Disclaimer: Once again I don't own LOTR, Legolas, Middle-Earth or any of the other thing you recognize from LOTR.  I seriously wish I did but I don't so…don't go and sue me for using LOTR work b/c I'm saying right now I DON'T OWN IT!  Got it, get it, good.

Author's Note: I just wanted to say thanks for those few who reviewed.  I've been drowning in school and other problems and not to mention the fact that I don't really like this story (I do and I don't).  So I want to say thanks to loveofthering and mabby, you've been great.  I understand that the first few chapters have been bad.  I really don't 1-3 but I can't go back and change it now.  I can promise you it won't get as bad as those but I can't go back and chance them for now.  Maybe when I'm done I will.  I think there will only be 11 or 12 chapters in the story.  But they're long so…I have many more surprises in store.  Some very obvious and others not even hinted.  So have fun reading it I'm sorry that I'm such a slow updater.  But I promise there are many great things in store that you won't expect, and will.  Just keep in mind the "key" and Lord Browne's "blue eyes."  As for the next chapter it titled "Death's Hour" you tell me what you think.  Hehehe, evil.  Okay, just go and read and review!

Darkness's Hold

            Faith waked slowly around the room.  Her dark green eyes flashed dangerously.  She watched from a little ball in the center of the room.  It displayed Lexwen, Legolas, Katowyn, Zachalf, and Argonth going into Edheliond.  "Good, they made it to the city!" she exclaimed and smiled.

"Sir this is ridiculous!  We just needed a place to sleep!  You're making a bigger scene of this than you need!" Lexwen screeched. 

"No young lady, you did not agree with my terms.  So now I make my own.  You start as a slave to Lord Browne," grunted the man.  Lexwen continued to struggle against his direction. 

Through the musty light a black hall came into view.  If it had been set in any other place it would have been beautiful.  Intricate designs wove up the tower to the bell.  Large black doors were at the top of the stairs.  Big black bolts held the doors in place.

The portly man kicked open the door and pushed Lexwen through.  Four other guards followed pulling Legolas, Katowyn, and Argonth.  The doors were shut and Lexwen pulled away form the man roughly.  Lining either side of the room were statues of past leaders.  They were cold and menacing with dark eyes. 

"Lord Browne, I give you the king's children and three elves," bellowed the short man.  Then he bowed his head and rushed away. 

"So finally the famous Prince Argonth made it to Edheliond, good." Lord Browne had a deep and menacing voice, like his appearance.  He had long jet-black hair.  He wore a large black coat with fur around it.  His face was harsh and evil.  The most peculiar part was his eyes.  They were an electric blue, something totally uncharacteristic of him.  They had a piercing gaze that made shudder. 

The eyes glared at Argonth.  "And I see you brought your dear sister, Katowyn, is it not?"  Everyone was silent.  The last time Argonth had been in Edheliond there was a different Lord.  Lord Browne was a strange ruler with harsh punishment.  "But who are these wonderful elves?" he asked.  Legolas boldly stepped forward.  Lord Browne's eyebrows rose but he did not speak.

"I am Legolas of Mirkwood.  I travel with Lady Lexwen of Lorien and Zachalf of Mirkwood.  We are part of the active 17.  What do you plan to do with us?" he asked eyeing him suspiciously. 

Lord Browne nodded his head solemnly.  "The 17 did you say?" Lord Browne asked.  Argonth shot a glance at Lexwen and Zachalf.  This was very strange news to him.

"Yes Lord Browne" Legolas said deftly. 

"My Lord will do.  You will not be considered part of the 17 for very long.  If you do not return for war what will people think?  That dear Legolas had not come to save them?  I guess they will have to go on without you or die trying." Lord Browne said slowly.

"I think not, Lord Browne.  You may be a Lord but King Elessar has more power than you" Legolas said.

Lord Browne laughed.  "King Elessar has more important affairs to deal with than five young people capture by Lord Browne," he laughed.

"So you plant make us your slaves and not help Gondor in their time of need?" Argonth spoke up.

"To put it bluntly yes.  The happenings in Minas Tirith have little impact on us" Lord Browne said.

"So what do you expect us to do for you?" Legolas asked fearing his answer.

Lord Browne smiled.  "I will send you three to the stables.  You shall clean up in there.  As for the fair Katowyn and the dangerous Lexwen I shall keep them here," Lord Browne ordered.

"What shall you do to them?" Legolas asked. 

Lord Browne's smile grew even wider.  "Keep them for my own pleasure of course" he said slyly. 

Legolas immediately made a jump at Lord Browne.  Two guards held him back.  On his right and left guards held Zachalf and Argonth.  "You are sick!" he said angrily.  He struggled hopelessly against the guards.  The two guards were unfortunately much stronger than he was and Legolas's attempts were not helpful. 

Another two guards grabbed Lexwen and Katowyn.  They clamped chains around their ankles and attached them to the king's throne.  The two women struggled against them hopelessly.  Cuffs were put around their wrists.  Bound and imprisoned Lexwen and Katowyn could only watch as the guards recklessly pulled them men out of the room.  Lexwen's eyes connected with Legolas's.  He gave her a reassuring look then was thrust out of the Hall.  Light sparked through the room then the doors closed and all was dark save the dingy lights.  Lexwen struggled against the chains. 

"Come my dears, I wish to have some fun," Lord Browne said.  Lexwen refused to move.  Angered by the defiance Lord Browne pulled her chain and she was forced to sit at his feet.  Katowyn soon followed and they sat looking up at him as he smiled.

Legolas, Argonth, and Zachalf slowly got to work.  The thought of Lord Browne made Legolas sick.  The time passed slowly as they cleaned out the stalls.  Legolas waked over to the buckets of water or rinse his cloth and sighed.  Aggravated, he threw down the cloth. 

"We must save them!" he growled.

"What can we do?  Lord Browne has them securely chained to his throne.  We will not even get out of the stables unnoticed.  The Hall is in the center of the city.  We are on the outskirts" Argonth exclaimed.  Legolas pushed had some stray hair.

"Yes I know.  I just can't stand to let them be toyed with by a man like Lord Browne!" Legolas said.

"Legolas, we can do nothing" Argonth insisted.  Again he sighed.  Suddenly the sound of hooves was heard and a tall black horse came galloping into view.  It stopped abruptly and the rider dismounted.  The rider grabbed the reins in one hand.  In the other the rider threw off the black hood.  A stream of flaming red hair fell down.  The face turned to the three. Looking with a penetrating gaze were emerald green eyes.  Zachalf backed away.

"Faith" Legolas whispered. She looked at him swiftly. 

"Well if it isn't Legolas.  What a small world this is" she said.  Legolas glared back at her.  "There isn't any chance that Nekolas is here is there?" she asked in a falsely sweet voice.

"No" growled Legolas.

"Full of anger are we?  Not a good sign.  Maybe you are not as good as people claim you are," she said. 

"What are you doing here Faith?" Legolas asked.

