Reasons Unknown

by grixx

Young Alex literally walks into Middle Earth. An innocent girl looking for adventure inadvertently changes her life forever and uncovers there is more hidden truth to discover than what she originally thought for reasons unknown. Serving a little dose of mary sue once in a while. Legolas is slightly OC. 10th and 11th walker.

17. Chapter 17

Rated M for angst. (mentions of gore and blood.)

disclaimer: I don't own anything.

Enjoy! =)

Chapter 17

"I want every strong lad, able to bare arms, to be ready for battle by nightfall." Clapping his second in command on the shoulders, Alex watched the King inspect his fortress, while shouting orders to his men with instructions on what is best to defend his keep.

In a midst of all the inspection and constant shouts however, there was a certain sound that Alex simply could not ignore. Looking around and surveying her surroundings. On the outside the keep may look sturdy and secured, but standing on the inside, walking along its hallways and streets, Alex could not help but notice all the suffering and cries around her. Children left unattended along the walls, the adults busy scurrying about. The men, both soldiers and civilians alike on their way to the armory to be fitted with armor and swords and spears and bows.

Continuing on with the group, walking beside Legolas and Paul, Alex was the only woman permitted to walk with them and with this, people stared, some with trepidation, others with fear.

"We will cover the causeway and the gate from above. No army has ever breached the gaping wall or set foot inside the Hornburg!"

The King's voice pulling her out of her musings, glancing up at the thick wooden gates that barricaded the entrance to Helm's Deep. Arrogance pouring from his tone. Alex stared on, not believing King Theoden's proclamation about his keep.

"This is no rabble of mindless orcs! This are Uruk Hai, their armor is thick and their shields broad." Definitely remembering the encounter with the accursed creatures at Amon Hen not too long ago. A shiver of fear ran down her spine. Unconsciously, she moved a little closer to Legolas.

"I have fought many wars Master Dwarf, I know how to defend my own keep." Alex could barely contain her scoff at the King's answer. Watching his regal form pass by Gimli.

Alex caught Gimli's stare and for a split moment both had reached an understanding. Irritation coloring both of their gazes at the obvious arrogance of the King to identify the obvious and refuse the advice of the fellowship. The people of Rohan will be wiped out!

Walking back inside the gate, Alex was greeted again with chaos, fear and uncertainty lingering in the air, even she could cut through the obvious tension with a knife. Everyone was on edge. The word of an army of Uruk Hai from Isengard has already gotten around. Alex could not suppress the shiver at the prospect that not everyone will see tomorrow.

Legolas stood beside her, and felt her shiver, immediately grasping her hand in a tight hold. As much as this battle will test the strength of the race of men, and his allegiance and loyalty to Aragorn still stands tall and true, Alex is also included in his priority now. As soon as this council with the King has ended, his priority is to find her a safe place to hide until the battle is over or a chance to escape if need be.

"They will break upon this fortress like water on rock," inspecting the guards positioned along the walls and imagining a few defensive positions already forming in his mind, King Theoden continued on, oblivious to the change in the mood of his companions. "Saruman's hoard will pillage and burn, you've seen it before." Continuing his never-ending tirade, "crops can be resown, homes rebuilt..within these walls we will outlast them."

"What about those who cannot fight?" Alex interjected, her irritation had finally came to an end. Everywhere around her are innocent women and children about to be slaughtered in this battle and no one gave a damn about.

"I beg your pardon milady?" Challenging her and giving her every bit of chance to remain quiet, Alex caught on to the warning but her mind refused to acknowledge, nor is the tightening of Legolas' grip on her hand, quietly signaling her not to antagonize the already stressed out King.

"What about those who can't fight? Are they to suppose stay here, and wait it out?"

"This is a battle milady, if you are not aware, casualties are inevitable."

Unable to believe what she is hearing, Alex stood out from the group, facing the King head on, "What about the women and children? Are they going to be part of the battle or are you expecting me to accept that they will be part of the casualties instead?" Her voice had turned deadly cold, how can a King surrender his people to this torture is beyond her but she will not back down.

"I understand your concern milady, but if I direct all my efforts in saving the helpless, I will not have the time to prepare my defense for the attack, it is a luxury I simply do not have." Shaking his head as he turned to continue with the inspection,

"How can you say that?! How can you look at your people and accept the fact that they will not survive the night?!" Alex raised her voice, her anger quickly rising. Looking around her, she realized she had garnered the attention of a few scattered citizens and soldiers who are all staring at her in complete awe and bewilderment for standing up to their King.

"Alright Alex, that's enough." Gently whispering to her ear, and pulling at her elbow to gently lead her away and diffuse the situation, Paul was unfortunately unsuccessful.

"No." Pulling her elbow free, not even giving her friend a glance, her gaze fixed on the old King before her.

"I cannot save everyone in this war, I have already come to accept that, and you should too." His tone leaving none for negotiation.

"The keep extends into the mountains, am I right?" Refusing to back down from the fight, Alex felt Aragorn move beside her and remained quiet. Meeting the gaze of the King, and receiving no response, Alex got the answer she needed. "Move the women and children into the mountain. Move everyone who cannot fight and barricade the entrance." Alex stood firm, her back ramrod straight and her refusal to rest her case clear in her stance.

She reminded him so much of his niece, the King thought, as he processed what the lady was trying to tell him. Is it true? Could I still save my people? Shaking his head noticing the last golden rays of the sun turning a dark orange as might slowly descends on them, the argument leaving him momentarily, "Like I said, I do not have the luxury of attending to everyone's needs."

Before Alex could respond, Aragorn spoke up beside her "They will not come to Rohan to destroy its crops and villages, they will come to destroy its people. Down to the last child!"

The King suddenly whipped around, his eyes blazing with a fury "What would you have me do? Look at my men, their courage hangs by thread!' His gaze flickering to the people around them,

"if this is going to be our end, then I will have them make such an end as to be worthy of remembrance!"

"Send out riders milord! You must call for aid," Aragorn's tone turned pleading undeterred by the King's outburst, "and send the women and children into the caves."nodding to the civilians scattered among the soldiers,

"And who will come?" Moving close to Aragorn, King Theoden now stood face to face, "Elves? Dwarves? We are not so lucky in our friends as you, the old alliances are dead." Nodding to emphasize his point.

He is insane! Alex stared on, disbelieving at the argument ensuing before her. She attempted to step forward, only to be held back, only just now noticing Aragorn's hold on her hand silently telling her to stand back. Looking at Aragorn's face again, Alex decided to stay put and listen to the reasoning of this mad king.

"Gondor will answer."

"Gondor!" Spitting the word out as if it left a vile taste in the King's mouth, "Where was Gondor when the Westfold fell? When was Gondor when the army had closed in around us? Where was Gondor-" suddenly cutting his tirade short, the King chose to look down, shame briefly flooding his system at the momentary show of weakness. Now is not the time to show despair. His Men needed him, His country is depending on him to get them through the night. "No my lord Aragorn. We are alone." Turning his back and walking away putting the debate to an end.

Aragorn and Alex looked at each other at the King's exit, both at a lost at the King's pride and utter helplessness. What remained of the fellowship was about to turn away and look for other useful tasks to occupy their time, before Alex was startled to hear the King give an order to his right hand, "Take the women and children into the caves."

Alex could not believe her ears, turning swiftly around she found King Theoden standing atop the stairs that led to the great hall looking down at her, "May I trust in you milady, to look after my people while we are at war?" The humblest expression gracing his features, his eyes pleading for any sign of hope.

Resolution rose from Alex. Sheer determination adorned her features, she was about to do something she had never done before, "With my life, milord." Nodding to King Theoden.

"Let us show you the way to the caves then."

It had been hours since the king's men had started to move the women and children and those who cannot fight into the caves. Alex was already dead on her feet but seeing the innocent faces of the children had pushed her to move on. She was useless in a fight, she had already proven that back in Amon Hen, but she would not stand by and be a spectator in this massacre when she could definitely do something. Pushing through the throng of people lining up to enter the caves, she was pushed around and shoved aside due to to the carts and baskets of food and supplies being transferred into the cave as well. Finally making her way to the keep's wall, she spotted Legolas with Aragorn and Gimli, assisting the soldiers into their positions and posts as well as moving more people into the safety of the cave. Alex almost approached the trio, when she was shoved aside by a fuming Eowyn, "Am I to be sent with the women and children into the caves?"

"That is a noble charge." Was Aragorn's calm reply, he was already beyond exhausted but rest will not come to him anytime soon. He needs to make sure that Rohan's people are safe and that the keep is prepared for battle.

"To mind the children, to find food and bedding when the men return, what renowned is there in that?"

Alex continued to watch the exchange, her temper rising at Eowyn's reasoning. Alex knew Eowyn was itching to be of use, her disdain to look after the people of Rohan by staying in the caves is terribly misguided.

