"Honor and Courage"
by The Merry Prankster
Chapter 5 A Call To Arms (Part2)
Murphy's Laws of Combat #5: When both sides are convinced they're about to lose, they're both right.
Edoras
Land of Rohan
1200 hours
March 11, 3019
(Middle Earth)
The king had to talk with Aragorn about something so Mike decided to kill some time with Ear. After looking over the ammunition storage building, the two teens decided to visit the kitchen for a quick snack. They had just turned the corner when Gimli came flying across the passageway. Earl reached over to help the dwarf get to his feet when Erica yelled out from the kitchen, "When I say NO MALE ALLOWED I MEAN NO MALES ALLOWED!"
Both boys grinned and Mike asked the dwarf, "Erica throw you out of the kitchen?"
Gimli stood up and brushed off some dirt. He looked back to the kitchen and mumbled," I can't believe she tossed me."
Earl laughed at the dwarf's predicament, "Don't worry back home, the kitchen was her domain and hers alone. Any male entered at his own risk."
"Why?"
Earl motioned for his friend to finish. Mike nodded, "Well Gramps couldn't cook and the last time he tried, he burned it down. After that, Erica took over the rebuilt kitchen and it has been that way ever since."
"But I didn't want to cook I just wanted some of that delicious smelling food she is cooking. She said it was called Pizza." Gimli remarked. "But it looks like those Pancake things she made this morning."
Earl sighed and shook his hand, "That was your mistake, nobody nibbles until the meal is served. You got off lucky."
"True I thought when I'd get some while her back was turned when she was pulling Legolas out by the ear," informed the dwarf.
Mike laughed, "The last time Earl tried that, he got thrown into the pool. A wise person would wait."
"Hey I wasn't thrown into the pool, I fell in." Earl countered
"Yeah, you keep telling yourself that." added the teen. "By the way how' are the recruits coming along?"
Earl looked back to the kitchen and commented offhanded, "Seems after Helm's Deep there are a lot of lads without parents."
Gimli turned back to the boys and asked, "Just what are you two up too?"
Mike turned back to the dwarf, "My new father has agreed to the recruitment of Rohirrim volunteers to fill out the unit. We began training this morning."
"That is interesting. Don't forget you still need to show me more about the shot gun."
Mike smiled, "Come outside the walls tomorrow around zero eight hundred hours. We'll be introducing the troops to modern firearms."
"Huh what is zero eight hundred hours?" questioned the dwarf.
Earl prodded the teen in the elbow, "Mike, you are slipping too far into soldier mode. Most people around here are not familiar with military time. Heck, most people back home weren't familiar with military time."
Mike nodded and turned back and explained to the dwarf, "Zero eight hundred hours is military time for eight in the morning."
The two teens began explaining how they intended to turn Rohirrim peasants into soldiers when the kitchen door slammed open. Gimli and the two boys managed to duck in time to avoid yet another flying body. In this case the airborne creature turned out to be a hobbit.
Merry picked himself off the floor as Erica screamed out, "I SAID NO MALES ALLOWED!"
Earl winced as the hobbit made contact with the ground. "I had been told that Merry was the bad one for stealing food."
The hobbit in question picked himself off the floor and rubbed his back. "Boy she is worse than the farmer."
+++
Theoden had been trying to talk to Aragorn about preparing the Rohirrim for any future attack by Sauron. However, he was consistently interrupted by the racket from the kitchen. Finally, he came down to see what was going on. Approaching the expanding group, he asked, "What is all this ruckus about?"
Mike looked up an answered, "Our vertically challenged friends are learning that it's not wise to steal fool from Erica."
Theoden nodded, "I heard that she had taken over the Kitchen. It seems several of my men have been tossed out too. They asked me to speak with her about it." He began opening the door to enter the Kitchen only to be greeted by an apple pie to the face. "I SAID NO MALES I DON'T CARE WHO!" Erica yelled just before she slammed the door in his face.
Earl looked to Mike and color appeared to drain from the boy's faces. Mike finally closed his mouth, "Oh shit, Erica didn't do what I think she did?"
"She did." Earl squirmed as he looked at the king.
Mike handed the king a handkerchief and advised, "Dad, a word of advice, don't go in there again."
"What is with her throwing males out of the kitchen?" King Théoden inquired wiping the pie off his face.
"It's not just males she threw me out too." Eowyn answered from behind him.
Mike cradled his head in his hands, "Not my new cousins." He walked over to the kitchen and yelled out, "Gee thanks Erica. Nice way of treating my new family, that's sure to make a good impression."
Erica stuck her head out and yelled back, "Well I warned them first. You should have warned them. You of all people should know how I feel about those who can't cook coming into my KITCHEN. Now leave so I can finish your surprise for when He officially announces you as his son." Erica pointed at the king before returning to her cooking.
Mike stood there for a moment, then turned around and faced the king. "If you don't mind, I'll retire to my chambers and work on that training schedule." Then he faced Earl, "Earl lets go. I want to get as far away from this room as possible."
The two teens made a hasty retreat from the kitchen, leaving Theoden, Gimli, and Merry to wonder what was going on. "What do you think she's cooking up for your surprise?" Earl asked with glee for he knew that whenever Erica got this protective over the Kitchen it had to be really good.
"I wouldn't venture a guess at this point. How does the firing range look? We got the targets set up at hundred yard intervals?"
Earl nodded, "I got the youngest of the group setting it up as we speak."
"Good, have the troops report to the ops shack in thirty minutes. We'll go over field stripping the M-16."
"Oh by the way your cus, is talking about teaching Matt how to ride a horse." Earl commented with a laugh
"Which cus are you talking about?"
"Matt's new daddy. Well you see the kid sorta destroyed the first set of targets." Earl laughed.
The two reached the chamber's door. Mike paused and commented, "You know, it's good to see Matt enjoying himself. The loss of his parents hit him pretty hard."
"Yeah but Eomer is really taken by the nerd boy."
Mike gave his friend a glare, "I really don't like you calling him nerd boy. Drop the nickname, but as to your point, if Eomer has anything to say about it, Matt will grow up to be a true Rohirrim."
"Oopps, sorry man."
+++
The boys spent the next two hours creating training schedules when Earl decided to visit the newly constructed firing range. Mike was about to walk back to his room when Erica's cousin came up.
"Hey guys we need to talk." Reggie said as she came up behind them and put her arms around their necks
"What's up, Reg?" asked Mike
"Well I was getting a look at some of your recruits and you have a small 4 problems." Reggie began
"And they are?"
"Four are girls." Reggie laughed
The teen stared at the ceiling, "Oh crap, Dad is not going to like this. Not one bit."
"Don't tell him just yet. Talk to the girls first, I promised them you'd be fair. Remember this Mike they don't have anyone." Reggie explained
Mike shook his head, "The irony of this is sickening. I wouldn't be surprised if they start calling us the Orphan's Brigade. Okay, Reggie, I'll talk to them in an hour. We plan on assembling them together anyway and teach them how to take care of their new weapons."
"Mike I am serious. They need respect not smartass comments. You don't want them ending up as Tavern whores do you." Reggie said glaring at the boy and continued, "I also want to start teaching the girls and the boys if they want Hand to Hand combat."
Mike stood up straight and answered, "You should know THAT is not what I am referring to. We have to get all new recruits familiar with modern firearms."
"Good but I am volunteering to teach hand to hand. I am a qualified instructor."
Mike walked out of the Great hall and placed his envelope cap on his head. Turning around, he motioned for Reggie and Earl to follow. After a short stroll the three stood near the rest area. "You want to go first, Reggie?"
"Yeah but I told them that it would be just you. So Earl, go get lost and keep your mouth shut," Reggie warned.
Mike grabbed his friend's shoulder, "Get the weapons ready for the field stripping demonstration."
Meanwhile Reggie headed into the room only to find two of the girls packing the meager belongs while two others where sitting on a bed trying to hold back tears. "Attend HUT." The girl called out to get their attention.
Mike waited for Reggie to call the room into attention before entering. He removed his hat as he walked in front of the girls. He kept them standing for a minute before telling them "At Ease." A sniffing sound caught his attention and he turned towards the youngest. Pointing over at Reggie, he began, "My companion has informed me that you had some reservations. I am here to listen, so tell me what they are?"
Most of the girls were afraid to speak. But oldest of the four said. "We're sisters."
"Go on."
"I am Millin. Our dad was killed by the Wild men who attacked our village. Our mum died on the way to Helm's Deep. We have nothing and nobody except each other. We heard and saw what Dena and your friend Erica did at Helm's deep. We cannot survive on our own this was the only place we could go. You see our father taught us how to ride and even a little sword," Millin explained.
Mike looked towards Reggie and nodded. He placed his hands behind his back and answered, "If you saw my companions at Helms Deep, they you already know that my second in command is a female as well as the team medic. Thus you should know I have nothing against having females under my command. So, what did you want to talk about?"
"I heard that you are going to be King Théoden's son. He doesn't like women in battle." A girl with reddish brown hair remarked. "You and your friends are American and we are Rohirrim. We don't believe he'll let us fight."
Mike let a small laugh at the girl's answer. "You are not going to believe this but the king actually tried keeping my friends out of the fight. Seems we are all too young in the adult's eyes."
"We didn't want to talk but She said we had too." Another girl said as she pointed at Reggie.
"So what are you going to do with us?" The youngest quietly questioned as tears flowed down her face.
Mike asked in a compassionate voice, "How old are you really?"
"I'm 14 winters, Tarra is 13 winters, Annta is 12 winters and Sassa will be 10 winters." Millin explained, "But what does it matter the King will order us not to fight."
Mike shook his head and muttered, "Damn." He walked a short distance away and motioned for Reggie to follow. "I am not concerned with my people's gender but I myself cannot allow anybody that young to fight. They are just kids."
"Mike we're not much older. Plus I suggest we don't tell but just train them on the basics. You'll be doing them the greatest good. They can stay with Erica, Dena and Me." Reggie suggested and continued "I look into something you should be aware of."
Mike looked back at the girls, "Too young, too damn young, okay Reg what else?"
"Middle Earth is just like old times. Women can't own anything. If we don't take them in, they will either end up dead or whores." Reggie answered with concern for the girls.
"Then we'll take them in. We'll create an auxiliary unit, sorta like a scout troop where you can teach them what they need to survive. Now that you explained everything, I'm sure I can get dad's approval as long as it's clear they will be kept away from firearms. And don't even think about letting them within five miles of a battle. That's my final decision."
"I said the basic's Mike. So that means firearms too." Reggie countered. "It's either you teach them that or I do and if you remember the last time I tried to use a gun (at the age of ten) your dad's pick up was full of holes."
Mike turned around to leave, "Safety ONLY. Now, I have to get started teaching the troops field stripping."
"So does that mean we get to stay?" Sassa quietly asked
Mike stopped at the door and replaced his cap, "Yes, for now. Reggie and Erica will go over everything."
"Ok, girls Mike going to keep your secret but you'll be moving in with Erica, Dena and Me. You will get your things after your lessons with Mike. NOW MOVE!" Reggie told them. The girls jumped for joy and ran to where the unit was to meet. But as they left, they each give Mike a hug on the way out and Saluted.
"Mike what about Earl?" Reggie questioned quietly
"What about Earl?"
Once the girls were out of ear shot Reggie replied. "Will Earl keep their secret?"
Mike shook his head and smiled, "Yeah, he will as long as we keep to the original plan. Train them in private. I'll tell Dad that Erica, Dena and you have taken them in cause you couldn't see children put out. He'll understand that, but wait five years before putting them in uniform."
"Do you even have to tell him their girls?" Reggie questioned.
"He'll find out sooner or later and I don't want any secrets between us."
"Mike lets make it later. Just that way they are treated as equals and not as helpless babies. They need to feel useful and being treated like a baby won't do that," Reggie countered.
"I won't say anything but if he asks I'll tell him the truth. Just don't place me in a situation where I'm forced to explain why we are taking care of a family of young girls."
"Fine, but we need an excuse to put them in with us girls." Reggie giggled
"I'll leave that up to you. Consider it my response to getting poked by your cat."
"Wimp." Reggie called after him as he left the chambers.
+++
Unknown to the teens, Aragorn had been listening and decided to talk to Mike.
"Michael." The ranger said as he approached the youth.
Mike turned around to face the Ranger. "How much did you hear?"
"Every word. Reggie is correct about what would happen to them if you didn't take them in." The ranger told him. "I have seen it many times happen to young girls. Before there was nothing I could do."
Mike nodded, "Well, as long as they are kept far away from the fighting I don't have any problem with it and I really don't think my father will either. You want to attend the first training session?"
"I think he will have a problem with that. Remember who they will be staying with." The ranger jeered but than added. "Lead the way."
"Like I said, I've delegated that problem to the girls and there it should stay."
+++
Mike and Aragorn were joined by Theoden on their way to the parade field. Legolas, Haldir, and the Boulder Scouts were already watching from a nearby porch.
As they approached the troops Earl was doing a drill Sergeants routine on the men and girls of the group.
Theoden and Aragorn joined the other adults and watched the spectacle. Mike looked to his father and waited for the older man to give him a nod before turning back to the field.
Mike smiled as Earl did his best R Lee Irmy impression then straightened up, totally serious. Satisfied with his appearance, he entered the area.
"ATTEND HUT!" Earl bellowed out
Mike walked over and stood next to Earl. Taking a deep breath, he yelled out "AT EASE". He waited for the new soldiers to relax before beginning.
"Interesting," Théoden commented to the Ranger
"As many of you are aware of, I have been adopted by King Théoden and the celebration has been scheduled for tonight. I have already come across Rohirrim referring me as prince, lord, and greeting me as such. I will have none of that from any of you while in uniform." The teen held up his collar, highlighting the single silver bar, "When I am wearing this uniform, the prince has been replaced by your commanding officer. Thus you will refer to me as Lieutenant Wolf, Lieutenant or sir. When passing by, you will salute, not bow as you will to any superior officer."
"YES SIR." The recruits sounded off loud and clear
"Every person among you has volunteered to serve in this unit as well as your officers. This unit is the heir to the traditions put in place by the United States Army, a tradition that stood for duty, honor and country for over two hundred years. Learn all that my officers and I have to teach." Mike paused and called out to Earl, "Lt. Beegle, this is a good unit?"
"Earl retorted back "OUTstanding Unit, sir! It represents a strong people and great land!"
Mike ignored her as he continued his speech, "People, you represent the finest that this land has to offer and you will do so with honor. Now, the next few days will be filled with training for both you and myself. All I ask is that you keep up with me. And for those who can't, that strange sensation you feel in the seat of your pants, will be my boot in you ass. People, we are going to war and the training will be intense. Listen to your leaders and we will emerge victorious."
+++
In the Mean time Erica came stomping out ... And she was not too happy as she dragged the dwarf and hobbit by the ears. "I thought you could use a few more recruits." Erica said as she tossed the two at his feet than stomps off. And just before left she announced in a threatening tone, "THIS IS MY LAST WARNING NO ONE ALLOWED IN MY KITCHEN UNLESS AUTHORISED BY ME"
+++
At Mike's word Théoden smiled because his new son showed so much promise from the beginning. He commented to Aragorn, "Michael shows much promise but I have a feeling that it will be a challenge keeping him and his friends away from a fight."
The Ranger nodded, "He is a headstrong boy but I feel he will not openly defy you."
Reggie and Dena arrived to hear Mike's welcome speech and moved near the adults.
"I think we need to block off the Kitchen." Reggie said to Dena " I have feeling more harm will be done to warriors here than in the battle."
Dena shook her head, "You think? I wonder who got it this time?"
"I don't know, but they are going to be down and out for a little while." Reggie said with a little chuckle and yelled towards the kitchen" Stop beating up the warriors, Cus. They are going to need all their limbs for the fight." Then turned to Mike, "Mike maybe we should post a guard, so she doesn't maim anyone."
Mike overheard the two and grinned, "THEN POST A GUARD YOURSELF, REG!"
"I have training to take care of, but Mr. Cuddles could stand guard. But he might be worse than her." Reggie replied with an evil smile
"NO! She'll try and sneak in too." Erica jeered back from the hall.
Aragorn made a decision and told Erica, "I'll Guard the Kitchen. But it will cost you my lady."
Erica countered, "Like I have time to fatten up on your food. I have a lot of work of head of me to get these ladies ready for the fight ahead." Reggie referring to the new recruits that didn't seem to be prepare the physical workout that she was going to put them through.
Mike leaned over to Earl, "Why don't we help Mr. Cuddles visit the kitchen?"
"Hell no. Sir." Earl responded fearing the retaliation from the feline.
"Mike you leave my cat alone. Or you will be my first training dummy," Reggie sneered.
"What will it cost me Ranger?" asked Erica who was ignoring her friend's banter.
Mike grinned, "I still would like to see the cat go into the kitchen right now."
The cat was already trying to make it's way by Erica when she turns on it and yells. "Don't even think it!" which sent the cat running back to his mistress.
"Mike, I need a target to hold this apple on his head.' Reggie said as she held out an apple to demonstrate her knife and throwing star abilities to the recruits
"More of those wonderful pancakes." The Ranger answered.
"Deal." Erica says as she heads in side with the Ranger in tow.
To the surprise of the teens Erica actually agreed to letting the Ranger guard the kitchen. Earl leaned over and asked David, "How did he get in?"
"It beats me, but I have a feeling he might be flying out as well, once he smells the food." David laughed
"He didn't get in. He's guarding the door." King Théoden informed them "But it will cost her more of her pan cakes."
"Now why didn't I think of that?" Gimili laughed
"Not a bad trade." Reggie laughed and motioned to the hobbit "Merry would you like to learn to throw like the other recruits?"
Haldir who had been watching there scene just smile at the group before him, and asked "Throw what, My lady?"
"I have throwing star and knives that can be very handy, when proving a point." Reggie said evilly as she looked at Mike
Matt and Eomer arrived in time to hear Reggie and Mike. Matt had quickly settled in and was excited with the riding lessons, his father had given and now wanted to learn martial arts as well. He tugged at Eomer's sleeve and asked, "Hey dad can I learn?"
"I don't mind teaching one more." Reggie said and smiled at the boy and waited for Eomer to reply.
Eomer considered the request then answered, "I'll think about it."
+++
Night had fallen and the new prince was standing in front of the mirror having second thoughts. What the hell am I doing here? I'm not ready for this. thought the teen.
There was a knock at the teen's door. "Michael, May I come in?" A female's voice came from the other side.
Mike tucked his tie into the shirt and yelled out, "It's unlocked. Come on in!"
The door open slowly as a beautifully dressed Eowyn appeared. "Michael, are you almost ready?"
A visibly nervous teen turned around and answered, "I think so. How do I look? I mean I don't want to embarrass the family tonight."
The Shieldmaiden walked in and straightened the boy's shirt. "You look very handsome. But is everything alright, you appear to bothered." The woman stepped back and smiled. "You will do just fine."
"I'm just nervous I'll screw something up and have the king banish me from Rohan."
"Don't be foolish, that will never happen," The shieldmaiden said with a laugh. "You know deep down that my uncle would never do such a thing."
Earl stuck his head in the door and remarked, "Oh you're asking for miracle there."
Mike walked over and put on his leather bomber jacket. Turning to his friend, he countered, "At least I haven't taken out any lab partners in science class."
"What can I say; they weren't smart enough to run." Earl countered with a smirk.
"I expect you do the same young man," Eowyn said looking at Earl giving him the look that he was going to get slapped again
"But, I think you are needed in the kitchen. Erica just threw your dad out yet again." Earl informed his buddy.
Mike was about to come back with a smart ass comment but sputtered, "Erica threw out the King? Is she out of her freaking mind?"
"Well that's a dumb question." Earl laughed, "She's Erica and no one belongs in that kitchen but her."
"She has a habit of throwing people out of Kitchens doesn't she." Eowyn remarked.
"Yeah she's done that twice now. Not to mention Leggy, Gimli and the hobbit have all been thrown out at least four times." Earl chuckled.
Mike shook his head and muttered, "That's just great. What a wonderful start to a new family." He turned back to Earl, "You are not least bit nervous about tonight's event?"
"Nope, why should I be nervous, you're the one becoming the prince. I, on the hand have only joined the nobility," Earl smirked.
"If I go down I'm taking you with me," vowed Mike.
Eowyn shook her head at the boy's banter and asked, "Is there anything that you need Michael? If not I think I shall check on the condition of my uncle."
"Yeah but you should deal with Erica first. You are warned. She had Aragorn posted at the door," Earl smiled
"I think I can handle the good ranger and the young lady." Eowyn answered with a smile.
Mike chuckled, "No, not really. You go on ahead." He turned back to Earl and grinned, "The Rohirrim have no idea what they have gotten themselves into. Have they?"