"That is my business.  Now why are you being so unfriendly?  Zachalf why do you hide?  And who's your friend?" Faith rushed.

"I am Argonth." Faith's smile brightened. 

"Prince Argonth of Gondor, what a pleasure" Faith said.  Argonth stared at her.

"Where are you from Faith?" Argonth asked.

"The city of Carn Dum.  A very nice little city in the hills near the Shire" Faith answered fondly.  Argonth gave her a false smile.  "Well I must go and see Lord Browne.  You may put my horse in a stall and cool him down.  I daresay that is what you're doing here."  She promptly handed over the reins and left.  Argonth rolled his eyes.

" I don't like this Faith.  She makes me uneasy" he said.

"She does it to us all, Argonth" Zachalf said and returned to cleaning a stall.

"Are you ready darling?" Lord Browne cooed.  Katowyn glared at him.

"I don't have a choice now do I?" Katowyn said darkly.

"Now, now none of that."  He lustfully kissed her neck and cheek.  "Of course you do!  It's a simple matter of life and death." Lord Browne chuckled at his own joke.  He then grabbed the ribbon holding her dress up and began untying it.  Three loud knocks on the door interrupted him.  "What is it?  I told you I was busy!" Lord Browne barked.

"I'm sorry to disturb you my Lord.  But a Faith is outside and she demands to speak with you" said the timid guard.  Lord Browne sighed and dropped the ribbon.  "Do not leave.  I shall deal with you later" he growled and left her in the room half dresses. 

Sitting in his throne was Faith.  The sight of her in his chair made Lord Browne cringe.  "So you have the king's son here, very nice.  He will soon have to decide between his son and his country," she said. 

"Yes I know.  What is it you want?  I was busy with the King's daughter and the dangerous Lexwen" Lord Browne sneered. 

"Yes we need to discuss Lexwen," Faith said. 

"Why?"

"We must guide her as much as possible."

"How?" Lord Browne asked.

"You've got her here.  You figure it out," Faith said.  Lord Browne scoffed at her.

"Leave.  Do not come back until you have a developed plan."  He then turned and stormed back into the room with Katowyn.

She sat defiantly on the cushions with her dress done up again. "You are only making this a longer process for yourself" he smirked. 

"My time here is done.  My hour is spent" Katowyn said plainly.  She had yet to look at him.  He sat down next to her on the cushions and planted kisses up her arm and exposed chest.

"I want another hour.  You will do as I please" Lord Browne laughed.

"May I at least get a change of clothes?  I've ridden in them for 3 days" she asked.

"You won't be needing them.  And black suits my city so well" he said.  He kissed his way up her neck.  She turned her neck away in disgust. 

"I refuse" Katowyn said and pulled away.

Lord Browne sighed.  "Send in Lexwen then" Lord Browne ordered and set her ankles free.  Katowyn left quickly.

She ran down the black hallway to Lexwen's room.  She opened the door quickly.  For being slaves to Lord Browne it was a nice room.  An extravagant and large bed was set in the middle of the room.  She had a large window and a writing desk.  Lexwen looked up from the bed.

"Are you alright, Katowyn?" she asked.

"He is such a sick man.  I escaped just in time," she said with a tone of disgust.  "Lord Browne wants your presence.  He is in the throne room," Katowyn said.  Lexwen sighed relieved. 

"It's a good thing you're the shield maiden and not me," Lexwen said.  Katowyn gave a short laugh.  Lexwen rose from the bed.  Her black dress fell down around her ankles.  She gave Katowyn another glance then left for the throne room. 

As soon as Lexwen left Katowyn jumped into action.  "I'm sorry to leave you Lexwen.  We'll came back for you," she whispered.  Then she ran into the closet.  She pried up the floorboard and pulled out a sharp knife.  She held the knife in her hand and cut apart the handcuffs.  Then s he stored the knife again and ran to the window.  She threw it open and quickly jumped out.  Being a half elf had its perks.  She then ran noiselessly through the black city to the stables. 

She could hear voices in it.  "Could we just sneak back and get the supplies?" asked Argonth.

"No, just keep the cloth on it tightly" Legolas said.  A sigh was heard from Argonth.  Katowyn ran inside.

"Who goes there?" Zachalf asked seeing a black outline.

"It's me," Katowyn said.

"Katowyn?" Argonth asked incredulously. 

"How did you get out?" Legolas asked.

"I jumped out the window," she said simply.

"What did Lord Browne do to you?" Argonth. 

"Try to be seductive and kiss me.  It was almost something more but nothing became of it" Katowyn said.

"So you are safe?" Argonth asked.

"Yes Argonth" Katowyn place her hand on his wounded shoulder.  He hissed in pain.  "Oh, your wound.  I forgot about it" Katowyn said.

"Lucky you, the dust and scrubbing here has aggravated it badly" Argonth said angrily.

"I'm sorry" Katowyn said and she sat down next to him.  "So how are we going to save Lexwen?" Katowyn asked.

Legolas coughed.  "Save her?"

"Yes of course.  She is in the hall with Lord Browne.  He wanted to talk to her.  The minute he knows I'm gone he'll send out guards.  Why don't we take advantage of this time and save her before Lord Browne starts thinking she's beautiful," Katowyn said.

"In the hall?" Legolas asked.  Katowyn nodded. 

"Alright" Zachalf said and they planned Lexwen's rescue.

Lexwen walked solemnly up to Lord Browne.  "You requested my presence?" she asked bowing slightly. 

"Lexwen" he purred and nuzzled her hand.  Lexwen pulled away sharply.  "We must talk," he said.

"Yes Lord Browne, we must," she said.  He breathed heavily on her neck.  "What do you know about me?" she asked.

"You are part of the 17.  You have brought 1,000 warriors to help with the war from West-Earth." "1,000 did you say?" she asked pulling away.

"Yes, is that not correct?" he asked.

Lexwen opened her mouth slightly.  She nodded her head.  "Yes that is so," she said. 

"I also know you are the beautiful Princess of Lorien and the keeper of Legolas' heart."

"You know much about me.  What do you plan to do with me?" Lexwen asked.

"You will simply use your leadership skills and brains to suit my own plans."

"What are your plans exactly?" she asked.

"That is something I cannot tell you yet.  But rest assure you will know before the end" he smirked at her. 

Lexwen channeled her mind into Lord Browne's.  She ignored him and looked through his mind a little. She could tell Lord Browne was just realizing she could read his mind and tried hopelessly to close off his mind.  She looked through some more.  Finally she struck gold.  She waited a few seconds to get it all.  Once she'd seen all his plans she fell out of his mind suddenly.  Realization hit her and she stumbled away from him. 

"You cannot do this, you won't succeed," she said.

"So you have more powers than I thought.  I know them now.  I can pass them right on to the dark lord" he said evilly. 

"You cannot be in line with Sauron, you just can't be.  He will know unwanted things!" Lexwen screeched.

