takes more to make a king than a piece of elvish glass or a rabble such as this. Why any brigand of the hills can show us as good a following." (p.172)

"Ooooo, them be fighting words." Reggie whispered to Erica

Aragorn did not reply but moved his hand upon his sword. The Mouth noticed this and quailed, "I am a herald and ambassador and may not be assailed!" (p.172)

"That sounds like a challenge to me." Erica answered back as she grabs for her bat'leth

Gandalf placed his hand on his granddaughter, "Now is not the time Bluebear." Turning back to the herald, Gandalf said, "Where such laws hold, it is also custom for ambassadors to use less insolence. But no one has threatened you. You have naught to fear from us, until your errand is done. But unless your master has come to new wisdom, then with all his servants, you will be in great peril." (p.172)

"So!" said the messenger. "Then thou art the spokesman, old greybeard? Have we not heard of thee at whiles, and of thy wanderings, ever hatching plots and mischief at a safe distance?" (p.172)

"You better watch it, buddy, that is our grandfather you are talking about." Reggie growled with a fierce menacing look.

"But this time thou hast stuck thy nose too far, Master Gandalf; and thou shalt see what comes to him who sets his foolish webs before the feet of Sauron the Great. I have tokens that I was bidden to show to thee---to thee in especial, if thou shouldst dare to come." He signaled to one of his men who brought forth a bundle wrapped in black cloth. The Mouth took the bundle and opened it up to show Aragorn and the others. There in the cloth was the sword Sam had carried, a great cloak with an eleven brooch and at last, the coat of Mithril-mail Frodo had gotten from his uncle Bilbo Baggin. (p.172)

"We picked these up from the two imps you sent to spy on Sauron. It's too bad they escaped but we shall soon have them back in our hands." (p.172)

"It's a good thing they did or we would show you no mercy. Oh wait that's what we plan anyways." Erica snapped.

The radio on Reggie's belt began beeping and Mike radioed, "Firefly, What's going on down there and who is the creep in black?"

"He is the mouth of the Dark lord, apparently. It is not too informative." Reggie answered

"So is there also a stomach or a brain of Sauron running around?" asked the teen.

"If there is, shoot it." Reggie replied. At that Aragorn gave the two closest teens a stern look

"So do I have the green light?" asked Mike

"Can Mike start the bombing?" Reggie asked the king of men with a devilish smirk and then reminded Aragorn of his earlier words "You did say if any cleared the gates."

"So are you just going to stand there with your fat mouth out or are you actually going to do something?" Erica huffs back at the being

"Uh guys, my trigger finger is getting really itchy. Can I open fire?" asked Mike

My Lord, your answer please." Reggie urged the King of men to answer Mike's request.

Aragorn merely gave Reggie a look to be quiet and did not answer. "Serpent six, you are not clear to engage. over." Reggie radioed mike

Gandalf sent a warning look at his grandchildren to be quiet

Mike scowled, "Roger that. Serpent Six out."

"Leaving channel open so that you can hear the conversation, Firefly out." Reggie responded

The Mouth of Sauron looked puzzled at the strange device that the girl held and the sounds that came forth. Finally, he got his wits together and noted the other's reaction to the items he had brought to them."Good, good!" he said. "He was dear to you, I see. Or else his errand was one that you did not wish to fail? It has. And now he shall endure the long slow torment of years, as long and slow as our arts in the Great Tower can contrive, and never be released, unless maybe when he is changed and broken, so that he may come to you, and you shall see what you have done. This shall surely be unless you agree to my Lord's terms." (p.173)

Gandalf stared at the dark lord's mouthpiece and answered, "Name your terms." (p.173)

"This guy must be def, that or stupid" Erica said leaning over to Reggie, "He hasn't answered gramps yet."

"These are the terms," said the messenger, and smiled as he eyed them one by one. "The rabble of Gondor and its deluded allies shall withdraw at once beyond the Anduin, first taking oaths never again to assail Sauron the Great in arms, open or secret. All lands east of the Anduin shall be Sauron's forever, solely. West of the Anduin as far as the Misty Mountains and the Gap of Rohan shall be tributary to Mordor, and men there shall bear no weapons, but shall have leave to govern their own affairs. (p.173)

"Just stupid" Reggie replied

"Like that is going to happen." Erica stated indigently

"But they shall help rebuild Isengard which they have wantonly destroyed, and that shall be Sauron's and there his lieutenant shall dwell: not Saruman, but one more worthy of trust." (p.174)

Mike had been listening in and keyed in, "Can I shoot him now?"

"I'd let you, but it is up to the king." Reggie answered and then turned to the King "Can Mike engage his target."

"If Mike can't, I am going to roast the SOB." Erica informed the King loudly

Gandalf ignored the teen's request and answered, " This is much to demand for the delivery of one servant: that your master should receive in exchange what he must else fight many a war to gain! Or has the field of Gondor destroyed his hope in war, so that he falls to haggling? And if indeed we rated this prisoner so high, what surety have we that Sauron, the Base Master of Treachery, will keep his part? Where is this prisoner? Let him be brought forth and yielded to us, and then we will consider the demands." (p.174)

The Mouth of Sauron could not believe the response he was getting and needed a few minutes to regain his wits. Finally, he laughed a vile laugh, "Do not bandy words in your insolence with the Mouth of Sauron!" (p.174)

"Surety you crave! Sauron gives none. If you sue for his clemency you must first do his bidding. These are his terms. Take them or leave them!" (p.174)

"I think we shall leave them where they lie. We shall not bow to the evil of Sauron." Gandalf announced with a might voice. The White Wizard threw back his robes, bathing the area in a bright light. The Mouth drew back as Gandalf seized the items, saying, "These we will take in memory of our friend. But as for your terms, we reject them utterly. Get you gone, for your embassy is over and death is near to you. We did not come here to waste words in treating with Sauron, faithless and accursed; still less with one of his slaves. Begone!" (p.174)

"Finally, does this mean the battle is going to begin, I am getting bored?" Reggie asked her grandfather

Gandalf watched as the messenger drew a breath to give some sharp comment then decide against it and ride off. Without turning around, he replied, "It would appear so. Come, Aragorn seeks to return to the army before the enemy comes forth."

"Regrouping good idea," Erica said as Aragorn turned his steed and rode off towards the army of men

High on the hill behind the army, two figures continued their vigil. Watching Sauron's emissary leave, Mike keyed the radio yet again. "Serpent Six to Firefly, do we have clearance to engage over?"

"Serpent Six, Firefly here, I do believe the battle is going to begin, be ready. over."

"Roger that. Tell the king I'm about to send Sauron's boys a little message of my own before the gates open."

Reggie kicked her horse into high gear and rode up next to Aragorn. "Mike is going to begin his attack ahead of schedule. He wants to send the Dark Lord a little Message, if you get my drift."

The King of Men looked back towards the Black Gate and noticed the drums and horns. He nodded and replied, "It would appear that Sauron is about to make his move. Give him my permission."

"Mike, bombs away."

Mike grinned and contacted Earl, "Serpent Six to Serpent Red Six, Green Light. I say again, Green Light. Let's send Lord Sauron a message of our own shall we?"

"Serpent Red six here. Roger that, message being sent." The lanky teen replied and turned to Sgt Haldraada, "Lt. Wolfe says to send the Dark Lord a message, begin firing upon the other side of the gate."

Mike began relaying the coordinates to his friend, "Grid coordinates; X-Ray two three, Yankee three zero. I will correct over."

On the backside of the hill, Earl Beegle listened to the coordinates and checked his map. Noting the target being behind the Black Gate, Earl yelled back to the mortar crews, "Listen Up. We have a fire mission, load Willey Pete, charge four. Range 3000 yards, Right Stick five."

The hurling explosive flew through the air to the other side of the black gates, send hundred of the orcs on the other side flying.

From behind the hill, a single low whump could be heard. Mike held the radio receiver in his left hand while peering through the binoculars and calling in corrections.

Less than a minute later, a white puff of smoke could be seen appearing on the wall in front of one of the trolls they used to open the gates. The beast let out an unearthly scream as it began swatting at the burning particles covering his legs and torso.

Mike noted the impact location and called back, "Up fifteen, FIRE FOR EFFECT, FIRE FOR EFFECT!"

Earl nodded and shouted back to Haldraada, "Load HE and set for near surface burst, up fifteen, fire for effect. Let's start raining on Sauron's parade boys."

As the bombs flew over head, Erica eyes began to glow again, more now then ever before. "Mike has started the party." she announced to her cousin and readied her bat'leth

Down below, Eomer listened as muffled whumps sounded from behind the army. Then, a white puff of smoke appeared on the wall. The Horsemaster turned to his uncle and commented, "I take it that is what my young cousin has been anxious about."