"Milady, a time may come for a valor without renowned. Who then will your people look to for their last defense?" Alex could almost worship Aragorn for his patience, they are loosing time arguing!

"Let me stand on your side."

"It is not in my power to command." Seeming to have lost the will to argue any further, Aragorn turned to leave, but Eowyn would have none of it.

"You do not command the others to stay!", Alex lost it then, walking towards Eowyn with a purpose, pushing between Legolas and Gimli, but it was the elf prince that held her back with a firm hold on her waist. Wriggling to loosen his grip, he only tightened his hold on her, "Do not interfere. Aragorn can handle this." Legolas hissed in her ear. Deciding to listen to Legolas but not liking the idea entirely, Alex stood beside him to watch the exchange unfold.

"They fight beside you because they would not be parted from you!"

That's it! Alex attempted again, but Legolas' hold would not bulge. "She is so stubborn." She whispered back.

All of their attention was once again focused on the pair when Aragorn decided to face Eowyn, "Because they love you." The sheildmaiden whispered pleading her case to let her fight.

Aragorn looked embarrassed by the admission, Alex noted the same expression on Eowyn's face. She hadn't meant to say it out loud, she hadn't meant to be so obvious. Aragorn remained silent, opting not to say anything and make it worse for the lady of Rohan.

Eowyn realized that she would not receive any response from the ranger, her embarrassment increased ten fold, deciding instead to busy herself with anything, she swiftly left the group.

She loves him. Alex noted sadly, suddenly feeling pity for Eowyn who will not receive the same sentiment. Understanding dawned on her, she once was in that same position before, knowing exactly how that felt. Shaking her head of the grim memories plaguing her, she reminded herself she's grown now, she was not the same infatuated, naive girl anymore.

Moving Legolas' hold on her, she moved among the crowd again to complete the task that she accepted. There was still so much left to do.

Dark was already fast approaching when finally all the defenseless where successfully moved into the cave. Alex was the only one left outside still moving around the keep, making sure that no woman or child was left alone or unattended. She had had a few altercations with a few of the king's men on a few boys she thought where too young to be recruited in battle but in the end, she lost the argument.

All boys able to bear arms, that was the order. Overwhelming sadness caught her by surprise. Holding onto the nearest wall for support before her knees gave. How many of these boys will never see their families again?

"Alex! There you are! I've been looking everywhere for you." Paul ran by her side and started to pull her by her elbow, "They are about to close the entry to the caves, you have to get inside." Entering the massive hall into the keep, that would lead to the caves, Alex halted in her steps. She hadn't said anything to her friends. Turning swiftly around, Alex grasped Paul's hand in a vice like grip, "Paul come with me. There is still plenty of room in the caves."

"Alex? Have you lost your mind? I am helping them. I want to help them."

"No. I mean..this is not your fight, you are not required to fight." Her voice trembled at the possibilities that just like those boys she felt immense sadness for, there is a chance she might not see Paul again tomorrow.

"Alex, I know you're scared but I'll be fine." Looking at his friend already guessing the thought running through her mind,

"What if..I mean.. what.." Alex couldn't even finish her sentence, a hug she desperately needed had open a flood gate of emotions to come rushing out. Despair, sadness, panic and fear all rolled up into one that Alex could not stop the sob that escaped her.

"Just tell me to be safe, give me a massive hug and I'll see you as soon as this is over, okay?" Paul whispered, his calm tone belying the fear that is also running in him. Alex could not form the words out. Words she wanted to say to her best friend. Fears she wanted to be acknowledged but are too scared to say so for fear of making it a reality so she chose to stay quiet and hug her friend.

"I'll get them okay?" Paul offered, pulling her tight arms from around him as he hurried to the armory to where the trio was currently holed up.

As soon as Paul left, her knees gave out and she sobbed quietly on the corner. Hearing the sad goodbyes and silent tearful conversation around her made matters worst, she was not the only one feeling the strain of this battle. Hopelessness was already slowly consuming her.

Strong arms encircled her sobbing form, shocked and surprised she turned to find Gimli standing before her. "Lassie, don't fret. I'm the best dwarf in all of middle earth. I'll look out for these three babies for you." Gesturing to the three men standing behind him. Alex knelt, giving Gimli a tight hug. That dwarf really knew what to say to lighten up the mood.

"No games please. I need all of you alive." Alex joked, sniffing.

"Ha! Who needs games, I already know I'll beat that elf-princeling fair and square!" Patting her back one last time, Gimli turned to give way for Aragorn.

Alex's laugh simmered down, as she turned her attention to Aragorn, "Don't do anything stupid or I'm telling Arwen." Pointing her finger while delivering her warning, Aragorn opened his arms and hugged Alex.

"Threatening me now, are we?" Amusement coloring in his tone, squeezing her for a final time as he also turned to follow Gimli. "I will see you after the battle."

Turning her teary gaze at the last person left, Alex offered a sad smile. Everything up to that point was already trivial to Alex. All their bickering and fighting seemed so distant now. Her aggression towards him for what happened to her years ago seemed unimportant.

I may never get to see him tomorrow.

Fresh tears threatened to spill from her eyes as she felt him stand before her, leaning his head to touch hers, his hand holding her neck, his thumb brushing along her wet cheek, his other hand softly playing with her hair. Alex closed her eyes at the feeling, she may never get to feel like this again.

"I need you alive. Do you hear me?" She sniffed out, her heart feeling like it would explode. She had never felt scared like this before.

Legolas nodded, acknowledging her command. Closing his own eyes, he inhaled her intoxicating scent that seemed to always linger around her. His heart beating rapidly as he felt her stand even closer, her hand holding his tunic in her vice like grips, refusing to let go.

Don't let go.

"I will come back for you." Legolas looked into her eyes, his gaze unwavering, "I will always come back to you."

More tears flowed freely now, not even an army or orcs could stop her, but she clung to him, her arms going around his neck as she hugged him tight. She was openly sobbing not his shoulder

"I know." Slowly removing her arms around his neck, Alex furiously wiped her tears. Legolas leaned in, kissing her on the forehead. He wished he could do more, but now is not the time. He couldn't thank the Valar more, for now he had a reason to survive the night. The urge to say what he wanted on the tip of his tongue, he would have declared his love then, but he gathered himself. She deserves more than a hurried admission—she deserves the world.

Alex leaned in, hugging him one last time before letting go. Standing back and turning to the crowd slowly dwindling, they could hear the guards by the caves call out to the last of those who will not fight to enter.

"You should go." Legolas urged her, but his hand had still refused to let go of hers.

Looking back to the men gathered by the entrance, seeing the King and a few of his men, as well as the rest of the fellowship, Alex suddenly had a bright idea. "Keep the entrance unlocked."

"What in the world?" Paul asked, confusion written on his face.

"Send the wounded to the caves, we'll take care of them."

The men stared at her like she had grown two heads. "Milady, do you know what you are asking? You will be putting every woman and child in there at risk." King Theoden could not mask his bewilderment. He doesn't know whether to be shocked or amazed by this lady's audacity.

"Only when the keep has been breached, then you barricade the entrance—"

"That was not what was agreed! You agreed to look after my people—"

"And that includes the soldiers fighting for Rohan." Nodding her head and keeping her tone firm, "We will look after the wounded, you concentrate on the battle. We will last the night." Alex's tone left no room for argument.

"She is correct. We cannot both attend to the wounded and fight as well." Legolas pointed out as he stood beside her.

Looking to Aragorn, the King saw affirmation on his face. "Very well." Pointing to the guards stationed by the entrance, "Only wounded, nobody leaves while the battle rages on. " A chorus of affirmations from the King's men was heard.

Turning Alex to face him again, he held her face in both of his hands, "If you see or hear any Uruk hai enter the cave, I want you to run. Do you understand me?" His face all serious, "I want you to run to Lothlorien, my people will protect you there or run to my father—run to Mirkwood and do not stop. You are his daughter, he will protect you."

"No!—"

"I will find you there. If they breach the wall, it is only a matter of time before they ransack the caves. I do not want you in there when that happens. There is for sure a road that leads into the mountains, find it and run to my father. I will follow you there."

Alex knew he was only trying to placate her for there is a chance he might never will, or he will never get to.

Seeing that Alex will not fight him on this, he leaned in kissing her temple again, "Keep a blade close with you at all times." He hissed to her ear, before he gently shoved her towards the entrance of the caves. His stare never leaving her silhouette as she disappeared into the darkness of the cave. Pain pierced his heart for he had to part with her—again. I love you.

"We have trusted you this far, you have not lead us astray. Forgive me, it was wrong of me to despair." Handing Aragorn his sword, Legolas offered his apologies for showing weakness earlier on. Aragorn nodded his head, "There was nothing to forgive, my friend." forever putting their misunderstanding to rest.