"Definitely not." Earl laughed loudly.
"Well, let's go. I don't want to keep our new fathers' waiting," laughed the teen as he led the way to the great hall.
The two boys approached the kitchen with caution and quickly jump back as a hobbit and dwarf came flying out the kitchen door and hit the wall.
"She tossed me again!!!!" The dwarf muttered.
"Some guard you are." Erica told Aragorn, who was speaking with Legolas.
Mike slowly got up and quipped, "I guess some people just can't stay away from the kitchen."
"Be thankful she didn't almost pull your ear off like she did to him." Merry replied
pointing at Legolas who was rubbing his ear.
"Let's go help- them up," suggested Mike
"I don't think we are going to be welcome here much longer." Earl whispered to Mike.
"Mike if you even think about coming in here I swear I will kick your sorry ass across Middle Earth." Erica warning voice came threw the door.
"I think I'll be staying on his side of that door." Earl said pausing at the entrance to the kitchen " My rear is just starting to heal."
Mike raised an eyebrow and observed, "I think Erica has this well in hand. You want to head over to the hall? I think the feast is about to begin."
"I believe that is wise young prince." Aragorn stated as he and Legolas follows the teens.
"Good idea. Let's go before anymore people are thrown at us." Earl said with a smirk
"Yeah dodging arrows is one thing. Dodging flying dwarves is quite another." Mike chuckled
"Watch it youth." The dwarf laughs
"Don't get short with me Master Dwarf," countered the grinning teen.
"Very true Master Michael, very true." Aragorn said with a laugh
+++
Mike paused at the doors to the great hall. He turned back to the others, "Once more into the breech dear friends once more," intoned the teen.
"Just get in there." Earl said slapping mike on the back
Inside many were seated around large tables waiting for the arrival of the new prince.
Mike laughed and stepped inside. A rich glow filled the hall, the light of a hundred torches lit for that purpose, every table was filled. At the head of the hall stood the king who motioned for the teen to come forth.
"Mike is never on time." Reggie whispered to Dena who was across the table.
All traces of nervousness left the boy's face as he walked down the middle of the room. Finally he stood in front of the ruler of Rohan. "Sorry, I'm late. I had to dodge some flying little people."
The American teens began to laugh at Mike announcement and looked at the Gimli and Merry who came and joined the group at the table.
"My son, Welcome." The king said embracing the boy
Mike returned his father's embrace and asked, "Now what? I'm kinda new at the adoption thing."
"As am I my son, as am I." Théoden said with a smile. "I have called you all here to make a great declaration. This marvelous youth standing beside me will be my new son. He has much courage and strength. He will make a mighty King of Rohan one day."
At this announcement, the crowd began to cheer for the new prince.
Mike blushed and quietly reminded the king, "Uh Dad, I thought we agreed I would have nothing to do with running a country. I'm quite satisfied having a new family."
"We will discuss that later, however you are going to be taking part in it, your cousin would have it no other way." the king said as Eomer and Eowyn approached the two of them
"Welcome to our family." Eowyn said as she embraced the boy
"Yes welcome." Eomer said as he embraced Mike after his sister had stepped back.
Mike stepped back and gave the woman a warm smile, "Thank you. It's an honor to be part of your family."
"Aaaaahhhhhhhh, look a family moment." Earl said from his seat and received a smack from Dena.
"The honor is ours, my son." Théoden smiled
"Earl you should probably shut up before you get beaten up by all our female companions," David whispered to his friend.
Mike grinned and commented to the king, "You know, this is such a joyous occasion that should be shared with the other teen who is being adopted into Rohirrim society. Why don't we bring Earl and his new dad up here as well?"
Earl turned red as he heard Mike's comment. "What, I don't think I need to be in the spot light it is your special occasion." Earl said standing up.
"Just get up there grunt boy!!" Reggie said kicking Earl from under the table.
Mike responded, "Oh no, what kind of person would I be to have denied my best friend such an opportunity?"
Earl visibly embarrassed was pushed by Dena and began walking up slowly towards the throne with a look that screamed, he was going to kill his friend. Gamling approached and put his arm around Earl and said. "I'm with you my son, but we serve them so we must go up there, even if we don't want to." Gamling was embarrassed as well, but he was overjoyed to have Earl to become his son, that all he could do was smile.
Mike waited for the two come up before quietly telling Gamling, "I apologize for causing you any discomfort Master Gamling. But I must get even with your new son."
"I have a feeling that will be happening a lot between you two," Gamling replied.
Mike grinned, "The back and forth stuff has been going on for the last seven years. Why should it end any time soon?"
"I don't expect that it will. But one could hope that you two might eventually grow out of it." Gamling answered and smiled. He then turned to Earl and announced to the crowd. "I have also adopted young Earl and he will be my son."
Mike leaned over to Earl and quietly quipped, "Payback is sooo sweet. Gotcha!"
"I hate you." Earl muttered "You will get yours, trust me."
Mike put an arm around his buddy's shoulder and pointed out towards the Hall, "But then we would never have such good times. So lets eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow, who knows where we will be?"
"You're right time to eat, I'm starving. But don't think you will be getting off that easy tomorrow comes and so does payback." Earl chuckled to his friend, "And it will be good!"
Mike laughed and turned to his father, "And thus the cycle begins anew. Was there something else or can we eat?"
"I do not believe so as Lady Erica has not come yet, and without her there is no feast to eat." The king replied.
"So, what shall we do till then?" asked the teen.
"Well Mike you could always sing." Reggie shouted from her seat, "I found this and thought you might want to play." She said standing up and started to bring up a guitar
Mike's mouth dropped and closed as he collected his senses, "Uh, Reggie what are you talking about?"
"You didn't think I forgot about your ability to play while I was in Florida. I bought it for you as a present when was going to come before the flu...it was signed by our idol Eric. One of a kind! I thought I would surprise you." Reggie said with a laugh.
Mike turned red and looked to his father as if saying, "Help me get out of this."
'I think the Lady has brought a very nice gift. However what is it?" The king said smiling at the predicament his new son was in
"Uhh, Dad, I really don't think this is the forum for such a present," countered Mike.
"Oh, Mikey don't you like it?" Reggie said a pout and then smiled evilly.
Mike turned back to the girl, "It's not that I don't appreciate the gift. But I don't think Middle Earth is ready for Clapton."
"I guess I don't have to get Mike back, Reggie is doing it for me." Earl smirked.
"I think you will be pleasantly surprised with what Middle Earth is ready for. The king has already taken you for his son." Reggie laughed "I doubt Clapton will phase them."
Mike shook his head and motioned for the girl to join them. He asked Reggie, "You didn't bring Earl's did you?"
"Why yes I did." Reggie said and motion to Dena to bring the other guitar that was stored underneath the table. Earl's mouth dropped open as he muttered "I am going to kill her."
Dena approached pulling Earl by the arm towards the throne. "I believe there a needed jam session." Dena laughed
"Guess the girls got both of us with this one," commented Mike as he reached for his guitar. He pulled out a stool and sat down.
"This is going to be good." Reggie whispered to Dena as they started to walk back
Mike turned to Earl, "Well, what do you think about Running on Faith?"
"I think I could pull that one off without making too many mistakes. But there needs to be major payback for the girls." Earl whispers to Mike as he takes a seat next to him
"Did you have any doubt?" responded the teen as he turned back to the now quiet hall.
The teen began a short explanation, "Before coming to Rohan, Earl and I were pretty much your average American teenagers and had a few after school activities. When we were in school, we formed a music group and played a variety of music for our classmates. Blues, country, and rock were the main forms that we specialized. So, we'll start off with one of my favorites, "Running on Faith."
Reggie, Dena and David began to cheer as their two friends began to play.
Mike sat his guitar on his lap and nodded to Earl who began playing the first chords. "I wish I had a lighter." David said waving his thumb in the air.
Mike began singing, "Lately I've been running on faith,
What else can a poor boy do?
But my world will be right, When love comes over you
Lately I've been talking in my sleep
I can't imagine what I'd have to say"
"I forgot how good they are." Dena said as a tears came to her eye.
"Except my world will be right, When love comes back your way
The crowd faded from Mike's world as he got into the song,
"I've always been, One to take each and every day
Seems like by now, I'd find a love who cares just for me."
"what have we done." Dena whispered to Reggie. Reg answered back, "We have unleashed a monster."
The teen continued with the final stanza,
"Then we'd go running on faith,
All of our dreams would come true, And our world will be right,
When love comes over me and you."
The crowd began to applaud the teens' as the doors of the hall burst open with women bring in food of all kinds.
Mike leaned over and suggested, "What do you think about a more upbeat song before eating?"
"What do you have in mind?" Earl questioned with a big smile
Mike grinned and pointed towards the parents, "Think they can take a little San Francisco Bay Blues?"
"If they adopted us, I think they can take it." Earl chuckled.
He turned back and addressed the crowd, "I can see Erica is about ready to begin serving so we thought we'd play something a little more upbeat,"
"Well get on with it." David called out from the Back. "We are hungry."
Mike grinned and said, "So, our next song is called 'San Francisco Bay Blues." Earl pulled out a harmonica and waited for Mike to being the first chord. The teen began singing the first stanza, "I got the blues from my baby left me by the San Francisco bay,"
"I wasn't expecting that thing." Reggie said pointing at the harmonica. "I think we are in trouble now." Reggie began to cover her ears.
"The ocean liner's gone so far away.
Didn't mean to treat her so bad, she was the best girl I ever have had,
She said goodbye, I can take a cry, I want to lay down and die."
"Okay I guess it's not that bad." Reggie thought uncovering her ears.
"I ain't got a nickel and I ain't got a lousy dime.
She don't come back, think I'm going to lose my mind.
If she ever gets back to stay, it's going to be another brand new day,
Walking with my baby down by the San Francisco bay.
Earl pulled a kazoo and began blowing to laughter of the crowd
"Sitting down looking from my back door, Wondering which way to go,
The woman I'm so crazy about, she don't love me no more.
Think I'll catch me a freight train, 'cause I'm feeling blue,
And ride all the way to the end of the line, thinking only of you."
"Meanwhile, in another city, Just about to go insane Thought I heard my baby, lord, the way she used to call my name.
If I ever get her back to stay, it's going to be another brand new day,
Walking with my baby down by the San Francisco bay, Walking with my baby down by the San Francisco bay, Walking with my baby down by the San Francisco bay,"
"I love this song." Dena said as she watched and turned to look at Eomer who was enjoying the song as well from his seat in front
Mike stood up and walked over to the throne and propped his guitar next to it. He returned to his new family and quipped, "I'm ready to eat."
"You performed very well my son." Théoden smiled as the boy walked up.
Mike followed his father to the table and sat down, "Yeah, back home when most kids were going for the heavy metal music basically as loud and fast as they could play it, I was more interested in the serious side of music."
"You have an amazing talent my cousin." Eowyn said with a smile
"Yeah you were great." Matt chimed in
"I personally like metal. But the kid wasn't bad." Xander whispered to Karen who sat be side him with David on her other side
Mike smiled, "Thanks, I didn't know how you would react to that style of music. I always found playing to be a good way to relax."
"Well I am glad that Lady Reggie brought that for you. That mean you won't want to shoot people as much." Eomer commented.
Mike turned back to his cousin and in serious voice responded, "I never wanted to shoot people. Between me and you, I despise war and fighting, but as long as there are bad people out there. Then someone has to protect the innocent."
"No need to upset your self Michael, I was merely remarking that you like to shot your gun to relieve your tension." Eomer said trying to calm the teen down.
"That is true you did look like you could shoot someone the other night." The king said smiling, "This gift is very welcomed."
Mike smiled sheepishly, "Thanks it really means a lot to me. As of now, Lt. Wolf has left the building and won't be back till tomorrow. I'm ready for some quiet time with the family."
"That sounds like a good plan." Matt quietly said and began to giggle
Making small talk, Mike asked his father, "So after Sauron is taken down, I guess I'll bring the rest of my stuff back here."
"That would be a good plan. I want you to feel at home. If you like I will accompany you to retrieve your belongings." Théoden replied
"I really appreciate it. There are so many memories with that place. I'm going to need you if I am to get through that without breaking down."
"That is what I am here for. That what family is for, and you have family."
+++
As Mike sat with his new family, Erica finally arrived with the food.
"Lords and Ladies. To celebrate this grand occasion I have made some American style food with a dash of Rohirrim style added to it. The only thing I ask is for the consideration of the others present and those who helped. There are three things that I must request. First, DON'T smoke your pipes until after all who are eating finish. Second Loud Belches are a sign of Great food." Erica explained as the American teens started to laugh.
"And finally, if you wish for more food STAY OUT OF MY KITCHEN!"
"I suggest you listen to her." Mike announced with a laugh in his most princely voice.
"Now for the food," Erica said as several women walked in behind her carrying various foods some of ex-large style pizza. Meanwhile others carried Hamburgers and Cheeseburgers while the others brought Roast Pig and Roast Chicken KFC style.
"Boy am I hungry." Earl said as he smelled the food and rubbed his tummy.
"I am with you master Earl. I tried to sneak a taste earlier, but she caught e again and threw me out yet again." Merry said as stomach started to growl.
"Boy after that training session I could eat a horse." Reggie said eyeing the food.
"Why would you want to eat a horse lassie, when your cousin has prepared all this food?" Gimli inquired
"It is just a saying short shit." Reggie laughed
"Now My Lords and Ladies. I do ask that you save some room for Dessert. The Ladies and I have made Angel Food Cake with Strawberry topping, Apple pie, vanilla pudding and for the new Rohirrim Prince I have made his favorite." Erica announced.
"Now I am starving." Merry said eyeing the creation and inquired "I wonder if there will be enough, I may eat everything."
"Don't worry Master Merry I got something special just for you. Ladies." Erica said
"Just for Me." The hobbit started to beam as two women walk in with a large plate covered.
"Yes just for you." Erica replied sweetly.
"Oh shit, Merry is in for it." David quietly told Earl
The young hobbit with a shimmering glimmer in his eye sat happily with the large covered plate in front of him. He pulled off the lid only to find the plate empty beneath it. "But where is all the delicious food you made just for me." Merry said with a solemn face as his stomach started to growl which could be heard by everyone
"Now that wasn't every nice, cus. He needs to eat too." Reggie whispered to Erica.
"Simple Master Hobbit you must first promise you will NEVER enter my kitchen unless I ask you too and than I will have the real plate of food brought in." Erica informed him than turned on her cousin and said, "NO it's not. I had to Throw him out over 23 times. I didn't like doing that."
"I will most definitely try." The hobbit began, "But my tummy has a mind of it own."
At this the crowd began to laugh including the elves.
"Master Hobbit your Word." Erica said in a warning tone.
"I give you my word, but what if my tum get the better of me." The hobbit countered
"Pay it no attention Master Hobbit but your answer is good enough for now. LADIES." Erica bellowed and two women walk in carry a large tray that has a good portion of everything Erica had made.
"Thank you my lady." The hobbit said with a happy grin
"You are such a pushover, cus." Reggie laughed "He didn't really promise."
"Close enough for me." Erica said with a smile as she watched the hobbit dig in.
"You're still a pushover when it comes to a cute smile from someone so adorable." Reggie whispered to Erica
"By the way I won the bet the hobbit got thrown out of the Kitchen 26 times." Reggie informs Earl and David
"So that doesn't include you and now you have dish duty for it." Erica laughed evilly.
"You are so mean, I don't think can cus. I am so tired." Reggie said with her most pathetic puppy dog eyes "That training took a lot out of me."
"That won't work you still got dish duty. Be thankful that you didn't get stuck peeling potatoes like the Gimli and your boyfriend did." Erica jeered
"My boyfriend?" Reggie said sheepishly.
"Yeah I had to throw him out almost as much as Gimli." Erica laughed. "I thought about have Merry peel potatoes but figured he eat them."
"Who are you talking about? There are so many boys here." Reggie laughed.
"The elf your cat likes." Erica jeered pointing at Haldir who was sitting next to Reggie.
"Oh, I don't know what you're talking about." Reggie said hiding her bashful red glow on her face
"Yeah right," Erica countered as she left to find her own seat.
"Don't worry My Lady; I shall help you with your duty." Haldir said smiling at Reggie
"No you won't." Erica yelled back.
"You can keep me company though." Reggie said as she smiled at the elf
"Reggie and Haldir sitting in a tree, KISS...Owwww" Earl began to sing as he was slapped by both Dena and Eowyn. "Hey that's not fair; they're attacking me from both sides.
"You asked for it. Dweeb boy." Erica laughed than said. "Earl you got yourself trash duty."
Mike laughed and said. "Earl, even I wouldn't be stupid to make that remark when Erica is handing out duties. You know she is the only one who gets to tease Reggie on the boyfriend front."
"Damn Straight." Erica jeered but still couldn't find a place to sit until Vidmor and Legolas stood up and said. "You may sit next to me."
"It looks like Erica has a little following." David whispered very quietly to Earl but received a slap to the back of his head by Dena. "You get to join him in trash duty." Dena informed him
"Damn." the teen muttered.
"I heard that." Dena chuckled.
+++
Mike had enjoyed the celebration but noticed some of the younger people starting to be sluggish. Looking at his watch, the teen noticed that it was late and walked over to the King. Getting his fathers attention, he said, "Look it's getting late and we have a long day of training ahead of us. So with your permission, I would like to get my people to bed."
"I see, it does appear they are falling asleep." The king said with a chuckle. "You have my permission, my son."
Nodding, the teen turned back to the hall and motioned to get everybody's attention, "My people, turn in and get some sleep. We' will be starting with a nice little run tomorrow at zero six hundred hours."
"Yes. Sir!" Several of the new recruits mumbled as they headed off to bed.
Earl and David turned to each other and began laughing as they heard this.
"Who needs sleep." Reggie said as she and Haldir head for the kitchen "You better be working in there." Erica jeered with an evil smile, "And no funny business."
"Who...me. I don't know what you are talking about." Reggie replied.
Aragorn was startled by David and Earl's reaction and stopped Mike on his way out. "Why are they laughing?"
Mike simply shook his head and grinned, "Why don't you join us tomorrow?"
"Mike be easy on them." Erica called out.
"It would be my pleasure." The ranger said with a grin.
"Does that mean me as well for that little run?" The dwarf questioned.
Mike called out over his should, "If you would like, master dwarf, if you would like."
"I am a sprinter not a runner." The dwarf replied.
"In that case, why don't you meet us following the run," offered Mike.
Earl leaned over to Dena, "Think we should tell the adults that Mike's idea of a nice little run is a ten mile forced march with full pack?"
"Nah, I think they get the gist in the morning." Dena laughed "But Earl and David you better get to trash duty." As Earl and David began to exit the hall Dena called after them, "You'll most likely being doing the run as well."
Earl yelled back to her, "Dena, you know as well as I do that David and I will be at the head of the formation right behind Mike. He is a firm believer in leading by example."
"I know and that why you two should get work, zero six hundred hours only a few hours away." Dena yelled back "And plus you ate so much I doubt you'll be able to keep up."
Earl shrugged, "You know Mike. Do you honestly think that will matter?"
"He even ate more than me." Merry remarked as he rubbed his full stomach and pointed towards Earl. "And that is hard to do." The hobbits say with a burp
Earl looked at the hobbit, replying, "Teenager."
"That's the spirit Master Hobbit. She said that loud burps were complements." Gimli said with even louder belch.
"I think that they enjoyed the food." The king laughed as he went to sit on his throne only to find a sleeping cat had beat him to the seat. Startled, the cat reached out and clawed the monarch. "LADY RAJANI!!" could clearly be heard throughout the halls of the palace
The two teenage boys quickly emptied the trash and made their way to their chambers when the King's voice filled the halls. They cringed and Earl said, "That sounds like the king and he does not appear to be happy."
"I have a bad feeling. Mr. Cuddle might have done something that I might regret." Reggie said squirming at the thought of what her cat had done that had gotten her into trouble.
+++
Mike Had decided to hold off going to bed when he noticed that Erica was nowhere to be found. So he decided to have a talk with his friend. He had reached the Royal quarters when he ran into Eowyn in the hallway and asked, "Have you seen Erica?"
"I believe she headed outside for some air. She doesn't care for pipe smoke." Eowyn answered. "She said it was irritating her eyes." But Mike knew that something is up because of that little lie.
"I am going to go find her," Mike said as he hurried to find his friend. He quickly discovered Erica sitting on the steps, staring off in the direction where Gandalf had ridden off. Walking up to her he commented, "You really should go to bed."
"I am not tired." she said still looking towards the distance. Realizing that her friend would recognize the lie for what it was, she quietly explained, "Hard to sleep here. Been having some really funky nightmares."