"I believe that is correct. He has begun his attack, as should we. Be careful my nephew." King Theoden informed his Horsemaster

"I shall uncle, I shall," promised the Horsemaster. "However, I have a feeling that we should be more concerned with my cousin and his friend Earl. I have this nagging feeling that those two will find trouble yet."

"If they find trouble, they will also find themselves confined to their rooms, and I hope they know that." Theoden said with a smile and then turned serious. "To the Battle"

Eomer laughed as he turned to watch the gates slowly swing open. "That boy is definitely his father's son in more ways than I care to admit. Go easy on him uncle."

"Easy, you should inform him to go easy on me." Theoden replied with a laugh, "Worrying about him will be the death of me before any evil that Sauron can throw at me."

Eomer returned the laugh with one of his own and drew his sword. "Ah, the joys of fatherhood."

"The joys of fatherhood that you yourself will find." Theoden said with a knowing grin

On the hillside, Mike noticed that the cave troll had been replaced and the gate was beginning to open. The teen called in, "Shift fire, fifteen left, drop five."

The gate had been closed for but a minute before the Mouth of Sauron heard a whistling sound coming from the direction of the enemy, growing louder by the second. Finally he heard a pop and a scream of rage and pain from the wall. He looked up to see white smoke rising from the battlement and a cave troll going berserk. What manner of weapon do the men possess? thought the Mouth.

Mike placed another call to Xander Cage." Serpent Six to Serpent Blue Six. Come in Serpent Blue Six."

Serpent Blue Six here, what is the situation." Xander replied

"The Gate is opening. Get ready to open fire when the first orcs exit the Gate. Cut them down."

"Roger, The Orcs will be going bye bye as soon as they exit."

Aragorn finished his speech as the Black gates opened

Reggie turned to the dwarf on her right and remarked with a wink and a laugh "So how many would you wage are going to fall at the hands of your meager axe."

"Many more then your mere sword" Gimli said with a laugh and then turned to Legolas and said "I never thought I'd die along side an elf."

"How about a friend?" Legolas asked

"Aye that I can do." Gimli replied with smile

"What about fight along side women?" Reggie asked the dwarf

"That is something lass I can do anytime. Remember Dwarf woman are as tough as us dwarf males." Gimli answered with a laugh.

"But you can't tell them apart from the men either." Reggie laughed

As the banter between the two finished, Arargorn charged the gates and enemy, with his sword held high. "For Frodo."

Aragorn slashed the chest of one orc, and then killed another beside him. Turning back, he noticed a troll approaching Erica. "ERICA!" warned the king, as he ran between the two and parried it's blow.

But before he could reach her Erica through out her hands and fire engulf the beast sending it to it's screaming death.

"OH YEAH now that's fire power!" Erica smiled as she used her bat'leth to behead an on coming Orc.

"Why does she get all the fire power? I'm the pyro." Reggie said with a huff

"Be careful," warned the king as he disarmed yet another foe.

"I thought you were tough lass." Gimli teased as he kill two more orcs. "That's 10."

"Cus, magic doesn't count." Reggie informed cousin

"You too." Erica yells as she sends yet more fire to engulf an orc that was about to kill the King of Men from behind and turned to her cousin "Whatever it takes to takeout the enemy counts."

"Tough, you have seen anything yet." Reggie said as she gorged a orc with her katana and sent him flying with a round house kick "Make that 12"

Theoden and Eomer fought side by side taking out orc after orc. The king beheaded another orc and asked, "Is my son still on the hill?"

"If he is smart he is." Eomer replied a loud piercing war cry of the remaining Nazgul as they advanced towards the new prey.

"Looks like we have company." Reggie said pointing up at the approaching creature

"Oh no, you don't." Erica yelled as the form of the phoenix surround her taking her high into the air to fight them

"The Phoenix has left the building" Reggie said as Erica flew into the sky and called after. "Be careful up there"

"Be safe my child." Gandalf quietly spoke as he fought off an orc

"May Valar protect Earane Saralonde." Legolas whispered

The appearance of the phoenix startled a few of the soldiers while it frighten many Orcs and Trolls into trying to retreat

As Erica fought in the sky, Reggie was kicking some serious butt on the ground when a giant beast approached her from behind taking out an orc behind her

The new form of the phoenix easy killed one Nazgul but while it was busy two others took potshots at her causing pain. But the Phoenix could not be deterred by these little flies that flew around annoying her. She attack the Nazguls the she best could in her weaken form.

"Nooo.." Legolas cried as he heard the scream of the phoenix in pain.

The Nazgul began to swoop down on the men. Suddenly Pippen looked up and noticed specks in the air that grew larger as they approached. Finally, he recognized what they were and yelled out, "THE EAGLES ARE COMING!"

The young female turned around to see a large feline with large pointy teeth. The girl eyes grew bigger as the she noticed the oddly colored beast had long and short calico fur with a have a kinked tail and half an ear.

"THANK YOU" Erica called out to the Eagle King

"No way. Mr. Cuddles?" Reggie muttered as she turned back around in time to see another orc coming her way. She quickly beheaded the orc as the feline creature came closer to her nuzzling her at her back and then returns to the fight hand taking out another orc ripping it's head from it's body. Reggie used the enchanted throwing knifes that Haldir had given her, throwing her knifes at the three different orcs' throats take them down with a flick of her wrist as she called out the word return the knifes returned magically to her sheath. "These are coming in handy as is he." She thought as she looked back towards the feline taking out another orc.

"It is a great honor to fight along side a phoenix once again." The eagle King replied.

The Eagle King screeched a your welcome and led two other eagles to pounce on one of the ringwraiths.

Reggie looked up to see her cousin still in flight, as the eagles came to her aid. "You won't believe who's back." She called up to Erica

"I am afraid to ask but who." Erica replies as she sends blue flames to engulf a Nazgul and it's rider.

"Mr. Cuddles, but not Mr. Cuddles. He seems to have changed into a saber tooth tiger." As Reggie informed her cousin Mr. cuddles approached the girl and bring her the body of the orc he had just killed

Laughter fill the air... "You better keep him away for short shit." Erica beam back as she dodged an attacking Nazgul

"I will try. Hey Gimli, look who is here." Reggie said as she raced to catch up in the slaying of orcs. "With Mr. Cuddles on my side, and his kills adding to my own, I am in the 40's master dwarf."

The dwarf looked back at the girl and large multicolored saber-toothed tiger and said with widen eyes, "His only counts as one." To which the feline snarled and Gimli changed his reply "Possibly two."

Suddenly Erica screamed out in Pain!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The Ground began to shake.. A troll that was about to kill Aragorn froze in fear as mount doom began to erupt

"What the hell? Erica, are you okay." Reggie screamed up to her cousin as the ground shook beneath her.

Theoden ducked a wild swing and rammed his sword through the orc. He looked over to where his son was supposed to be but was greeted by an empty hill. There was nobody there. "I am going to have a long talk with that boy," vowed the king.

"THEY DID IT!!!!!" Erica than screamed in delight, as tears of joy streamed down her face.

Aragorn cut the leg off another orc and called to Reggie who was coming closer, "What is your cousin talking about?"

Reggie was making her way back to area where cousin was flying over head. "They Did it? Sam and Frodo have destroyed the Ring" Reggie called to her cousin "This battle is starting the get better and better." At that the ground started to open up all around the forces of good, engulfing Sauron army. Reggie looked around seeing that the massive army of orcs were falling and the battle was over, she remarked "The ring has been destroyed and Mr. Cuddles is back what more can I asked for."

All turned to see the Great Eye explode on it's self causing the tower to fall and open the ground below

"The ring has been destroyed" Reggie informed the king of men and then added with a smile "If you hadn't noticed."

Meanwhile unknown to the front line troops the M.A.S.H unit had their own hands full of not only causalities but enemies tried advancing on them

Karen was bandaging one wounded Rohirrim when she felt what appeared to be an earthquake. She turned to Dena and asked, "Have we moved to California and somebody forgot to tell me?"

"My Lady there are Easterlings approaching what do you want us to do?" The youngest female Rohirrim soldier informs them

As the battle waged on down below the MASH unit, a band of Easterling approached what thought to be mere women and four young boys.

Karen looked up and grabbed her rifle. "Heads up we have company!"

"It is about time we saw some action." Dena replied grabbing her own weapon

Suddenly the sounds of the MAPS main gun could be heard.

"Ooops." The oldest Rohirrim female said as she tapped a few buttons on the remote to the vehicle

"Ooopsss My ass you just keep killing with that thing." Karen demanded.