"It's too late for that Lady Lexwen.  I am Lord Browne, spy to Sauron!  No one can stop me now.  And I have you, Katowyn, Legolas, and Argonth.  The perfect weapons to use against the king, and your little friends" he said.

"And Zachalf?" she asked cautiously.

"Oh I'll just kill him.  He has no use for me." Lord Browne said breezily. 

"I refuse, you cannot kill Zachalf.  You will not use Legolas or me.  You will not use the King's children!" Lexwen said in a deep voice.

Lord Browne laughed.  "Ah but that is where you are wrong.  I will do anything I want," he said.  Then he reached out and pulled her close to him.  Disgusted by his actions she pulled away. 

Coming out of nowhere a whip cracked through the air.  It connected harshly with Lexwen's back.  She screamed briefly.  "There is a taste of your new life.  Get used to listening or become immune to the whip," he said dangerously.  Lexwen glared at him.  "Now come here," he said softly.

Lexwen did not budge.  Again the whip connected to her back.  She made to leave the room but he held her back.  She pulled away from him roughly.  A third time the whip sailed through the air and ripped Lexwen's back raw.  She grimaced as her back burned.

"Listen now!" he demanded.

"Never" she said.  Then Lexwen screamed.  Lord Browne recoiled the whip. 

"You will listen before this is over" he ordered.

"I'd rather die," she growled.  Lord Browne wound up the whip and swung it at her.  She yelped as pain sawed through her body.

"Such a brave young lady you are" he cooed. Then for fun he whipped her again.  The whip locked on top of a previous one and she shrieked in pain.  Her body began going numb from the abuse.  A small click reached Lexwen's elf ears but she did not look back.

"Come here now or the beating will not stop," he said.  Lexwen's mind was racing. Should she disobey him or go to him?  She chose the earlier.  Seeing that Lexwen's had reached a decision to stay he sighed.

"You love the hard way don't you?" he asked.  Then he raised the whip.  Again and again he beat her roughly.  She screamed in pain as her body shook with pain.  Lord Browne laughed and brought the whip down again.  Instead of hearing Lexwen's painful yells it was silent.  A large hand was grasping his whip.  Lord Browne looked up to see Argonth holding his whip in his hand. 

"Don't you dare whip her again or I will kill you" Argonth threatened.

"You can't kill me, I own you," he laughed.

Argonth glared.  "No one owns me," he said.  He was discreetly holding Lexwen's hand.  Lord Browne laughed.  "Run!" Argonth suddenly yelled.  The two ran down the hall to Lexwen's room.  Lord Browne stared down the hall bewildered. 

"Guards, seize them!" he yelled.  Ten guards ran down the hall after the two.  The two ran into Lexwen's room.  The window was across the way and open. 

"Jump" Argonth yelled. 

"It's too high!" Lexwen shrieked.

Argonth pushed her in the back. She screamed in pain.  "Just jump," he said.  Her wounds could not be helped.  She took a deep breath and jumped out the window.  Argonth followed behind her.  Lexwen surprisingly fell onto her horse, Eoywenbrian.  Argonth quickly landed on his own.  Legolas ordered them to gallop away. 

The guards looked out the window.  They could not see the elves or humans because they were wearing black.  They assumed they had died from the high fall.  The 5 galloped away rushing towards the gates.  To their left they heard the clank of metal coming down the alley.

"Swords" Zachalf ordered.  They all unsheathed their swords.  The guards came running up and surrounded them.  They began hacking away at the guards but the group did not thin. 

"Jump over them!" Katowyn ordered.  The 5 jumped over the guards swiftly.  They then picked up a fast pace and rode away until the city was no longer visible.

As soon as they were a safe distance from Edheliond they stopped.  Argonth rolled of his horse tiredly.  Lexwen collapsed on the front of her horse.  She whimpered because the welts on her back had stretched out a little.  Katowyn, traumatized by Lord Browne wearily lay back on her horse.  Legolas and Zachalf dismounted easily. 

"Katowyn are you alright?  You have no physical wounds?" Zachalf asked. 

"I'm all right, just tired" she gasped.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, go tend to Lexwen and Argonth" she said. Zachalf gave her a careful glance.  Then he turned and went over to Lexwen.

Legolas had gone over to Argonth.  "Let me dress your wound" Legolas said.  Argonth nodded and leaned wearily against a large boulder.  "Can you hold this for me and keep your other arm still?" Legolas asked.  Argonth shook his head.

"My hand" he said.  His hand was bright red and his palm looked swelled.  An angry red mark ran across his hand.  Legolas groaned. 

"What happened?" he asked.

"Lord Browne was whipping Lexwen for disobeying him.  The only way I could stop him was to grab the whip.  Her back was already raw from being beaten," he gasped.  Legolas took a deep breath and began redressing Argonth's arm wound.

A ways away Zachalf was talking to Lexwen.  "Lexwen, get down, I need to see your wounds."  He placed a comforting hand on her back.  Tears formed in her eyes and she stifled a scream.  Zachalf let go of her back.  "He whipped you on the back!" Zachalf moaned.  He gently helped her off the horse.  He set out some blankets and she laid on them.  Zachalf gathered some clothes and hot water with some painkillers. 

He untied the back of her dress.  He pulled it away so he could see her whole back. The sight made him sick.  Her back was a swollen mess.  Angry wets were all over her back.  Red lines from lighter hits scared her back.  The welts were all over her back, at least ten of them.  Two hits overlapped each other making a deep red mess.  Her whole back was raw.

"What happened?" he asked. 

"I wouldn't obey his orders and he began whipping me.  Once he started I couldn't get away.  He kept pulling me back," she explained.

"I'm sorry," he said and she nodded.

He dipped the cloth into the warm water.  Then he put it on part of a welt.  She sucked in her breath.  "I have to do this Lexwen," he said.  She put on a face and nodded.  Each time he put on the cloth the pain got worse.  "Here take this painkiller."  Zachalf handed her a glass and she drank it quickly.

Legolas and Argonth went over to the two for the warm water.  Legolas and Argonth gasped at seeing Lexwen's back.  "No wonder you were screaming" Argonth said.  Lexwen just buried her head in the blankets. 

"Will you be fit for war?" Legolas asked.

"Even if she was it wouldn't matter.  Women are not allowed to fight" Argonth protested. 

"Argonth you will not be allowed to fight either.  With a wound from an arrow in one arm and a welt in the other you won't be able to even hold a sword" Lexwen interrupted.  Argonth gaped at her.

"I must fight.  I will not just sit around as my city is destroyed," he said defiantly. 

Lexwen was about to answer but hissed instead.  Zachalf had put a cloth on her overlapping marks.  Legolas and Argonth sat down to ease Argonth's whip mark.  The four worked in silence.  Zachalf finally leaned back. 

"That's the best I can do for now.  I will tend to it again once we stop again.  For now we should try to cover as much ground as possible," he said. 

"Zachalf, can you lace up my dress?" she asked.  He blushed slightly and quickly tied it.  Then they mounted their horses and rode quickly away.