The pair was interrupted by Gimli and Paul, with the latter holding on to a fidgeting Gimli who was in turn trying to fit into chainmail. "It's a little tight across the chest!" The dwarf exclaimed, forgoing the length of the thing as Paul paused in his action as he studied the elf prince and the ranger.

"Oh good! You guys made up." Smiling in the direction of Aragorn and Legolas, "And here I thought I'd have to listen to Alex complain about you two fighting, tomorrow." His smile still in place, "If she finds out—that is." Instant relief flooding his system at having not to worry about one thing in a seeming endless pile of things to worry about while in middle earth.

"I admire you, mellon." Legolas commented to the mortal, in which Paul could only answer him with a confused look, his smirk still in place. "Nothing ever dampens your spirit."

Paul only smiled, his mind still processing the adorable dimpled smile Legolas directed at him. How can he be so cold and ruthless in battle and be this charming gentle—elf the next? Oh Alex girl, you never stood a chance!

Agreeing to what his friend was saying, Aragorn added, "Are you sure you want to fight Paul? There is still time to enter the caves, I am sure Alex could use your help."

"And I am sure you could use my help in here." Paul smiled, "Yes, I am sure. I maybe gay, but I am also a vindictive bitch." Paul's face suddenly turned solemn, "They murdered our friend, Aragorn, those bastards out there will deserve what is coming to them. I will not allow Boromir's death to be in vain."

"Hear! Hear!" firmly agreed by Gimli as he finished fastening his armor around his stubby, solid frame.

"I cannot be there to protect you from the wall." Aragorn explained,

"I don't need protecting. I will hold the gates, you keep your eye on the wall. We'll see each other in the morning." Paul nodded firmly. His decision is final. He was going to see this through.

Aragorn acquiesced, admiring Alex's friend ever more. Bravery was rarely seen in men, even more so is loyalty and Aragorn thanked the Valar he was blessed to have friends with both qualities by the barrel. The group's brief interaction was suddenly interrupted by a horn sounding off pretty close to the keep.

"That is no orc horn." Confusion coloring Legolas' features as he raced the flight of stairs that lead to the front of the main hall.

The remaining members of the fellowship ran after the elf prince and they soon found themselves in awe of the long line of elves at their doorstep with the Marchwarden in the lead. "How is this possible?" King Theoden's astonished face welcomed the glittering entourage.

"I bring word from Elrond of Rivendell." Haldir announced, "an alliance once existed between elves and men. Long ago we fought and died together." Looking up to see the fellowship emerge from the main hall, "We have come to honor that allegiance." Haldir's proud stance was welcomed warmly by Aragorn who chose to hug the elf out of pure gratitude and relief.

"Mae govanenn." Aragorn's relief at finding an army of elves to their aid was palpable, "you are most welcome!"

Legolas stepped forward, his gratitude at finding his brothers ready to aid the race of men. At this, the army of elves turned in one synchronized movement, as gesture of recognizing elven royalty in their presence.

When introductions had been made and done, the soldiers and elven warriors were strategically placed along the walls, towers and hidden behind the walls. Legolas had to pull Haldir off to the side, "I need a favor, mellon."

Haldir stared at the Mirkwood Prince, his brow furrowed, "Of course."

"I need someone to watch the entrance to the caves. Spare me one soldier."

Understanding crossed Haldir's face, "Is she in there?" nodding his head towards the main hall.

Legolas nodded, "She has taken on the duty to look after the people of Rohan and to tend to the wounded."

Admiration appeared on the Marchwarden's face upon hearing the news. He was not surprised to find her in action. In the short amount of time he has known her, he saw her indomitable spirit which has now been proven useful as she had volunteered to look after these people who are not even her own. Gesturing to the elven soldier near him, Haldir introduced him to the elf prince.

Filwen!

Legolas thanked Haldir before swiftly showing the warrior to where the entrance to the cave is, finding three Rohan soldiers on guard. Not enough.

"The wounded will come here, make sure nobody leaves the cave. If and when the keep is breached make sure no Uruk Hai gets past you."

"I will guard the princess with my life, milord." Affirming that he had heard the exchange between the prince and the marchwarden.

"Thank you my friend. I am forever in your debt." sincerity pouring out of Legolas at the moment. For a while, his fears are alleviated knowing that an elven warrior stood at the entrance of the caves. "There is no debt to collect, your grace. It is my honor." Smiling at the elf prince, the warrior elf moved to stand in position at by the entrance.

"Just 'Legolas' mellon. I will only have you address me by my name. I have enough of the titles to last me a lifetime." Patting the elf on the shoulder before Legolas hurried to leave to take his position by the walls. The elf warrior only stared, dumbfounded by the request, at the retreating form of the humble Mirkwood Prince.

Meanwhile under the caves, Alex was occupied too. Her rage upon finding the women just sitting around, while Eowyn and a few castle staff busied themselves with arranging the supplies— was something the people of Rohan was not expecting.

"I need blankets and clean bandages, someone start a fire and should start boiling water.." Her list of orders where endless, that Eowyn had to ask Alex what she was doing.

"We are not going to just sit around and mope and cry and pray that this thing passes." Alex ground out, moving the women and young children seated along one wall and pointing to the young maiden behind her to start laying rows of make shift beds. Looking at Eowyn, Alex started and she made sure that the women situated nearby can hear, "You want to do your part in this battle?" Looking at the crowd that gathered around her, "Then this is your part. We will not leave the men behind."

Eowyn felt renewed at the energy and fight vibrating off of Alex. Staring at the fiery green eyes of one of the membership of the fellowship, Eowyn felt renewed vigor course through her. They can do this!

Tying her blonde hair behind her head, "What do you propose we do?"

"We tend to the wounded and those who cannot fight." Reaching for a stick, Alex stood pulling her hair into a messy bun to keep it out of her way, she felt relief that she and the shieldmaiden had come to an agreement on their next best course of action.

Placing the makeshift beds made of whatever blankets they could find, they have lined up one end of the far wall that will receive the wounded. A few elderly women have been tasked to start a fire, pots upon pots of boiling water at the ready for warm compress, and to build medicinal hot tea that will relieve pain. Clean bandages have been cut and made ready on the other end of the cave, needles and sutures prepared and cleaned.

The women were interrupted, however, in their preparation when they heard what sounded like chanting and stomping on the ground above them. So they have arrived.

The hairs at the back of Alex's neck and arms stood at the sheer magnitude that is about to descend on Helms Deep. Taking a deep breathe, she gathered all the children at the farthest corner of the room, into the deepest part of the cave where they would not be run over by the oncoming traffic of the wounded soldiers and frantic women later on. One child, a boy about five years of age with blonde hair and blue eyes had refused to let go of her hand, tugging on it to garner the lady's attention. Bending down at the child's eye level, "What is it?"

"It's starting isn't it?" Alex felt her heart constrict at the thought of this kid one so young understanding what is going on around him. Not wanting to lie to the child, Alex had no choice but to tell the truth.

"It is."

"But we'll be safe here, right milady?"

"That is the plan."

"We will be fine. We have elves fighting for us." Another child, this time much more older piped up, Alex had to chuckle at the child's enthusiasm her mind going directly to a certain Mirkwood elf, Please be safe. "He is only one elf. But he is a brave warrior."

"No milady, an army of elves!"

A what now? Her face must have shown her confusion for the older child continued, "My brother said there was an army of elves outside! They appeared out of nowhere and are here to aid us in battle."

Wanting to gather more information about the child Alex continued on, "Is your brother outside?"

A somber expression crossed the child's face, "Yes milady, he's barely twelve but the king's men believe he is ready for battle. Mother would not stop crying. I pray the elves will look after him." Pulling a blanket nearby, Alex wrapped the younger one in it. "What is your name?" Turning to the older one.

"Bran, milady."

"Then it's just 'Alex' for me, never really liked the titles." Alex joked, her nose scrunching at the title earning her a giggle from the children. "How about you? What is your name?" Turning to the young one whose hand still has not let go of her.

"Fengel."

"Alright, Bran—you are the oldest in the group, can I trust you to look after them while I tend to the wounded later on?" Turning to look at the small group of children gathered before her, most of them younger than Bran.

The boy nodded his head, excited at being given a task. "You will come back for us, right miss?"

"Of course. When all of this is over, I will come back and we'll all go outside together, how about that?" Alex smiled, trying to mask the fear of what tomorrow might bring, but these children don't need to know it now.

"Hear that? We might see the elves!" Bran turned to the group all excited.

A chorus of cheers was heard from the group of children, as Alex gave them one last instruction to stay by the farthest side of the cave and not to separate from the group. With one final look at the children, Alex turned to return to the front of the cave that is slowly starting to get chaotic as the first wounded soldier was brought in.