"Yes Ma'am." The female teen responded

The MAP recon saucer moved away from the main battle and returned to MAP and began recording the event of the MASH unit's battle. It arrived just in time to tape the Middle aged female Rohirrim kissing a Easterner than shove her sword into his crotch.

The four young Rohirrim girls who were dressed as men began to use the moves that Lady Reggie had taught them.

"That's one form birth control." Dena said with a snicker as she shots an advancing Eastern

Karen watched as four of the enemy tried sneaking up on her. She turned around and gunned them down. "Talk about falling for girls."

The women warriors quickly made short work of the scouting party.

"Ladies take up sentry post and Make sure we don't get another sneak attack." Dena bellowed at the female Rohirrim

"You think men would learn not mess with females with large weapons." Dena said as she took out four Easterling on her left

"YES MA'AM.!" The four shouted with a salute than each headed a short distances away in different directions armed to the teeth ready for battle.

"You think we should help them?" Karen asked

"Nope they need this and we have wounded to deal with." Dena remarked. "But to be safe I have the MAP's recon saucer patrolling." as the four girl took on the rest of Easterlings.

"Karen, remind me to give Tarra some mouth wash after kissing that Easterling." Dena laughed

"I meant the Easterlings, the girls have learned some pretty deadly move from you and Reggie." Karen said with a chuckle as she struck an approaching bad guy with the butt of her gun

Mike had ordered his people to cease fire as soon as the first waves of orcs reached the main army. For the next two hours, the teens were relegated to being spectators to the hand-to-hand combat going on. Mike was watching the battle when he spotted a glitter on the Northern horizon. Grabbing his field glasses, he watched as the rider ride towards his position. It was one of the scouts, Theoden had posted to watch the army's flanks

Mike waited for the rider to get closer before standing up and flagging him down. "What news do you bear?" asked the teen.

"An army of Easterling are approaching, my lord." The rider announced.

The radio came to life as Earl transmitted, "Mike we got a problem."

Mike ignored the radio and asked the messenger, "How far are they and how many did you see?"

"They are very close, just over the horizon. I believe there was over 300 hundred." the soldier replied

However, the radio would not quiet down. "Mike I repeat we have 4 very large problems at 12 o'clock high." Earl yelled over the radio.

"I repeat we have 4 Nazgul coming........Cancel that.. Erica is doing her Jean Grey impression again and she heading directly at them." Earl informs over the radio

"Great, just great," murmured the teen. He turned back to the main battle and quickly noticed that Theoden, Eomer, Aragorn, Gandalf, and the others had their hands full with the ongoing fight against Sauron's Orcs. Pausing for a moment, the teen held out his hand and yelled, "RADIO!"

"Here Sir!"

The Rohirrim who had been serving as Mike's radio operator rushed over and slammed the hand set into the other boy's hand. Mike took a breath and called out "Serpent Red Six, this is Serpent Six. Come in Serpent Red Six."

"Serpent Red Six Here!"

"Earl, get your butt up here now. We have some serious shit coming our way and we're the only ones who can deal with it."

"On my our way." Earl replied

Mike quickly called Xander Cage and got him to come over. While waiting for Earl and Xander, the teen noticed some Gondoran soldiers nearby. To the boys surprise, the group was being led by Horatius. "Hey, Horatious come over here

Not wanting a problem, the Gondoran went over to the Rohirrim Prince and said. "What can I do for you?"

"Looks like we have some serious trouble coming down from the North. My father and King Aragorn are tied up with the battle and won't be able to counter this threat. I'm taking my people and deploying them to engage this new enemy, I'd appreciate it if you would join us. It would cut down the odds tremendously."

"How can I help?"

"Well, lets wait for my two team leaders to arrive before we make any plans," answered the teen as he took out a map of the area and crouched down to read it. Mike waited for the others to arrive before motioning them to gather around. "One of the Rohirrim, my father posted to cover our flanks has reported a large force of Easterlings coming down from the north. Looks like they are going to try hitting our guys from the rear."

"What is your plan?"

The teen looked up, "According to the scout there are at least 300 bad guys on their way down and we are the only force on our side that's currently not engaged with the fighting."

"I have 30 men with me." the Gondoran guard informed his comrade.

"Here's the plan, according to the map, the enemy will have to pass through this valley before reaching the battle. I plan on stopping them here." Mike looked over to the Gondoran, "I can scrounge up a few Rohirrim to flesh out your force. How do you feel about running away from the enemy?"

"Running away?" Horatius asked in disbelief.

"Actually, I want to use your people as a lure," explained the teen. "If you look on the map, the valley begins here. I want you to deploy in a line here. When the enemy shows up, act scared and run back down the valley."

"You want us to flee from the battle?"

"Actually, you are going to lead the Easterlings into a trap." Mike pointed to another part of the map, "When you reach this point, drop down and take cover behind the rocks."

"So we are bait?"

"Yeah, that's the idea," confirmed the teen. Turning to Xander Cage, Mike added, "I want you to redeploy the fifty cal on the rise to the west at this location. Be sure to conceal your positions."

"Yeah, that's what you are." Xander Cage added to conversation

The Gondoran pointed towards the extreme sportsman and asked, "Why not them?"

"Because I got the big gun," Xander said with a cigar in his mouth.

"Oh, and be sure to set up your claymores on your side of the valley with command detonators," added the teen. Mike turned to the lanky teen, "Earl, I want you to take the M-60 and set up on the Eastern side of the valley and dig in. Like Xander, we'll have our Claymores emplaced on our side of the valley."

"Gotcha covered." Xander replied with a even larger scarier grin

"Why do I suddenly feel a tinge of pity for the bad guys?" Earl commented than added. "It's gone now."

Mike looked over to the Gondoran and motioned for him to examine the map. "Here's the plan. The Gondorans are going to set up at the head of the valley and make sure that the enemy sees them. When the Easterlings charge, they will fall back in disorder, the enemy right behind them. Now when the enemy reaches this point in the valley, we spring the trap. Earl and Xander's teams will hit the enemy with the claymores and machine gun fire from both sides. Meanwhile, I'll be calling in mortar fire on top of the enemy. When the enemy force has been cut down to a more manageable size, the Gondorans counterattack and mop up what's left. I'm expecting maximum casualties among the enemy

"Do you want use to reattack at all?" Ask the Gondoran itching for a fight.

Mike nodded, "After being hit by machine guns, assault rifles, anti-personnel mines, and mortars, the enemy will not be in the best of shape. You saw what our weapons did the orcs before they made contact with Aragorn's force. Well, it won't be long before the enemy will be too disorganized to mount a successful defense against out counterattack."

"Then I take it we are to go in after and make sure they are all dead?"

"If any want to surrender, take them prisoner. Any other s are dead."

"As you wish." The Gondoran answered

Mike looked to Earl, Xander, and Horatius, asking "Questions?"

Earl turned and whispered to Mike with a big grin" How do I get out of this chicken shit army?"

Hill 689
One Mile North of the Black Gates of Mordor
1625 hours
March 21, 3019
(Middle Earth)

The air grew still as Mike looked over the fighting positions one last time. Was it only an hour since the Rohirrim came by, warning of an advancing force of Haradrim that threatened the army's left flank? Mike wanted to stay on that hill like his father had wanted but there just wasn't anybody else around to organize a defense against this oncoming threat. The teen shook his head and returned his attention to the present.

It was the surrounding terrain that dictated how the teenager deployed his forces. There was only one route available to any army attacking from the North and that route ran between the two lines of hills where the defenders lay in wait. Mike looked at his watch and noted that the main battle had been going on for a couple of hours. Looks like I get to find out if I can handle a battle on my own after all," thought the teen. He raised his binoculars towards the head of the valley and noted the ragged line of Gondorans and Rohirrim, stretched out across the valley. The teen motioned for his radio operator to come closer and grabbed the head set from the other boy. He quickly began radioing the mortar section. "Serpent Six to Serpent Red Six. Come in Serpent Red Six. Over."

Half a mile away, Sgt. Haldraada, the mortar section leader replied, "Serpent Red Six I hear you over."

"How are you coming along? Over," asked the teen.

"The supply convoy just rode up. We are refilling our ammo stocks and should be moving to our new position in fifteen minutes, over."

Mike took another look down the valley and noted that the enemy had not come into view. "Well get a move on. Your mortars will be needed shortly. I don't know how long it will be before the enemy shows up."

"Roger that, we'll be in position when the time comes," vowed the new mortar section leader.