Mike sat down beside her, "You know we all have been through a lot lately. You want to talk about it?"
"I had a dream about Gondor and it burning."
"Burning...like what Pippin had seen?" Mike asked.
"I don't know the future but I have a feeling that if Gondor calls for help Dad will go. No matter what he said before Gramps left. Yeah but this was back on Earth I had this dream," Erica explained.
"You did. Why didn't you say something sooner?"
"Mike, I need to tell you something else," Erica said.
"Go on."
"Gramps ask me not to tell Reggie but he didn't say anything about you. But promise me you won't get upset."
"Well let me have it. After all that has happened, it will take a lot to upset me."
"You know that if the fires are lit. Aragorn will go no matter what." Erica answered as she stared down into her hands. "Gramps ordered me to stay close to him."
"Okay, that's not so bad. Aragorn looks after us as a big brother. What else?"
"That's it I just didn't want you pissed if I go into battle without you." Erica said, "I know how you would feel if you are kept out and I am not."
"And I suppose Reggie will be going with you." Mike smiled, "Do you really think I would stay out? Especially if I have family and friends involved?"
"Mike, you have a new Dad and I know if he ordered you to stay here you would." Erica answered and jeered "Of course he would have bind and gag you first. Well I just wanted to let you know."
"Well, he did order me to stay out of the fight." Mike conceded. "However, I was able to talk him into letting me go with him as long as I stay out of the close in fighting. We can still do the reach out and touch someone bit."
"So if the shit hits the fan you will know what to expect as to where I and Reggie are."
"You know there is a reason why I brought the mortars." answered the teen as he too made off for his bedroom.
"I am going to check on the others in the kitchen but you head to bed." Erica said as she headed for the large doors "I don't have run in the morning, but I will join you anyway."
"I wonder what is planned for this lass?" the dwarf pondered. "If she is to accompany Aragorn so shall I, and there is no one more stubborn than a dwarf."
"Talking to yourself, Master Dwarf?" Aragorn asked.
"Oh, Aragorn. I was just giving myself a little pep talk." the dwarf laughed
Aragorn raised an eyebrow in suspicion, "Very well. However, why don't you get some sleep? I have a feeling we will be busy for the future." The dwarf agreed and followed the Ranger to the sleeping quarters.
+++
Mike had neared his door when the king yelled out. The teen only shook his head as the same voice called out, "REGGIE GET IN HERE!"
Earl was waiting in the hall and teased in a sing song voice, "I think someone is in trouble."
Erica had returned to get something from the hall but decided against it, "I think I am needed in the kitchen."
Reggie turned to Haldir. "Think I may be in a tad bit of trouble. I believe the King found Mr. Cuddles. Do I have to go in there?"
The elf held her arm and answered, "Yes my lady."
The king spotted the retreating girl and yelled out, "Oh no young lady, you stop right now and get over here."
Erica gave the monarch a 'Who Me?' look and said, "Whatever it is, I didn't do it."
"Damn, I a have a bad feeling." Reggie squirmed from the kitchen.
"Just get over here," said the king in a low voice.
"What? Who me?" Erica pleaded innocently.
"Yes You. Where is your cousin?" asked the king.
"I don't know, but why am I in trouble?" Erica replied honestly but than thought If she is smart, she would far away from here by now.
Haldir led Reggie by the hand and brought her in front of the King. "You must take care of this." The elf said as dragged the girl into the hall.
Theoden pointed towards the cat. "This feline has gotten you in to trouble." The king said giving the girl a harsh look.
"Why it's HER cat." Erica squeaked.
"And according to Gandalf, YOU gave her the cat," replied the king.
"Yeah but I had to. It looked just as nutty as her." Erica answered as she tried to hide behind Legolas.
"That right it her fault." Reggie whispered to Haldir. At which Erica gave her a dirty look
Théoden heard the girl and gave her the same look he had given Grima once he had been freed from Saruman's control. "Come over here, REGGIE."
"Yes, your Highness." The girl said in her sweetest and most innocent voice.
"Her full name is Rajani Josephine Thykkuttathil" Erica beamed as Reggie shot an evil look at her and snarled.
The king gave the teen his stern father look as he asked, "Would you care to explain what your cat was doing on my throne?"
"I am out of here." Erica commented as she ran for the closest door.
Théoden motioned for Haldir to stop the girl. "Oh no, you are staying."
"Damn." Erica muttered. "I am going to skin that thing."
"Uhmmm, You see Mr. Cuddles...thinks that he is a King in his own way. And your throne is the most kingly place to sit, so he must have felt that was his place." Reggie said with puppy dog eyes that usually got her out of trouble with almost every one. Unfortunately it was not working with the king
"Since both of you have had a hand in training that cat, I feel you should both be responsible for it's actions," reasoned the king. He turned to Haldir, "What punishment should we give the two young ladies?"
Reggie looked at Haldir with the same eyes in which he tried not to falter to but she knew they would work. The elf turned to the king and addressed him, "My Lord, I think the young ladies should have a little reprieve on this matter. The cat has made a long journey from another world and he is just getting use to his new surrounding. I believe he will not make the same mistake next time." Haldir said directing his gaze towards the cat
"Hey I didn't train it I just gave it to her before she left. She did all the training." Erica
added.
Théoden shook his head, "It is obvious good elf that you have not much experience with children. Boundaries must be set and when mistakes are made, consequences must follow."
"Uhmmm...that is true she did not help me train the cat." Reggie said "But my cat has a mind of his own."
The king turned back to the girls, "So both of you are cleaning the kitchen for the next two days."
"Your majesty, I am very sorry. I will try my best to keep him under control but he is like any creature and he has his own mind." Reggie said apologizing for her cat
With patients and honor beyond her year Erica proudly stood before the king and said. "Your Majesty I respect your decision and will abide by it." Erica answered than bowed before him
"Just keep that cat away from my hall, understand young lady?"
"Yes your highness." Erica said as she leaves the hall all the while smiling to herself because the she always cleaned as she cooked.
"Yes your Majesty. Mr. Cuddles will be taking his leave from your hall. But my Lord, I am sure he will want to be your friend in time. He may come to like you in time if you could show him a little kindness in this matter. Your majesty, I am truly sorry." Reggie said again as picked up the feline and continued. "He has been there for me through my whole ordeal, and he has been my protector."
+++
Théoden nodded and motioned for the girl to leave. Mike was waiting outside the door when Erica came by. The teen recognized Erica's smile and asked, "What did my father want?"
"Oh Reggie's cat aggravated his rear-end and decided to take it out on both me and Reggie we got Kitchen duty for the next two days." Erica smiled
Mike gave the girl an evil grin, "You know, I seem to remember you always clean the kitchen after using it.... I wonder how Dad will feel about that little piece of information?"
"Mike you spill one word I and I will lengthen my report to your dad about the things you've done." Erica remarked than added. "I will give you all the first copies of the Playboy scene if you don't tell."
Mike smiled, "I don't know...."
"Fine do that. I don't care I am heading for bed." Erica snapped as she started to leave than turned and said. "Sorry Mike I haven't been sleeping well." as she turned to leave
"Just give me all copies of the Playboy video and we'll call it even. We all have things on our minds"
"I erased all but one and it's on the M.A,P under Hubba Hubba. Do with it you want." Erica answered.
+++
"Mr. Cuddles you are not to be in this hall when the King is around." Reggie whispered in cat's ear and than asked the King very politely. "May I go, my lord?"
Théoden nodded and went back to his duties
But before Reggie left she turned around. "My Lord, May I ask a favor of you?" The girl asked
Théoden looked up, "What is it?"
"Tomorrow, I was wondering if I may have a few volunteers of your men to demonstrate Martial Arts on for all who wish to learn the art." Reggie inquired
"I know of just the ones." Eomer answers with a smile an evil smile
The king raised an eyebrow and asked his nephew, "Oh, who did you have in mind?"
"Thank you Lord Eomer. I will be careful not to injury him in practice, Gandalf made me promise." Reggie said with a smile
"A few of the ones that went back to Earth with me," He answered looking directly at Rollo.
"Lady Reggie, do whatever you feel is fitting." Eomer tells her. "My men are tough."
Théoden suspected something and asked, "Why are you looking at that man?"
"He is the one of the ones I have in mind, uncle."
"Tough, will see about that." Reggie giggles to her self and than inquired "My King, will you be observing the training tomorrow."
Théoden nodded, "I will, although I will also be observing my son. He mentioned something about a live fire exercise."
"I am sure Mike will be thrilled to know you have shown great interest in his artillery. He loves his guns." Reggie laughs and smiled as she left the great hall with her cat in her arms and Haldir beside her.
+++
Reggie was excused from the presence of the King after 'The Mr. Cuddles Incident' and went for a walk with Haldir. They walked in silence as they left the Great Hall with Mr. Cuddles being forcibly carried by Reggie.
"Honestly Mr. Cuddles, Did you have to claw the King in the Ass?" Reggie scolded her cat. "What am I going to do with you?"
"My Lady, I believe he will behave himself when it comes to the king from now on." Haldir says as he reassures the girl.
"I hope so, next time he might put me in shackles and send me to the dungeon. I got off easy with kitchen duty." Reggie says with a little laugh. "Thanks for coming to my defense and asking for leniency on my behalf."
"What else could I do for my lady?" The elf said with a smile as he offered her his arm.
Reggie put Mr. Cuddles down and took his arm, they walked around and stop short of the front gates of the city. "Tonight is so beautiful. I wish I could go and explore this land and discover its beauty." Reggie say looking up at night sky
"I have seen it's beauty and it does not compare to yours." Haldir say with smile causing the teen to blush.
"Oh behave master elf." She said with a little smirk.
"Of course, my lady." The elf said and then asked "When this is all over and done with, would like me to show this world to you?"
"That would be wonderful." Reggie says as her eyes started to sparkle like the stars in the sky, at the thought of exploring this new land.
"And if you would like you could come to my home land and meet my queen, the Grand Lady Galadriel."
"I would be honored." She said as she looked towards the distance.
"Lady Rajani, I was wondering…" Haldir began to ask something and stopped.
"What were you wondering?" Reggie questioned the elf.
"Why do you seek to demonstrate your skills tomorrow?" he questioned.
She began to think, so many things had occurred while she was in Florida, she was no longer the child from Georgia that everyone knew, she had grown up down there and wanted to prove it. "Haldir, I seek to provide evidence of my worth as a warrior. Back on my earth I was a skilled trainer of my art. I educated many how to defend themselves from bad people. I taught them not to fear things but to take them head on and in stride. Teaching them to discover their true potential in everything they do. I believe that I could do it here, train Rohirrim people to not just rely on the horse masters to protect them but to rely on their own strength as the great people that they are. But I must first show the King that I am not just a mere girl." Reggie said remembering all her prior students and thinking about all the good she could do for the people of Rohan.
"You show great wisdom, kindness and strength. You are truly an amazing creature. You are so young and yet wise. Your friends have demonstrated their worth. Lady Erica and the other keep referring to you as being a street fighter and I have faith that you are a great warrior. But this fight to come, may have a far greater evil than you have faced in the past." The elf said with compassion in his voice.
"I am sure that when the fight comes that I will be ready. I, like my cousin will not stand on the side line if there is a battle to be fought on the behalf of friends and family. I do not wish to be alone and that what I will be if I do not see this through. I am a skilled warrior and I aim to prove it to all who doubt me." She told elf angrily and turned from him.
"Do not be angry with me, my lady. I only fear for your life as well as your friends."
"Trust me, I can take whatever anyone throws my way." Reggie said as went to leave from Haldir presence. He grasped her arm preventing her from leaving. "I am well aware that you can take care of your self, but you are here among many males who would give their lives to protect a wonderful female like you."
"I can take of my self and I do not need a man to protect me." Reggie hissed as she removed the elf's hand from her person. She than flipped the elf onto the ground and straddled him making him aware of her strength and conviction. "As you can see, master elf, I am perfectly able of defending my own honor."
"That you are my lady. That you are." Haldir said shocked at what had just transpired. A tension began to build within the elf with the woman on top of him. Reggie let the elf up from his position on the ground. She stared at him for a moment hoping he would understand her feeling towards everything that was going on.
"I am sorry." Reggie said as she turned to leave but was stopped by the sound of his voice and the words he spoke.
"No my lady, it is I who should be sorry."
Reggie was stopped dead in her tracks as her eyes widened at his words. He moved quickly and circled in front of the teen and bowed. "My Lady I am sorry. You are right, you do not need a male to protect you but I would like to offer my services if you ever need them."
"Thank you for understanding, and for the offer." Reggie said with tears in her eyes as she embraced the elf.
Haldir was startled by the embrace and thrown by her reaction to the whole conversation that had just occurred. He began to remember what his queen, the Lady Galadriel had said to him before he was sent on his journey to Helm's Deep and into the battle where Mike had saved his life. He had forgotten about the white witch's vision.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
*flashback*
Lothlorien
1900 Hours
March 5, 3019
(Middle Earth)
Lady Galadriel waited for her March warden to return from patrol, and as he arrived he was summoned telepathically to her side.
"My lady you wished to speak with me." Haldir said as he bowed to the white witch.
"Yes, My March warden you are to go to the land of Rohan and to the Aid of Men, at Helm's Deep." The elf queen spoke
"I shall do as you say My Grand Lady. But I do fear that I will not return from such a battle." He said bowing his head to the queen.
"Do not despair my dear Lothlorien March warden. You shall not parish in this battle for you will be saved by one and will stay by their side until you have repaid that debt. But even when you have you will not return, for you will have been taken from me by love." Galadriel said as she looked off into the distance.
"My queen, how could I be taken from you? I am devoted to you and my Lothlorien kin."
"My dear Haldir, you shall be taken from me, I would not lie. You will know her when the time comes. I may be your queen, but she will be your goddess. Your love will last longer than most elves' lifetimes." The queen spoke as she envisioned a being from another world that would take the heart of the March warden.
Haldir merely kept silent thinking that this could not be. Galadriel continued to tell him about the being. "You will find her in another land, another world. You will know her when a great and noble feline attack and you are not harmed by the creature. She is one of great strength and compassion will see this in her eyes. She will find comfort by your side as do you at hers. Know that she will be by your side when you do return to me."
"My lady, I believe that you would not lie, but I have not met such a being and I cannot see my self not being by your side protecting my queen and king." Haldir said looking baffled at the events to happen.
"And when the time come, and you will know of it you will give theses three packages to her and her two companions, a blessing from your queen. And she will be there as well." Lady Galadriel said pointing towards a beautiful black mare.
"As you wish my lady." Haldir said taking his leave from the queen and gathered his troop for a battle.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
As Haldir remembered this scene he became very still and quiet. "Haldir, Haldir" Reggie said as she shook him lightly but received no response. "Earth to Haldir. Do I need to toss and straddle you again to get your attention?" She stood up on her tip toes and brought her face close to his face. The elf quickly regained his faculties as a kiss was placed on his check to snap him out of the trance he had entered.
"Well I'd better be getting off to bed now." Reggie said as she left the stunned elf in the court yard.
As Reggie left the elf stared at her and thought to himself "She must be the one that My Grand lady was speaking of. I did not connect it before but now I relies she is when I saw the emotion in her eyes. She is the one I am to love and our love is to last longer than most elves' lifetimes, but how can this be? She is mortal?" The elf wandered the grounds of Edoras for a while to clear his earlier tension.
Reggie entered the chambers to find Erica still up waiting for her. "I take it you discovered our new guests." Reggie said when she noticed that Erica wasn't too happy with her.
"Well you could have told me earlier!" Erica said with a scorn full look in her eyes.
"You were busy and so was I. And then you put me on dish duty all night, beside that I had some issue that the King wanted to discuss." Reggie retorted
"Whatever. NEXT Time tell me, we have guests." Erica jeered at her cousin and then notice she had been crying. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing." Reggie said as she wiped her face.
"Don't give me that. I know you; you could never hide anything from me. You're upset for some reason. What happened?"
"I just had an argument with Haldir." Reggie said "But we worked it out."
"Do I need to hurt that elf?" Erica asked to make Reggie laugh.
"No, we are fine now." Reggie smiled
"Do you want to talk about it? At least give me the cliff notes"
"Cliff notes are that he thought I shouldn't be demonstrating my skills or fighting in this battle to come. And that I should let the men do the fighting for me. Well you can imagine what happened." Reggie explained the rest as she noticed that her cousin was tired. "I guess we should go to sleep, you have that fun run in the morning and I am going to do a little training of my own before I show the king my demonstration." Reggie laughed.
+++
After talking to her cousin, Erica drifted off to sleep and began dreaming of horrible events. She awoke with sweat dripping down her face, startled from the horrible image of a gangly creature betraying the two hobbits she had dreamt of before and of a mysterious being seeking the death of the teens. Erica was overcome with emotion that she wanted to cry out to someone, but to her dismay everyone was asleep. She quietly exited her chambers to get some air and hopefully clear her mind of all the evil that plagued her thoughts. The young girl walked out onto the balcony over looking the city and stared towards the East.
A male being walked up quietly from behind her and placed his hand on her shoulder as if to comfort the girl. Erica turned around to find Vidmor trying to sooth her pain. She had hoped that it was Legolas but she was so upset that she embraced the elf to seek some sort of comfort from the evil ever present in her minds eye.
"What is the matter Lady Erica?" The elf asked cradling the girl in his arms.
"I can't sleep. I am having horrible dreams that won't let me rest." She answered
"Is there anything I can do for you to help ease your troubles?" He asked lifting the girls face to look into her teary eyes.
"Just hold me." She said shaking.
"As you wish my lady, as you wish."
Meanwhile just out of sight of Erica and Vidmor, Legolas watched the scene unravel. The elf was upset to see his cousin comforting the girl. Jealousy began to consume the elf. He left swiftly to release the green monster building inside him.
+++
The next day started off with a three mile run before breakfast and physical training. Following breakfast, the first field exercise had been set up. Mike led the recruits a short distance outside the wall and called for the officers to gather. He waited for David, Earl and the others to gather around. Kneeling down, he got out a piece of paper and began outlining the exercise. "Okay, today we are going to assault a fixed position. I have already managed to get the Rohirrim to set up the enemy positions and act as said enemy for the field ex." The boys gathered closer and listened intently.
The teen began drawing symbols on the paper as he continued, "Okay, this hilltop overlooks the valley and the enemy has set up a prepared position on its top. Now we are going to be setting up a base of fire on the enemy and charge in there hard and fast in three squads of three."
"Who do we have?" asked the teen.
+++
A small crowd had gathered to observe the exercise. Included within the gathering were Reggie, Haldir, Theoden, Eomer, Aragorn and the remaining members of the fellowship.
"I have a feeling I am going to be enjoying watching this excursion." Reggie remarked to
Haldir, "That is, if Earl does one of his famous stunts.
"Why do you say that, My Lady? He is quite a good fighter." Haldir remarked as they watch the boys from a distance.
"I know, but he does things that wouldn't necessary be considered smart action." Reggie laughs " I suspect he takes his lead from Mike."
+++
Mike listened to Earl and David call out the new recruits' names. Finally he decided, "Okay, Earl and David, both of you will take two men with you. I'll take three, now lets move out."
Mike led the group to a dip in the land that screened them from the others on the hill. The teen crawled to the edge of the rise and look over. Filing what he saw to memory, he moved back down. He turned to Earl, "Earl they have group of archers protecting the position. Get in close and when I give the signal throw the practice grenades. David, you and I will open up and draw their attention. As soon as Earl takes out that first position, we'll rush it. Earl, wait until we start firing before throw the grenades."
"Yes sir" Earl said giving him a salute.
"Yes Sir," answered David.
Mike waited for Earl to move out while he took his people towards the left. He turned back to the recruits, "Now wait until I fire before shooting."
"Yes SIR!" The group resounded.
The teen took a deep breath, raised his rifle and let off four quick shots. The blanks sounding like live fire was quickly followed by the others. At first the group was startled but they did as they were told.
A couple hundred yards away, Earl pantomimed throwing the grenade when the archers began firing their padded arrows at Mike's group.
"It looks like the battle as started." The King remarked to Eomer who watched along with him.
As one, the two Rohirrim under Earl threw the practice grenades that went off with loud bangs.
The Rohirrim archers who had been posing as the enemy were surprised to see three orbs land within inches from them. One of them was about to reach for one when it went off with a loud bang. The man was shocked and fell back at the noise
Mike looked up when the grenades went off. Seeing that the archers were stunned, the boy jumped up and yelled back, "LETS GET GOING, FOLLOW ME!" The recruits followed their new leader closely.
+++
"That boy has courage," Eomer replied.