Thoughts of war settled over the city.  Those who could sit still long enough could tell war was a little over a day away.  The small party of five rode quickly to Minas Tirith.  Coming over a hill it burst into view, white and gleaming.  With the special elf ears they could hear orders being shouted. 

"They are going to shut the gate!" Zachalf cried.  Alarmed the others ran forward.  Speeding along quickly the city got closer.  Yet the closer they got the more the gate closed. 

"Hurry, if the gate it closed it cannot be opened easily!" Katowyn yelled.  Going even faster they went gliding up to the city.  They filed into a line prepared to go through.

"My Lord," said a guard.  Aragorn went up to the wall.  Five people on horses moving very fast were coming towards the city. 

"Who are they?" he asked. 

"We do not know," said the guard. 

"Shut the gate" Aragorn ordered.  The gate creaked and began rapidly closing.

"Lord Aragorn no!" Lexwen yelled.  Aragorn turned back.

"Hold the gate!" he said suddenly. 

"Halt!" screamed the guard.  A loud groan echoed through the city and the gates stopped.  The five hurried towards the city and through the gate. 

Exhausted they slowed down once in the city.

"Lady Katowyn?  Prince Argonth!" yelled an uncertain man.  Aragorn whipped around to see the lower level.  He hurried down the stairs hoping the words to be true.  Prince Argonth looked around at his bellowed city. A small crowd gathered around them.

"My lady, you have returned," exclaimed a man.  She smiled at him.  Argonth tired to keep smile on his face.  His hand was throbbing painfully and his arm was smarting.  In a rush the people were bowing down.  Lord Aragorn had appeared at the bottom of the ramp.

"How are your wounds?" he asked.  Argonth's smile flickered.

"Now is not the time?" he said.  Aragorn nodded grate fully.  Then he walked over to Katowyn.

"You must defy me, mustn't you?" Aragorn asked.  Katowyn smiled.

"Of course father," she said.  He kissed her hand. 

The other elves appeared in the archway.  It was quiet a sight.  Lexwen had one hand on her horse's lower back to stay up.  Who they assumed to be Argonth was obviously trying to look cheerful through pain.  Katowyn was talking with her father.  Legolas and Zachalf sat in the back trying to fade out. 

"Lexwen, Legolas you made it!  What took you so long?" Lizwen called. 

"Let us get to the Citadel first," Legolas said.  Lizwen smiled.

"Lady Lexwen you have come!  Will you stay for war?" asked a tall human.

"Yes mostly likely" she said.

"You have come to save us!" exclaimed another.  Lexwen was smiling brightly.  Argonth tried to put the pieces together, who was she?  Still he did not know.

"Let us ride up to the citadel and we will talk" Argonth bellowed.  The people said their goodbyes and rode to the top level.  Soldiers and humans hustled around the city carrying food and supplies in case of a siege.  They walked leisurely up to the top.

"Father are the men who brought the humans here?" Argonth asked.  Aragorn gazed at him.

"Do yo not know?  They are here," he said.  Argonth looked around excited. 

"Will I meet them?  I am most excited" he said, a boyish grin on his face.

"I should hope you already know them" Aragorn said and walked away.  Then the large group stopped at the citadel and dismounted. 

Argonth walked up to Lexwen.  "Let me help you" he offered.  He obviously understood her pain.  She gratefully took his good arm.  Badly wounded the two walked into the citadel.  Aragorn walked up to his throne and sat down.  Men began asking if he wanted anything.  He waved them off.

"Legolas, what news do you bring?" Aragorn asked.

"Brandal in Lorien said they would come when the time was right.  He refused to speak more of the subject. We met Katowyn in Lorien.  Then we rode to Isenguard.  It was a beautiful city taken well care of by Treebeard" Legolas started.  Aragorn's eyes darkened. 

"Isenguard is an evil place.  Fire pits cover the ground.  Large and ugly gates have been rebuilt.  A dam has been put up to stem Isenguard.  What you see is not true," he said.  Legolas shook his head.

"This is not the time. We were ambushed many times and usually left in flight.  A large pack of 500 comes toward the city.  They shot down Zachalf's horse.  We rescued Argonth in Edoras.  Lexwen has been attending to his wound" Legolas said.  Lexwen looked up, a grim face set.  "On our way to the city on a detour we stopped in Edheliond.  When failing to comply with their demands we became Lord Browne's slaves.  He sent the three men to the stables.  He kept Lexwen and Katowyn for himself."  Legolas's voice was full of loath.  Aragorn looked outraged.

"What did he do?" Aragorn demanded. 

"He tried some things on me but I escaped" Katowyn said.

"And you Lexwen?" Lizwen asked.

"He was very demanding.  He got angered because I would not come to him. So he began whipping me, hard" Lexwen spoke up.

"He wiped her ten times hard father.  They were angry, and hard hits.  I stopped the last with my hand.  Her back is a swelled and red mess," Aragorn yelled out in rage.  The sudden outburst angered his arm wound he quieted down. 

"We escaped and quickly rode here" Legolas finished.

"May I see these wounds?" Aragorn asked.  Lexwen and Argonth looked at each other.  Then Lexwen nodded.  Legolas walked over to her. 

"Let me help you" he offered.  He untied the string and on her black dress and pulled it away.  The elves staying in Gondor gasped.  Lexwen turned so Aragorn could see it.  His eyes widened as he traced the lines. 

"Some of these wounds are very deep.  A healer will have to attend to these," he said.  Lexwen nodded and Legolas retied her dress and she leaned against him.  Aragorn quickly looked over at Argonth's hand.

"What happened to Jiwen?  How did she die?" Zachalf asked.  The other elves bowed their heads dismayed and silence followed.

"She was shot in the back and side.  We tried to remove the arrows cleanly but the one in the side was put in at an odd angle," Nekolas spoke up.  "We believe she died from poison in the arrow.  She grew steadily worse.  Then she woke up to say goodbye and died.  Nothing could be done" he finished. 

"She was bringing word that Katowyn and Argonth were safe in Edoras" Connie finished.  Tears glazed Lexwen's eyes.  Legolas gave her a lose hug and rubbed her arm to sooth her.

A large human suddenly rushed in.  "Legolas, Lexwen, you have returned!  I bring word asking what to do with the 1,000 ships," he gasped.  Argonth looked up excited.  Whoever answered would be in charge. 

"Sail them up towards the Shire.  Get them far away from Gondor and Rohan.  Once a safe distance away you need not rush.  Rivendell is far from the ocean.  Orcs or other beats should not be a problem" Lexwen spoke up.  Argonth looked at her confused. 

"Put the women and children on board.  They shall be safer" Legolas ordered.

"Good idea, do that" Lexwen said.  The guard nodded and ran away.

"Now Lexwen, off to the healers" Rawen ordered.

"But I-"

"No arguments, just go" Pawen said sternly.  Lexwen just sighed and dropped the subject.  She let herself be ushered away by the two elves.