Mike sat down the handset and checked the triggers for the claymores. As soon as they had arrived on the scene Mike and Xander Cage had in place three Claymores on each side of the valley, angled outward to rip into anybody unlucky enough to get too close. It had been quickly decided to use command detonators to set off the mines instead of tripwires. The plan being, Mike would hit his set of mines, followed by Xander. Then both machine guns would open up on the enemy between them, cutting them to shreds. At least that was the plan. Once again, Mike keyed the headset, "Serpent Six to Serpent Blue Six, Come in Serpent Blue Six."

Xander Cage answered, "Serpent Blue Six, what do you need?"

"You ready?"

"Yeah, the fifty's emplaced and covered by that Cloak of Lorien you gave us. We'll give the bad guys a warm welcome when they arrive."

"I'm counting on it. Just remember to hold your fire until I give the signal."

"Roger that," answered the extreme sportsman as he lay down behind his weapon.

Everything was going to plan, so Mike crawled over to where Earl Beegle had emplaced the M-60 light machine gun. The lanky teen look up and said, "We are good to go on this end. Any idea when the guests will be showing up?"

Mike shook his head, "The tripwire force retiring down the valley will be the signal that the enemy are on their way. Now remember no shooting until after the claymores go off."

Earl nodded, "Okay but I was wondering one thing. How were you able to convince the adults to give up these cloaks? I would have thought they would hold on to them seeing that they were gifts from Lady Galadriel herself."

Mike grinned, "Well they didn't really give them to me. I sorta had to borrow them without their knowing. After all it is better to beg forgiveness than ask permission and be refused."

"Mike, you are begging to be locked up till you are thirty. You know that?" teased the lanky teen.

"Well I figured that with us leaving the hills and getting into a major fight without dad's permission. What are a few borrowed cloaks in the greater scheme of things? Besides, if we win big, the grownup will be more lenient. At least, that's the plan."

"I would not want to be in your shoes when the king catches up with you."

Mike just grinned and crawled back to his position and once again picked up the binoculars.

Thirty minutes later a dust cloud appeared on the horizon and the sound of many marching feet echoed throughout the valley. The first sign that the enemy was upon them came as the tripwire force began to run back down the valley as planned. Mike picked up the radio and transmitted, "Look alive people, the guests have arrived."

The trickle of Rohirrim and Gondorans running away quickly became a flood as the tripwire force fled down the valley. With the friendlies out of the way, it became easier to see the enemy marching down the valley. Hmm, looks like a company, nothing we can't handle, thought Mike.

Horatius son of Claudius, stood at the head of his men, waiting for the enemy to show up. What was I thinking when I agreed to follow that upstart Rohirrim prince? I must be out of my mind for agreeing to lead this tripwire.

"Lord Horatius, how long must we stay here?" asked one of the Gondoran guards. "WE should be with King Aragorn fighting Sauron's minions, not standing around here on the word of a mere boy."

"Mere boy?" asked a nearby Rohirrim. "I was on the wall at Helms Deep when that boy and his friends were responsible for untold enemy deaths. I would not be here today if they did not form a line to give the rest of us time to retire into the Great Hall."

"Not only that," added another Rohirrim. "The prince, disrupted the Orcish lines at Minas Tirith so that our charge could carry through. Then, to top it off, the boy took on the Witch King and killed a Fell Beast. Do not speak harshly of our prince."

Horatius held up his hand to preempt any reply from his fellow Gondoran, "The prince has a good plan, which should work. The boy was right, we are all that keeps the advancing enemy from falling on our comrades flank. We are all that's between victory or defeat for the Armies of Man. So we shall do as that plan dictates and act scared and run away, all the while luring the enemy into a trap."

"Not only that," added the first Rohirrim. "If you have seen the young prince's weapons in action, then you will have to agree that our foes do not have any chance of surviving this day."

"Aye," agreed Horatius as he readied his sword. I feel that few of the enemy will emerge from that valley alive except as prisoners." The Gondoran was about to say something else when a shout erupted further down the line. "THE ENEMY APPROACHES!"

Xander Cage crouched behind his heavy machine gun, waiting for the signal to blow the mines and begin shooting with the fifty cal. He turned to the Rohirrim recruit, who was lying down beside him, ready to feed the ammunition belt into the weapon. "Now remember, it's going to hit the fan really fast. Lt. Wolf is going to blow his mines and I will blow mine. Once, I blow the Claymores, I'm going to open up with the fifty. I'm going to need you ready to feed fresh belts into the weapon."

The Rohirrim recruit nodded and placed his hand on the edge of the cloak, "Yes sir. You can count on me. When you explode those mines, I'll pull the cloak away so you can begin shooting."

"That's the plan," grinned the extreme sportsman. He patted the Rohirrim teen on the shoulder. "I knew I could count on you."

Earl Beegle took a deep breath as he prepared to shoot the M-60 machine gun. He turned back to the other members on his team. "Okay guys, wait til the mines are blown before opening fore on the enemy. And for God's sake, keep your fire in the valley. I don't want you to hit our friends on the other side by mistake."

"Yes sir."

One mile north of the teen's position, stood the leader of the Easterlings. Omar bin Hussein observed his enemies, stretched out across the valley. He turned to his subordinate and commented, "The enemy appears to have been unable to spare many men to face us."

"You are right. We will go through them like a hot knife through butter and then we will deal with this ranger from the North and his motley band of fools. This shall be a great day for Sauron and the Men of the East."

Omar waved his hand and motioned for his men to advance. The Easterling formed into columns and began marching towards the Rohirrim and Gondorans, drums sounding the beat. Even from this distance, the Easterling commander could see that his foes were beginning to waver. He turned back to his men and in a loud voice, shouted, "Men of The East, Attack, drive these dogs bag whence they come from."

A loud cheer came forth from the host as they began running towards their foes, swords glinting in the air. "DEATH TO THE INFIDELS!"

Horatious watched as the enemy first formed into two columns and began marching towards his force. The Gondoran turned to his men, saying, "Steady, remember the plan. Do not run until I tell you to do so."

The enemy had paused to put on a show for the Men of the West, beating drums and shouting threats. The Gondoran commander turned to his Rohirrim subordinate, "When the enemy advances, I want your men to begin fleeing to the rear. Start with a trickle, then the rest of us will follow soon afterwards."

The Rohirrim nodded and waited. Finally the enemy resumed his advance down the valley and he motioned for the first of his men to retire. First five men backed up and turned away to run down the valley. Then a few more turned to run. Finally the Rohirrim turned to Horatious and nodded, "I'll see you back in the valley."

Horatious nodded and watched the man turn and run away.

From within the ranks of the attacking Easterlings, came a cry, "Look, the enemy is running away. They seek to deny us their deaths."

Omar responded with a evil laugh, "Come let us ensure that these men never fear anything else for the rest of their lives." The Easterling pointed his sword towards the retreating Men of the West. "Charge and wet your blades on the blood of these cowards. CHARGE!"

"Okay men, it time for us to take our leave," shouted Horatious as he began running down the valley.

On a hill overlooking the valley, watched a American teenager. One hand held his radio receiver to his ear. The other, held his binoculars, through which he observed the oncoming enemy force. "Serpent Six to all units, first tripwire elements are coming through our lines. Hold your fire. Do not open fire until I give the signal. I say again, do not open firer until I give the signal."

"Sir, what is going one?" asked the Rohirrim radio operator.

Mike put down his binoculars and turned to the boy. "Horatious and his men are beginning to fall back as per plan. When I blow the claymores, I want you to open fire on the enemy like we planned. The enemy should be packed in so tightly that you will have no trouble hitting something." At the look on the other boy's face, Mike patted him on the shoulder, "Don't worry, you'll do fine."

The boy smiled, "Yes sir. You can count on me."

The Tripwire force came fleeing through the valley with the Easterlings not far behind. As they chased the Men of the West down the valley, Omar's subordinate began having second thoughts. He ran next to his commander said, "I don't like the look of this. It is too easy."

Omar turned his head and commented, "You are right. Normally, the enemy would be putting up some kind of fight. It's almost as if………." To his horror, the Easterling commander watched as the Rohirrim and Gondorans stop and turned around to face his soldiers in a newly formed line, all terror, gone from their faces. Omar looked around and saw that his men were packed tight in the valley. So tight, that they lacked room to maneuver. All of a sudden, the enemy's plan became painfully clear.

They had just walked into a trap.

Mike crouched behind a nearby rock, one hand on the claymore trigger and his other on his M-4 carbine. He waited as Horatious and his men stopped and reformed his lines. The Easterlings, in hot pursuit, suddenly paused in front of the newly reformed battle line. The teen gave three short squeezes on the trigger which sent a signal to each of the three anti-personnel mines under his control. Within seconds, all three mines exploded, sending thousands of steel balls into the closest rank of Easterlings.