It has been six hours since the battle had started, and Alex was already feeling hopeless for the unending trail of soldiers both men and elves alike being brought into the caves. Wounds ranging from small and easily curable to horrendous and angry slashes, bones sticking out of fractured legs and arms and almost amputated extremities. Alex had to hold bile from rising in her throat. Her tunic already covered from blood and soot from carrying pots of boiling water to and fro. Glancing at Eowyn, she found that the Lady of Rohan is not faring any better than her. Almost all the cots have been filled with screaming and crying men. There is no more room for any more.

On the opposite of the makeshift healing room, was the line of bodies covered in cloth, their fight leaving them while in the middle of healing. Their numbers slowly increasing, the stench already starting to coat the interior of the cave.

"I need a bandage!"

"Somebody get this man some numbing tea!"

"I need sutures here! Can someone sew him!"

"Put pressure on the wound!"

"He's dead. He's gone."

Alex stood feeling exhaustion take over her form, she has been up for almost twenty four hours, having had no time to rest since the day before. The shouts and frantic movements almost seeming like white noise surrounding her.

"Move!"

Alex's attention was focused on the elf that was being brought inside, all the women stood aside to watch again in awe at another wounded elf. Two elves who carried him, stopped in front of Alex.

"Please, Milady. He has been stabbed, we tried to stop the bleeding but he is getting paler by the second."

Alex stared at the face of the elf she barely knew, his face already white as sheet. He looked so much like Legolas that goosebumps erupted along her arms at the thought that either him or any of her friends might be brought in any second. Snapping herself out of it, she knelt beside the wounded Sindar elf in golden armor.

"Take this!" Ordering the other two elves to remove his armor as she worked hastily on the wound. Pulling back the cloth that covered the wound, Alex was horrified to find a deep gash on his right side. Blood squirted out of the wound, coating Alex's hands, arms and neck. "Put pressure on it!" Ordering to the elf beside her, turning her attention to the other elf she ordered, "I will try to sew him, but you need to hold him still and tell me if loses consciousness."

"Yes milady."

"I need a numbing tea and sutures! Now!" Alex's voice echoing into the cave. Not long after giving the orders, a small frail woman approached the trio, carrying a wooden mug of the numbing tea, a pot of hot water and the bandages and sutures wrapped in it.

After having the elf-soldier drink the tea, Alex set on to work on the elf's angry wound.

"I will not have the time to wait for the tea to take effect, I need to work on him now." Looking to the blonde haired elf to her right, "I need you to hold him down. Do you hear me? Do not make him move." Quickly setting up the thread and needle, Alex, poured the already warm water to his wound to clean the site and proceeded to puncture the skin to make her first suture.

A muffled scream erupted from the elf, his eyes opening for a fraction before closing and the elf passing out from the pain.

"I'm sorry. This is going to leave a scar. I am not exactly good with this but we have to close the wound." muttering as she worked in closing the wound as fast as she can. She was almost on the last stitch when her hands were halted by the elf kneeling in front if her, "He's already gone milady."

"What?" Surprise and anger coloring her features.

"He has passed on to the Halls of Mandos. You did everything you could." The elf slowly explained to the lady, watching as her eyes suddenly hardened into cold emerald stones.

Swiftly turning to the other elf beside her, she unceremoniously pushed him aside, "Why didn't you tell me?!" Moving the dead elf's head to tilt it upwards, she bent down, pinching his nose and breathing into his mouth, as soon as she came up for air she shifted again to deliver compressions to the elf's chest.

"What are you doing?" Was the elf's frantic question at her bizarre behavior. Their commotion garnered the attention of the rest of the women and wounded soldiers in the cave, all of them in fascination at the intimate action she was currently doing to the dead elf's body.

"I am saving him! What do you think am I doing?!" Alex roared, her attention undivided as she continued to help the unconscious elf.

"But he is gone."

"Idiot! You should have told me the moment his heart stopped!" Sweat dripping off her brow but she refused to yield. Shifting between breathing into his mouth and delivering chest compressions. Her legs already screaming in pain, her knees digging into the stone floor.

One one-thousand…

Two one-thousand…

Three one-thousand…

It was another full minute before the elf suddenly gasp awake, his first instinct was to reach for his wound that was already almost in completion of being sewn shut. A collective gasp was heard from the gathered crowd as they watched the already dead elf, return to life. The frail woman who earlier delivered Alex's supplies turned her sharp eye to the raven haired beauty, "What did you do?"

"She's going! Get a crash cart in here!"

Alex's body was jostled around the hospital bed she was currently lying on, her body was turned to the side and then was returned to its previous position. A hardwood board placed under her. Chest compressions were already started, the constant beeping of the monitor attached to her pulse oximeter a constant reminder of her slowly draining life.

"Page Dr. Stevens now!"

"Negative breathing, negative pulse!" Pulling the stethoscope around her neck, the nurse turned to the resident handling the paddles of the defibrillator,

"Charge to two hundred."

"Clear!"

Her body was lifted off the bed at the force of the electric current, her lifeless head rolled to the side. "What the hell happened in here?!" Dr. Stevens barged in, his face flushed and contorted in anger.

"Attempted suicide." One nurse answered,

"She tried to overdose herself with the meds." Another one answered, "We were pumping her stomach to get the meds out when she crashed."

"Give one dose of epi, and charge to three hundred." Dr. Stevens ordered, pushing the other nurse out of the way,

"Clear!"

No reaction, time is already running and Alex's complexion was already turning an ugly shade of blue, "Give a second dose of epi and charge again!—Clear!"

Another shock, but this was much more potent than the last. The monitor beeped once and then another for the second time. Dr. Stevens leaned in, checking her pupils for any reaction.

"We got her." The nurse announced to the room,

This got Dr. Stevens attention, his face hard with anger as he turned his focus to the staff surrounding the girl, "She is a Townsend. We do not want that kind of lawsuit in our hands, if they find out she almost died, they might sue us for negligence! Strap her to her bed if you have to, but this will not happen again, am I clear?"

A chorus of nods and 'yes' were echoed in the room, before the doctor hastily left the padded suite of the young Alex Townsend.

Ignoring the old woman's question and her own exhaustion at having performed a resuscitation, Alex returned her attention back to the last stitch, her gaze never leaving the wound, her hand still shaking from the ordeal, while she ordered the elf in front of her, "I am not losing another soldier. Hold him down!"

Alex ignored the stares of the people around her. Her attention was solely focused on stitching up the wound and cleaning it again before finally wrapping up his torso in clean bandage. She looked up finally to the awe-struck stares of the two elves, "Move him there, give him another dose of the numbing tea to help ease the pain. I will look after him."

Silence.

The elves continued to stare at her, and Alex slowly felt uneasiness creep into her. Turning to leave, she was halted by one of the elf holding her arm, "Forgive us milady. We do not know how to thank you." His tone pleading.

"No need to thank me. It was my duty."

"But you gave him back his life!"

"I felt his heart stop. And you breathed life into him again." Was the other elf's wonder-filled reply.

"It's called CPR where I come from. It's not at all that uncommon." Alex shrugged, seeming to remember that this is middle earth, all forms of modern medicine—not that she'd know any, and first aid—would seem far out to them. Shit! I hope they don't burn me at the stake for witchcraft.

Suddenly feeling outnumbered should they turn against her, and needing a quick escape, Alex turned and left the pair. Trusting that they would carry out her order regarding their wounded comrade. Paul, where are you?

In the time that would take Alex to attend to the next wounded soldier, unknowingly to her, her act of miracle would have already reached the ears of everyone in the cave— and soon the rest of the Rohan, but instead of contempt and fear, the crowd had nothing but admiration and praise for the brave peculiar lady in their midst who could bring the dead back to life.

It was another hour into the battle when an unlikely twist of event would surprise them all, the women and men almost becoming silent when a large blast from above shook the entire cave, the women screaming in terror, their earlier duties seemingly forgotten for a moment.

"Brace the gate!"

The King's order echoed throughout the keep. They're coming. Paul's thoughts stayed focus on the tall wooden gates that served as the barrier between them and the monsters on the other side. He heard Aragorn shout orders to redirect the archers towards where the pathway to the gates were. Paul chanced a peek at the gap between the stone wall and saw a thick army of Uruk Hai, their bodies covered in shields.

"Prepare the reinforcements!" He yelled, to the men and boys behind him. If this small advancing troupe of Uruk Hai could get past the gates, Paul's first order was to reinforce the gates.

Paul's small group of men and boys braced the wooden gates when they felt the first wave of the attack. The push was so sudden and so forceful that they retreated upon impact. "Brace!" Paul grunted, his sword by his hand at the ready. Looking up to the hidden compartment above, "Now!", a barrage of rocks and spears and stones descended upon the attacking Uruk Hai.

Just swing, don't miss. Just concentrate on his weapon and your weapon and nothing else. Paul chanted in his head, to what was almost like he could hear Boromir's voice giving out the order.

On the fourth try, the gate gave away. The man standing beside Paul was speared by the monstrosity of a log that the Uruk Hai used to break down the gates.