Connie, Candice and Charwen went over to Katowyn.  Becwen and Tyolas waltzed over to Zachalf and began talking.  Legolas, Nekolas, Kyomir, Lawen, Lizwen, Argonth, and Aragorn formed a group.

"We must be careful in war.  Slowly the group will deteriorate.  It has started with Jiwen, who knows who it will end with.  Maybe not one will survive.  No matter what we must try and save as many as possible," Legolas said.

"We have done as much as possible.  But with the world as it is, it is almost impossible to stop danger from befalling upon us" Lawen said.

"That is what the system is for.  We don't have burns on our hands for nothing" Kyomir added.

"Look what happened to Jiwen.  We were notified of the danger with no time to save her.  The system isn't perfect" Lizwen explained.

"No matter, we must be careful.  Evil times are ahead.  Or will be if this war isn't it" Legolas interrupted.

"Legolas is right.  I caution you all.  These walls may seem safe, but they can be breeched.  Evil will follow you everywhere.  Move about with caution" Aragorn said.

Argonth listened intently.  It seemed one of these elves were in charge, maybe two.  They all seemed to be the most aware and careful.  But to ask such a question as to who was in command was not proper.  So Argonth reluctantly held his tongue.  Lost in thought he did not hear his father address him.

"Argonth, ARGONTH!" sternly said Aragorn.

Argonth fell out of his trance.  "Yes father?" he asked.

"Go to the healers.  They shall dress your wounds properly.  The rough treatment you had on the road should be replaced" Aragorn ordered.  Argonth nodded and solemnly left for the healers.

"Lady Lexwen please stop squirming.  I cannot heal your wounds if you won't stay still" screeched an exhausted healer.  He had been trying to quickly heal her wounds.  Having her immobilized by sores on her back was dangerous at this time before war.  She needed to be flexible and nimble before war, not wounded and sore.

"Forgive me, it just hurts ever so much," she said.

"Yes well I've seen worse.  These sores are simply sensitive to the touch.  The wounds aren't all that terrible, just numerous giving a negative impression" the healer said cheerfully. 

"Well, the pain I feel isn't backing you up.  Let us just get this over with," Lexwen said.  The healer nodded and laid a soaking towel with painkillers and healers in it on her back.  She hissed but kept her tongue. 

The door to the healer's creaked open and Argonth stepped in.

"Prince Argonth, you have come to have our wounds fixed?" asked the man looking up from her back. 

"Yes regrettably" he said.  The healer laughed.

"Come now my dear boy, don't' be silly.  I'll just clean it again and rewrap it."

Lexwen spoke up.  "He needed five stitches in his arm.  One of the stitches fell out.  I told him it would be replaced once we reached Minas Tirith."

"Well then maybe it will hurt a bit.  Don't fret I'll be gentle.  Unfortunately most of my healers are gone.  Where the rest are I do not know.  Most are not needed before war but after" he said.

Argonth grumbled under his breath and sat down on a bed waiting his turn.

"You just had to tell him about my stitches didn't you?  You couldn't show me some mercy and leave that out?" he asked Lexwen.

"You're the one who wants to fight in this war.  It's only been five days since you were brought to Edoras.  Give it more time," she said.

Argonth fought the urge to retort to this remark.  "Have it your way?" he said instead.

"You should know all about healing wounds-" Lexwen fell silent due to a particularly strong surge of pain.  Argonth smiled at her.  Lexwen glared at him. 

As the healer reached sorer wounds she closed her eyes.  This pain was an unbelievable and unfamiliar pain.  Not a moment too soon the healer put down his cloth.

"My lady, I am finally done.  Wait here for the medicines to sink in.  I shall fix Argonth's stitches and then you may go," he said.  Lexwen opened her eyes as the pain dulled to a low roar. 

Now it was Argonth's turn to witness the pain.  "Lexwen tell me who brought the men here. I must know" Argonth said looking up at her.  She leaned towards him

"Let me give you a clue, they are here."

"That is all they say "they are here" but none will tell me exactly where" Argonth complained.

"Maybe you should ask someone who is easier to tell.  Maybe Legolas can help," she said looking away. 

"Legolas" he said.

"Ask him," she said.

"Prince Argonth do not speak.  You seem to fight more than is wanted.  Stay still" ordered the healer.  Argonth glared at Lexwen and she simply laughed.

Night slowly enveloped the city.  The warriors got uneasy with anticipation, doom waiting on the doorstep.  Everything was silent.  Only torches of fire lit the castle, giving an eerie glow. 

Argonth wandered through the empty walls of the citadel.  His mind was spinning as he tried to plow through the thoughts whirling around.  A light step at the end of the hall caused Argonth to look up. 

Slowly walking and whispering to each other was Lexwen and Legolas.  Their figurers flickered in and out as the torches flickered.  The two were whispering in hushed voices.

Argonth quickly hid behind one of the statues in the hall.  He tried to regulate his breathing to a whisper.

"This will not work!  All of our defenses are in Osgiliath.  Once or if the defenses fail the city will not long outlast them.  We need more men," Legolas said urgently.

"There are none.  Who would you call?  The hobbits of the Shire?  Recall the dead?  Lorien will not come until they feel it is needed.  It is a five-day journey for a large army like theirs.  We must rely on only our resources" Lexwen said in a quiet rage.

"There could be Edheliond," he said suddenly.

"Edheliond?  Lord Browne is purely evil.  He has sided with Sauron as his spy" Lexwen said hitting down the subject.

"Isenguard?  The iron hills?  The Carn Dum, what about them?" Legolas asked.

"Legolas, no, Isenguard is empty.  Nothing can be done," she said.

"There has to be something," Legolas cried out.

"This is a hopeless case.  We are close to being doomed" Lexwen said. 

They stopped in the middle of the hall and looked at each other.

"Lexwen, no matter what, I will follow you to doom," he said.  He brought his hand up and stroked her hair.  Lexwen closed her eyes. 

"Legolas no.  No matter what happens in the end we cannot go back.  I would not lead you to doom," Lexwen said backing away from him.  Legolas bowed his head. 

"I am sorry, I keep forgetting."

Lexwen spoke,  "How many times must I say goodbye?"

"I don't believe in goodbyes," he said.

"Well then you will have to start believing," she said.

Argonth watched intently.  He could tell he was witnessing the end of something great.

"I want to love you, but I can't" she said.  Then she leaned towards him and captured his lips.  She was very gentle trying to forgive him of his pain.  "You have taken my grace.  I can give you no more," she whispered.

"I can take nothing more," he said.  Lexwen gave him a reassuring glance and left, this time permanently. 

Legolas took a deep breath.  His life's only love ended.  He sighed and left for his own room.  Once Argonth was sure Legolas was gone he slipped out from behind the statue.  Then he hurried away to Katowyn's room.

Her door was closed particularly.  Hushed tones floated out the door.  "Nekolas, you can't love her!" Katowyn said. 