From his perch on the other side of the valley, Xander waited until three sharp cracks sounded from the other side. The extreme sportsman watched as one side of the enemy force appeared to be swept away by a sudden breath of wind. However, those felled by this wind did not get up. Without a second thought, the sportsman gave three squeezes on the claymore trigger he had been holding. Thus repeating the scene from his side of the valley.

As soon as he spotted the Rohirrim stop, Omar knew something bad was about to happen. However, he could never have imagined what the enemy hit him with in his worst nightmares. ""IT'S A TRAP!!!," shouted the Easterling commander as the first line of claymores were set off . He began issuing orders to meet this threat when from the other side of the valley, the second set of claymores exploded, thousands of steel balls ripping through unprepared flesh. A sharp pain erupted in his left arm and he looked down to see blood seeping through his sleeve. Dropping his sword to grab his wounded arm, he began yelling orders as a rat tat tat began sounding from the hill. He looked up and saw a twinkling light coming from the hill side.

Earl Beegle crouched behind the M-60 and sighted on the mass of Easterlings filling the valley below. "Okay, keep feeding the ammunition and be ready to change belts often," stated the teen as he waited for the claymores to blow.

Seconds later, the claymores ripped into the assembled ranks. Taking a short breath, the lanky teen squeezed the trigger, sending short bursts of 7.62mm full metal jacket rounds into the milling mass and knocking down Sauron's minions like nine pins.

A few feet away, Mike lifted his radio headset and began shouting orders to the mortar section. "FIRE CONCENTRATION DELTA. RIGHT TWENTY, FIRE FOR EFFECT. FIRE FOR EFFECT!"

Likewise, across the valley, Xander Cage began firing the fifty cal into the enemy soldiers. He turned to the Rohirrim recruits, yelling, "Let them have it and don't let up."

Down on the valley floor, a scene straight out hell played itself out as man after man fell to the automatic weapons fire. A whistling sound filled the air as the first 60mm high explosive bombs came crashing into the enemy force from above. One follower of Sauron went flying into air, being lifted by a nearby explosion. He fell back to the ground and twitched for a few moments. Nearby another Easterling was cut down by a burst of rifle fire.

In front of the Black Gate of Mordor, the battle degenerated into hand to hand combat. There were no lines of battle as Rohirrim and Orc, Gondoran and troll all mixed together in one big free for all. Aragorn moved close to Eomer and slayed an orc who was trying to sneak up behind the Horse Lord. Aragorn glanced towards the hill where the teens had been deployed and noticed that the hill was strangely silent. Why do I have the feeling that Michael is up to no good? thought the king as he dodged a troll's swing. Just then the familiar whump of firing mortars sounded. "That child is going to be in so much trouble," murmured the king.

Finally, the tide seemed to turn against the Dark Lord. It appeared in the eyes of the creatures who were fighting for Sauron. The bloodlust had vanished to be replaced by a great fear of something. Both Rohirrim and Gondoran noticed this changed and pressed forward their counterattack, determined to destroy the Dark Lord's army's once and for all. However, Gandalf raised his arms and in a clear voice, shouted, "Stand, Men of the West! Stand and wait! This is the hour of doom."

And even as he spoke the earth rocked beneath their feet. Then rising swiftly up, far above the Towers of the Black Gate, high above the mountains, a vast soaring darkness sprang into the sky, flickering with fire. The earth groaned and quaked. The Towers of the Teeth swayed tottered, and fell down; the mighty rampart crumbled; the Black Gate was hurled into ruin; and from far away, now dim, now growing, now mounting to the clouds, there came a drumming rumble, a roar, a long echoing roar of ruinous noise. (p.243)

"The realm of Sauron is ended!" said Gandalf. "The Ringbearer has fulfilled his Quest." And as the Captains gazed south to the land of Mordor, it seemed to them that, black against the pall of cloud, there rose a huge shape of shadow, impenetrable, lightning-crowned, filling the sky. Enormous, it reared above the world, and stretched out towards them a vast threatening hand, terrible but impotent: for even as it leaned over them, a great wind took it, and it was all blown away, and passes; and then a hush fell. (p.243)

Mike raised his rifle to his shoulder and began snapping off short bursts at the enemy, trapped in the valley. He was in the midst of slapping in a fresh magazine when out of the corner of his eye, he noticed a fresh force of Easterlings advancing down the valley. Standing up, he ran over to Earl's position, the radio operator close behind.

Crouching near the other teenager, Mike tapped him on the shoulder. He gestured towards the oncoming enemy and shouted, "Shift fire to that new company."

Earl looked up and swung his machine gun towards the fresh force, cutting down the front line in a hail of fire. Without looking back, the lanky teen said to Mike, "You might want to try getting some reinforcements."

Mike shook his head, "No can do. Everybody else is busy fighting the orcs from Mordor. We gotta take care of these on our own."

"AMMO!" shouted Earl, as he raised the cover on his weapon. The Rohirrim recruit opened an ammo box and loaded a fresh belt into the machine gun.

Xander Cage looked down on the killing field and smiled as he watched the few survivors from that first Easterling Company raise their hands in surrender. He was about to light a fresh cigar when he noticed some movement near the head of the valley. His loader looked up and stated, "There's a whole another company!"

"No Shit," answered Xander through clinched lips. The extreme sportsman dropped his match, unlit and grabbed the spade grip swinging the heavy machine gun towards the new threat.

Sgt. Haldraada leaned over and placed both hands over his ears as the nearby mortar tube sent another bomb flying towards the Easterlings. He continued to relay corrections to his crews, ensuring that each enemy thrust was countered by a rain of fire. Finally, the final bomb had been fired and the first gunner shouted out, "Rounds Complete!"

Haldraada turned to one of the recruits and shouted, "Hosni, More ammo!"

Hosni, one of the recruits, nodded and ran off towards the recently arrived supply column. Minutes later, the boy had returned and told the sergeant, "Sorry sir, there's no more ammunition."

Haldraada nodded and turned back to the radio. "Serpent Red Six to Serpent Six, ammunition is exhausted. We're done here." A shadow fell over the young mortar section leader. The boy slowly turned around to see who it was. "Oh, your majesty. I thought you were busy fighting Sauron's minions," said the shocked teen.

Aragorn raised an eyebrow as he answered, "I was but the enemy has been destroyed with the fall of The Eye. Now where is your commander? I was under the impression that he had been ordered to stay on the hill."

Sgt. Haldraada reached a finger under his collar as he tried to figure a way out of this mess. "Well, you see sir, a rider came in from the North and…………."

Muqtada, the new Easterling commander was beside himself with rage. That fool Omar. How dare he let himself be drawn into such an obvious trap, thought the young warrior. And now we have lost over half our force and with nothing to show for our efforts but dead bodies littering the valley floor. There has to be a way around those infernal machines. Looking around, he noticed that all of the fire seemed to be coming from the surrounding valleys. Hitting himself upside the head, he began issuing orders for the next wave of attacks.

Mike ran at a crouch from one position to the next. Stopping by one of the new recruits, the teen knelt and patted him on the shoulder. "You are doing fine, soldier. Keep it up."

The recruit turned around and grinned, "Thank you sir. They will not get past us."

"I know. I know," answered the teen as he got up and moved next to Earl. "How are we holding out?"

"So far, so good, our ammunition is holding up pretty well. It just depends on how long we have to keep fighting off the bad guys," answered the lanky teen. "So what's the word from the Black Gate?"

"I just got off the horn with Haldraada. He said that the fighting had died down and the good guys are cleaning up the battlefield. All of our family are well and unharmed. Although, Erica went into Phoenix mode again and freaked out some of the recruits."

Earl looked into the killing field, "Well we took out at least two companies. You think the enemy will wise up and get out of here?"

Mike stood up, "They might have shot their wad or there may be hordes we haven't seen coming down our way. Heck, for all I know there might be a whole battalion getting ready to attack." He looked around, noting the lay of the land. Finally he turned back and said, "Earl, I want you to shift your team a few hundred yards to the right. Use this lull to dig and consolidate your position."

The lanky teen nodded and began relaying orders to his people and prepared to move out.

Muqtada called his subordinates together and began laying out his plan. "Here is what we will do. The infidels have successfully blocked our first two attempts to aid our Lord Sauron. They will not get another."

"How can you say that?" asked one of the assembled Easterlings. "Their weapons are like none we have faced before. We were slaughtered without even seeing who we were fighting. How will you overcome that?"

"Very simply, we will hold the enemy's attention with a diversion and then hit him with our main thrust."

"It had better be good, We have only enough people to make one last attack. After that, we will be forced to retreat."

