Don't worry, no more abductions. We're getting down to the wire now. Thanks to all my reviewers!

Chapter 73--Returning Help

Aragorn peered down into the hole. He could hear the Dwarves digging away with speed that had shocked him. The tunnels would end right in the midst of Rian's army and if all went well near the siege engines which would be set on fire.

Gimli tossed more dirt out of the hole and looked up at Aragorn. "Do not worry. All is well and we will be right on target."

"Your folk are the finest miners in Middle Earth. I have no doubts you will be," Aragorn said. "Truthfully I am more concerned about Legolas. They will certainly kill him when we attack if we do not find him swiftly."

"We can only try, Aragorn," Gimli said and went back into the tunnel.

Aragorn went to where the healers worked on the wounded. He came up to Elrond who was still with Qui. "How is he?" he asked.

"He is still alive. He is strong and willing to fight. It might just save his life," Elrond said. "I see the worry over Legolas's fate in your eyes, my son."

"I am certain that he will be killed when we attack just to prevent us from saving him," Aragorn said.

"All we can do is hope that we will reach him first, may the Valor hold him close," Elrond said quietly. "I too would hate to see him lost."

*Meanwhile*

Legolas stumbled and fell sprawling when he was shoved roughly back into the tent that was his prison then his feet were rebound. The guards returned to their posts at the tent's entrance.

No one knew that someone was watching them. The silent observer nodded, knowing it had been wise to remain close. Turning the watcher headed towards the Elven army to offer the information and the help that could be provided.

The person came out in front of Aragorn out of nowhere, startling him and making him grab for his sword. It was a minute before he realized who it was. "Mei Ling?! What are you doing here? I thought you had left," he said.

"I had planned too, but something told me I should not and it was probably a good thing. I have seen Legolas and I know where they are imprisoning him. I could help get him out," Mei said.

"King Thranduil has decided to attack at dusk and…" Aragorn began.

"I know, my trade makes me a skilled eavesdropper and spy," Mei said. "I have watched. Where is my brother?"

"He was nearly killed in his attempt to protect Legolas and hovers at death's door. Elrond is tending him as best as he can," Aragorn said.

"My brother has always taken duty and honor seriously. It is how he lost his tongue," Mei said sadly.

"What do you mean?" Aragorn asked.

Mei Ling hesitated before continuing. "During a battle he was taken prisoner by the enemy who demanded he tell them the other lord's strengths and weaknesses. He refused so they took his tongue so he could never speak again," she said.

"Such bravery is rare and should be admired and praised," Aragorn said. "I will take you to King Thranduil. The final decision is his to make." He led Mei Ling off towards the tent.

Thranduil was talking to Galadriel when they entered. He was just as surprised to see Mei as Aragorn had been. He listened to what she was offering then frowned. "Do you truly think that you can get to my son before he can be harmed?" he asked.

"I believe so, sire and I swear on my honor that I will do the best I may to free him," Mei said.

Galadriel studied Mei with wise eyes. "Despite her earlier behavior she can be trusted to keep her oath. She may be the young Prince's best hope," she said.

"Very well, I accept your offer of aid and your oath. Save my son," Thranduil said. "I need to speak with you alone, Aragorn."

Mei bowed respectively to both of them then left the tent. She paused to check on Qui and touched his forehead. "I will help your charge, my brother. Sun Child will not be destroyed as long as I live and I will die in the attempt if I must," she whispered then headed off to prepare….

Surprise! Mei's back! I just couldn't resist. I liked her….R/R please!!!