"These weapons, are fake, the real one with actually do a lot of damage." Reggie remarked to the King.
Theoden rubbed his chin in quiet reflection, "Interesting."
+++
Mike led the boys up the hill and jumped over the wall. He quickly snapped off a three round burst at an opposition soldier. Within seconds it was over as the enemy' surrendered. Mike signaled for the others to cease fire and end the exercise. The teen looked back at the adults who were coming over and waited before debriefing his company.
+++
"Mike has never been one to sit on the side lines. He definitely has more than guts." Reggie said with a smile. "But don't tell him I told you."
Theoden smiled and asked, "So you do respect him?"
"Yes, but I will never admit it to him. He'll get a big head if I do," Reggie laughed.
"I will keep your secret my lady."
+++
Eomer and Xander observed field demonstration side by side.
"Boy that kid knows his field tactics." Xander quietly remarked to Karen
"I know nothing about field tactics, but you're right."
"Xander, what do you think of my cousin's demonstration?" Eomer asked the former sport extremist.
"Not bad for a kid" He replied and was slapped up side the head by Karen
"Stop being an ASS, Xander. And be honest." Karen demanded
"Okay, jeeze, when did you come all bossy?" He replied rubbing his bald head.
"What you don't like the new me." Karen jeered "I have been hanging out with one the girls. Dena has taught me that I should slap any guy upside the head if he isn't being a gentleman or well in your case being honest. Because let's face it Xander, have never and will never be a gentleman, you are too much of a chauvinistic pig. I think I will go find Dena and discuss our male bashing tactics"
"Hey now that hurts," Xander quipped
"What did she mean by a chauvinistic pig?" Eomer questioned as he watched Karen walk away towards Dena who had been watching the exercise from the sidelines.
"Let just say, chauvinistic pig is a man who doesn't like to be ordered around by women and make it very clear that he is the dominant force of the genders." Xander replied
"Oh, I see so I would be a chauvinist as well." Eomer questioned not knowing fully the meaning of the word.
"I guess if the shoe fits."
Eowyn had been listening to the end of the conversation and decided that she was not pleased with its outcome. She approached the two men from behind and smacked them both and proceeded towards the field to where Karen and Dena were standing.
"What was that for?" Eomer questioned but received no reply.
"She has some spunk." Xander smirked "I may need to get to know her better."
"It would be advised not to, that is my sister you are talking about." Eomer informed him with a look that struck fear into the hearts of his men.
"Oh. Sorry, I meant nothing by it." Xander replied staring at the sheildmaiden.
+++
When the adults were within earshot, Mike began, "Okay, that was how we take a fixed position. First, we pinned down the enemy with our shooting. Did anybody learn anything from that?"
"Always follow your leader." One of the boys said hoping it was the right answer.
Mike waited for one of the recruits to answer before continuing, "When the enemy became distracted by our shooting it enabled Lt. Beegle's squad to get close enough to throw hand grenades. Had this been for real, the enemy force would have been eliminated."
Most of the boys look in disbelief in what they had just done and were unable to answer.
"Normally, you would have nine weeks of basic training to learn how to soldier. We don't have that long so we will have to make do. Listen to your officers and learn what they have to offer,
"Mike is wise." Haldir commented to Reggie.
"Don't go around telling him that." Reggie laughed
One of the younger boys finally asked what some of them were thinking. "Sir?"
"We will be going through as many field exercises as possible to get your skills up." Mike turned to the recruit and asked, "Yes?"
"We will follow you and Lt. Beagle but some of our group do not believe we should follow women even your American ones." The boy admitted. "Is their lack of skill why they are not out here."
"Did I hear that boy correctly?!!" Reggie said as she started to clinch her fist and snarl a little
Mike nodded and grabbed his collar, "In this unit we have a chain of command. I am the commanding officer with Lt. Marr being second in command, followed by Lt. Beegle and Lt. Simms. Now in the army you respect the rank and not the person wearing it. If a superior officer tells you to do something, you salute and obey the order."
"But why are they not here to help lead than?" The boy whimpered. "Yeah Lady Erica seems to be better in the kitchen than on the battle field," Another remarked.
"I can't believe what I am hearing." Reggie remarked as Haldir place his hand on her shoulder to calm her
"Mike." Erica said as she placed a hand on his should to calm her friend down. "I think I will join these boys in one of Reggie's training sessions."
Mike ignored his friend, narrowed his eyes and in a low voice growled, "THAT, borders on insubordination. Now, you will obey your superiors whether you agree with them or not. Is that clear?"
"They are boys, and do not know your worth, yet." Haldir whispered into her ear.
Mike stalked closer to the recruit and asked, "Now, there will be times when I will not be present to personally oversee your training. Does that make me unworthy to command?"
Erica walked up and placed a hand on Mike's shoulder, "Mike, calm down. They are boys raised by fathers who felt this way about women. So let's just give them a jolt of what women can really do than we lay into them about insubordination."
"I will just lay into them in training." Reggie thought to herself.
Mike nodded then turned back, "Erica, right now this is a military organization and we will have discipline in the ranks."
"You are right Lt. Wolfe." Erica said with a salute. "I agree so let me take them on another 10 mile march." Erica replied. "Now."
Mike returned the salute and turned back to the recruits, "Lt. Mars, you have command. Form up the company and march them to the firing range for some target practice."
"ATTEND HUT!" The Girl Bellow out in a voice that left no room for argument. "LISTEN UP YOU SHIT HEAD MAGITS! YOU THINK MIKE WAS BAD NOW YOUR ASSES ARE MINE AND I NOT YOUR MOMMY. SEE THOSE MONTAINS. THATS WHERE WE'RE HEADING. DOUBLE TIME!" Erica ordered. All of the new recruits followed her as they headed for the Mountains with Erica at the lead.
Mike watched as his second in command led the company off to the range. When the last soldier had marched off he walked over to where the adults were watching. He approached the king and asked, "What did you think?"
"Michael, your demonstration was very promising," The King said with a smile
Mike grinned, "I'll let Erica take them on the march. I figure ten miles with full pack should wear them down. Although I am hoping to eventually expand this unit into a full fledged rifle company." He paused and asked the king, "So what do you think about a little shooting at the range while waiting for them to come back?"
"Do you think it is a good notion to let them go off on their own with a woman leading, even if it is Erica?' the King inquired.
"I have every confidence in her abilities."
+++
Mike and the adults were soon walking back towards the firing range that had been set up on the outskirts of Edoras. On the way Mike asked the king, "I feel my people can contribute if you ride to aid Gondor."
"We will see. I will tell you my decision later, I wish to see how Lady Reggie will handle herself against one of my guard." Théoden replied to his son's question.
"Oh yeah that should be good." David comments.
Mike nodded, "I'll hold off badgering you. But remember, the Rohirrim can't shoot anything beyond bow range. My mortars and heavy machine guns can support the riders at ten times that range."
"Michael if I hear you speak of it one more time My answers will be NO." The King retorted.
"Hey, this is the first time today!" defended the teen.
"It may be the first time today, But I have come to know you my son, and it won't be the last time." The King said "So enough!"
"Mike quit while your ahead." Earl whispered to his friend.
Changing the subject, Mike said, "I was talking with Xander yesterday and he said that some of the Boulder survivors had opened a flying school..."
"A flying school?" The king questioned
"Oh shit." Earl muttered
Mike nodded, "Yeah, that's where they teach people how to fly aircraft."
"Mike I could always teach you." Reggie said with a little smirk.
"And I was thinking about taking flying lessons."
"Gandalf already warned me you would ask such a thing and after seeing Erica's report on you my decision is not until you are 21 winters or I am dead." The King informed him. "DO NOT ASK AGAIN!"
"Daddy, not going to let you learn, Mikey," Reggie giggled. "This day is starting to look up."
Mike jumped back, "I take it Erica mentioned the plan to hook loudspeakers and a tape deck to a helicopter?"
"One of many things she has yet to mentioned." The king said and gave Mike a harsh look, "And Michael I think you know my answer."
"Okay, could I take helicopter lessons then?"
"I said do not speak of it again! Or it will be never!"
"No she didn't but Gandalf did." Eomer told him
Mike gave a fake whine, "You never let me have any fun."
"You probably won't be having any." Reggie whispered in Mike's ear.
"Thanks Reg," said Mike through gritted teeth. Then he picked up, "Looks like I'll just have to settle for staying on the ground. But seriously, it would be nice to be the first person to fly around Middle Earth or set a world speed record."
"Michael!" The King said in a warning tone
"I might teach you." Reggie snickered.
"I think your grandfather has other plans for you young lady." The king remarked.
"Oh, crap!!" Reggie muttered and turned to Mike, whispering, "I have a feeling we are going to be in for something."
Mike shrugged, "So I'm grounded for now. I'm sure I could figure a way to get enough fuel to Middle Earth to drive a tank." He looked back to Earl, "Hey Earl, can you imagine the enemies' reaction to 70 tons of heavy metal crashing down on them?"
"Mike don't go there." Earl said.
A loud smack could be heard as Eowyn walked by both the boys. "Gandalf told me to do that if either of you two mentioned anything with fuel." Eowyn informed them
At this Reggie and David began to laugh.
Mike shrugged, "Give me enough time, we could form and operate an Armored Cavalry Regiment. Of course, that includes the attached field artillery units. It would be neat to introduce Mordor to Steel Rain."
"Mike I don't want to be slapped anymore." Earls said as he rubbed his head "Keep your plans secret for now."
"Why do you say that?" asked the teen. "Think about it, cruising into Mordor at treetop level, doing 100 knots and dropping on a hot LZ."
"Mike, your father has already said no. I really don't want to face his version of a court marshal." One of the teens answered. Of course Théoden and Eomer were looking in his direction while he was making the proposal.
"Hey, Dad said I could not take piloting lessons until I'm 21. He didn't say anything about hopping a ride."
"Besides where are we going to get the fuel. Be realistic Mike." Reggie said wondering how Mike was going to pull off this hair brain scheme.
Mike shrugged, "If we use Blackhawks, we could fit the drop tanks on the fuselage hardpoints. That would give us the range if we form up in Hartfield Airport in Atlanta and then fly through the portal."
"Mike's daddy at 6 o'clock," David warned the teen to shut him up.
Reggie turned and whispered to Earl while rolling her eyes in Mike's direction "We are going to be in trouble, if Mike has anything to say about it."
Mike slowly turned around and smiled, "Hello Father."
"Oh, Hello your Majesty," Reggie said with an innocent smile.
"Just what are you discussing?" The King inquired but dreaded the answer.
"Oh, nothing important, just random American Teenage things," Reggie quickly said.
Mike grinned, "Oh nothing much just planning an Air Assault on the Dark Lord himself."
"Mike is only joking." Reggie quickly answered as she elbowed the teen in the gut
"You best be joking for if you aren't, you will never fly." The king informed him.
"Owww!" Mike squealed from Reggie elbowing him and replied to his father, "Well I did agree to follow your wishes and not take flying lessons and I wouldn't be piloting the choppers. Just riding in the first wave."
"Mike doesn't know when to shut up." Earl commented to David quietly.
"Mike shut up!" Reggie said elbowing him again and stepping on his foot with her boot heal.
"10 says he never gets up in the air while daddy is alive at this point." David jeered back.
"I will admit that we will most likely have a hot LZ facing us but throw in some gunships for close support and maybe add some ARA and tac air to go with it."
"Michael I told you I have had enough on THAT SUBJECT!" Théoden remarked. "You are my son less than a day and already you do not respect my wishes?"
"Your majesty, I believe it is time for MY demonstration." Reggie said as she looked at Mike and gave him a look that screamed, shut the hell up.
Mike looked at his father in all seriousness, "I was joking. Besides we won't have the capability to properly support such an operation for at least two years. That includes setting up support structures and training personnel."
"Mikey, let's quit while you are somewhat ahead," Reggie whispered to him.
"That typing of joking is not welcome. For that, you have just volunteered for lady Reggie's practice session." The King informed his son in a tone as not to be argued with.
Mike softly replied, "Yes sir. As long, as we are finished before Erica gets back. We still have to work on their marksmanship."
"That is all up to Lady Reggie." The King answered.
At this Reggie smiled devilishly at her friend and giggle saying "YES!"
"Mike is so dead," David laughed.
"Why is Mike dead?" Xander asked as he walked up next to the teens.
"Because Mike's new daddy volunteered him to be a practiced dummy for Reggie's Hand to hand session. And she cheats." Earl laughed.
"Oh Mikey trust me, we won't be done!!" Reggie laughed.
Mike leaned over to Reggie and whispered, "Reggie, I wonder if my father would like to know that you and Erica always clean the kitchen after cooking? Especially after Mr. Cuddles clawed him?"
"Trust me Mikey, I don't care if you tell him or not." Reggie replied "I have a feeling that he won't be too happy with the dirt I got on you already."
Mike shrugged, "Okay, if that's what you want." He began walking near his father,
"Oh your majesty, I was wanting to tell you about your son and some of the things he has done in the past." Reggie began to say as Mike walked towards his father. Mike looked back at the girl to as if to tell he gives in and follows his father towards the practice arena Reggie had set up earlier in the day.
++++
The group traveled towards the middle of the court yard in front of the great hall. The court yard's ground was covered in dirt, soft and hard. Mike cringed as they approached the area.
Waiting for them was Eomer and a not too happy Rollo. Along with the King and the sisters still hidden in boy's clothes with a crowd of Rohirrim folk looking on.
The crowd of people formed a circle around Reggie and Mike. "Mikey, we are going to start with the basics for our new comrades." Reggie said as she started to demonstrate a basic stance.
"5 says Mike kisses the ground at least 5 times in less than a minute." Earl bet David.
"I'd say it more like 8 in less than a minute." David answered. "You're on."
Mike took off his helmet and placed it beside his web gear and weapon. Getting into position, he sighed, "Lets get this over with. I have a busy day."
"Oh Mike, it may take all day." Reggie laughed.
Reggie started with the basics of breathing and balance.
"No it won't. we can't afford to have our people miss any training."
"You must be centered in this before we can begin, Mike." Reggie said as she started her breathing
Many of the Rohirrim warriors made quite snide remarks about the female and the fighting demonstration. Hearing his Reggie turned and said, "Mike I think I need a little warm up before I have you engage in the demonstration." She turned towards Rollo and said "You try to attack me." The Rohirrim warriors soon quit making their remarks as the teen had Rollo attack her. Rollo kissed the ground five times within the span of less than a minute
"Now I will show you another move." Reggie explained, "Mike come at me like you have a knife or sword." She turned back to the students, "This move is meant to disarm and dismember but I am doing it slow so I won't hurt him to much."
"Mike going to get his now," Earl snickered
Mike looked down at the Rohirrim, "Hello, you do realize that I was supposed to be practicing with Reggie."
The teen walked past the Rohirrim, shaking his head as he 'accidentally' kicked him.
"Mike, why did you do that?" Reggie whispered to him as he centered the ring
Mike whispered back, "The son of a bitch tried to stir up things with our elven friends back in Atlanta."
Mike took up a small stick at aimed it at Reggie's chest. Reggie caught his wrist then twisted it and stepped behind him with it. Than she placed her foot into the back of Mike's knee forcing him down. "Now matter how big your opponent is they have a weakness ... Their own strength." Reggie explained as she twisted his wrist a little
"I got tired of that racist BS he was spouting. In fact I came close to capping his butt but Haldir and Eomer talked me out of it."
"Oh, Really...I am not done with that bastard than!" Reggie said letting Mike up.
Mike gave the girl a short bow, "Then by all means, have at him."
"But let get your part over with before so the King thinks you have had your punishment.' Reggie told him. She went on with her demonstration. "Now this doesn't quite work for men but I find it very, very useful in street fighting." Reggie said as she approached the teen and kissed the teen on the lips. Mike turned red as he Reggie proceeded to knee him in the gut. He keeled over as Reggie giggled
David, Earl and Xander all flinched in sympathy pain after seeing Mike receive a devious blow to the stomach. Mike picked himself up and walked over to pick up his gear. On his way out Mike leaned over and told the three, "Congratulations."
"Huh" the three questioned.
You guys just volunteered to go in after she finished with Rollo."
"I think Mike may have had enough, for now." Reggie giggled and started to snarl at the Rollo.
"Now you get it!" Mike smiled evilly at that the three.
"This going to be a good workout," Reggie snickered.
"Them not me," Xander snickered.
Mike gave all three the evilest grin, "Actually, Master Xander news of your exploits has spread through the capital. So you go in as soon as she finishes sweeping floor with Rollo."
"It will be payback for subjecting me to see you in that Speedo." Reggie snickered.
At her remarks one of the sisters asked. "What's a Speedo?"
"Bad mental image," Reggie says as she hit her head.
The other two teens began laughing at Xander's expression. Mike silenced their laughter with an ominous, "You two go after Xander. Bye."
"Mikey don't you want to stay and see it." Reggie called after him
Mike shouldered his rifle and turned back, "I would love to but the recruits are almost back from Erica's fun run and I need to greet them at the range."
"Okay now that I am finished Mike it time to kick some serious ass." Reggie snarled and looked in Rollo direction
Mike walked over to Théoden and Eomer. Stopping in front of the king, he quietly said, "I was never serious about the flying into Mordor remark."
"I am glad to hear that. However, my son I am beginning to become aware of when you are lying to me." The King smirked
"You caught on fast," observed the teen. "Care to join me on the range for some target shooting?"
"Wait a moment, I wish to see how she will take on my warrior." Théoden says
As Théoden, Eomer watched the girl snarl at the warrior, Mike turned around and replied and asked. "I've seen her in action and saved her but a few times so I'll still head over to the range. Are you coming by later?"
"Of course, I would not miss you demonstration." The king replied
Reggie looked at Rollo with an evil glare and sneered. "I have heard that you do not think highly of other? Well what do you think of me?"
Mike began to walk away but paused and yelled back, "HEY REG, KID GLOVES ARE OFF!"
"Not a problem Mikey, I never put them on for bigots like him." Reggie yelled back
Mike chuckled and walked off towards the firing range.
"I asked you a question, shithead." Reggie turned back to Rollo
"I am holding back earlier for I didn't wish to harm you." Rollo lied
"Yeah Right, whatever! You don't think I am a warrior do you?" Reggie sneeringly inquired
"A girl is no match for a trained warrior," challenged the Rohirrim as he rushed Reggie.
"Let's dance shithead." Reggie said as she side stepped and side wiped the rushing Rohirrim
++++
Erica with the troops arrived back in time to see Reggie take on the racist bastard.
"ALRIGHT SHIT HEADS ! ANY MORE COMMENTS LIKE BEFORE AND WE RUN THE REST OF THE NIGHT!" Erica bellowed at the group that had just halted and fallen to the ground in front of the combat arena where Reggie was demonstrating.
One young boy mumbled something. "What DID you say?" Erica demand .
"Shut up, we do not want to go for another run." The recruits tell the whimpering boy.
++++
"What's going on?" Erica asked Eomer
Haldir voice called from above. "Lady Rajani" But Reggie ignored him and said "Sorry handsome can't talk now in the middle a fight."
Eomer answered, "Your cousin has decided to use Rollo for her demonstration."
"Why him and not Mike?" Erica questioned.
"Michael didn't tell about what happened at the armory?"
"No what happened?" Erica questioned as she noticed her cousin taken a lot of pleasure in beating the shit out of the man
Eomer scratched his chin and answered, "I believe that is up to my new cousin. Needless to say, the boy was about to shoot Rollo before I stopped him."
The Rohirrim got up and tried rushing her again grabbing her from behind. Reggie stomped on his foot and did a quick reversal and kicked the man in the knee sending him to the ground. She than proceeded to kick him in the ass pushing him into the dirt face first. As the man got up she did a solid round house kick to his jaw sending him flying back over a fence into the horses' water trough.
"Well if Mike was that piss." Erica remarked than yelled. "Reggie, just remember Gramps said don't kill anyone EVERYTHING else is fair game." The teen than left to find Mike and find out what happened in Atlanta.
"Oh, don't worry cus, I know." Reggie answered as she walked over toward the man who stood up out of the water. "Shall we continue?" Reggie said going back into her stance.
+++
Out on the firing range, Mike unpacked a box of rifle magazines and placed each on a nearby table. He than began walking out on the range making sure the targets we're ready for the first recruit.
Aragorn walked silently up to the boy and asked. "Do you think it is wise to leave Rollo to Lady Reggie?"
Mike finished reading the last target as he answered, "Reg promised Gandalf that she wouldn't kill anyone so she won't kill him. Now, messing him up is another matter entirely."
He got up and faced the Ranger, "What did you think of that little field exercise this morning?"
"I found it to be quite interesting." The ranger said as she rubbed his chin and thought to himself. "Since they came from someone so young."