"Now, Hosni, I want you lead another attack into the valley. While you have their attention, I will lead the main attack on the left flank. I have a feeling my opposite stands on that hill. I intend to have his head."

"HERE THEY COME!" shouted one of the Rohirrim recruits as the sound of automatic weapons shattered the air yet again. Xander Cage sighted the fifty cal on the new force attacking down the valley. Once again, the enemy was being cut to pieces as they advanced against the unrelenting fire.

Mike switched his weapon to three round burst and began taking the new enemy force under fire. Something was not right and the hair on the back of his neck began rising. Turning around, his eyes grew wide at the second force approached from the rear. "EARL, Shift that sixty back here. Gentlemen, prepare to defend yourselves!"

A group of five Easterlings came running into view, only to be cut down by concentrated rifle fire. Mike and his radio operator began shooting at each group as they came into view. The teen released a spent magazine and reached into his ammo pouch for fresh magazine, when the radio operator handed him the headset, "SIR, it's King Aragorn. He's asking what's going on."

The teen took the headset, "Hello?"

Aragorn stood beside Sgt. Haldraada as he listened to the faint but non stop sound of firearms. The king turned to the Rohirrim recruit and ordered, "I want to talk to your commander. Get him on this infernal device."

"Yes Sir." Haldraada turned some knobs on the radio and began talking, "Serpent Red Six to Serpent Six stand by for King Aragorn." The young man faced the king and handed him the headset. "Lt. Wolf will be on shortly. Just start talking into the receiver."

"I am never going to get used these strange machines they use." The King of Gondor thought.

Mike's RTO ran up to the teen and shouted, "King Aragorn's on the horn!" Mike took the receiver and answered, "Wolf here."

"Just how are you disobeying your father this time?" Aragorn asked as he listened to the sound of heavy automatic rifle fire from the other end.

For a moment, the teen was distracted by the ongoing battle. Collecting his wits, he reported, "We are currently engaged with a large enemy force that was attempting to hit your flanks. As of right now, our backs are against the wall and we are greatly outnumbered."

Aragorn shook his head at the boy's bravado. He turned back to the radio and said, "The battle here is about done. I am sending help." The King of Men than turned to Eomer and commented, "Your cousin is disobeying his father and needs some help."

Eomer looked back at the king and said, "Somehow I knew he would." The Horsemaster remounted his horse and began organizing his cousin's relief. "I am off to aid him." Eomer said as he raced off in the direction of Mike's battle

As the king finished talking to Eomer and sent him off towards the valley, Aragorn began to become concerned when another voice sounded off talking to Mike. "Sir, our flanks are collapsing and we are being overrun!"

Mike turned back to the recruit and forgot about the radio as he answered, "Hell, We are going to win this fight!" Remembering who was on the other end of the radio, Mike said, "I would greatly appreciate anybody you can send."

"I am sending your cousin," answered the king. "Michael, the battle sounds ill, truly how goes the battle?" Aragorn listened with growing dread as he could hear a Easterling shouting in the background. "I'm going to cut you in half boy...." It was followed by three quick gunshots and silence filled the airwaves.

The first indication that Mike had of any danger behind him was when the Easterling shouted his threat. The boy turned around and quickly squeezed off three rounds, hitting the enemy in the head, neck and chest.

"Michael, Michael are you there?" Aragorn called out with concern

The teen looked at the dead enemy, not more than five feet away then turned back to the radio. "It's getting pretty sporty over here!"

"Eomer is on is way. Watch out for him and his men." Aragorn called out over the radio

"Roger that," answered the teen as the sound of another scuffle caught his attention. The sound of footsteps alerted the teen and he was turning to face the enemy when a large reddish brown Wolf like creature tore in the Easterling that meant to kill him. The teen look in awe but accept the help when the creature dropped what was left of the carcass at his feet. Than licked the boys hands and face with tenderness.

The teen looked down and softly commented, "Why do I have the feeling I've seen you before? In any case thanks."

Aragorn was still talking on the radio and Mike returned his attention to it. "King Aragorn, would you put Sgt. Haldraada on the line?"

The King gave the device to the boy

"Sgt. Haldraada, now that you have used up your mortar ammunition, I want you to gather up all the small arms ammunition, you can carry and bring your people up here. We need you."

"YES SIR ON MY WAY!" The Rohirrim sergeant handed the headset back to Aragorn. "I sure can use anybody you can spare. This is turning into a major battle."

Aragorn and several of his men who had been listening gather up to fight another fight.

"The Laddie needs help and he's going to get it." Gimli retorts firmly as holds up his battle axe "I told him he'd need a dwarf."

North of the Black gate, the Easterling commander gathered his people and reorganized them for one last push. Mike looked through his binoculars and noted the situation. Turning to his radio operator, the teen ordered, "Stay here I'm going to check the lines."

Mike stood up and began walking towards Earl's position. Gauging the situation, the teen yelled out, "EARL, GET YOUR PEOPLE IN ORDER! STAY LOW AND CHECK FOR SILHOUETTES ON THE HORIZON! "

"Yes sir."

Earl looked up and began relaying order to his people, "Okay, we're going to shift the sixty to the right. Everybody else form up on me."

Without a word the young Rohirrim followed their commanders orders

One of the Rohirrim recruits was curled up on the bottom of his hole. Mike walked over and grabbed him by the shoulder, "Get up soldier, you can do it!" Standing in full view of the enemy and his men, the teen raised his weapon to his shoulder and began firing off shots. The recruit slowly sat up and began firing his rifle at the enemy. Without looking down, Mike continued to encourage the boy, "That's it. Let them have it. Rip into them!"

Without thinking the troops used the new weapons they had and killed the few advancing enemies. The recruit began screaming each time he pulled the trigger and the teenage commander moved over the Xander Cage's position. Mike paused beside one recruit and yelled out to his people, "I WANT FIRE SUPERIORITY!"

The enemy continued to advance over their dead comrades. The teen could not help but be impressed with their discipline. There was some movement coming from the direction of the Black gate and Mike quickly noticed that it was

Haldraada troops advanced on the last of the enemy without mercy

Mike dashed over to the approaching troops and began telling the Rohirrim what to do. The teen pointed over to where Earl was holding off the main enemy attack with his machine gun. "I want you to reinforce Lt. Beegle over there!"

"YES SIR!" Haldraada nodded and turned back to his soldiers, "FOLLOW ME, MY PEOPLE TO THE RIDGE!" The troop obeyed without question

Mike paused to watch the reinforcements move to their assigned positions. He was about to follow them when he heard the sound of approaching horses. He looked behind to see Eomer show up with additional Rohirrim.

"Where do you want us?" Eomer asked

The teen grinned and gestured towards the hill, "Looks like the enemy is making one final thrust. We are holding pretty well, so an attack on their flank should push them over the edge."

"Rohirrim, you heard your Prince follow me." Eomer commanded as he went towards the enemies flank

Mike ran back up the hill and rejoined his radio operator just in time to see Eomer's charge route the remaining Easterlings. Finally he could take a rest. The teen walked over to Earl Beegle and sat down nearby. He pulled out his canteen and took a long drink. "Do you want a drink?" he asked.

"Just as long as it's not the stuff Erica was drinking back home. I don't know how she kept it down at all." Earl laughs

"Yeah," agreed the new prince. He took a long look over the valley and commented, "Hell of a Day."

"That is putting it mildly my friend." Earl comments as he finally sees the blood shed below

"Well we lucked up with casualties among our unit and some minor wounds among the Gondorans. I'm going to go check our people." The teen started to walk over to Xander when a rifle shot shattered the air. It was quickly followed by another and another. Mike walked over and saw one of the recruits shooting at something. The teen looked in the direction and saw an Easterling crawling along, little puffs of dust appearing all around him. Mike knelt by the recruit and ordered, "Knock it off."

"What...." responded the recruit as he realized who he was talking to. "Oh hello sir."

This drew all present attention.

Mike noticed that the boy was bleeding from a slight wound to the shoulder. "You are bleeding."

"Oh it's nothing sir."

Mike pointed to a group of Easterlings huddled near Xander Cage's position, "Why don't you escort that group of prisoners back to camp and then get yourself cleaned up."

"Yes sir," answered the recruit as he got up. "Okay Dirtbags."

Mike didn't like the sound of the recruits voice and ordered, "Erik, drop you ammo." The recruit turned around in confusion and asked, "What are you talking about sir?" The attention of all present including the prisoners was drawn to the young prince at his remark

"Give me your weapon," ordered the teen as he took the rifle and released the magazine. Mike began popping bullets from the magazine until there was only one left. "You have only one round left."

Replacing the nearly empty magazine, the teen yelled out to Cage, "How many prisoners do we have?"