Paul had only a second to avoid the barrage of arrows that were directed at them, an arrow missing by a breath when his arm was cut by the bladed end, when the men also countered with their own shots of arrow at the Uruk Hai that dared to cross to the gate. Blood seeped through his sleeve but he ignored it, with his sword drawn, Paul moved and fought at whatever monster he could reach.

The king and his men, along with Paul was in a chaotic mess by the gates, fighting to have a chance to reinforce the gates but the Uruk hai were relentless.

The king was so engrossed with the fighting with the beasts that he reached out from the gate, much to his mistake. Paul tried to reel him back inside when he was grabbed by the throat by one go of them.

"Motherfu—" the hold loosened and Paul watched as the arm that held his throat fell, chancing a glance at King Theoden, he saw the king's blade drenched with black blood. Nodding his head and giving his thanks, they were both surprised when a spear broke through and pierced the King on his left shoulder. With all the strength Paul had, he helped the king grab the nearest spear and direct it's sharp pointed end to the monster responsible and then pull the impaling spear free from the king's shoulder, passing the king towards his right hand who immediately pulled the king to safety.

The rest of the men were eager to attack the army trying to enter the gates. The pressure from both sides caused the towering gate to crack and Paul feared that it might not be too long before the wooden gate would crumbled.

"Make way for the reinforcements!" Paul yelled, signaling for the boys to bring in the wood and timber needed to immediately close the gates shut.

Paul's relief was immediate at seeing Aragorn and Gimli run to them, seeming wanting to get in on the action at fighting off the advancing army. "What do you need?"

"I have reinforcements ready to barricade the gates, I just need time to put them up." Paul answered out of breathe. "How long do you need?" Aragorn directed his question at Paul and the King,

"As long as you can give me."

Aragorn looked around in haste surveying as to how they can give the men time to barricade the gate again, when Paul pulled them aside, "Here. In here." Pulling them at a darkened path no smaller than a door on the side of the gate. Aragorn immediately recognizing that there is a hidden way undetected to the side of the gate.

"Brilliant!" Gimli exclaimed as both exited the door and Paul left both of them to find another way to get them out of there.

Turning swiftly around and running towards the upper archway, Paul left the king to mend his own gate. His focus now is to find a way to get Aragorn and Gimli out from the other side of soon to be sealed gates.

Fishing a rope he saw on the way to the archway, Paul immediately grabbed it and ran to were he could spot Aragorn and Gimli fighting off a hoard of eager Uruk Hai. His luck seems to be with him then, for he spotted the elf-prince by the wall just before he watched Legolas, shot his arrow with no clear target and took down a ladder full of black, stinking Uruk Hai, only then did Paul realize he was aiming for the black ropes that held the ladders upright.

Okay, now I'm impressed. "Legolas, I need your help!"

Hearing Paul by the wall, Legolas' surprise by Alex's friend's sudden appearance seemed to make sense when he saw the rope he held, "We need to get them out of there!" Pointing to where Aragorn and Gimli were fighting off. Quickly unwinding the rope and tying the end of the rope to nearby cement post, just in time to hear Legolas yell, "Aragorn!" Before the elf prince threw the rest of the rope over the other wall.

Both Paul and Legolas heaved with all their might to pull Aragorn and Gimli into safety and away from the reach of the Uruk Hai. "Holy Mother—they're heavy.." Paul grunted, Legolas just looked back, his face in concentration at the current task they were doing when Aragorn's arm peaked over the wall and they both scrambled to pull the ranger and the dwarf to safety.

Another hour of fighting and finally the dreaded order has been given, "Fall back! Fall back to the keep!"

The remaining four members of the fellowship ran with whatever strength they have left. Seeing the Uruk hai rampage through the deeping wall and the wooden gates. "They have broken through!"

"Hurry! Inside! Get them inside!" Aragorn was the voice of command by the wall as they pull men and boys to hurry inside.

The four had to stop and aid the fallen soldiers, both men, boys and elves, saving all those who can be saved by calling and pulling everyone into the main hall and lock themselves in.

Piles of old wooden table and chairs and benches is what is all that was standing between what was left of Rohan and the still eager army of Uruk Hai on the other side. The four members of the fellowship now completely exhausted but refusing to give up hope.

"The fortress is taken. It is over." Was the King's grim announcement to the remaining men. His face a look of defeat.

"You said this fortress would never fall and your men defended it!" Aragorn countered, turning to the handful of men the surrounded them.

Legolas, Paul and Gimli were working non stop behind him. "They are still defending it! They have died defending it!" Aghast at the defeat Theoden was showing to his men.

He has lost all hope.

Legolas watched as Aragorn and the Rohan king argue about the fate of everyone, but his thoughts were somewhere else, on someone who was currently beneath the caves. "We need to get someone into the caves and warn the women, children and wounded." Legolas spoke up, garnering the attention of Paul and Gimli.

"What do you mean, lass?" Gimli asked, his mind slowly working out what the elf was trying to imply. "Alex is still in there." Paul muttered, his worried look mirrored by Legolas too.

"I told her to run to Lothlorien or to my father should the wall be breached. Someone should warn her." Feeling adrenaline and fear in his veins at the thought of having Alex travel unaccompanied. The dangers that she would surely encounter. Paul nodded, understanding the reasoning of the elf-prince. "You should go."

Snapping his head to look at Paul surprise coloring his features, "No. I made a promise to Aragorn, and I told her what to do should the worse happen."

"We all want her to be safe, but I also know she will not to follow what you said." Paul insisted, if there was anyone who was more capable to look after her, it would be the elf, "She will not survive the escape on her own, and I also know she would never run. She would never leave us. That is why you need to go." Pushing Legolas to where the entrance of the caves were, forgetting that he was manhandling a royalty, "Knock her out and tie her if you have to, but you both need to get out of here. We will buy you some time to escape, but you have to go!"

"We will hold them lad. You go and get aid." Gimli offered, agreeing with Paul's suggestion.

Legolas only looked to both of them, ignoring their suggestions and reaching for the nearby wooden table and flipping it over before carrying it to provide reinforcement to the door.

Hearing the on going discussion behind him, Aragorn turned his attention back to Theoden. "Is there no other way for the women and children to get out of the cave?" Aragorn's irritation was slowly rising to the surface at the complete lack on inaction of the supposed leaders of Rohan, pulling Theoden's right hand man to face him, he demanded, "Is there no other way?!"

Alex if you are still in there, I need you to run.

"There is one passage. It leads into the mountains—but they will not get far, the Uruk Hai are too many."

"Send word for the women and children to make it to the mountain pass and barricade the entrance!"

Filwen! Legolas swiftly turn, quickly finding the elf that was aiding the men and pulling him to the side, "I need you to run into the cave, take Alex with you and take her to my father."

"What about you, your grace?"

"I will remain here, I will hold them off."

"But milord—"

"I need her safe!" His eyes had turned cold and hard, "I gave you an order." Legolas stood toe to toe with the elf, his stance suddenly turning regal and commanding. Legolas left no room for dispute, but Filwen stood his ground. He will not leave Greenwood's prince.

"Please Filwen, she is the only thing good and pure in my world." His gaze had softened, his tone pleading. Imagining all the horrors that would descend upon her if she does not escape now, will be the end of him.

The elf looked at his Prince, the second highest ranking official in the elven kingdom pleading with him to get this unknown lady to safety, and then suddenly Filwen knew. The Prince had found his mate.

As soon as Legolas had ushered Filwen into the caves, he turned just in time to hear Gimli.

"It is sunrise."

The blast from above turned the tide of the battle against them, into the early hours of the morning the already crowded cave full of women, children and now wounded soldiers were even more cramped as more soldiers and elven warriors are being brought into the caves. If the earlier casualties were horrendous, then the recent victims of that blast are the stuff of nightmares.

The cave floor was already drenched in bright red blood. The floor almost seeming impossible to navigate through, Alex almost slipping dozens of times. The stench of blood, burning flesh and death permeated the air making if difficult to breathe without feeling nauseating. Alex had to cut a bandage off and cover her nose and mouth with it, which was followed immediately by Eowyn and the women attending to the wounded.

"There are no more bandages!"

"I need a needle!"

"There is no more! There are no more supplies!"

Screams of men terrified of death and pleas for salvation and screams of pain ringing into the ears of everyone. "It seems all of our soldiers are here, who is left fighting out there?" A random question thrown into the air, its origin unknown, but a question that needed addressing but it was met with silence.

Alex was thrown into the chaos after her earlier stunt with the elf. Now women and soldiers alike and pulling her in every direction wanting her to save every single soldier that had passed.

"Milady please!"

"He's here!"

"Breathe life into him miss."

Alex was jostled harshly, the frail woman who had assisted her earlier was a lot stronger than Alex gave her credit, the woman's frail fingers digging into her arm, "Milady, please save my grandson! He's only eighteen, he's too young to die."