Mike motioned for him to follow, "How so?"
"The strategic placement of your men was unnerving at first because I didn't know where or how you planned to take on the Enemy." Aragorn replied to the teen's question "It was much like trick or a slide of hand, distracting your opponent." Aragorn said surveying the target range
Mike nodded, "That was the entire idea. Hit the enemy where he least expect it and maximize my assets. If I was back home, I probably would have called in an air strike to soften them up first."
The ranger laughed at the boy's remark
"But since we don't have any close air on hand, we have to make do with what we have. Thus, getting these recruits acclimated with the weaponry. God how I wish I had nine weeks to properly train them."
"But you do not Master Michael. I am not sure of how long we have." Aragorn said. "I am afraid we are lucky to even have this." Aragorn answered
Mike shook his hand, "You don't know how right you are. That's why I'm cramming as much as possible in the few days we have. You want to watch the demonstration?"
"Of course it seems Dena sold tickets." Aragorn replied with a smile
"Tickets to a firearms demonstration?"
"Yes, she said it should be quite a sight."
"At least that is what she said she would have to do since everyone was interested in being there." Aragorn answered
Mike walked over to a table and picked up his M-4. Flipping it over, he removed the magazine filled with blanks. "Don't see what all the fuss is. I mean you were there with Earl and I up on the wall."
"Mike what the hell happened?" Erica's demand voice called out.
Mike chuckled, "I think she was referring to the new recruits taking their first shots." The teen looked up at the approaching girl, "Looks like Erica wants something."
"Damn straight I do. Why were you so pissed at that Rohirrim that Reggie is beating the shit out of?" Erica asked as she came up.
Mike picked up a fresh magazine and slammed it into his weapon. "That wouldn't happen to be our dear friend Rollo?"
"Yeah I guess that is his name. So what did he do?" Erica inquired.
Mike aimed his weapon downrange and sighted on an Uruk chestplate held up on a dummy. He fired off three rounds in single action mode. "Let's just say he made the mistake of questioning Haldir's honor."
"WHAT!? When she's done with him I get him for Kitchen duty." Erica demanded.
The teen raised his rifle a couple inches and punched a further two holes into the helmet.
"Yeah, if it hadn't been for Eomer I would have given him a sever case of lead poisoning."
"Eomer is smart enough to know that there are worse punishments than lead." Erica snickered at what she was going to have the shit head do.
"Where are the troops?"
"I gave them a twenty minute break Dena should be bringing them by any minute." Erica answered. "I am heading to check on dinner."
Mike nodded, "Okay." He turned back to Aragorn, "Should I be aware of any other important people dropping by for the demonstration?"
"Just about everyone in the entire town," Erica answered as she left.
Mike nodded and muttered something about making a note to share some favorite blonde jokes with Earl that night.
On her way back Erica notice Legolas and Vidmor coming through the gates. "Where were you two?" She questioned
Legolas answered, "Just settling our differences."
"What do you mean by that?" Erica question
Legolas simply stated, "We just had a difference of opinions on an issue and needed to clear it up."
"Whatever." Erica said than headed for the kitchen all the while not believing them
+++
Reggie finished kicking the shit out of Rollo and moved on to Xander, Earl and David. She didn't hurt them too much but she did send the Rohirrim to the infirmary for a little nap. The girl took a breath as she followed the group up to the sight of Mike's demonstration
Mike motioned for Aragorn to grab a seat while they waited for the recruits to show up. A short time later, the sound of marching feet could be heard followed. The teen waited for them to arrive before ordering, "Listen Up, we have space for five shooters at a time. So, the first five move up to the firing line."
Dena's voice repeated Mike's command than she turned over command to him
Mike nodded and walked over to the first firing position. Stopping beside the weapon, he yelled out, "Before we get started, let's go over a few safety rules."
"First, keep your weapon aimed towards the range. Right below you is a white line. If I see a barrel cross that line, that person will receive my boot in their butt. Is that clear?"
"YES SIR." The recruits answered
"Next, do not begin shooting until I give the command. When I say cease fire stop shooting and return the weapon to the platform with the barrel facing out.""
The men stood in there designated spots waiting for there commanding officer's order
to begin firing
The teen picked up what appeared to be some kind of head set and placed them on his head. "Okay, place the ear protectors over your ears like this."
The recruits did as they were told
Mike did a quick check down the firing line. Ensuring that everything was in order, he went back to his position and yelled out,"
Load your weapons!" Slowly the group did as they had been shown.
"Sight on your targets the way I demonstrated yesterday." They raised their weapons and sighted their targets
Mike picked up a pair of binoculars as he called out, "Select single fire mode and fire one shot."
Tiredly the recruits did what they had been shown and shot at the targets
Mike observed as the first shots struck home. He looked down and said, "Aim a little higher." Several of the group did as they were told
Mike nodded and yelled out, "You have ten shots. Makes sure you aim each one. You may begin!" The group commenced firing upon the targets. As the shoots bombed out several of the elves flinched at the pain it caused.
Finally, Mike called out, "CEASE FIRE, CEASE FIRE! Place your weapons beside you and stand up." The recruits did as they were told.
"The men aren't bad for their first time." Reggie remarked to Haldir who had come up behind her.
Several of the Rohirrim look on in interest as to what the newly young prince would have the recruits do. Mike focused on the targets, then lowered his field glasses. Finally, he turned around, "Not bad for beginners. Okay, I want you to move back and allow the second group their chance."
"YES SIR!" The recruits said and than moved for the next
Fifteen minutes later, the second group was finished. Mike waited for that group to stand up before beginning, "I have to say that you did well on your first time. It is my intention to get you people qualified on the M-16 today. So, I am turning this over to Lt's Beegle and Sims." He walked over to the teens, "It's all yours."
+++
Inside the Great Hall Erica had just finished helping the ladies finish placing the food when she stop and looked towards the east with a weary feeling.
Mike walked up the hill towards the great hall. Outside the building, he noticed Aragorn eating from the bowl. "You aren't watching the show?" asked the teen.
"I found it to be a little loud." Aragorn replied as he looked up and saw a bright light lit in the distance.
"That's why you wear ear protectors," answered the teen as he sat down. "Erica fix you that?"
The fires of Gondor have been lit. He ran towards great hall and burst through the doors. "The signal has been lit. Gondor calls for aid."
Mike looked over to where Aragorn had been watching, "Oh Shit," muttered the teen as he took off after the Ranger.
Inside the King was speaking to Eomer about the new weapons when Aragorn rushed in to the great hall.
Mike was on the Rangers heels as he barreled into the hall, yelling out, "The fires are lit. Gondor calls for Aid!"
"And Rohan shall answer." The King announced.
"Sounds like we going to have to save the day, again." The teen answered with a smile
Mike walked over to the king, "I'm coming with you father."
+++
As they listened to the discussion occurring in the great hall, Dena approached Mike
"Mike, you and I need to talk NOW!" She tells him
Mike turned back and faced the girl. "What do you want?"
"In private now!" Dena tells him in a concerned voice
Mike took one look back and followed hid friend outside. Making sure that they were alone, he asked, "What did you want to say?"
"Mike I know you don't want to know what's going to happen but I think you will with what I have to tell you." Dena begins
"Okay, go on."
"Mike you have lost so much already and I can't bare to see you loose more." Dena said as she looked towards the great hall where the king was
Mike followed her gesture and noticed that she was looking at the king. A sense of dread fell on him as he grabbed his friend by the shoulders.
"A Fell Beast and A Ring Wraith are going to kill you new dad after they start to win the fight," Dena explained in sorrow
Mike turned slowly around and asked, "Okay, what are you talking about?"
"Mike according to the books only a woman can kill the Ring Wraiths." Dena told him.
"What did the book say exactly?"
"The Rohirrim will arrive at Gondor's greatest need. They will send many enemies fleeing at seeing this, but the Head Ring Wraith will attack your dad. Eowyn will be in the battle she will kill it and the fell beast but not before." Dena says with sorrow. "They cause a death blow to him. So watch the skies."
A hard look came over the boy. "The hell it will. I've got some toys just for Mr. Nazgul and his fell beast."
"Mike I don't think your toys will kill it...Only a woman can. Ok Mike I hope this helps to change things. Because we already changed a few details. Like Haldir was to die at Helm Deep," Dena tells him
"What, Haldir was supposed to die at Helms Deep?" asked the teen.
"Yes and many more elves than that did all because we were there to kill more Orcs." Dena explain
"If I can save him, than I can save my father." Mike says looking back towards the king
"Mike there is something else you need to know." Dena explains
"I've already lost too many relatives. I'll be damned if I'm going to lose another. Not while I still draw breath."
"I was helping Erica just before Aragorn came in. Her eyes started glowing blue and she was looking to the east. I think she knew." Dena commented with a shiver
"Her eyes turned blue?" Mike questioned.
"No. They glowed blue. It was the weirdest thing I'd ever seen."
"Mike you can't tell him I don't think he'll understand plus he'll try and stop you from going if he knows you will try and stop it."
Before leaving, he gently grasped the girl's hands, "Look Dena, I won't spill the beans. But I will be there with him one way or another."
"Ok, but for now what about Erica?"
"I will talk to her later, but I must talk with my father now. You do understand?"
"Alright but I worried about what this is doing to her. She hasn't been sleeping well. She is constantly having nightmares. It's only after Legolas has song to her she can sleep. But he hasn't the last couple of night." Dena explained.
Mike nodded, "I understand," and turned back to enter the hall.
"Well than we have talk to Legolas and get him to sing to her again." Dena called after him
"We will, but I need to have a word with my father," said the teen as he walked back into the hall. He stopped in front of the king and said, "So you are going to aid Gondor?"
"Yes," Théoden replied with dread for he knew what he new son was about to ask
"I know what going to happen and really hope it doesn't." Reggie mumbled to herself as she watched Mike go and talk to the King." He can't loose another one."
Mike took a deep breath, "I promised you I would stay out of the fighting but there is no way I'm going to wait here, while you put yourself in danger. I lost one set of parents already to a plague. I'll be damned if I'm going to lose you to the Dark Lord and do nothing about it."
"I will allow you to go on two conditions." Théoden remarked knowing how the boy felt..
"What are they?"
"One you stay away as far as your weapon can keep you. Second your women are to stay out of the fight completely." He tells him. "At Helm's deep they fought well but this will be far worse. I will not have them risking they lives."
"I would agree with you on Dena, since she is pretty much our team medic. But Erica has been my second in command since we started school, I can't kick her out."
"These are my conditions either you obey them or all of you stay here." Theoden
Mike was not happy with the choice he was being forced to make. Mike took a deep breath and finally said. "I will relieve the females of my unit from active duty until you deem fit for them to return. I will go and inform them." Mike headed for the girl's Barracks.
+++
The teen left the hallway, wondering how he was going to explain to the girls. Finally, he stood at the door and knocked.
"Whose there?" A voice rang from within.
"It's me, let me in," answered a solemn teen.
"Boy you sound like someone just took your favorite toy." Erica laughed as she allowed him to enter.
"What's wrong Mikey?" Reggie asked.
Mike walked in and closed the door. He looked at Erica and said, "You might want to sit down."
The teen took a deep breath, "I talked with my father."
"Why do I suddenly have a bad feeling?" Dena muttered
Erica just raised an eyebrow at her friend but did as he asked.
"I don't know how to say this, so I'll come straight out and tell you. Dad wants you girls out of the fight and would only let me come along if I agreed to it."
"What the hell?" Reggie said
"WHAT THE BLOODLY HELL!" Dena yelled. "After what I told you, you agreed?"
Erica just looked at him in disbelief as argue started showing in her eyes. After a moment she finally spoke. "So you ditch your old family for your new." Erica hissed.
"Dang it Dena, I had no choice. It was either take you off active duty or we all stay. I couldn't let him ride off to certain death while waiting here"
"Mike, There is no way in hell that I am not going to fight. Didn't the king see how I handle myself with that bastard Rollo. If I can take one of his warriors I don't think he should hold us out of the fight." Reggie sneered
Mike walked over to the window and looked out, "What would you have me do? Tell him no and let him ride to his death. I lost one set of parents, I'm losing another."
With out looking at her friend Erica asked in a dead tone. "We are off active duty? So our time is our own?"
"Erica, you saw how losing my parents to the plague affected me. If what Dena says came true, I'm afraid I will be making a one-way trip to Mordor alone."
"I asked you if our time is our own." She said in a dead tone.
"Yes it is," he replied in an equally emotionless tone.
"I like your thinking cus." Reggie started to smile as she realized Erica's plan "If our time is our own and we can do whatever the hell we want and you won't be in trouble."
At his answer she turned to face him with a bright smile on her face and said. "Fine. But ask your father if we can at least come with you to the encampment." Erica asked with glee in her voice.
Mike turned around, "Just keep me out of any plans. Eowyn mentioned that the ladies of the court are accompanying the Rohirrim to the staging area. I believe you qualify as ladies of the court."
"Mike I am sorry about what I said earlier. I'm glad for you to have a father again." Erica finally admitted.
"Who ever thought I would like being called a lady, I like it." Reggie replied with a smile
Mike nodded and answered Erica, "That's okay. Get ready to move out."
+++
"Mike have you had a chance to talk to Legolas?" Dena asks after she follows Mike out
His task done, Mike walked out of the room. He was hallway down the hallway when Dena caught him. Looking back,, he asked, "What are you talking about?"
"Listen Mike I talked to Erica a couple of nights back about her nightmares and she told me that seems to sleep bed when he's song to her. She guess because it was because her mom used to sing to her after she had nightmares. But
"But what?"
"But when I tried it didn't work she still had more nightmare." Dena explained
Mike stopped, "Are they getting worse?"
"She wont admit it but it keeping her from any real sleep." Dena answers
"Maybe we should talk to her about it. Think we should bring in Legolas?"
"Yeah but I don't think he will agree he's been avoiding her lately. I've got a plan if you want to help." Dena tells him
"Spill..."
"Guilt tactics should work real well on the elf." Dena smiled
Mike looked at his watch, "We had better make it quick. I have to get my people ready to leave for the assembly area."
"You start in on him first than I will come in and blind side him." Dena told him
"And just what are you two up to?" Aragorn asks
Mike turned back to the Ranger, "Erica's been having some nasty nightmares and we are going to do something about it. Want to come along?"
"How may I be of assistance in this matter." The Ranger asked concerned for the girl
"It seems she only sleeps better after Legolas sings to her." Dena informed the Ranger
"Turns out that our elven friend can calm her down after a bad dream. I was thinking that he could help convince her to talk about it."
"He's be avoiding her lately and she hasn't slept well." Dena piped in
"Now Legolas has been avoiding Erica lately and we were thinking you could help talk him into coming along."
"I am sure my presences will be a help to have my elven friend do this duty. I will gladly do anything to help Lady Erica." Aragorn replied
"Great we're going for the Guilt treatment tactic on him." Dena tells the ranger
Mike listened in and grinned, "You wouldn't happen know where the elf is ?"
"He is on the balcony over looking the Eastern borders. I believe Gimli is with him as well." The ranger informed them
The group headed for the balcony and was greeted by Gimli who was just about to leave that is until he saw the look on Dena's face
"This should be interesting." The Dwarf thought to himself.
Mike walked over and announced, "Hello Leggy, just the person we've been looking for."
The teen's words caused Gimli to laugh while the elf just stared of into the distances.
Mike continued, "You see the gang and I have noticed that Erica has been having really nifty nightmares lately,"
At the teens words the elf looked at him and said. "Nifty?"
"Now we are going back to see just what the heck has been troubling Erica and guess who we had to bring along?"
"Why would you want me along?" Questioned the elf
Okay, Mike stood aside and waved an arm at Dena, "Dena your turn!"
"We all know that when you sing to her it calms her enough down to sleep through the night. So she needs your help." Dena informed the elf
"Legolas, if you have helped the child before you should do so again. This may be the last time you see her." The Ranger sad to his friend
Mike stood off to the side and quipped, "Face it Leggy, you are surrounded and outnumbered. You might as well come."
"Legolas, I insist you do this." Gimli chimed into the conversation.
The elf gave the boy a disapproving look than say. "I had already planned on speaking with Lady Erica later."
"Well then, no time like the present. You might as well come along."
"What I have to say is for a private time." Legolas said than turn back towards the distance
Mike turned to Dena and said, "Get him."
"The fact is that she needs your attention now." Dena said "you may not have time latter."
The girl than reach up and grabbed the elves ear. "Listen up elf boy I know how and why this is so painful for your kind but you asked for it."
Mike leaned over to Aragorn and commented, "This is going to get messy. This is why it is often easier to just say yes and go along."
"Legolas I just you do as they asked." Aragorn smiled not helping his friend. Gimli whispered to Mike "You know your friend is doing something only females can get away with."
Mike nodded, "Yeah, she is good at that."
"LADY DENA REMOVE YOUR HAND AND I SWEAR BY VALAR I WILL SPEAK TO HER PRIVATELY!" Legolas sneered out
Mike just shook his head and smirked, "You would have think he would have learned by now."
"I am not letting go of your ear, until you do." Dena sneered right back with her hand pulling even harder on his ear.
Mike shook his head and asked Aragorn, "You want to head back to Erica's quarters?"
"I think Lady Dena has been around Lady Reggie a little too much, her attitude as become a tad aggressive." Aragorn says as he follows the teen
Mike nodded, "Lets' stop by the kitchen and get a couple drinks." He called back, "HEY DENA, LET US KNOW WHEN YOU FINISH WITH LEGGY AND ERICA!"
"I plan on locking them in a room together." Dena said as she pull the elf by the ear towards the barracks
Reggie is in the room trying to convince Erica she needs some sleep when all of a sudden
Mike pointed towards the retiring elf and girl, "See, I told you it would be a lot easier to agree then argue with her."
"Erica you should really get some rest, you are going to need it for tomorrows ride." Reggie said with concern
"Attend HUT!" Dena yells out as she enters the room with a certain elf in tow.
"Everyone out but Erica NOW!" Dena ordered
"Girls lets go." Reggie said as she hurried the young one to get out. "Is everything okay?" Reggie asked Dena as she walked by ushering the girls
"Later." Dena says.
"Most definitely." Reggie replies looking at the Elf who rubbed his ear
Legolas followed after Dena, rubbing his ear. Finally, he was alone with Erica. He began, "Your friends' have been concerned about your nightmares."
"You are only here because Dena dragged you in by your ear." Erica snapped at the elf then turn back to packing her back pack
Legolas walked over and said, "You need to tell someone. It will not be any good to hold it in."
"What ever one knows I am having nightmares. So they are just nightmares." Erica replied
"Sometimes dreams are windows to the soul and often have greater meaning. Why don't you tell me?"
"Trust if they are you don't want to know." Erica quietly replies
"Perhaps, but you need to let it out and I am here, "countered the elf.
"You can not hold them inside, they will eat at your soul."
"They already have..... Some much death... It's coming I can feel it. And not just on Middle Earth." Erica cries as she finally gives into the elf's words.
"Go on" Legolas said as he approached her wrapping his arms around her.
Erica started to tremble from the memories but continues. "Death... it's every where chasing me and my friends. It says we cheated it. That we belong to it."
"Let it out."
"Go on"
"It's angry because it can't have us. So it kills everyone around us. I saw some many falling under its hand." Erica cried.
"Was there anything else about the dream?" asked the elf.
"Yeah when death was finished with our friends and families it tried to come after us. For some reason it could not kill us. This angered it more." Erica answered and she rest against Legolas
"And then?"
"It left. But we had to face the dead and they were angry at us for failing them. That's about when I wake up." Erica admitted.
Legolas cradled the girl and thought for a moment, "Every one of you children have been through so much within the last few months. Have you truly mourned your friends and relatives who passed on?"
"I cried. I screamed. I think I did." Erica answered
Legolas paused then answered, "Could it have anything to do with the fact that you are Gandalf's grand daughter? If you truly are his blood, then you may share his immortality."
At his word the girl look at him strangely. "What? I don't that it's not just me it was my group and others from Earth."
"Then they may too share that immortality if you truly possess it. That would explain your dream where your friends cheat death."
"I never thought of it that way." Erica said as she snuggled closers into arms.
Legolas smiled, "Then clear your mind and sleep easily. Although, I cringe at the thought of Mike being immortal."
"Yeah we should keep it a secret from him. He might try doing even more stupider stunts." Erica smiled than said . "Could you sing to me again. It brings nice dreams, that aren't full of death and blood."
The elf smiled and began his song.
+++
Meanwhile, in the great hall, Mike handed Aragorn a can. "You should try one of these Cokes."
At that point Dena and Reggie walk in and look at them and said, "You better have one for us. It's going to be a long night."