"36 Sir!" A soldier answered

Turning back to Erik, Mike handed back the weapon. "Okay you have one bullet. You drop a prisoner, the rest will jump you. Now I want all prisoners to make it back to camp in one piece. Understand?"

The boy looked in shock at his prince than mumbled something to the effect of . "yes sir."

Mike nodded and watched as the recruit run off to take charge of the prisoner. Satisfied that the crisis was over for now the teen walked to the head of the valley, away from the others. He leaned his rifle against a rock and sat down on his helmet. Sitting down, he looked over the valley and reflected on the battle.

However, right after the battle in front of the Black Gate, Theoden decided to have a talk with his son. He went off in the direction where he had heard gunfire originating and he was soon on the battlefield. But Mike was nowhere in sight.

"What am I going to do with that boy?" The King muttered.

From behind him Earl spoke up, "We were lucky."

"Lucky?"

Earl was leaning over a boulder when the king turned around and answered, "Yeah, we took on over three hundred Easterlings and defeated them, all without a single casualty. Mike's plan worked."

"WHERE IS THAT BOY?!" The king demanded threw clenched teeth

Earl recognized the tone of voice and pointed towards the head of the valley. "I saw him wander off that way after we had secured the prisoners."

Giving the boy a nod, the king began riding off towards the head of the valley. It was not long before he spotted a familiar figure sitting on the side of the hill, looking at the bodies covering the valley all the while trying to calm himself and failing.

After making sure his people were okay and everything was in order, Mike had decided to find a place to reflect on the last two hours. He pulled off his helmet and sat down, his rifle leaning against a nearby rock. For fifteen minutes he just looked at the valley floor and didn't hear his father coming up behind him.

"YOU DISOBEYED ME AGAIN!"

The teen didn't look back but answered, "Not by choice. You, Aragorn and Eomer were busy with the battle when the picket rode in warning about the force of Easterlings about to roll up on your flank."

"I don't know which is stronger the feeling to strangle you for disobeying or the Pride that you are my son and saved many lives." The king mutters as jumped off his horse and grab the boy in a large hug.

Returning his father's embrace, Mike continued, "My unit was the only forces that were not engaged at the time. That and a few Rohirrim and Gondorans I managed to round up." The teen stepped back and pointed to the valley, "I had the Rohirrim and Gondorans form a line across the valley where they could be seen by the enemy. They were given orders to make like they were fleeing in fright when the Easterlings came up.""

"And where did she come from?" Theoden asked pointing at something nearby.

"Huh, what are you talking about?" asked the teen. He turned around to where his father was pointing and commented, "Darn if I know. I was slapping in a fresh magazine when I heard somebody scream behind me. I turned around and she was ripping the throat of one of the Easterlings. Apparently the guy was some kind of scout who decided to sneak up behind me."

As he is replaying the information to his father the Dire wolf changed back into Rusty

The teen blinked in surprise and whispered, "Rusty?"

"Well that explains what happen with Mr. Cuddles." The King remarked

"I think I'm going to have a talk with Gramps. Most dogs do not change into oversized wolf creatures. In fact I have never heard of such a thing. Have you?"

The king merely shook his head and helped the boy to his feet. "We will discuss this once we get back to camp."

Earl watched the king ride off to the North and decided to go talk to Dena. He walked back to the Field Hospital to see the teen finish patching up the last of the prisoners. He gave a quick knock on the post before walking in.

"Hey Dena, got a minute?" asked the teen.

"As long as it has nothing to do with patching your ass again. You are such a baby when it comes to that." Dena teased

"Naw, I wondering if you had seen Gramps. I ran into Theoden at the hill a few minutes ago."

"He is with Erica and Reggie, looking for Sam and Frodo." Dena replied and then asked "why?"

"Dena I need your help!" Karen called. "Xander got hurt and won't let me look at it."

"Is the extreme sportsman being a big baby, I do I need to hold him down?" Dena said with a smile

"Well, I wanted to ask him some questions, but the old guy was nowhere to be found," answered the teen. Earl looked around and walked over to the wounded man. "You know you should show her the wound."

Earl turned to Dena and innocently asked, "Hey Dena, do you have the special needle for Xander?"

"Hell No. I HATE NEEDLES!! And she knows it." Xander remarks while he was telling Earl that Dena shoved a needle in his arm and knocks him out

Earl just shook his head and quipped to Karen, "Let me guess it's a minor scratch that only requires a couple stitches."

"Well it's actually a burn and doesn't require any. He got to close to those mortars when he went for the wounded." Karen replies

"And he was squealing about that?" asked the teen in disbelief. "I am going to have to rag him for this." Earl walked back to Dena and asked, "So how long will Gramps be out?"

"Why are you asking me?" Dena inquired as she sprayed some burn spray on the unconscious man's arm.

"Well I figured you might have an idea of what he would be up to," explained the teen. "After all, you read the book."

"Give it a least a day or so more. In the mean time I suggest that you set up ration of water for everyone. I have two of the girls setting up a special area in the MAP's last trailer for transporting Sam and Frodo."

"So I take those two will not be in that good of a shape?"

"Dehydrated, half starved, Blistered to a blup because of being so close to lava. Nah they in the best shape of their lives." Dena sarcastically remarked.

"Ok our hero is done you want to wake him?" Karen joked.

"Actually, do you have a bowl of warm water," asked the teen as he looked around the tent.

"Why?" Asked Dena with a suspicious look

Earl motioned for the girls to come closer. "Since you want to wake him. Why not get a few laughs out of it?"

"Hmmm, this could be fun." Karen remarked with a smile, that said let's do it.

"You know, we should get a camera ready as well," said Earl as he scratched his chin. "This could be some good blackmail material"

"Shall I bring up the recon saucer?" Dena said with an evil smile

Earl nodded, "Of course."

"So, what's the plan?" Karen questioned

The lanky teen sat down and talked about the plan. "Okay, where's what we are going to do. We get the bowl of warm water and set it on a table near Xander's bed."

"Okay, then what?" Dena asked

"Then Karen will place one of Xander's hands in the bowl. We wait a few minutes and the extreme sportsman should have a little accident. I'm thinking of something he has not done since he was a little kid."

"To bad we don't have any whip cream." Karen remarked.

"What is whip cream." Gimli asked as he approached them.

Earl whipped his head about and hissed at the dwarf. "Not so loud. Do you want to wake the guy up before it's time?"

"As long as I do not have to clean up after him, everything will be fine and dandy." Dena said with a large chuckle

"THE EAGLES ARE RETURNING!!!" Pippin's voice shattered the little joke

Earl turned back to the pallet and noticed the Sportsman still asleep. "That guy could sleep through anything," commented the teen.

"The Eagles have returned with Master Gandalf, Lady Erica and Lady Reggie. Good, the Kings will want to know of this." Gimli said as he walked out the tent in search of Theoden and Aragorn

Earl shrugged, "We could still see if he falls for the water."

"We'll leave the saucer recording." Dena said pushing Earl out the door

The first Eagle was being ridden by Gandalf and lowered an unconscious small body to the ground. Two of the Hospital groups ran towards and gently places the body on the a gurney

Gandalf jumped off the eagle as it flew off.

"Hey!" responded the lanky teen as he stepped out of the way. He watched as two small figures were rushed into the tent.

"You are needed outside Earl, now come on." Dena said rushing to the wounded hobbits who came in the tent

Earl followed the girl's order and went outside, asking, "What do you want me to do?"

"Erica's bringing in the other help them bring him in here." Dena tells him as they see Erica's Phoenix form gently lower the last hobbit

Earl nodded and grabbed a litter that had been leaning against a nearby table. The teen rushed over to the last hobbit and motioned for a nearby Rohirrim to come over. "Help me take this person into the tent."

"Yes, my lord." answered the soldier and did as Earl asked.

Just as Earl was about to walk away, Erica grabbed his shoulder. "I am next." She remarked than passed out.

"Oh Crap," mumbled the teen as he yelled out to a nearby group of Rohirrim, "Stretcher! I need a stretcher team here yesterday." Than he noticed she was not breathing.

Reggie flew over head saying with a large smile. "I love flying. I have missed this. The only thing I need is a joystick." She said with a laugh as she began to descend. "Thanks for the ride."

As Erica fainted the last Eagle set down letting Reggie jump off to run to her cousins aid. "Someone going to have to resuscitate her." Reggie said motioning to Earl to perform CPR

Earl sat the girl on the ground and exclaimed, "Oh Shit." He leaned over and placed his lips on hers and began to force air into her mouth. He looked up and yelled, "MEDIC!"

At seeing the boy place his lips on Erica unconscious body Legolas and Gimli advance on him. But Karen stepped in their way.