Seeing the frantic expression on the old woman's face, Alex scrambled to follow the old woman, who's grip still hasn't let go of her arm.

She was unprepared for the the sight if the young soldier that greeted her. Turning to her side, Alex vomited whatever remaining contents that her stomach had. Tears running down her face, she turned to face the boy again, lying on the farthest corner of the cave.

The boy was too pale, one side of his face was burned charred, the other side was covered with bruises. His left arm was folded above his chest indicating that it might be broken, his right leg had a deep cut, but it was the three black arrows sticking out of his chest and abdomen that would be imprinted on her memory forever.

Images of Boromir with the same black arrows on almost the exact same locations flashed into her mind as new tears flowed from her face as a new realization dawned on her that this boy was already beyond saving. Alex knelt down beside the boy, her knees already getting soaked from the padded cot he was lying on that was already bathing in his blood, the usual white color now looked an angry red.

Gently lifting his head, Alex inspected the damage to his face, "He's not breathing. How long has he stopped breathing?" Looking to the frail old woman, and gently lifting the boy's chainmail to reveal deep puncture wounds from the the back arrows.

"A while now."

Fearing to relay the real status of the boy, Alex worked to remove the arrows. Pulling each one slowly, Alex immediately applied pressure to the angry wounds to stop the bleeding. Bending forward and leaning her ear to his face, Alex has verified the worse.

"He's already gone." Shaking her head and looking towards the boy's grandmother.

"Breathe life into him, please miss."

"It's too late. Even if I try, I can't bring him back."

"Try! Please!" With no other choice, Alex begun resuscitating the boy, her throat burned with exhaustion at blowing him air when his throat and lungs had already collapsed. The compressions ineffective as his muscles already refused to contract as rigor mortis set in.

They were interrupted however when two soldiers bearing the seal of Meduseld came running from the entrance of the cave, hauling the first person they reached to stand and directed them to the other side of the cave.

"They are breaking in!" A woman yelled from the mass of people that watched the commotion. Cries broke out and the panicked women suddenly clung onto each other in despair. Eowyn was suddenly pulled into a bone crushing hug as women tried to rely on her to lead them all out.

Alex stood, facing the frail woman "He's dead. He's gone. I am so sorry."

"No!"

"But there is still time to get you to safety, you have to go." As soon the words left her mouth she was pulled into two different directions, the old woman holding onto her arm pleading for her to try again and an elf she barely recognized pulling her to the opposite direction.

"We have to go milady."

"Do I know you?"

"Prince Legolas sent me, you are to be escorted to the mountain pass and we shall make our way to Lorien at once."

"I am not leaving!"

"I have been instructed to knock you out and tie you up should you refuse." The elf hesitantly informed her.

"I am not leaving without them—not without him." Alex pulled her arm free, "However, there is still time for you, Mellon. You should go."

Admiration for the lady's courage blossomed in his heart and at her bravery. Looking at all the wounded being lifted and the women and children scrambling towards the mountain pass, Filwen knew that this was all her doing. "Then I shall stay by your side."

"No. You should go. They need you more than I do."

"I do not think that choice is up to you, milady." Smirking in her direction, "and it's Filwen, miss." bowing his head to properly introduce himself.

Alex was about to retort and push the elf away when their attention was caught at the shouts from the entrance of the cave, black armored monsters running down and slicing along the way. Screams of women and crying children frantically running to get to the mountain pass.

"Hide!" Filwen hissed at her, quickly pushing her to one of the pillar like stone.

Alex watched horrified as the remaining soldier and those who are wounded but could stand tried desperately to fight off the increasing number of Uruk Hai ransacking the cave. Hearing the clash of swords around her, Alex reached onto her side to find the blade she had strapped gone.

Shit.

Turning to peek around the pillar, she almost had her head decapitated but the blow was thwarted thanks to Eowyn whose own sword was blocking the Uruk Hai and his scimitar.

Looking around her, Alex hurriedly tried to find a discarded sword. Grabbing the nearest blade she could find, Alex scrambled to her feet only to be met with an angry Uruk Hai who had spotted her alone by the cave corner. Smiling in her direction, showing a row of sharp yellowed teeth, The Uruk hai went to charge, but Alex was faster and she used their height difference to her advantage.

As soon as she made her quick escape, the Uruk Hai made a quick turn to follow only to slip on the bloody cave floor, using this opportunity, Alex plunged her blade to the monster's chest turning around and leaving her opponent bleeding.

She swung her sword instinctively when she saw a shadow at the corner of her eye, only to be blocked by a long silver elven sword.

"I thought I told you to hide?!" Filwen's aggravation at finding her moving about while they fend off the Uruk Hai.

"You elves are a bossy bunch." Alex retorted, her fear completely replaced by adrenaline. Picking up another discarded blade, she spotted Eowyn being cornered by a lone Uruk Hai, "Filwen!"

"A little busy here." Filwen grunted, pushing a particularly heavy Uruk Hai off of him and struggling to get on his feet.

Seeing no other choice, Alex surprised the Uruk Hai by stabbing him on his neck, Alex quickly going for where his supposed pulse should, black sticky blood came spurting out coating Alex's hand, the blood dripping all the way to her elbow.

With one last roar, the Uruk Hai pulled behind him, hauling Alex by her hair over his shoulder and throwing her by Eowyn, both of them slamming on the stone wall behind them. The Uruk moved to advance before falling at their feet, his life leaving him.

"Are you alright Alex?" Eowyn knelt by her side, quickly inspecting Alex.

"Yeah. Don't worry about me." reaching out to massage her burning scalp where Alex felt a few of her hair were ripped out, completely ignoring the cut on her left forehead were her head hit the stone wall.

"You saved my life."

"Don't sweat it. Us girls have to stick together right?" Alex tried to play it off casually but all the adrenaline have already left her, leaving her suddenly exhausted and dizzy. Noticing the suddenly decreasing number of attacking Uruk Hai around them, both ladies noted Rohan knights running through the caves killing off the remaining monsters of Saruman's army.

"Eomer's here!" Eowyn gasped realizing that most of the Rohan knights surrounding them were the same knights banished along with her brother not too long ago by Grima's orders.

"Go. I'll take care of here." Eowyn helped Alex to her feet and with a nod Alex's way, the lady of Rohan left in search of her brother.

The fight had simmered down, leaving the rest of Rohan's knights to finish off the remaining Uruk Hai. It was a miracle that Gandalf arrived in time. It was any miracle at all that they had survived the night long enough to wait for Gandalf. The other Uruk Hai who have decided to flee after seeing they were outnumbered, ran toward Fangorn Forest, unfortunately they were also no match for the anger of the trees, who according to Gandalf had started to awaken out of their deep slumber.

Along the gate and deeping wall were bodies of the fallen men and elves. Some of Rohan's knights have taken the duty to inspect the bodies, after finding out that there were survivors lying along with the dead ones. One by one the knights pulled out wounded men and boys. Out of the rubble and smoke from the battle.

Paul and Alex were on the other hand busy with assisting the women in aiding those who still needed tending. With the battle now over, the whole devastation was clear. They would not all fit in the caves, hence the party had to be moved into the great hall of the keep, bodies of wounded soldiers made up rows upon rows while lying in cots all around. The women along with Eowyn, Alex and Paul frantically moved about to helping everyone, it was a chaotic mess, but a chaotic mess they would welcome knowing that there is no more army of monster hounding them.

The reunion of the two friends from a different world, were bittersweet. Alex felt relieved and Paul was quite surprised at the state he found his friend in. "What the hell happened to you?" Was his only inquiry before both hugged each other.

"Long story."

"Well in case you haven't noticed, I am not going anywhere." Was Paul's haughty reply, before both laughed, their joy infectious and soon the rest of those near them were all giddy with happiness at the victory they had achieved.

"I told you to go." Alex grumbled, fixing the elf she was currently tending on. The cut on his arm was only superficial but it still caused the lady a lot of distress. It was sometime after the reunion of the two friends that they found themselves swamped with wounded men. Alex immediately instructing two Rohan soldiers to retrieve the children from the cave while also asking the still incoming wounded to stay outside since even the great hall of the keep cannot accommodate everyone. It was there she found herself sitting in front of the current elf sitting in one of the many makeshift cots, along the other wounded elves.

"And I told you to hide."

Alex rolled her eyes at the smart mouthed elf, mirth dancing in her eyes. "Seriously, we survived. What are you still complaining about?"

"Who is this?" Paul gestured to the snotty elf, he in turn knelt beside a wounded one beside the elf Alex was talking to, in need of suturing.

"I am Filwen, sir." Nodding his head in Paul's direction, "and I have been tasked by his highness, the Prince, to look after her." This time gesturing with his head in Alex's direction, "but she refuses to listen."

"She does that." Paul snickered, quickly averting from a dirty bandage that thrown his way, "Hey!"