Mike reached over and tossed two extra cans to the girls. Turning back to the Ranger, he asked, "What do you think about drinks from my world?"
"I have a feeling that I won't be sleeping at all tonight." Reggie commented to Dena.
"This is quite good." The ranger replied
"So Dena, what was that all about?" Reggie questioned her friend
Mike nodded, "I agree with there. I still have to get with David and Earl and get the unit ready to march." Mike turned back to the Ranger, "Now, what is really going on? How bad is it in Gondor?"
"When Gondor calls for aid it means it will fall if aid does not come." The Ranger said as with a shake of his head.
"So I take it there some serious crap coming our way," reasoned the teen. "Worse than Helms Deep?"
"Far worse. It would take an army of at least 50,000 orcs for Gondor to call for aid." Aragorn answered with dread.
Mike nodded his head, "Then Dad will need all the extra firepower, my people can provide."
"Unfortunately you are right. But you are so young to be in such a fight." Aragorn answered honestly. "I fear for you all you have lost so much in such a short time. Your friends nightmares are a clear sign none of you have complete mourned the lost."
Mike nodded, "Maybe so, but there is a war on. When this mess is over, then I will have time to mourn. But for now, my duties call me."
Aragorn went to say something decided against it and placed his arm on the boys shoulder and gave a small half heart smile at the boy's strength.
Mike looked up at the Ranger, was there something else?"
"Dena, are you even listening to me?" Reggie said as she slips the coke, while Dena stares off towards Mike and the conversation he was having Aragorn.
"Just get some rest." The ranger tells him
"Ooops sorry what did you say?" Dena asked.
"What was that all about back there, I know Erica hasn't been sleeping, but is the elf going to do about it? And WHY did you pull his ear, don't you know what that does to an elf?" Reggie inquired.
Mike answered, "After I makes sure Earl and Dean have gotten the weapon and ammo packs ready for loading onto the horses."
"Haldir had several of the elves helping them." The ranger informed the boy
"What was that all about back there, I know Erica hasn't been sleeping, but is the elf going to do about it? And WHY did you pull his ear, don't you know what that does to an elf? "Reggie inquired
"I hope so, I already figured we needed four extra horses for carrying the mortars and bombs alone. Then we need pack animals for the fifty cal and ammunition."
"Yeah I know what it does to an elf and that is why I did it. Can you think of a better way to get a males attention." Dena snickered.
"No, but I didn't think would or could do that, but than again I haven't seen you in a long time." Reggie laughs but gets serious
"Why is Erica having these bad dreams and what they about, and why was Legolas needed?"
"Don't know what they are about but it seems after the elf sings to her she doesn't have them for the rest of the night." Dena answered.
"I believe Haldir also ordered your friends to bed. I think you should join them." Aragorn told Mike
"After I make my rounds," answered the teen as he began walking out the door.
"Well I hope it works, she needs her rest. I am really worried about her." Reggie say starring off towards the signals through the windows.
"I shall join you to make sure you get some sleep too." Aragorn informed the boy
"I worried about gramps as well. I just found them again and I don't want to loose them.
Reggie continued
"I got a feeling that old fart can take care of himself." Dena laugh as she remember how well he did with the staff spanking the teens on the ass before he left
"I know, but I strange things are happening. I know the story, but so much has changed already," Reggie replied still looking off.
Mike gave the Ranger a soft smile, "You don't trust me?"
"You two should go to bed too." The ranger told the girls as he followed Mike out
Than turning to the boy he grinned. "NO!"
"I can't sleep right now, I need some air." Reggie says as she walks off
Mike continued out the door, muttering something about overprotective big brothers.
"Reggie and Haldir sitting in a tree." Dena called out after the girl
Reggie didn't even turn around, and walking away saying "Whatever I could say the same thing about you and the Nephew." At her words Dena turned red for then, THE Nephew walked in
+++
The next morning the courtyard was filled with riders mounting up and getting ready to leave. Mike walked over to David and asked, "You got the mortar team situated?"
"They are ready to move, Sir." David said with a salute
Erica approached them in a happier mood than lately. "Your dad is allowing us to accompany you to the encampment." Erica said with glee
Mike returned the salute and went by each man, making sure tarps were tightened and gear stored properly. He walked over to Earl, are your people ready?"
"Of course, would you expect anything else, Sir." Earl said with a salute and grinned at mike
Mike nodded, "very well, have the company form up on the colors. Your squad is in the lead, David in rear."
"Yes Sir!" Earl answered then turned to his company. "Mount Up."
The King rode up to Mike and said. "You remember my conditions?"
Mike nodded and mounted Nickie, and rode over to the king. Snapping off a salute, he reported, "Sir my unit is ready to go when you give the word."
Nodding to his new son he smiled than heard Eomer's voice saying, "Riders of Rohan now is the time. Vows you have taken for lord and land. Vows you must fulfill."
Mike looked listened to his cousin's speech than gave them an evil grin. Turning back, he yelled out, "Lt. Sims sound the march"
Expecting the dirty look from Erica the teen smiled but was unnerved at the smile she gave him back.
"Oh no, no that bugle." Reggie said as she covered her ears. "I swear I am going to toss that thing in front of the M.A.P."
Mike turned back to the adults to see their reaction to David's bad playing.
King gave his son a strange look, while several of the elves covered their ears.
Mike shrugged and smiled, "Just thought I'd set the mood."
"Mike, don't set it." Reggie sneered.
"Reggie calm down, it my fault he has it." Dena said coming closer to her friend.
"So you're the one I am going to have to hurt." Reggie answered smiling evilly at Dena.
Théoden simply shook his head and gave the order to ride out.
"I think you need worry." Earl told Mike, "Erica smiling."
Mike shrugged, "I'm used to it."
"No I mean she's smiling sweetly. You remember the last time she smiled like that. Half the foot ball team ended up in the hospital." Earl replied
"But that was because they attacked her. If you are going to worry, then worry for the other guys."
"Yeah but I know your dad ordered them out of the fight." Earl comments as his eyes kept watching Erica
"But she not going to be in the battle, so that smile scares me even more."
Mike looked back, "I followed my father's wishes by releasing them from active duty. I no longer control their actions."
"Their time is their own?" Earl replied
"Now I am even more scared for the bad guys that is." Earl laughed
"They are no longer under my command and are not under any further obligation to follow my orders."
"You know I have a feeling we will be seeing them in Gondor, than." Earl whispered to Mike as they followed the column out of Edoras.
TBC
Authors Notes: This chapter turned out a lot longer than I had originally intended but I wanted to end this chapter with the Rohirrim leaving for Dunharrow. In response to my latest reviewer, I have included more scenes with Dena. She will be playing an even more important role in Chapter 6 as she and the girls under her charge follow the Rohirrim as the army's medical section. "Chapter 6, The Charge" will see the Americans split up with one group following Aragorn on the Path of the Dead and the others with the Rohirrim to Minas Tirith and end with the battle at Pelennor Fields. Expect to see lots of action not to mention a few surprises.
With this chapter I will be giving a little background on the characters and begin with Mike, the leader of the American teenagers. I had envisioned him to be a typical American teenager yet is already determined to be a career military officer. Away from the fighting, he likes to have fun pulling pranks and playing music. However, on the battlefield, when people's lives depend on his actions, he is a different person. Three people provided the inspiration for his soldier persona. The first is Major Richard Winters, who commanded a rifle company with the 101st Airborne during the Normandy campaign and Operation Market Garden (liberation of Holland). In my opinion, Maj. Winters exemplifies the best parts of an infantry officer. He is a good tactician and combat leader who lead by example and compassionate towards his men. During the attack on Carentan, he doesn't hesitate pulling soldiers out of ditches and kicking them in the butt when they are pinned down by enemy machine guns. Yet not long afterwards, when he runs into one of those soldiers at the aid station who had shut down, blind for no reason, he promised the soldier that he would see that he was sent back to England. The soldier quickly regained his sight and returned to his unit. More inspiration cam from General Hal Moore, who commanded a battalion of the 7th Cavalry Regiment in the Ia Drang Valley in 1965. He is another leader who puts his men in front of himself as he told his troopers, "I will be the first to set foot on the field of battle and the last to step off." Once again, he did not shrink from putting himself in danger when the situation called for it. Watch "Band of Brothers" and "We Were Soldiers" and you will see what I mean.
The character Earl is based on one of my best friends who served in the Army with Explosive Ordinance Disposal as his specialty and later was commissioned in the Navy, training as a Naval Aviator. Yes, the warped sense of humor shown by the character comes directly from him. I guess you need one if you mess with explosives and then fly. Many of the pranks described in the story are based on real life incidents involving my buddy. He is a good friend and if I were ever in combat I would want him fighting alongside.
That said, I appreciate all of the people who took the time out to review. Keep it up. As a further sign of appreciation, I will leave you with this piece of wisdom: When in doubt, empty your magazine.
Merry Prankster
by The Merry Prankster
Chapter 5 A Call To Arms (Part2)
Murphy's Laws of Combat #5: When both sides are convinced they're about to lose, they're both right.
Edoras
Land of Rohan
1200 hours
March 11, 3019
(Middle Earth)
The king had to talk with Aragorn about something so Mike decided to kill some time with Ear. After looking over the ammunition storage building, the two teens decided to visit the kitchen for a quick snack. They had just turned the corner when Gimli came flying across the passageway. Earl reached over to help the dwarf get to his feet when Erica yelled out from the kitchen, "When I say NO MALE ALLOWED I MEAN NO MALES ALLOWED!"
Both boys grinned and Mike asked the dwarf, "Erica throw you out of the kitchen?"
Gimli stood up and brushed off some dirt. He looked back to the kitchen and mumbled," I can't believe she tossed me."
Earl laughed at the dwarf's predicament, "Don't worry back home, the kitchen was her domain and hers alone. Any male entered at his own risk."
"Why?"
Earl motioned for his friend to finish. Mike nodded, "Well Gramps couldn't cook and the last time he tried, he burned it down. After that, Erica took over the rebuilt kitchen and it has been that way ever since."
"But I didn't want to cook I just wanted some of that delicious smelling food she is cooking. She said it was called Pizza." Gimli remarked. "But it looks like those Pancake things she made this morning."
Earl sighed and shook his hand, "That was your mistake, nobody nibbles until the meal is served. You got off lucky."
"True I thought when I'd get some while her back was turned when she was pulling Legolas out by the ear," informed the dwarf.
Mike laughed, "The last time Earl tried that, he got thrown into the pool. A wise person would wait."
"Hey I wasn't thrown into the pool, I fell in." Earl countered
"Yeah, you keep telling yourself that." added the teen. "By the way how' are the recruits coming along?"
Earl looked back to the kitchen and commented offhanded, "Seems after Helm's Deep there are a lot of lads without parents."
Gimli turned back to the boys and asked, "Just what are you two up too?"
Mike turned back to the dwarf, "My new father has agreed to the recruitment of Rohirrim volunteers to fill out the unit. We began training this morning."
"That is interesting. Don't forget you still need to show me more about the shot gun."
Mike smiled, "Come outside the walls tomorrow around zero eight hundred hours. We'll be introducing the troops to modern firearms."
"Huh what is zero eight hundred hours?" questioned the dwarf.
Earl prodded the teen in the elbow, "Mike, you are slipping too far into soldier mode. Most people around here are not familiar with military time. Heck, most people back home weren't familiar with military time."
Mike nodded and turned back and explained to the dwarf, "Zero eight hundred hours is military time for eight in the morning."
The two teens began explaining how they intended to turn Rohirrim peasants into soldiers when the kitchen door slammed open. Gimli and the two boys managed to duck in time to avoid yet another flying body. In this case the airborne creature turned out to be a hobbit.
Merry picked himself off the floor as Erica screamed out, "I SAID NO MALES ALLOWED!"
Earl winced as the hobbit made contact with the ground. "I had been told that Merry was the bad one for stealing food."
The hobbit in question picked himself off the floor and rubbed his back. "Boy she is worse than the farmer."
+++
Theoden had been trying to talk to Aragorn about preparing the Rohirrim for any future attack by Sauron. However, he was consistently interrupted by the racket from the kitchen. Finally, he came down to see what was going on. Approaching the expanding group, he asked, "What is all this ruckus about?"
Mike looked up an answered, "Our vertically challenged friends are learning that it's not wise to steal fool from Erica."
Theoden nodded, "I heard that she had taken over the Kitchen. It seems several of my men have been tossed out too. They asked me to speak with her about it." He began opening the door to enter the Kitchen only to be greeted by an apple pie to the face. "I SAID NO MALES I DON'T CARE WHO!" Erica yelled just before she slammed the door in his face.
Earl looked to Mike and color appeared to drain from the boy's faces. Mike finally closed his mouth, "Oh shit, Erica didn't do what I think she did?"
"She did." Earl squirmed as he looked at the king.
Mike handed the king a handkerchief and advised, "Dad, a word of advice, don't go in there again."
"What is with her throwing males out of the kitchen?" King Théoden inquired wiping the pie off his face.
"It's not just males she threw me out too." Eowyn answered from behind him.
Mike cradled his head in his hands, "Not my new cousins." He walked over to the kitchen and yelled out, "Gee thanks Erica. Nice way of treating my new family, that's sure to make a good impression."
Erica stuck her head out and yelled back, "Well I warned them first. You should have warned them. You of all people should know how I feel about those who can't cook coming into my KITCHEN. Now leave so I can finish your surprise for when He officially announces you as his son." Erica pointed at the king before returning to her cooking.
Mike stood there for a moment, then turned around and faced the king. "If you don't mind, I'll retire to my chambers and work on that training schedule." Then he faced Earl, "Earl lets go. I want to get as far away from this room as possible."
The two teens made a hasty retreat from the kitchen, leaving Theoden, Gimli, and Merry to wonder what was going on. "What do you think she's cooking up for your surprise?" Earl asked with glee for he knew that whenever Erica got this protective over the Kitchen it had to be really good.
"I wouldn't venture a guess at this point. How does the firing range look? We got the targets set up at hundred yard intervals?"
Earl nodded, "I got the youngest of the group setting it up as we speak."
"Good, have the troops report to the ops shack in thirty minutes. We'll go over field stripping the M-16."
"Oh by the way your cus, is talking about teaching Matt how to ride a horse." Earl commented with a laugh
"Which cus are you talking about?"
"Matt's new daddy. Well you see the kid sorta destroyed the first set of targets." Earl laughed.
The two reached the chamber's door. Mike paused and commented, "You know, it's good to see Matt enjoying himself. The loss of his parents hit him pretty hard."
"Yeah but Eomer is really taken by the nerd boy."
Mike gave his friend a glare, "I really don't like you calling him nerd boy. Drop the nickname, but as to your point, if Eomer has anything to say about it, Matt will grow up to be a true Rohirrim."
"Oopps, sorry man."
+++
The boys spent the next two hours creating training schedules when Earl decided to visit the newly constructed firing range. Mike was about to walk back to his room when Erica's cousin came up.
"Hey guys we need to talk." Reggie said as she came up behind them and put her arms around their necks
"What's up, Reg?" asked Mike
"Well I was getting a look at some of your recruits and you have a small 4 problems." Reggie began
"And they are?"
"Four are girls." Reggie laughed
The teen stared at the ceiling, "Oh crap, Dad is not going to like this. Not one bit."
"Don't tell him just yet. Talk to the girls first, I promised them you'd be fair. Remember this Mike they don't have anyone." Reggie explained
Mike shook his head, "The irony of this is sickening. I wouldn't be surprised if they start calling us the Orphan's Brigade. Okay, Reggie, I'll talk to them in an hour. We plan on assembling them together anyway and teach them how to take care of their new weapons."
"Mike I am serious. They need respect not smartass comments. You don't want them ending up as Tavern whores do you." Reggie said glaring at the boy and continued, "I also want to start teaching the girls and the boys if they want Hand to Hand combat."
Mike stood up straight and answered, "You should know THAT is not what I am referring to. We have to get all new recruits familiar with modern firearms."
"Good but I am volunteering to teach hand to hand. I am a qualified instructor."
Mike walked out of the Great hall and placed his envelope cap on his head. Turning around, he motioned for Reggie and Earl to follow. After a short stroll the three stood near the rest area. "You want to go first, Reggie?"
"Yeah but I told them that it would be just you. So Earl, go get lost and keep your mouth shut," Reggie warned.
Mike grabbed his friend's shoulder, "Get the weapons ready for the field stripping demonstration."
Meanwhile Reggie headed into the room only to find two of the girls packing the meager belongs while two others where sitting on a bed trying to hold back tears. "Attend HUT." The girl called out to get their attention.
Mike waited for Reggie to call the room into attention before entering. He removed his hat as he walked in front of the girls. He kept them standing for a minute before telling them "At Ease." A sniffing sound caught his attention and he turned towards the youngest. Pointing over at Reggie, he began, "My companion has informed me that you had some reservations. I am here to listen, so tell me what they are?"
Most of the girls were afraid to speak. But oldest of the four said. "We're sisters."
"Go on."
"I am Millin. Our dad was killed by the Wild men who attacked our village. Our mum died on the way to Helm's Deep. We have nothing and nobody except each other. We heard and saw what Dena and your friend Erica did at Helm's deep. We cannot survive on our own this was the only place we could go. You see our father taught us how to ride and even a little sword," Millin explained.
Mike looked towards Reggie and nodded. He placed his hands behind his back and answered, "If you saw my companions at Helms Deep, they you already know that my second in command is a female as well as the team medic. Thus you should know I have nothing against having females under my command. So, what did you want to talk about?"
"I heard that you are going to be King Théoden's son. He doesn't like women in battle." A girl with reddish brown hair remarked. "You and your friends are American and we are Rohirrim. We don't believe he'll let us fight."
Mike let a small laugh at the girl's answer. "You are not going to believe this but the king actually tried keeping my friends out of the fight. Seems we are all too young in the adult's eyes."
"We didn't want to talk but She said we had too." Another girl said as she pointed at Reggie.
"So what are you going to do with us?" The youngest quietly questioned as tears flowed down her face.
Mike asked in a compassionate voice, "How old are you really?"
"I'm 14 winters, Tarra is 13 winters, Annta is 12 winters and Sassa will be 10 winters." Millin explained, "But what does it matter the King will order us not to fight."
Mike shook his head and muttered, "Damn." He walked a short distance away and motioned for Reggie to follow. "I am not concerned with my people's gender but I myself cannot allow anybody that young to fight. They are just kids."
"Mike we're not much older. Plus I suggest we don't tell but just train them on the basics. You'll be doing them the greatest good. They can stay with Erica, Dena and Me." Reggie suggested and continued "I look into something you should be aware of."
Mike looked back at the girls, "Too young, too damn young, okay Reg what else?"
"Middle Earth is just like old times. Women can't own anything. If we don't take them in, they will either end up dead or whores." Reggie answered with concern for the girls.
"Then we'll take them in. We'll create an auxiliary unit, sorta like a scout troop where you can teach them what they need to survive. Now that you explained everything, I'm sure I can get dad's approval as long as it's clear they will be kept away from firearms. And don't even think about letting them within five miles of a battle. That's my final decision."
"I said the basic's Mike. So that means firearms too." Reggie countered. "It's either you teach them that or I do and if you remember the last time I tried to use a gun (at the age of ten) your dad's pick up was full of holes."
Mike turned around to leave, "Safety ONLY. Now, I have to get started teaching the troops field stripping."
"So does that mean we get to stay?" Sassa quietly asked
Mike stopped at the door and replaced his cap, "Yes, for now. Reggie and Erica will go over everything."
"Ok, girls Mike going to keep your secret but you'll be moving in with Erica, Dena and Me. You will get your things after your lessons with Mike. NOW MOVE!" Reggie told them. The girls jumped for joy and ran to where the unit was to meet. But as they left, they each give Mike a hug on the way out and Saluted.
"Mike what about Earl?" Reggie questioned quietly
"What about Earl?"
Once the girls were out of ear shot Reggie replied. "Will Earl keep their secret?"
Mike shook his head and smiled, "Yeah, he will as long as we keep to the original plan. Train them in private. I'll tell Dad that Erica, Dena and you have taken them in cause you couldn't see children put out. He'll understand that, but wait five years before putting them in uniform."
"Do you even have to tell him their girls?" Reggie questioned.
"He'll find out sooner or later and I don't want any secrets between us."
"Mike lets make it later. Just that way they are treated as equals and not as helpless babies. They need to feel useful and being treated like a baby won't do that," Reggie countered.
"I won't say anything but if he asks I'll tell him the truth. Just don't place me in a situation where I'm forced to explain why we are taking care of a family of young girls."