As Earl started the mouth to mouth, Reggie began pounding her cousin's chest. Dena and Karen rushed over as soon as they heard the lanky teen's cries.

Earl stood up and let the two girls take over.

"They are trying to get her breathing so back boys and let them work." Gandalf informed Legolas and Gimli.

Earl walked over to Legolas and explained, "Erica had stopped breathing. In my world, there is a procedure to get a person breathing again."

For several long moments nothing seemed to be working until Erica's body jolted to life again

Earl placed his hand on the elf's shoulder, "They are finishing what I started. Without that procedure, Erica would be dead."

"Than I am grateful." Legolas heart fully replied.

Erica's eyes opened as she felt another person's lips on her mouth. "EEEEEEEWWWWWWWWW!!!!! I love you cus but that is just gross!!!!!" Erica yelled.

"Don't sweat it," answered Reggie. "What do you say we let Dena and Karen do their job?"

"It wasn't me, it was Earl and now Dena." Reggie remarked with a laugh. "Erica and Earl sitting in a tree. KISSING" Reggie whispered into her cousins ear

"Some body shot me PLEASE!!!!!" Erica moaned.

"Easy my lady." Aragorn informed the girl as he helped Erica up.

"Can't, that would be bad a thing." Reggie laughed

Earl grinned and turned to Legolas, "Think I should give her what she wants?"

"You will no such thing." Legolas informed the teen as he placed himself between the female and the boy

"I was just joking," answered the teen. "You need to know when somebody is not serious."

"And so do you." The elf replied with a slight smile

Earl snorted in amusement and said, "I wonder if the girls used the water on Xander?"

As if on cue. "WHAT THE FU!" Xander yelled as he jumped out of his make shift bed.

Earl grinned and said to Legolas, "I guess they did. It'll teach him not to fall asleep when we are around."

"What did you do to Xander?" Reggie asked Earl as she walked towards the teen

"Well, the guy made the mistake of falling asleep. So we decided to put his hand in a bowl of warm water," answered the teen as he turned back to the tent. He pointed to a wet spot on the other's man's pants.

"WHO THE HELL!!!!" Xander demanded as he came out of the tent.

"I told you shouldn't have went looking for them." Gandalf informed his granddaughter.

"I did not fall asleep SHE used Chloroform on me." Xander informed them pointing at Dena who was tending to wounded prisoners and soldiers and then with an evil look Xander informed lanky teen he was in for it." But Earl you do realize this requires pay back."

"Sleeping, chloroform, what's the difference?" Earl said with a big grin. "You know, I stopped wetting the bed when I was three," countered Earl with a grin. "You want me to find some diapers for you?"

"You'll need them before me." Xander injected

"Those sound like fighting words boys." Reggie said putting herself between men.

"Aaahhh, but I am not the man who has had an accident in his pants. You might want to change them before others start asking questions."

"Don't make me have to put the both you down for the count." Reggie said with a laugh and then looked at Xander's pants. "Earl has a point, you might want to go and change."

"I only got my speedos." Xander replied with a straight face.

At that point, Gimli walked up and took a look at Xander. "Did you have an accident?" asked the dwarf

"No but that boy will." Xander replied as he left.

"Did he say Speedo, GOD PLEASE NO." Reggie shouted at the sky "Wasn't I punished enough the first time."

"What happened?" Mike asks as he walked to the group.

Gimli ignored the teen and turned to Earl, commented, "If I were you I would make myself scarce for the next few days."

Earl nodded, "You might be right, Master Dwarf. Not to change the subject but do you have a spare set of pants?"

"Not that would fit that small man." The dwarf add with a laugh

Mike shook his head and turned to Gimli, "Do I really want to know what just happened?"

"I don't think you will want to know. But apparently you could watch the video." The dwarf said with a chuckle, as the saucer flies over head

Mike looked down and walked over to Xander. He stopped and looked down, "Uh Xander, If you had to go so bad, why didn't you use the latrine?"

"I guess I asked for it." Xander replied in disgust.

"Probably" a female's voice replied

Mike decided to diffuse the situation and suggested a solution. The teen held up his hands, "Look why don't you go to the tent over there. I noticed there was a spare set of pants on the cot. Go change."

"But it still deserves pay back." Xander smiled.

"Save it for when we get back," answered Mike. "We are still in enemy territory and we don't have time for petty bickering."

"Yes sir." Xander replied.

The man went into the tent and found the pants that Mike had told him about put them on. The pants fit on the waist but the legs will be really short on the man. The extreme sportsman unfortunately had found a pair of Pippins pants. Not that Xander didn't have bad fashion sense before, now it was worse. The man stepped out the tent only to be mocked by his female companion, Karen.

Karen took one look at the extreme sportsman and through her giggling, asked, "Where's the flood?"

Xander Cage chose to ignore the girl and stalked off, muttering, "I will get even for this. I swear to God. I will get even."

Army of Men Campsite

The following morning.

Aragorn placed Frodo in the trailer. Gandalf carried Sam, while Erica bitched at Legolas as forcibly carried the girl to the trailer

"I can do it myself you F." Erica hissed at the elf

"Erica your language!" Gandalf hissed at his granddaughter

Mike walked over and stared at the scene from a few feet away. Finally, the teen commented to Erica, "I never knew Legolas could sweep you off your feet."

"Shut up Mike!" Erica yelled directly next to the elf's ear causing him to flinch in slight pain

"In fact you are the first girl I know to turn down the chance of goofing off. Oh where is this world heading to?"

The girl voice could be heard for miles. As one of the group pondered what was happening. "What the heck is Erica yelling about this time?" Earl asked Dena

"Erica doesn't like being swept off her feet by elf boy." Dena answers than yells. "You either let him help you to the trailer or I have Earl do it!"

"Mike's is probably cracking on her getting to lie around all day while the rest of us have to walk," mused the lanky teen.

At that, the blonde her looked up at the elf and snarled. "You are seriously going to pay for this you pointed ear Princeling."

"Erica you need to settle down." Gandalf informed his granddaughter

Mike leaned over to Legolas and commented in a loud voice, "This is what happens when she misses her beauty sleep."

"Then perhaps it will be better for all if she goes to sleep." answered the Elf

"Don't you even think it!" Erica warned the elf

The elf grinned and turned to Gandalf, "Would you have a sleeping potion handy?"

But than Gandalf gently placed his hand on her neck in a certain location a quickly put the girl to sleep

"I will remember that." The elf remarks as he places the now sleeping girl between the two hobbits

"Finally, I thought she would never shut up," commented Mike as he wiped his forehead."

Earl grinned and put in his two cents. "I know. I was beginning to flashbacks of the times she was on the phone. If it wasn't hours with Reggie about some boy...."

"The question is which boy?" Reggie said with a little wink

"Earl I would shut up if I were you. Mr. Cuddle is like twice your size now." Dena pointed out as a saber-toothed tiger approaches him from behind

The boy slowly looks over his shoulder to see 6 inch long teeth very close to his neck

Of course Mike decided to press Earl's luck for him. "I think it was the football player, Moose. Yeah that's the one. Erica could never stop talking about him."

"Mike SHUT UP!" Earl screamed as the hot breath of the beast caressed his face

"Okay, let's not antagonize my kitty, Reggie said and then paused "Unless you want to be his dinner Mike?"

"Awe common Earl. Don't you remember all the things you told David and I about her and Moose?"

"Mr. cuddles, Mike is pressing Earls luck, you might like to take a bite out of him." Reggie said to her cat with a little wink

"Enough bickering," Gandalf ordered

"Let's move out." Aragorn suggested.

TBC

Authors Notes: I recently reread "The Return of the King" and decided that there are some parts that I wanted to add to this telling of the story. So, I have quoted a number of paragraphs from the book. Any paragraph that has a page number within parenthesis comes directly from Tolkien and the page number refers to where that paragraph can be found in the novel. For the record, I cannot wait to see the special edition of the movie where hopefully, the Mouth of Sauron has been included.

Also to my reviewers who have been asking for an update. I hope this satisfies your request. So now, Sauron has been defeated and the army is on it's way to Minas Tirith for Aragorn's coronation and marriage. However, that is not the end, for the American teenagers have some things to do in Minas Tirith and getting ready for their new lives in Middle Earth. Check out Chapter Nine: "Pomp and Circumstance" for I guarantee the teens will make it one the adults will never forget. Plus, there may be trouble brewing back in Earth that will require the efforts of all to contain it.

On a final note, keep up those reviews. Tell me what you liked and didn't like and any mistakes that I missed during the editing process. So I leave you with this final thought from Murphy,

If at first you don't succeed, Call in an airstrike.

Merry Prankster, out