"Where are the other three anyway?" Alex asked, quickly maneuvering the discussion way from her,

"Probably still outside. There are still a lot of bodies to sort out, and they have to burn the Uruk carcasses. We don't want to know what kind of diseases are they carrying." Paul shivered just thinking of the sticky, smelly monsters he encountered.

"Alright, you're all set." Alex announced having wrapped the last bandage around Filwen's. Standing up and moving around the elven soldiers lying around waiting their turn to be attended. FIlwen also stood, offering his cot to fellow elf with a more serious injury than him and quickly following Alex. "Will you stop following me?"

"I am sorry milady. Prince's orders."

"I am a nobody, alright?" Pushing Filwen to sit beside one of the elves, "Now, stay. Right. There." Her tone indicating no further debate, but as soon as she stood up to leave, Filwen followed her again. Disbelief and irritation on her face.

"My apologies, but as future princess of Greenwood, you are not to be left unguarded." Horrified with the elf's accusation, Alex took a terrified step back before squaring her shoulders, "I am not a princess, nor do I have plans of becoming one." She hissed, "and just because he asked you to look out for me, you suddenly assume I will be Mirkwood's princess?"

"I do not need to assume. The news of his highness marriage was announced to all elven kingdom, fifty years ago, about the same time when you were introduced to Greenwood's court, you entered alongside his majesty King Thranduil."

"It doesn't count and will you keep it down?" She hissed again, turning to look round her at the curious stares of the elves around. Motherfu— of course! What's the use? When they are surrounded by ethereal beings with superior hearing. Stomping down the urge to face palm her self at her stupidity.

"Seriously Alex, I don't know why you even try to run." A laughing Paul stood from his current patient, his shoulders shaking from suppressed laughter.

Alex turned, not even least bit interested in arguing with the elf who was hell bent at stalking her. She suddenly stopped, Filwen almost bumping behind her. Looking around the hundred of wounded soldiers, Alex felt a crippling feeling that she had forgotten something. "What is it?" Filwen asked, his gaze almost sweeping at the growing crowd from the great hall that extended outside,

"Am I missing something?" Wracking her brain for whatever she had forgotten—Shit! "The children!" And she took off running towards the caves, completely forgetting she promised the children she would return for them and the thought completely slipped her mind.

"Hey Fil! I need your help!" Paul yelled from across the deeping wall, "Leave Alex, she can take care of herself."

"But—"

"It's alright! I'll talk to Legolas for you. Now help me hold this man down while I sew this gash on his leg." Gesturing to the screaming Rohan soldier lying in front of him, on his left calf was a huge gash exposing muscle and a hint of bone.

"So Saruman has intended to wipe out the race of men." It was not question but a statement from Eomer, as he and Aragorn heaved a particularly huge dead Uruk hai onto the growing pile. There were already at least thirty piles scattered on the grounds just outside of Helms Deep.

"Ten thousand strong at least." Aragorn shook his head, the stench making his stomach turn, these monsters were not pleasant smelling when alive, even worse now that they are dead.

Around them, Rohan soldiers and elven warriors alike took to helping pile the bodies to be burned before nightfall.

"We travel to Isengard tomorrow, I see smoke coming out of its tower. I intend to have Saruman answer for his crimes against Rohan." King Theoden announced to which Gandalf agreed.

"We will take the path of Fangorn, and see about our little friends?" Gandalf asked, his question directed at Theoden, but the old maiar was facing Isildur's heir.

Aragorn nodded, before spotting both Gimli and Legolas on the other side, with the dwarf sitting on a carcass with his axe on it.

"It was twitching."

"Because my axe was embedded in his nervous system!" Giving his axe a shake which in turn caused the carcass to fidget. Aragorn smiled at the two. The growing bond between the dwarf and the elf is undeniable.

"Shouldn't you be inside looking for a certain dark haired maiden?" Aragorn teased his friend, causing the elf's ear turn a light shade of pink.

"I have someone watching over her. And I heard Paul is there with her?"

Aragorn nodded, "Aye. Eowyn said, Alex had put him to use after seeing him." A smile gracing his face, knowing how Alex can be a bit pushy.

"I think we should all see the lass," Gimli interjected, "seeing as she nearly drowned us all with her tears before the battle, it is only fair we alleviate her fears and let her see for herself that we are still alive." The laughter the three shared at Gimli's statement was welcomed.

Legolas started to leave after Gimli but was held off by Aragorn holding onto his arm, "You know I am obligated to speak with you about her, after all, I still see her as my younger sister." With raised eyebrow towards the elf.

Legolas nodded, understanding the inquiry that would soon follow. He would not fault Aragorn for looking out for Alex.

"Why did you not tell me, that she bound herself to you?"

"Even I am not sure she knew what she was doing at the time."

"Why did you not stop her?"

"Would you have stopped the Evenstar?" Legolas countered, his own eyebrow raised.

Understanding crossed Aragorn's face, the elf-prince's intention now clear as day. "I do not mean to pry, but was the binding…consummated?" Even Aragorn's discomfort at asking that question was obvious.

"I would not! She was a child, mellon." Legolas' horrified at the ranger's question clear on face.

Raising both of his hands in surrender, "I assume, even after all this time, you still intent to keep the marriage intact? Have you made your intentions perfectly clear?"

"I have and she has done nothing but push me away." At the aggravation lacing the elf's tone, Aragorn laughed at his friend's predicament, "I am sure she does mellon, but would you have her any other way?"

Legolas shook his head, his smile in place. Of course he knows! Alex will not be Alex if she did not present any challenge.

Walking inside the keep, both friends quickly spotted Paul and Gimli, the latter in concentration as he finished bandaging the fractured leg of a Rohan soldier that was being held down by…Filwen?

"Where is she?" Legolas asked the pair, who both turned their attention to the elf and the ranger.

"Milord Legolas," Filwen quickly stood up.

"Where is Alex?" This time Aragorn asked, looking between the trio to spot the elf standing in front of Legolas almost looked nervous.

"Alex went down into the caves to retrieve the children. We just missed her." Gimli announced, but it was Legolas' questioning glare at the elf that caught Paul's attention,

"Oh, don't worry. She'll be back. I needed Filwen to help me with attending to the wounded. Some of them needed to held down as I worked on them." Paul answered, his attention at packing the things he was using to move to the next soldier, "Filwen, hold this one." Handing the elf the man's arm, as Paul went to work on removing the soldier's armor to work on removing an impaled arrow on his shoulder. "Why don't the three of you sit down, you could use the rest." Muttering the last as he set to work about having the soldier drink the numbing tea and then clean the wound before he set about pulling the black arrow out.

Legolas looked around him, finally seeing the mass of wounded men around them and the accomplishment that Alex made when she decided that they look out for the wounded. Their death toll would have been great if she hadn't taken the initiative. He wondered to the side to where the elven warriors lay, some resting while others recuperating for the travel back to Lorien. A chorus of 'milord', 'your highness' was heard as he passed them, and he nodded on acknowledgement in return. His gratitude at their help he made obvious. At the very end of the line, there he saw the bodies covered with white cloth indicating the fallen elves.

Placing a hand over his heart and bowing, silently offering a prayer to the fallen heroes who have given up their life to save the race of men. His thoughts and prayers to Haldir.

"She would make a fine princess."

Legolas snapped his head, to find Eowyn standing behind him, also gazing at the line of dead bodies.

"My apologies. I did not mean to eavesdrop. I just heard her and the elf warrior arguing about it earlier."

Legolas nodded, smiling at the lady of Rohan, an image of Alex refusing any assistance from Filwen caused him to snicker.

"I know. Ironic that the ones competent for the task would always be the first ones to refuse the position." Eowyn smiled, sneaking a glance at the Prince who continued to look out at the crowd that had gathered to silently mourn the dead. "Rohan thanks you milord, and Lord Aragorn, Master Gimli and Sir Paul for your assistance. And I thank Alex, " bowing her head to offer her gratitude, "We would not have made it without all of you. I would not have managed to survive the night and the wounded, if it was not for her."

Legolas held his heart, bowing to the Lady of Rohan, no words were needed to be said for the heartfelt gratitude she gave. Eowyn turned to leave, patting him on the back as she returned to work on the wounded, and went on to prepare some food for everyone.

Feeling lighter at the knowing how Alex had aided these men, Legolas returned to the group, only to find that Alex still had not returned. Quickly scanning around him, he felt unease slowly creep onto his senses. Something does not feel right. Quickly gathering his bow, Legolas made quick steps to the caves, "Where are you going lad?" Gimli asked, surprised at the sudden change in the princeling's demeanor.

Aragorn was concerned too, but he knew something was not right for his friend to act that way. Also gathering his sword, Aragorn turned to follow his friend.

"Where are you guys going?" Paul asked, having finished working on the soldier, and wiping blood from his hands, his gaze following the two as they made their way down to the caves.