"Faith is a wonderful person.  I just don't love you like that," he whispered. 

"Nekolas please."

"Katowyn I'm sorry."  Nekolas stood up from sitting on her bed.  He kissed her cheek and left the room.  He saw Argonth outside the door.  He bowed his head and glided down the hall to his room. 

Argonth pushed open Katowyn's door and walked in.  She was laying lifelessly on her bed.  A breeze picked up opening her windows more and illuminating her room.  Tears streamed down her cheeks silently.  Her eyes were dull and spaced out. 

Argonth walked over to her bed.  He lay down next to her and stroke her hair.  She just lay there not moving.

"Just because one man does not love you it does not meant that you can never love again," he said.  This was met with silence.

"What if I can't love again?" Katowyn whispered. 

Argonth leaned on his side to see her better.  "You only can't love again because you want to not love again.  Just give people a chance.  You cannot live the rest of your life without love" Argonth said.

"I love father, mother, and you.  Whom more do I need?" she asked.

"You need someone who loves you unconditionally.  Someone who understands you and can give you what you want and need.  Nekolas obviously cannot do this" Argonth said trying to sooth her.  He tried desperately to hold his tongue.  He wanted to ask Katowyn about Lexwen and Legolas and who was in charge of the 17.  But with Katowyn in this state it wasn't right. 

Katowyn took a deep breath as the tears continued to flow.  Then she sat up and hugged him tightly.  "I'm sorry Argonth.  I've only made your life harder" she said in a muffled voice.  He pulled her close and stroked her back reassuringly.

"No Katowyn, I've only been rude to you. Just stay safe during the war.  You must live to see better days again" he said.  Katowyn pulled away so she could see his face.

"No, I wish to defend the city.  I don't want to see better days, I just want to see the end."

"Katowyn please, you and father and mother are all I have," he said.

Katowyn almost snorted.  "Yes and what about a certain elf princess?" she asked.

Argonth blushed slightly.  "All Lexwen and I do is fight.  She is nothing.  Plus she has Legolas" he said covering for himself. 

"Lexwen and Legolas are ending.  Their love was a short passionate love.  How do you know about them?" Katowyn asked.

"Well I was in the hall and they came walking along.  I hid behind one of the statues and listened in" Argonth began.

"Argonth last time I did that to mother and father you torchured me for six months!" Katowyn screeched.

"Sh, so they were talking about how war was hopeless.  Then they stopped and started saying goodbye and not being able to love anymore" Argonth finished.  "Everyone has problems with love.  You just have to let it run its course," he added.

Katowyn sighed reminded of her broken heart.  She leaned her head on Argonth's shoulder and closed her eyes.  "Thank you for comforting me.  Why did you come here?" she asked.

Argonth shook his head.  "It is not important," he said.  "You need to rest.  Lay down, I will stay with you until sleep claims you" he said.

Katowyn lay down willingly.  Argonth lay down too.  "Goodnight Katowyn" he whispered and kissed her forehead.  Then he sat there keeping her company.  Sleep toyed with his mind.  Not able to resist the urge his eyelids fluttered closed and he slept. 

Aragorn had been one of the first to awake in the citadel the next morning.  He went to check in on this children.  Both had only appeared for dinner that night before leaving. 

He walked across the hall to Argonth's room.  He opened the door to find a spacious room.  Walls were a faded aqua color.  All the furniture was made of black wood.  A large bed was set in the middle of the room.  The sheets were black with aqua pillows. 

On the headboard were words inscribed in it.  In all his years Aragorn could never figure out the meaning.  They were in an old language.  He could tell that when spoken it was a beautiful language.  The letters were very flowing and light. 

There was a simple black desk in one corner.  The whole wall was made of doors that opened up to all of Minas Tirith. 

Aragorn smiled looking back to the bed to see a large lump in the bed rising and falling slowly.  Instead the sheets were taunt and empty.  Aragorn back out of the room not sure what to think. 

He walked farther down the hall to Katowyn's room.  He pushed open to the door and smiled.  Katowyn and Argonth lay on the top of the covers.  Their heads were touching each other's.  Aragorn's hint of fear washed away as she saw the two safe. 

    Suddenly a brown haired elf appeared in the doorway next to him.  "Good kids you've got there" Charwen said. 

"Yes, I'm just glad they got home safely.  I was quite worried" Aragorn said fondly. 

Charwen paused, "Oh yes, of course, it's quite good, quite good."  She did not look at Aragorn this time.  Aragorn stared at her.

"Yes, well I must get going.  Being our last day I must find a good defense for this city," he said breaking the silence.  Then he turned and left.  Charwen simply nodded to him.  Aragorn waited a few seconds then dismisses it and left. 

Lizwen came up behind Charwen.  "Have you forgotten to bow to the king of Gondor and protector of Middle-Earth?" she asked.  Her voice echoed off the walls. 

"Oh, I forgot!  A thousand apologies Lizwen" Charwen said putting her hand to her mouth.  Lizwen reluctantly nodded her head.  Charwen's chocolate brown eyes flashes.  She stared at Lizwen. 

"Well just try and remember to bow to the King."  Then Lizwen turned and left.  Charwen smiled and went down the hall.   

Soon after Aragorn's small incident the people of the city began to wake up.  By the second bell the city was bursting with activity.  People were taking care of last minute affairs.  War the next day could most likely be the end.

Aragorn was in his study with some captains of the city, Legolas, Nekolas, Kyomir, and Argonth.  They were trying to figure out a better defense. 

"How much does Osgiliath mean to this city?" Nekolas asked suddenly.

"Its our only real defense.  But with a war this large it will not outlast them.  It's really there to give us more time.  Every hour more we can get we will take" Aragorn explained.

"Yes so you do realize you will have to forfeit the city before the end?" Nekolas asked. 

"Yes, we do not have a choice" Aragorn said.  He at first did not see where this was going.

"Do any of you understand my thoughts?" Nekolas asked looking around.

Aragorn nodded his head suddenly.  "Yes, it might just work.  What Nekolas is thinking is leading them into a trap.  Clear out Osgiliath save maybe 5,000 soldiers.  From the lack of soldiers it might give the Mordor armies an impression that we are low on soldiers.  Then spread the defenses of humans and men out thoroughly.  All seven layers should be well covered.  Then the real city will have a great defense.  Of the 5,000 that survive, they should flee to Minas Tirith as soon as Mordor looks as if they have a sufficient defeat" Aragorn explained.

"Are we willing to sacrifice so many soldiers as decoys?" Argonth asked.

"It is better than having them all die in Osgiliath and leaving Minas Tirith to burn" Legolas said forcefully.

"But my Lord, all we are doing is leaving more orcs for the white city.  Osgiliath is supposed to knock their frontal attack down so the numbers against us are not that outrageous."  A captain with flaming red hair said.   Nekolas turned to stare at the captain. 

"Captain, who is your father and where are you from?" he asked. 

"Feradrius son of Fradridal of the Carn Dum" he replied proudly.

