Mardon mounted his horse and found himself actually riding beside Ariel. They did not talk much as they knew they were fast approaching the enemy. "Are you still sure that you want to be here?" He ventured a question after the first scouts returned with no sightings. "Yes," Ariel replied. "Though I may not like the outcome, I would rather fight than be stuck back in the city."

Eldarion was about to venture another question when another scout galloped towards the head of the column, visibly shaken. Eldarion rode forward to greet him. "What have you seen?" He asked. "There are many orcs near," The rider said. "And a large fortress, the likes of which I have never seen." Eldarion's face was grim. "Are they aware of our presence?" He asked and the scout nodded. "I think so."
The army rode on until they themselves saw what the scout had reported. Eldarion spoke with the other leaders before sending the message to all of the army. "We will split into three separate groups, the first company shall enter the battle first. All archers will be positioned in a place where they can shoot. The second company will wait until Legolas gives the signal before entering into the battle."

Eldarion, Elfwine and Elboron were to lead the first company and Ariel grabbed her brother's hand as he rode past. "Please be careful," She said, her voice full of concern and Eldarion nodded. "I will," He said and squeezed her hand. "You be careful yourself," He said and was silent for a moment. "I am proud of you," He spoke again. "And I of you," Ariel told him before he encouraged his horse forward and gave the signal for the first group to head into the battle.
Archers took their positions in range anything that dared to come to close to the second group. Men on horses lined up nervously, followed by men and dwarves on foot and behind them were the few elves that were not archers. Amongst them, Ariel watched as her brother rode away in the first company.

Legolas was positioned where he had a good view of the battlefield, trying to judge the right time to lead the second attack. A few moments passed which seemed like hours to the second company as they waited for the command to attack. Legolas then turned his head and commanded something in elvish.

He then headed back towards the men and mounted his horse. He turned and looked at Ariel who asked him if it were time and nodded. Gimli was lifted up behind him and drawing their swords, they spurred their horses and galloped on towards the battle-scene.