Alex almost slipped—again—at the cave floor, this time covered with red blood mixed with black blood. Navigating her way inside the now silent cave, her eyes scanning her surroundings despite the dimmed lighting. The earlier fires have been put out, leaving only a few streaming lights reflecting from the glittering walls of the cave.

Alex spotted her target right away, where the children she had instructed to stay, all stood huddled in the corner. Getting closer to them, she saw them crying and shaking. "I am so sorry. Oh my god, I am so so sorry." Alex immediately knelt in front of them, the younger ones running immediately to her.

Bran, the oldest of them, whom Alex had entrusted to look after the kids looked her directly in the eye, his entire frame frozen, "Milady.."

"Yes? Come on, let's go. I know where the elves are," Alex turned to pull the kids while also trying to lighten up their moods, but they would not move. "What's wrong?" As soon as the words left her mouth she felt the hairs on her neck stand, white hot fear like ice cold water ran down her spine. She looked to Bran again, but he was not facing her, instead he was looking at something behind her. Fengel seeming to clutch even tighter on her other leg, his silent cry filling the silent cave.

A grunt was heard behind her, its ragged breathing now loud and echoing off the cave walls.

Alex turned swiftly around, instinctively pushing the kids behind her. "How did you get in here?" She felt her voice shook with fear. She was alone now. She had no help and no one to turn to. Realizing that she was the help, because at that moment she was the only hope of these kids.

A gurgled laugh escaped the Uruk's mouth, black blood dripping out. Alex scanned him and found him wounded from battle, a gash she cannot quickly identify but could see the flowing black blood pooling at his feet. The monster was leaning on the pillar. Alex could chance to out run it, but froze at the bow and arrow in its hands. "You'll never get out of here alive." Alex hissed, at the same time pushing the kids further behind her.

"I could say the same thing about you, princess." He was already half choking and half spitting on his own blood, but his sinister smile was still in place.

Slowly backing up to get a much needed distance between them and the children, Alex took one slow step back, and then another and then another, her eyes never leaving the monster in front of her. "I don't know what you're talking about." A futile attempt at distracting the Uruk Hai.

"The Dark Lord has eyes and ears everywhere. His spies are everywhere." Knocking the arrow on his bow, the Uruk made his position very clear, "If I die, the master will be pleased to know I took Mirkwood's future queen with me!" With a roar it knocked his arrow even more so, his eyes trained on her shaking frame. "A crushing blow to the race of elves." Another gurgled laugh before he concentrated on his target. Fear is good.

Alex's eyes widened, her gaze on the black arrow aimed directed at her. Swiftly turning around to face the children, bending at the waist, Alex tried to get the children to face her. "Close your eyes. Don't look." Closing her own and feeling the tears flow down her cheeks. Alex visibly shook.

"Miwady." It was Fengel, his strangled cry escaping him as he clutch on her knees,

"They are only children please." Alex prayed, her whispered pleas reaching only silence.

The sound of the string being released, caused Alex to instinctively tense, but a second sound of metal hitting metal rang out, causing her to hold onto the children tighter their cries got louder at the sudden intrusion of the sound at the deathly silent cave.

Legolas was knocked back at the stench of the caves as he hurriedly descended the steps, his footsteps silent as he looked down at cave floor covered on human and Uruk blood alike. The bodies have all been cleared out, but there was still an underlying stench of decaying flesh that lingered.

Looking around at the vast cave, noting the hidden corners and dark crevices, he tried to spot Alex. Hair at the back of his neck once again stood up, his ears picking up a silent gurgling that sounded off in the distance, Legolas turned his head slightly to Aragorn behind him. The ranger also in silent scrutiny of his surroundings. Something dark is definitely lurking in this cave.

"Aragorn, nad no ennas." A whispered hiss escaped Legolas' thin lips as they both descended silently into the cave. The ranger slowly pulling out his long sword, both his hand clenched tightly at the hilt. Both glancing at each other for a brief second, and both nodding in quick understanding. Something does not feel right and if they call out to Alex openly, that might put her into more danger.

Sidestepping two bodies of Rohan soldiers that were haphazardly laid on top of each other, Aragorn noted the unmistakable scimitar embedded in one of the heads, "Looks like they have recently been slained."

Casting the bodies a quick glance, blue eyes hardened into steel, his breath evening out, as an eerie calm settled over Legolas. Silently reaching for the bow of the Galadrim, and pulling an arrow from behind him. Legolas continued to follow the general direction fo the gurgling sound he heard.

Voices suddenly caught his pointed ears, his steps quickening at hearing the exchange and the threat on the end of the conversation.

Turning the farthest corner Legolas spotted her, but his stance completely tensed at the scene before him. Alex was hunched over some children, her body shielding them from whatever was behind her.

Aragorn had no time to react or to scan the area. As quickly as Legolas turned the corner, he effectively released the arrow knocked onto his bow hitting his target perfectly as the twang of metal hitting metal. No sooner had Legolas released his arrow had he had another one knocked and was immediately released right after the first one, this time the only sound could be heard was the sound of it impaling flesh, and then a body falling dead.

Aragorn stepped closer to the cadaver, moving its arm with his foot. The arrow had effectively lodged itself on the monster's temple, rotten stench of black blood oozing not only from that wound but from his multiple injuries. Turning to where he last saw Alex, he saw the pair in a tight embrace. Alex's frame in silent sobs, Legolas' arms around her. Quickly averting his gaze from the pair to provide them privacy, Aragorn turned his attention to the children that stood off to the side, the youngest still clutching onto Alex's pant leg.

"He is dead now. No need to fear." Speaking quietly to the wide eyed children as he sheathed his sword back into its scabbard.

Alex did not want to let go. She was safe were she was. Leaning back and inspecting the elf in front of her, fear was replaced with relief at the realization that he was finally standing in front of her. Safe and in one piece. It had been almost twelve hours since she last saw him, and the last time he was headed into battle. "Are you alright?" Running her hands over his arms, reaching over to his face, her eyes shining with fear mixed with relief at finding him scratch free.

"I should be the one asking you that question." Legolas stated, the feel of her hands making him almost purr at the contact. Stepping closer, he did the same thing. When his hand came to her face, he pushed back her bangs that framed her face to see a small cut just below her hairline. "Your wounded. We have to get you tended."

"I'm okay. It's just a scratch." Silencing him and stepping again to his embrace before pulling back.

"I thought I was going to lose you." he could not keep from voicing out his fear,

"I'm right here and you got here just in time."

"I do not want to think what would have happened if I had not come down here."

"He knew.. he said that the Dark Lord knew about who I was.." a lump formed in her throat making it difficult for her to complete her sentence.

"I heard everything." nodding his head and unable to stop himself, he kissed her temple. "We have to speak to Mithrandir. But I will not let anything happen to you."

Regretting to break up the pair, Aragorn spoke up. "My apologies for interrupting but we have to get back outside."

"Aragorn!" Turning swiftly to were the ranger stood, Alex made a quick inspection of him too, spotting a few bumps, cuts and bruises in his frame, Alex was adamant that he needed to be tended to.

"I am fine." Aragorn tried to wave off the attention but Alex was having none of it.

"That was not up for an argument. I want to make sure you are properly looked after." Alex ended the conversation successfully. "The children!" swiftly returning to where she left the kids, she found them huddled around her. "Oh my God! I am so sorry." Kneeling down in front of them to give them all a hug, "Are you all alright?"

Aragorn shook his head and tried to stifle the smile that graced his face at the frantic Alex trying to look after everyone except herself.

A chorus of nods answered her question. "Are you an elf?" it was Fengel who asked, his attention fixated in wonder at Legolas.

"I am."

"Are you a pwince?" Fengel was immediately silenced by Bran, but the younger child would not have it.

"Why do you ask?" Mirth lacing Legolas' tone at the child's inquiry.

"Because milady is a pwincess, and pwincesses should have her pwince." Fengel explained, seeming satisfied with his confidence at talking to an elf.

Legolas chuckled at the child's curiosity. Looking between the child and Alex's reaction at the child's perceptiveness of the earlier situation.

"Okay that's enough." Lifting Fengel and resting him on her hips, Alex walked ahead of Aragorn and Legolas, the children walking with her. Turning to Fengel who was resting his head on her shoulders, exhaustion completely taking over the child by the evidence of his sleepy eyes, "Go to sleep." Alex whispered, brushing the child's blonde hair back before blue eyes shut close.

Aragorn and Legolas watched the interaction, the elf unable to name the feeling that went through him at the sight of Alex with a sleeping child on her hip. His expression of longing not lost on the ranger's sharp eye.

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AN: whew! that's 29 pages, 15k+ words for all of you lovely readers! =) i hope you were entertained by this one. i'm almost done with chap18. reviews, reviews and i might post the next chapter before the week is up. *wink*wink.

special shoutout to those who have followed, favorited and reviewed. xoxo