"So you have a sister, by the name of Faith perhaps?" Legolas asked.

"Yes, how do you know her?  Where is she?  She left almost half a year ago" Feradrius asked.

Legolas narrows his eyes.  "She left before the council of Elrond?" he asked.

"Yes, much earlier, where is she now?" Feradrius asked.

"We last saw her in Edheliond" Legolas said.

"Edheliond?  I did not know this?  Why did she not come to Minas Tirith?  She could have helped us!  She knew I was here" Nekolas exclaimed. 

"Nekolas now is not the time to fall in love.  We must concentrate on war.  What surprises me is the fact that she did not come to Minas Tirith as an ally" Aragorn said his voice full of concern. 

"Faith is no ally, nor is she a foe.  We last saw her in Edheliond.  There she requested to speak to Lord Browne alone.  Only Lexwen seems to have a slight idea of what its about" Legolas said in a ringing voice.

"Faith cannot be helped now.  What we have to focus on is the war.  Are we sure we want to forfeit Osgiliath?" Kyomir said interrupting the detour about Faith.

"They will come fast and they will come hard.  We will get no help from Rohan or the dead.  This army we have now is all we get.  This will have to be sufficient," Aragorn said quietly.  "We must have all the help we can in the city.  Osgiliath will have to be forfeited."

The men hovering around began muttering to each other.  Argonth lowered his head dismayed.  Legolas nodded his head knowing this was the best and only safe way to direct things.  Aragorn let the men out to prepare for the change.

40 horsemen rode out of the city and to Osgiliath.  Lexwen and Argonth stood by a wall watching them leave.   "Where is your family Lexwen?  You never speak of them," Argonth asked.  Lexwen stopped rubbing the wall and took a deep breath.

"That is a confusing story.  I had two mothers.  One was killed when I was very young.  She knew too much information so Sauron killed her.  Then my father remarried.  We were fine until my 1,000th birthday.  My father, Esanos Goldenleaf, was called to war.  He went missing and was pronounced dead.  My mother grieved for years.  Then Sauron's servants killed her.  So I was left in the care of Galadriel and Elrond.  Now I am in no one's care."

Argonth was silent for a while.  The time passes awkwardly.  "The first day we met you told me you couldn't tell me why you were here.  Can you tell me now?" Argonth suddenly asked.

"I am here directing…I am here for war of course.  Lorien is not in need now."  Lexwen looked out to Osgiliath.  The 40 men were just reaching the gates. 

"What did you say your father's name was?" Argonth asked.

"Esanos Goldenleaf, he was a skilled archer and leader.  I'm sure he died a valiant death," she said proudly.  Argonth didn't look at her.

"Esanos, I'm sure I've heard of him," he thought.  "How long ago did he die did you say?" he asked.

"Over a 1,000 years ago, why?" she asked.

"No, no reason at all" Argonth said his thoughts drifting him away.  "Does Lord Browne know about all the soldiers?" he asked.

"Why all the sudden questions?  He thinks that we, I mean the 17 brought over 1,000 soldiers.  He will not be expecting the 100,000" Lexwen said.

"No he won't but Sauron will.  Are you part of the 17?" he asked.  Had the situation been about anything else she would have laughed.

"Why do you ask?" she asked suspiciously.

"Because it keeps coming up.  Just tell me," he said softly. 

"Yes, I am part of the 17" Lexwen said finally giving in to his wishes.

"All of you!  All the elves here are part of the 17?" He exclaimed.

"There are two humans but yes."  Argonth's eyes were wide with surprise and joy. 

"Why did you not just tell me in the beginning?" he exclaimed.

"Because it gives an impression I didn't want" she said.

"Well you gave a different impression yes.  But you gave the impression of a rude and impatient elf" he said.

"It did not seem to stop you," she said.

"No…Does Lord Browne know you are in the 17?" he asked.  Lexwen laughed a little this time.

"I hope there's a point to your questions for I see them not," she said lightly.

"Does Lord Browne know you are n the 17?  This is important!" Argonth exclaimed. 

"Yes he knows all about me in the 17.  He had evil plans for me…I must go see King Elessar!" Lexwen said suddenly.

Argonth looked at her confused.  She took on last look at Osgiliath then ran towards the path to the citadel.  For being in a long and heavy dress Lexwen could run fast.  All Argonth could catch as she turned the corners was a flutter of red.  Seven of the 17 saw Lexwen and Argonth running and followed.  Lexwen took no notice of this and ran on. 

The elves and men who had been with Aragorn were talking quietly in the grass.  Hearing the hurried footsteps they stood up.  Upon seeing Lexwen and Argonth they joined the group moving to the hall. 

Lexwen reached the doors and threw them open.  They banged against the outside walls with a wood shattering smash. 

Lord Aragorn looked up from his maps to see a large group moving in.  "Lexwen-"

"Lord Aragorn!  Lord Browne must be removed at once.  Edheliond is in terrible hands," she bellowed.  Aragorn tried to clam her down. 

"Now Lexwen, be reasonable.  Edheliond has ever been a safe haven!" he said.

Lexwen shook her head.  "He is a spy to Sauron!  Anything you have ever told them Sauron knows!"

"How do you know?" Aragorn asked. Lizwen looked miffed.  How could Lord Aragorn believe her so easily?

"Before he whipped me I went into his mind.  I got a wave of memories…they were about me, when I was younger.  The first time I held a bow, my 100th birthday, when me and Lizwen played together in Rivendell…" Lexwen drifted off.

Lord Aragorn looked at her horrified.  "Lexwen" he yelled.  Lexwen looked at him.  "He knows all that?  All your past memories?" he asked.

"I don't know how," she said.

"What was his plans for you?" he asked.

"To use me as a slave.  I'm there to help him take over Middle-Earth," she said. 

"Lord Browne is evil, a spy for Sauron.  Now he knows your younger past and wants you as slave" Aragorn pressed.

Tears ran down Lexwen's cheeks.  "No one but my father was there on my 100th birthday.  That was the day after my mother died," she said.  Aragorn looked around at those in the hall.  They looked grieved or scared.

"Lord Browne must be moved immediately," Lexwen said.

"That cannot be done.  It is a day's ride to Edheliond.  They have not truly listened to the king's will since the cities of old!  I don't have the power to overthrow him without starting another war!" Lord Aragorn explained. 

"He wants me to be a slave to him!  That could be deadly!  Him knowing my powers and weaknesses could make me useable against you all!  It comes down to this" he leaves or I leaves, take your pick" Lexwen said shaking.  The air was tense and everyone waited as the crucial decision was thought over.  Aragorn took a deep breath.

"Neither can be done.  Lord Browne will not leave but you cannot either.  Lord Browne, you say has put himself with Sauron.  I cannot control those in league with Sauron, he is lost."  Lexwen closed her eyes.

"Then you have made your decision.  I shall leave."  Then she turned and went towards the door. 

