CHAPTER IX
THE GUARDIANS BREAK

Immediately after the battle, Elrond, Galadriel, Gandalf, and Aragorn met in the Tower of Pearls.

"There is a great peril on Middle Earth", said Elrond, "for now the Khonos De'ahamia is opened!"

"But there was also a great many victories", said Galadriel. "We have Frodo back, who has one of the three Silmarils. Since he has just that one, we can now locate where Morgoth is. We also have defeated many armies, and we made some new friends. We discovered the Merelves' plot to overthrow us. And I have also found this." Galadriel then brought a huge book. "This is the Khadalad Me'arlia, the opposite of the Khonos De'ahamia. It contains all the secrets are, and I have found a map of where the Titans are". Everyone in that room cheered. "Aragorn, you must lead a huge crew on the Lucky Dragon to find the Titans. It will take many months, but I think it can be accomplished. And Gandalf, will you carry the Khadalad Me'arlia?"

"I most certainly will!", said Gandalf.

"And one more thing", said Elrond. "There are no such things as the guardians now. That name is too well heard now, so you cannot use that name. And all the Guardians may come on this. As a "reward" for your victory, you may take your loved ones. Except you, Aragorn. Arwen must not go. She must take you place as ruler of Gondor. Aragorn agreed with him.

"Well", said Gandalf, "our true adventure has just begun!"

TO BE CONTINUED.