"Fine, but we need an excuse to put them in with us girls." Reggie giggled
"I'll leave that up to you. Consider it my response to getting poked by your cat."
"Wimp." Reggie called after him as he left the chambers.
+++
Unknown to the teens, Aragorn had been listening and decided to talk to Mike.
"Michael." The ranger said as he approached the youth.
Mike turned around to face the Ranger. "How much did you hear?"
"Every word. Reggie is correct about what would happen to them if you didn't take them in." The ranger told him. "I have seen it many times happen to young girls. Before there was nothing I could do."
Mike nodded, "Well, as long as they are kept far away from the fighting I don't have any problem with it and I really don't think my father will either. You want to attend the first training session?"
"I think he will have a problem with that. Remember who they will be staying with." The ranger jeered but than added. "Lead the way."
"Like I said, I've delegated that problem to the girls and there it should stay."
+++
Mike and Aragorn were joined by Theoden on their way to the parade field. Legolas, Haldir, and the Boulder Scouts were already watching from a nearby porch.
As they approached the troops Earl was doing a drill Sergeants routine on the men and girls of the group.
Theoden and Aragorn joined the other adults and watched the spectacle. Mike looked to his father and waited for the older man to give him a nod before turning back to the field.
Mike smiled as Earl did his best R Lee Irmy impression then straightened up, totally serious. Satisfied with his appearance, he entered the area.
"ATTEND HUT!" Earl bellowed out
Mike walked over and stood next to Earl. Taking a deep breath, he yelled out "AT EASE". He waited for the new soldiers to relax before beginning.
"Interesting," Théoden commented to the Ranger
"As many of you are aware of, I have been adopted by King Théoden and the celebration has been scheduled for tonight. I have already come across Rohirrim referring me as prince, lord, and greeting me as such. I will have none of that from any of you while in uniform." The teen held up his collar, highlighting the single silver bar, "When I am wearing this uniform, the prince has been replaced by your commanding officer. Thus you will refer to me as Lieutenant Wolf, Lieutenant or sir. When passing by, you will salute, not bow as you will to any superior officer."
"YES SIR." The recruits sounded off loud and clear
"Every person among you has volunteered to serve in this unit as well as your officers. This unit is the heir to the traditions put in place by the United States Army, a tradition that stood for duty, honor and country for over two hundred years. Learn all that my officers and I have to teach." Mike paused and called out to Earl, "Lt. Beegle, this is a good unit?"
"Earl retorted back "OUTstanding Unit, sir! It represents a strong people and great land!"
Mike ignored her as he continued his speech, "People, you represent the finest that this land has to offer and you will do so with honor. Now, the next few days will be filled with training for both you and myself. All I ask is that you keep up with me. And for those who can't, that strange sensation you feel in the seat of your pants, will be my boot in you ass. People, we are going to war and the training will be intense. Listen to your leaders and we will emerge victorious."
+++
In the Mean time Erica came stomping out ... And she was not too happy as she dragged the dwarf and hobbit by the ears. "I thought you could use a few more recruits." Erica said as she tossed the two at his feet than stomps off. And just before left she announced in a threatening tone, "THIS IS MY LAST WARNING NO ONE ALLOWED IN MY KITCHEN UNLESS AUTHORISED BY ME"
+++
At Mike's word Théoden smiled because his new son showed so much promise from the beginning. He commented to Aragorn, "Michael shows much promise but I have a feeling that it will be a challenge keeping him and his friends away from a fight."
The Ranger nodded, "He is a headstrong boy but I feel he will not openly defy you."
Reggie and Dena arrived to hear Mike's welcome speech and moved near the adults.
"I think we need to block off the Kitchen." Reggie said to Dena " I have feeling more harm will be done to warriors here than in the battle."
Dena shook her head, "You think? I wonder who got it this time?"
"I don't know, but they are going to be down and out for a little while." Reggie said with a little chuckle and yelled towards the kitchen" Stop beating up the warriors, Cus. They are going to need all their limbs for the fight." Then turned to Mike, "Mike maybe we should post a guard, so she doesn't maim anyone."
Mike overheard the two and grinned, "THEN POST A GUARD YOURSELF, REG!"
"I have training to take care of, but Mr. Cuddles could stand guard. But he might be worse than her." Reggie replied with an evil smile
"NO! She'll try and sneak in too." Erica jeered back from the hall.
Aragorn made a decision and told Erica, "I'll Guard the Kitchen. But it will cost you my lady."
Erica countered, "Like I have time to fatten up on your food. I have a lot of work of head of me to get these ladies ready for the fight ahead." Reggie referring to the new recruits that didn't seem to be prepare the physical workout that she was going to put them through.
Mike leaned over to Earl, "Why don't we help Mr. Cuddles visit the kitchen?"
"Hell no. Sir." Earl responded fearing the retaliation from the feline.
"Mike you leave my cat alone. Or you will be my first training dummy," Reggie sneered.
"What will it cost me Ranger?" asked Erica who was ignoring her friend's banter.
Mike grinned, "I still would like to see the cat go into the kitchen right now."
The cat was already trying to make it's way by Erica when she turns on it and yells. "Don't even think it!" which sent the cat running back to his mistress.
"Mike, I need a target to hold this apple on his head.' Reggie said as she held out an apple to demonstrate her knife and throwing star abilities to the recruits
"More of those wonderful pancakes." The Ranger answered.
"Deal." Erica says as she heads in side with the Ranger in tow.
To the surprise of the teens Erica actually agreed to letting the Ranger guard the kitchen. Earl leaned over and asked David, "How did he get in?"
"It beats me, but I have a feeling he might be flying out as well, once he smells the food." David laughed
"He didn't get in. He's guarding the door." King Théoden informed them "But it will cost her more of her pan cakes."
"Now why didn't I think of that?" Gimili laughed
"Not a bad trade." Reggie laughed and motioned to the hobbit "Merry would you like to learn to throw like the other recruits?"
Haldir who had been watching there scene just smile at the group before him, and asked "Throw what, My lady?"
"I have throwing star and knives that can be very handy, when proving a point." Reggie said evilly as she looked at Mike
Matt and Eomer arrived in time to hear Reggie and Mike. Matt had quickly settled in and was excited with the riding lessons, his father had given and now wanted to learn martial arts as well. He tugged at Eomer's sleeve and asked, "Hey dad can I learn?"
"I don't mind teaching one more." Reggie said and smiled at the boy and waited for Eomer to reply.
Eomer considered the request then answered, "I'll think about it."
+++
Night had fallen and the new prince was standing in front of the mirror having second thoughts. What the hell am I doing here? I'm not ready for this. thought the teen.
There was a knock at the teen's door. "Michael, May I come in?" A female's voice came from the other side.
Mike tucked his tie into the shirt and yelled out, "It's unlocked. Come on in!"
The door open slowly as a beautifully dressed Eowyn appeared. "Michael, are you almost ready?"
A visibly nervous teen turned around and answered, "I think so. How do I look? I mean I don't want to embarrass the family tonight."
The Shieldmaiden walked in and straightened the boy's shirt. "You look very handsome. But is everything alright, you appear to bothered." The woman stepped back and smiled. "You will do just fine."
"I'm just nervous I'll screw something up and have the king banish me from Rohan."
"Don't be foolish, that will never happen," The shieldmaiden said with a laugh. "You know deep down that my uncle would never do such a thing."
Earl stuck his head in the door and remarked, "Oh you're asking for miracle there."
Mike walked over and put on his leather bomber jacket. Turning to his friend, he countered, "At least I haven't taken out any lab partners in science class."
"What can I say; they weren't smart enough to run." Earl countered with a smirk.
"I expect you do the same young man," Eowyn said looking at Earl giving him the look that he was going to get slapped again
"But, I think you are needed in the kitchen. Erica just threw your dad out yet again." Earl informed his buddy.
Mike was about to come back with a smart ass comment but sputtered, "Erica threw out the King? Is she out of her freaking mind?"
"Well that's a dumb question." Earl laughed, "She's Erica and no one belongs in that kitchen but her."
"She has a habit of throwing people out of Kitchens doesn't she." Eowyn remarked.
"Yeah she's done that twice now. Not to mention Leggy, Gimli and the hobbit have all been thrown out at least four times." Earl chuckled.
Mike shook his head and muttered, "That's just great. What a wonderful start to a new family." He turned back to Earl, "You are not least bit nervous about tonight's event?"
"Nope, why should I be nervous, you're the one becoming the prince. I, on the hand have only joined the nobility," Earl smirked.
"If I go down I'm taking you with me," vowed Mike.
Eowyn shook her head at the boy's banter and asked, "Is there anything that you need Michael? If not I think I shall check on the condition of my uncle."
"Yeah but you should deal with Erica first. You are warned. She had Aragorn posted at the door," Earl smiled
"I think I can handle the good ranger and the young lady." Eowyn answered with a smile.
Mike chuckled, "No, not really. You go on ahead." He turned back to Earl and grinned, "The Rohirrim have no idea what they have gotten themselves into. Have they?"
"Definitely not." Earl laughed loudly.
"Well, let's go. I don't want to keep our new fathers' waiting," laughed the teen as he led the way to the great hall.
The two boys approached the kitchen with caution and quickly jump back as a hobbit and dwarf came flying out the kitchen door and hit the wall.
"She tossed me again!!!!" The dwarf muttered.
"Some guard you are." Erica told Aragorn, who was speaking with Legolas.
Mike slowly got up and quipped, "I guess some people just can't stay away from the kitchen."
"Be thankful she didn't almost pull your ear off like she did to him." Merry replied
pointing at Legolas who was rubbing his ear.
"Let's go help- them up," suggested Mike
"I don't think we are going to be welcome here much longer." Earl whispered to Mike.
"Mike if you even think about coming in here I swear I will kick your sorry ass across Middle Earth." Erica warning voice came threw the door.
"I think I'll be staying on his side of that door." Earl said pausing at the entrance to the kitchen " My rear is just starting to heal."
Mike raised an eyebrow and observed, "I think Erica has this well in hand. You want to head over to the hall? I think the feast is about to begin."
"I believe that is wise young prince." Aragorn stated as he and Legolas follows the teens.
"Good idea. Let's go before anymore people are thrown at us." Earl said with a smirk
"Yeah dodging arrows is one thing. Dodging flying dwarves is quite another." Mike chuckled
"Watch it youth." The dwarf laughs
"Don't get short with me Master Dwarf," countered the grinning teen.
"Very true Master Michael, very true." Aragorn said with a laugh
+++
Mike paused at the doors to the great hall. He turned back to the others, "Once more into the breech dear friends once more," intoned the teen.
"Just get in there." Earl said slapping mike on the back
Inside many were seated around large tables waiting for the arrival of the new prince.
Mike laughed and stepped inside. A rich glow filled the hall, the light of a hundred torches lit for that purpose, every table was filled. At the head of the hall stood the king who motioned for the teen to come forth.
"Mike is never on time." Reggie whispered to Dena who was across the table.
All traces of nervousness left the boy's face as he walked down the middle of the room. Finally he stood in front of the ruler of Rohan. "Sorry, I'm late. I had to dodge some flying little people."
The American teens began to laugh at Mike announcement and looked at the Gimli and Merry who came and joined the group at the table.
"My son, Welcome." The king said embracing the boy
Mike returned his father's embrace and asked, "Now what? I'm kinda new at the adoption thing."
"As am I my son, as am I." Théoden said with a smile. "I have called you all here to make a great declaration. This marvelous youth standing beside me will be my new son. He has much courage and strength. He will make a mighty King of Rohan one day."
At this announcement, the crowd began to cheer for the new prince.
Mike blushed and quietly reminded the king, "Uh Dad, I thought we agreed I would have nothing to do with running a country. I'm quite satisfied having a new family."
"We will discuss that later, however you are going to be taking part in it, your cousin would have it no other way." the king said as Eomer and Eowyn approached the two of them
"Welcome to our family." Eowyn said as she embraced the boy
"Yes welcome." Eomer said as he embraced Mike after his sister had stepped back.
Mike stepped back and gave the woman a warm smile, "Thank you. It's an honor to be part of your family."
"Aaaaahhhhhhhh, look a family moment." Earl said from his seat and received a smack from Dena.
"The honor is ours, my son." Théoden smiled
"Earl you should probably shut up before you get beaten up by all our female companions," David whispered to his friend.
Mike grinned and commented to the king, "You know, this is such a joyous occasion that should be shared with the other teen who is being adopted into Rohirrim society. Why don't we bring Earl and his new dad up here as well?"
Earl turned red as he heard Mike's comment. "What, I don't think I need to be in the spot light it is your special occasion." Earl said standing up.
"Just get up there grunt boy!!" Reggie said kicking Earl from under the table.
Mike responded, "Oh no, what kind of person would I be to have denied my best friend such an opportunity?"
Earl visibly embarrassed was pushed by Dena and began walking up slowly towards the throne with a look that screamed, he was going to kill his friend. Gamling approached and put his arm around Earl and said. "I'm with you my son, but we serve them so we must go up there, even if we don't want to." Gamling was embarrassed as well, but he was overjoyed to have Earl to become his son, that all he could do was smile.
Mike waited for the two come up before quietly telling Gamling, "I apologize for causing you any discomfort Master Gamling. But I must get even with your new son."
"I have a feeling that will be happening a lot between you two," Gamling replied.
Mike grinned, "The back and forth stuff has been going on for the last seven years. Why should it end any time soon?"
"I don't expect that it will. But one could hope that you two might eventually grow out of it." Gamling answered and smiled. He then turned to Earl and announced to the crowd. "I have also adopted young Earl and he will be my son."
Mike leaned over to Earl and quietly quipped, "Payback is sooo sweet. Gotcha!"
"I hate you." Earl muttered "You will get yours, trust me."
Mike put an arm around his buddy's shoulder and pointed out towards the Hall, "But then we would never have such good times. So lets eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow, who knows where we will be?"
"You're right time to eat, I'm starving. But don't think you will be getting off that easy tomorrow comes and so does payback." Earl chuckled to his friend, "And it will be good!"
Mike laughed and turned to his father, "And thus the cycle begins anew. Was there something else or can we eat?"
"I do not believe so as Lady Erica has not come yet, and without her there is no feast to eat." The king replied.
"So, what shall we do till then?" asked the teen.
"Well Mike you could always sing." Reggie shouted from her seat, "I found this and thought you might want to play." She said standing up and started to bring up a guitar
Mike's mouth dropped and closed as he collected his senses, "Uh, Reggie what are you talking about?"
"You didn't think I forgot about your ability to play while I was in Florida. I bought it for you as a present when was going to come before the flu...it was signed by our idol Eric. One of a kind! I thought I would surprise you." Reggie said with a laugh.
Mike turned red and looked to his father as if saying, "Help me get out of this."
'I think the Lady has brought a very nice gift. However what is it?" The king said smiling at the predicament his new son was in
"Uhh, Dad, I really don't think this is the forum for such a present," countered Mike.
"Oh, Mikey don't you like it?" Reggie said a pout and then smiled evilly.
Mike turned back to the girl, "It's not that I don't appreciate the gift. But I don't think Middle Earth is ready for Clapton."
"I guess I don't have to get Mike back, Reggie is doing it for me." Earl smirked.
"I think you will be pleasantly surprised with what Middle Earth is ready for. The king has already taken you for his son." Reggie laughed "I doubt Clapton will phase them."
Mike shook his head and motioned for the girl to join them. He asked Reggie, "You didn't bring Earl's did you?"
"Why yes I did." Reggie said and motion to Dena to bring the other guitar that was stored underneath the table. Earl's mouth dropped open as he muttered "I am going to kill her."
Dena approached pulling Earl by the arm towards the throne. "I believe there a needed jam session." Dena laughed
"Guess the girls got both of us with this one," commented Mike as he reached for his guitar. He pulled out a stool and sat down.
"This is going to be good." Reggie whispered to Dena as they started to walk back
Mike turned to Earl, "Well, what do you think about Running on Faith?"
"I think I could pull that one off without making too many mistakes. But there needs to be major payback for the girls." Earl whispers to Mike as he takes a seat next to him
"Did you have any doubt?" responded the teen as he turned back to the now quiet hall.
The teen began a short explanation, "Before coming to Rohan, Earl and I were pretty much your average American teenagers and had a few after school activities. When we were in school, we formed a music group and played a variety of music for our classmates. Blues, country, and rock were the main forms that we specialized. So, we'll start off with one of my favorites, "Running on Faith."
Reggie, Dena and David began to cheer as their two friends began to play.
Mike sat his guitar on his lap and nodded to Earl who began playing the first chords. "I wish I had a lighter." David said waving his thumb in the air.
Mike began singing, "Lately I've been running on faith,
What else can a poor boy do?
But my world will be right, When love comes over you
Lately I've been talking in my sleep
I can't imagine what I'd have to say"
"I forgot how good they are." Dena said as a tears came to her eye.
"Except my world will be right, When love comes back your way
The crowd faded from Mike's world as he got into the song,
"I've always been, One to take each and every day
Seems like by now, I'd find a love who cares just for me."
"what have we done." Dena whispered to Reggie. Reg answered back, "We have unleashed a monster."
The teen continued with the final stanza,
"Then we'd go running on faith,
All of our dreams would come true, And our world will be right,
When love comes over me and you."
The crowd began to applaud the teens' as the doors of the hall burst open with women bring in food of all kinds.
Mike leaned over and suggested, "What do you think about a more upbeat song before eating?"
"What do you have in mind?" Earl questioned with a big smile
Mike grinned and pointed towards the parents, "Think they can take a little San Francisco Bay Blues?"
"If they adopted us, I think they can take it." Earl chuckled.
He turned back and addressed the crowd, "I can see Erica is about ready to begin serving so we thought we'd play something a little more upbeat,"
"Well get on with it." David called out from the Back. "We are hungry."
Mike grinned and said, "So, our next song is called 'San Francisco Bay Blues." Earl pulled out a harmonica and waited for Mike to being the first chord. The teen began singing the first stanza, "I got the blues from my baby left me by the San Francisco bay,"
"I wasn't expecting that thing." Reggie said pointing at the harmonica. "I think we are in trouble now." Reggie began to cover her ears.
"The ocean liner's gone so far away.
Didn't mean to treat her so bad, she was the best girl I ever have had,
She said goodbye, I can take a cry, I want to lay down and die."
"Okay I guess it's not that bad." Reggie thought uncovering her ears.
"I ain't got a nickel and I ain't got a lousy dime.
She don't come back, think I'm going to lose my mind.
If she ever gets back to stay, it's going to be another brand new day,
Walking with my baby down by the San Francisco bay.
Earl pulled a kazoo and began blowing to laughter of the crowd
"Sitting down looking from my back door, Wondering which way to go,
The woman I'm so crazy about, she don't love me no more.
Think I'll catch me a freight train, 'cause I'm feeling blue,
And ride all the way to the end of the line, thinking only of you."
"Meanwhile, in another city, Just about to go insane Thought I heard my baby, lord, the way she used to call my name.
If I ever get her back to stay, it's going to be another brand new day,
Walking with my baby down by the San Francisco bay, Walking with my baby down by the San Francisco bay, Walking with my baby down by the San Francisco bay,"
"I love this song." Dena said as she watched and turned to look at Eomer who was enjoying the song as well from his seat in front
Mike stood up and walked over to the throne and propped his guitar next to it. He returned to his new family and quipped, "I'm ready to eat."
"You performed very well my son." Théoden smiled as the boy walked up.
Mike followed his father to the table and sat down, "Yeah, back home when most kids were going for the heavy metal music basically as loud and fast as they could play it, I was more interested in the serious side of music."
"You have an amazing talent my cousin." Eowyn said with a smile
"Yeah you were great." Matt chimed in
"I personally like metal. But the kid wasn't bad." Xander whispered to Karen who sat be side him with David on her other side
Mike smiled, "Thanks, I didn't know how you would react to that style of music. I always found playing to be a good way to relax."
"Well I am glad that Lady Reggie brought that for you. That mean you won't want to shoot people as much." Eomer commented.
Mike turned back to his cousin and in serious voice responded, "I never wanted to shoot people. Between me and you, I despise war and fighting, but as long as there are bad people out there. Then someone has to protect the innocent."
"No need to upset your self Michael, I was merely remarking that you like to shot your gun to relieve your tension." Eomer said trying to calm the teen down.
"That is true you did look like you could shoot someone the other night." The king said smiling, "This gift is very welcomed."
Mike smiled sheepishly, "Thanks it really means a lot to me. As of now, Lt. Wolf has left the building and won't be back till tomorrow. I'm ready for some quiet time with the family."
"That sounds like a good plan." Matt quietly said and began to giggle
Making small talk, Mike asked his father, "So after Sauron is taken down, I guess I'll bring the rest of my stuff back here."