"It serves you right Lexwen!  Women don't belong in battle.  You shouldn't endanger so many others" Argonth called out. 

Lexwen froze in her tracks.  She turned around and walked up to him.  She grabbed the handle of her sword and unsheathed it.  She brought it right up to his neck.  "If I wanted to further endanger so many I could walk right up to Sauron and become his slave.  Or I could just take back all my men and watch Middle-Earth die, your choice" Lexwen's eyes flashed as a strike of red ran through them.

"Yo-you-your men?" Argonth stuttered.  Lexwen pressed the sword closer and a tiny bead of blood fell to the ground. 

"My men" she said firmly.  Then she sheathed her sword and stormed out.  Argonth turned to face the others.

"Her men?  She brought the 100,000 men?  Who was the other?" he gasped.

Legolas angrily stepped forward.  "Of all the times to aggravate her you had to pick this one!  The one time where she must leave to save you!  Maybe we should take back our men.  Then you can fight with your wounded arm and stun the world by saving Middle-Earth" Legolas glared at him for a second then turned and went after Lexwen. 

Argonth turned sheepishly to his father.  "The two most important people have to become your enemies do they?" Argonth asked.

"Women don't belong in war!  I won't stand for it!" Argonth bellowed.

"I don't disagree, but Lexwen and the others of the 17 are different.  They can handle this.  They are warriors," Aragorn explained.

"When she dies in battle do not think I was for her decision to be in war," Argonth said.  He shook his head disgusted and stomped down to his room. 

Aragorn waited until Argonth was gone then spoke.  "Feradrius go get Lexwen and Legolas.  We cannot afford to have them leave!  Bring them to me immediately" Aragorn ordered. 

"My Lord Aragorn, I do no think this wise.  Lexwen is a very emotional elf.  To demand her presence at the time after being insulted deeply would not be wise.  Give her some time, she will come when she is ready" Lizwen interrupted.

"But what is she leaves?" he asked.

"That is a chance you will have to take," she said shrugging.  Aragorn took a large breath then nodded his head.  Feradrius went back to the table to look over the maps.

Katowyn quickly put a rich blue robe over her clothes.  Then she went down the hall to Aragorn's throne.  He was sitting in his throne with a dazed look.  She bowed to him then stood.  "You called for me father?" Aragorn nodded.

"This is a difficult decision to make but I must."

Katowyn's heart dropped.  "You want me to get on a horse and ride to the ships?" she asked trying to keep a neutral face. Aragorn took a shaky breath. 

"Yes, I cannot have you here when the city falls" he said.

"If the city falls" Katowyn inject. 

Aragorn smiled.  "Please Katowyn, go with your mother.  I cannot bear to lose you.  I love you Katowyn.  Take care of the city when I'm gone."  Aragorn's pulled her forehead towards his and kisses it.  "Ride swiftly, we shall meet again," he said.  Tears rolled down her cheeks as the coming of a hopeless war hit her.

" I love you father," she said.

Then she went to her room.  She threw off her robes to reveal war attire.  She fastened her sword to her waist and put on her bow and arrow to her back.  She threw on a heavy white dress and then pulled on the hood.

She walked solemnly out of her room and down the halls.  Before going down the hall doors she took one last look at her father.  He nodded and she smiled.  Then she walked through the doors and into the sun.

Katowyn walked slowly down to the stables.  She went all the way down to the end and stopped.  A white and brown paint horse nudged her arm.  "Well White Tree, are you ready for war?" she asked.   The horse nipped at he fingers.  "I'll take that as a yes."  She brought him out of the stall and jumped lightly onto his back. 

She raced out of the stable.  The city gates opened slightly for her and she tore off.  She rode right around the city and out of range of eyesight.  Then she took a deep breath and race off to Osgiliath.

White Tree got Katowyn to the small city in no time.  Instead of going to the gates she went through the water.  The guards there were about to raise the alarm but she threw back her hood.  They aw it was Katowyn and quieted down. 

"You bring news my lady?" asked the head guard.

"No I am here to defend Osgiliath," she said.  The guards gasped.

"My lady I do not approve.  The battle is a trick, for those of Mordor.  None shall survive!" he said.

"Well now that I'm here more shall survive!" Katowyn said.  She smiled at him and rode farther into the city.

Lexwen angrily put on her war clothes.  She then put on a Gold and White dress over it.  Suddenly the door opened and Legolas walked in.

"Lexwen I am sorry for what Argonth said.  He had no right to say it."

"Well he knows what he wanted to.  Argonth knows we're in charge of the 17.  That's all he wanted to know" Lexwen said forcefully tightening her belt with her sword. 

"What are you going to do?  You can't really leave?" Legolas said.

"Not, its too late for that.  So I will do something else" she swung her bow and arrows onto her back.

"What is that?"

"I'm going to Osgiliath," she said. 

Legolas's eyes widened in horror.  "But Osgiliath is a trick.  It is a decoy.  We purposely want it to fall.  If you go there you will die!" Legolas exclaimed jumping away form her. 

She picked up her brush and began fixing her hair carelessly.  "Yes, I am leaving as King Elessar said."  Legolas grabbed the brush from her.  She looked up at him.  "I must go," she said.

Then she pulled him towards her and kissed him passionately.  He could tell she didn't expect to come back and he kissed her just out of love and goodbyes.    Lexwen pulled away out of breath.  "Goodbye" she whispered.  Then she ran form the room. 

Aragorn and Lizwen turned from talking to see Lexwen run out of the hall.  Aragorn jumped up.  Lizwen ran after Lexwen.  Legolas walked up to Aragorn's side.  "Estel, you have made a mistake.  She now leaves and believes she is doing like you said." 

Aragorn rubbed his face wearily.  "Where did I go wrong?  What could I have said differently?" he whispered

"Nothing, Lexwen just gave up hope.  Argonth has been pestering her about the leaders of the 17.  She didn't want him to know but he found out.  Then he aggravated her by calling her dangerous.  So now she leaves" Legolas explained.  Aragorn did not look Legolas but went outside.

Lexwen ran from the stables on her black horse, Force.  She felt as if she couldn't leave the city fast enough.  Out of nowhere Charwen appeared.  "Charwen I must go, I am sorry" Lexwen rushed.

"No I completely understand.  Go quickly" she said.  With a pop Force charged out of the city.  Charwen smiled and continued on.

Aragorn walked out next to Lizwen on the citadel.  "You overestimated her," he said.  Lizwen nodded sadly.

"Yes and now she goes to Osgiliath."

"Osgiliath, but the war!  Osgiliath is a decoy.  It is to be overrun before the night is over" Aragorn said.

"Exactly." Lizwen looked out to Osgiliath.

Lexwen quickly galloped to the gates.  In horror Aragorn looked past Osgiliath to see an army of 400,000 pouring out of Mordor and charging right towards Osgiliath.  Horrific half orc, part man, part goblins went towards the city.  A loud leader yelled, "Tonight Osgiliath shall burn in the ashes of men!"