"That would be a good plan. I want you to feel at home. If you like I will accompany you to retrieve your belongings." Théoden replied
"I really appreciate it. There are so many memories with that place. I'm going to need you if I am to get through that without breaking down."
"That is what I am here for. That what family is for, and you have family."
+++
As Mike sat with his new family, Erica finally arrived with the food.
"Lords and Ladies. To celebrate this grand occasion I have made some American style food with a dash of Rohirrim style added to it. The only thing I ask is for the consideration of the others present and those who helped. There are three things that I must request. First, DON'T smoke your pipes until after all who are eating finish. Second Loud Belches are a sign of Great food." Erica explained as the American teens started to laugh.
"And finally, if you wish for more food STAY OUT OF MY KITCHEN!"
"I suggest you listen to her." Mike announced with a laugh in his most princely voice.
"Now for the food," Erica said as several women walked in behind her carrying various foods some of ex-large style pizza. Meanwhile others carried Hamburgers and Cheeseburgers while the others brought Roast Pig and Roast Chicken KFC style.
"Boy am I hungry." Earl said as he smelled the food and rubbed his tummy.
"I am with you master Earl. I tried to sneak a taste earlier, but she caught e again and threw me out yet again." Merry said as stomach started to growl.
"Boy after that training session I could eat a horse." Reggie said eyeing the food.
"Why would you want to eat a horse lassie, when your cousin has prepared all this food?" Gimli inquired
"It is just a saying short shit." Reggie laughed
"Now My Lords and Ladies. I do ask that you save some room for Dessert. The Ladies and I have made Angel Food Cake with Strawberry topping, Apple pie, vanilla pudding and for the new Rohirrim Prince I have made his favorite." Erica announced.
"Now I am starving." Merry said eyeing the creation and inquired "I wonder if there will be enough, I may eat everything."
"Don't worry Master Merry I got something special just for you. Ladies." Erica said
"Just for Me." The hobbit started to beam as two women walk in with a large plate covered.
"Yes just for you." Erica replied sweetly.
"Oh shit, Merry is in for it." David quietly told Earl
The young hobbit with a shimmering glimmer in his eye sat happily with the large covered plate in front of him. He pulled off the lid only to find the plate empty beneath it. "But where is all the delicious food you made just for me." Merry said with a solemn face as his stomach started to growl which could be heard by everyone
"Now that wasn't every nice, cus. He needs to eat too." Reggie whispered to Erica.
"Simple Master Hobbit you must first promise you will NEVER enter my kitchen unless I ask you too and than I will have the real plate of food brought in." Erica informed him than turned on her cousin and said, "NO it's not. I had to Throw him out over 23 times. I didn't like doing that."
"I will most definitely try." The hobbit began, "But my tummy has a mind of it own."
At this the crowd began to laugh including the elves.
"Master Hobbit your Word." Erica said in a warning tone.
"I give you my word, but what if my tum get the better of me." The hobbit countered
"Pay it no attention Master Hobbit but your answer is good enough for now. LADIES." Erica bellowed and two women walk in carry a large tray that has a good portion of everything Erica had made.
"Thank you my lady." The hobbit said with a happy grin
"You are such a pushover, cus." Reggie laughed "He didn't really promise."
"Close enough for me." Erica said with a smile as she watched the hobbit dig in.
"You're still a pushover when it comes to a cute smile from someone so adorable." Reggie whispered to Erica
"By the way I won the bet the hobbit got thrown out of the Kitchen 26 times." Reggie informs Earl and David
"So that doesn't include you and now you have dish duty for it." Erica laughed evilly.
"You are so mean, I don't think can cus. I am so tired." Reggie said with her most pathetic puppy dog eyes "That training took a lot out of me."
"That won't work you still got dish duty. Be thankful that you didn't get stuck peeling potatoes like the Gimli and your boyfriend did." Erica jeered
"My boyfriend?" Reggie said sheepishly.
"Yeah I had to throw him out almost as much as Gimli." Erica laughed. "I thought about have Merry peel potatoes but figured he eat them."
"Who are you talking about? There are so many boys here." Reggie laughed.
"The elf your cat likes." Erica jeered pointing at Haldir who was sitting next to Reggie.
"Oh, I don't know what you're talking about." Reggie said hiding her bashful red glow on her face
"Yeah right," Erica countered as she left to find her own seat.
"Don't worry My Lady; I shall help you with your duty." Haldir said smiling at Reggie
"No you won't." Erica yelled back.
"You can keep me company though." Reggie said as she smiled at the elf
"Reggie and Haldir sitting in a tree, KISS...Owwww" Earl began to sing as he was slapped by both Dena and Eowyn. "Hey that's not fair; they're attacking me from both sides.
"You asked for it. Dweeb boy." Erica laughed than said. "Earl you got yourself trash duty."
Mike laughed and said. "Earl, even I wouldn't be stupid to make that remark when Erica is handing out duties. You know she is the only one who gets to tease Reggie on the boyfriend front."
"Damn Straight." Erica jeered but still couldn't find a place to sit until Vidmor and Legolas stood up and said. "You may sit next to me."
"It looks like Erica has a little following." David whispered very quietly to Earl but received a slap to the back of his head by Dena. "You get to join him in trash duty." Dena informed him
"Damn." the teen muttered.
"I heard that." Dena chuckled.
+++
Mike had enjoyed the celebration but noticed some of the younger people starting to be sluggish. Looking at his watch, the teen noticed that it was late and walked over to the King. Getting his fathers attention, he said, "Look it's getting late and we have a long day of training ahead of us. So with your permission, I would like to get my people to bed."
"I see, it does appear they are falling asleep." The king said with a chuckle. "You have my permission, my son."
Nodding, the teen turned back to the hall and motioned to get everybody's attention, "My people, turn in and get some sleep. We' will be starting with a nice little run tomorrow at zero six hundred hours."
"Yes. Sir!" Several of the new recruits mumbled as they headed off to bed.
Earl and David turned to each other and began laughing as they heard this.
"Who needs sleep." Reggie said as she and Haldir head for the kitchen "You better be working in there." Erica jeered with an evil smile, "And no funny business."
"Who...me. I don't know what you are talking about." Reggie replied.
Aragorn was startled by David and Earl's reaction and stopped Mike on his way out. "Why are they laughing?"
Mike simply shook his head and grinned, "Why don't you join us tomorrow?"
"Mike be easy on them." Erica called out.
"It would be my pleasure." The ranger said with a grin.
"Does that mean me as well for that little run?" The dwarf questioned.
Mike called out over his should, "If you would like, master dwarf, if you would like."
"I am a sprinter not a runner." The dwarf replied.
"In that case, why don't you meet us following the run," offered Mike.
Earl leaned over to Dena, "Think we should tell the adults that Mike's idea of a nice little run is a ten mile forced march with full pack?"
"Nah, I think they get the gist in the morning." Dena laughed "But Earl and David you better get to trash duty." As Earl and David began to exit the hall Dena called after them, "You'll most likely being doing the run as well."
Earl yelled back to her, "Dena, you know as well as I do that David and I will be at the head of the formation right behind Mike. He is a firm believer in leading by example."
"I know and that why you two should get work, zero six hundred hours only a few hours away." Dena yelled back "And plus you ate so much I doubt you'll be able to keep up."
Earl shrugged, "You know Mike. Do you honestly think that will matter?"
"He even ate more than me." Merry remarked as he rubbed his full stomach and pointed towards Earl. "And that is hard to do." The hobbits say with a burp
Earl looked at the hobbit, replying, "Teenager."
"That's the spirit Master Hobbit. She said that loud burps were complements." Gimli said with even louder belch.
"I think that they enjoyed the food." The king laughed as he went to sit on his throne only to find a sleeping cat had beat him to the seat. Startled, the cat reached out and clawed the monarch. "LADY RAJANI!!" could clearly be heard throughout the halls of the palace
The two teenage boys quickly emptied the trash and made their way to their chambers when the King's voice filled the halls. They cringed and Earl said, "That sounds like the king and he does not appear to be happy."
"I have a bad feeling. Mr. Cuddle might have done something that I might regret." Reggie said squirming at the thought of what her cat had done that had gotten her into trouble.
+++
Mike Had decided to hold off going to bed when he noticed that Erica was nowhere to be found. So he decided to have a talk with his friend. He had reached the Royal quarters when he ran into Eowyn in the hallway and asked, "Have you seen Erica?"
"I believe she headed outside for some air. She doesn't care for pipe smoke." Eowyn answered. "She said it was irritating her eyes." But Mike knew that something is up because of that little lie.
"I am going to go find her," Mike said as he hurried to find his friend. He quickly discovered Erica sitting on the steps, staring off in the direction where Gandalf had ridden off. Walking up to her he commented, "You really should go to bed."
"I am not tired." she said still looking towards the distance. Realizing that her friend would recognize the lie for what it was, she quietly explained, "Hard to sleep here. Been having some really funky nightmares."
Mike sat down beside her, "You know we all have been through a lot lately. You want to talk about it?"
"I had a dream about Gondor and it burning."
"Burning...like what Pippin had seen?" Mike asked.
"I don't know the future but I have a feeling that if Gondor calls for help Dad will go. No matter what he said before Gramps left. Yeah but this was back on Earth I had this dream," Erica explained.
"You did. Why didn't you say something sooner?"
"Mike, I need to tell you something else," Erica said.
"Go on."
"Gramps ask me not to tell Reggie but he didn't say anything about you. But promise me you won't get upset."
"Well let me have it. After all that has happened, it will take a lot to upset me."
"You know that if the fires are lit. Aragorn will go no matter what." Erica answered as she stared down into her hands. "Gramps ordered me to stay close to him."
"Okay, that's not so bad. Aragorn looks after us as a big brother. What else?"
"That's it I just didn't want you pissed if I go into battle without you." Erica said, "I know how you would feel if you are kept out and I am not."
"And I suppose Reggie will be going with you." Mike smiled, "Do you really think I would stay out? Especially if I have family and friends involved?"
"Mike, you have a new Dad and I know if he ordered you to stay here you would." Erica answered and jeered "Of course he would have bind and gag you first. Well I just wanted to let you know."
"Well, he did order me to stay out of the fight." Mike conceded. "However, I was able to talk him into letting me go with him as long as I stay out of the close in fighting. We can still do the reach out and touch someone bit."
"So if the shit hits the fan you will know what to expect as to where I and Reggie are."
"You know there is a reason why I brought the mortars." answered the teen as he too made off for his bedroom.
"I am going to check on the others in the kitchen but you head to bed." Erica said as she headed for the large doors "I don't have run in the morning, but I will join you anyway."
"I wonder what is planned for this lass?" the dwarf pondered. "If she is to accompany Aragorn so shall I, and there is no one more stubborn than a dwarf."
"Talking to yourself, Master Dwarf?" Aragorn asked.
"Oh, Aragorn. I was just giving myself a little pep talk." the dwarf laughed
Aragorn raised an eyebrow in suspicion, "Very well. However, why don't you get some sleep? I have a feeling we will be busy for the future." The dwarf agreed and followed the Ranger to the sleeping quarters.
+++
Mike had neared his door when the king yelled out. The teen only shook his head as the same voice called out, "REGGIE GET IN HERE!"
Earl was waiting in the hall and teased in a sing song voice, "I think someone is in trouble."
Erica had returned to get something from the hall but decided against it, "I think I am needed in the kitchen."
Reggie turned to Haldir. "Think I may be in a tad bit of trouble. I believe the King found Mr. Cuddles. Do I have to go in there?"
The elf held her arm and answered, "Yes my lady."
The king spotted the retreating girl and yelled out, "Oh no young lady, you stop right now and get over here."
Erica gave the monarch a 'Who Me?' look and said, "Whatever it is, I didn't do it."
"Damn, I a have a bad feeling." Reggie squirmed from the kitchen.
"Just get over here," said the king in a low voice.
"What? Who me?" Erica pleaded innocently.
"Yes You. Where is your cousin?" asked the king.
"I don't know, but why am I in trouble?" Erica replied honestly but than thought If she is smart, she would far away from here by now.
Haldir led Reggie by the hand and brought her in front of the King. "You must take care of this." The elf said as dragged the girl into the hall.
Theoden pointed towards the cat. "This feline has gotten you in to trouble." The king said giving the girl a harsh look.
"Why it's HER cat." Erica squeaked.
"And according to Gandalf, YOU gave her the cat," replied the king.
"Yeah but I had to. It looked just as nutty as her." Erica answered as she tried to hide behind Legolas.
"That right it her fault." Reggie whispered to Haldir. At which Erica gave her a dirty look
Théoden heard the girl and gave her the same look he had given Grima once he had been freed from Saruman's control. "Come over here, REGGIE."
"Yes, your Highness." The girl said in her sweetest and most innocent voice.
"Her full name is Rajani Josephine Thykkuttathil" Erica beamed as Reggie shot an evil look at her and snarled.
The king gave the teen his stern father look as he asked, "Would you care to explain what your cat was doing on my throne?"
"I am out of here." Erica commented as she ran for the closest door.
Théoden motioned for Haldir to stop the girl. "Oh no, you are staying."
"Damn." Erica muttered. "I am going to skin that thing."
"Uhmmm, You see Mr. Cuddles...thinks that he is a King in his own way. And your throne is the most kingly place to sit, so he must have felt that was his place." Reggie said with puppy dog eyes that usually got her out of trouble with almost every one. Unfortunately it was not working with the king
"Since both of you have had a hand in training that cat, I feel you should both be responsible for it's actions," reasoned the king. He turned to Haldir, "What punishment should we give the two young ladies?"
Reggie looked at Haldir with the same eyes in which he tried not to falter to but she knew they would work. The elf turned to the king and addressed him, "My Lord, I think the young ladies should have a little reprieve on this matter. The cat has made a long journey from another world and he is just getting use to his new surrounding. I believe he will not make the same mistake next time." Haldir said directing his gaze towards the cat
"Hey I didn't train it I just gave it to her before she left. She did all the training." Erica
added.
Théoden shook his head, "It is obvious good elf that you have not much experience with children. Boundaries must be set and when mistakes are made, consequences must follow."
"Uhmmm...that is true she did not help me train the cat." Reggie said "But my cat has a mind of his own."
The king turned back to the girls, "So both of you are cleaning the kitchen for the next two days."
"Your majesty, I am very sorry. I will try my best to keep him under control but he is like any creature and he has his own mind." Reggie said apologizing for her cat
With patients and honor beyond her year Erica proudly stood before the king and said. "Your Majesty I respect your decision and will abide by it." Erica answered than bowed before him
"Just keep that cat away from my hall, understand young lady?"
"Yes your highness." Erica said as she leaves the hall all the while smiling to herself because the she always cleaned as she cooked.
"Yes your Majesty. Mr. Cuddles will be taking his leave from your hall. But my Lord, I am sure he will want to be your friend in time. He may come to like you in time if you could show him a little kindness in this matter. Your majesty, I am truly sorry." Reggie said again as picked up the feline and continued. "He has been there for me through my whole ordeal, and he has been my protector."
+++
Théoden nodded and motioned for the girl to leave. Mike was waiting outside the door when Erica came by. The teen recognized Erica's smile and asked, "What did my father want?"
"Oh Reggie's cat aggravated his rear-end and decided to take it out on both me and Reggie we got Kitchen duty for the next two days." Erica smiled
Mike gave the girl an evil grin, "You know, I seem to remember you always clean the kitchen after using it.... I wonder how Dad will feel about that little piece of information?"
"Mike you spill one word I and I will lengthen my report to your dad about the things you've done." Erica remarked than added. "I will give you all the first copies of the Playboy scene if you don't tell."
Mike smiled, "I don't know...."
"Fine do that. I don't care I am heading for bed." Erica snapped as she started to leave than turned and said. "Sorry Mike I haven't been sleeping well." as she turned to leave
"Just give me all copies of the Playboy video and we'll call it even. We all have things on our minds"
"I erased all but one and it's on the M.A,P under Hubba Hubba. Do with it you want." Erica answered.
+++
"Mr. Cuddles you are not to be in this hall when the King is around." Reggie whispered in cat's ear and than asked the King very politely. "May I go, my lord?"
Théoden nodded and went back to his duties
But before Reggie left she turned around. "My Lord, May I ask a favor of you?" The girl asked
Théoden looked up, "What is it?"
"Tomorrow, I was wondering if I may have a few volunteers of your men to demonstrate Martial Arts on for all who wish to learn the art." Reggie inquired
"I know of just the ones." Eomer answers with a smile an evil smile
The king raised an eyebrow and asked his nephew, "Oh, who did you have in mind?"
"Thank you Lord Eomer. I will be careful not to injury him in practice, Gandalf made me promise." Reggie said with a smile
"A few of the ones that went back to Earth with me," He answered looking directly at Rollo.
"Lady Reggie, do whatever you feel is fitting." Eomer tells her. "My men are tough."
Théoden suspected something and asked, "Why are you looking at that man?"
"He is the one of the ones I have in mind, uncle."
"Tough, will see about that." Reggie giggles to her self and than inquired "My King, will you be observing the training tomorrow."
Théoden nodded, "I will, although I will also be observing my son. He mentioned something about a live fire exercise."
"I am sure Mike will be thrilled to know you have shown great interest in his artillery. He loves his guns." Reggie laughs and smiled as she left the great hall with her cat in her arms and Haldir beside her.
+++
Reggie was excused from the presence of the King after 'The Mr. Cuddles Incident' and went for a walk with Haldir. They walked in silence as they left the Great Hall with Mr. Cuddles being forcibly carried by Reggie.
"Honestly Mr. Cuddles, Did you have to claw the King in the Ass?" Reggie scolded her cat. "What am I going to do with you?"
"My Lady, I believe he will behave himself when it comes to the king from now on." Haldir says as he reassures the girl.
"I hope so, next time he might put me in shackles and send me to the dungeon. I got off easy with kitchen duty." Reggie says with a little laugh. "Thanks for coming to my defense and asking for leniency on my behalf."
"What else could I do for my lady?" The elf said with a smile as he offered her his arm.
Reggie put Mr. Cuddles down and took his arm, they walked around and stop short of the front gates of the city. "Tonight is so beautiful. I wish I could go and explore this land and discover its beauty." Reggie say looking up at night sky
"I have seen it's beauty and it does not compare to yours." Haldir say with smile causing the teen to blush.
"Oh behave master elf." She said with a little smirk.
"Of course, my lady." The elf said and then asked "When this is all over and done with, would like me to show this world to you?"
"That would be wonderful." Reggie says as her eyes started to sparkle like the stars in the sky, at the thought of exploring this new land.
"And if you would like you could come to my home land and meet my queen, the Grand Lady Galadriel."
"I would be honored." She said as she looked towards the distance.
"Lady Rajani, I was wondering…" Haldir began to ask something and stopped.
"What were you wondering?" Reggie questioned the elf.
"Why do you seek to demonstrate your skills tomorrow?" he questioned.
She began to think, so many things had occurred while she was in Florida, she was no longer the child from Georgia that everyone knew, she had grown up down there and wanted to prove it. "Haldir, I seek to provide evidence of my worth as a warrior. Back on my earth I was a skilled trainer of my art. I educated many how to defend themselves from bad people. I taught them not to fear things but to take them head on and in stride. Teaching them to discover their true potential in everything they do. I believe that I could do it here, train Rohirrim people to not just rely on the horse masters to protect them but to rely on their own strength as the great people that they are. But I must first show the King that I am not just a mere girl." Reggie said remembering all her prior students and thinking about all the good she could do for the people of Rohan.
"You show great wisdom, kindness and strength. You are truly an amazing creature. You are so young and yet wise. Your friends have demonstrated their worth. Lady Erica and the other keep referring to you as being a street fighter and I have faith that you are a great warrior. But this fight to come, may have a far greater evil than you have faced in the past." The elf said with compassion in his voice.
"I am sure that when the fight comes that I will be ready. I, like my cousin will not stand on the side line if there is a battle to be fought on the behalf of friends and family. I do not wish to be alone and that what I will be if I do not see this through. I am a skilled warrior and I aim to prove it to all who doubt me." She told elf angrily and turned from him.
"Do not be angry with me, my lady. I only fear for your life as well as your friends."
"Trust me, I can take whatever anyone throws my way." Reggie said as went to leave from Haldir presence. He grasped her arm preventing her from leaving. "I am well aware that you can take care of your self, but you are here among many males who would give their lives to protect a wonderful female like you."
"I can take of my self and I do not need a man to protect me." Reggie hissed as she removed the elf's hand from her person. She than flipped the elf onto the ground and straddled him making him aware of her strength and conviction. "As you can see, master elf, I am perfectly able of defending my own honor."
"That you are my lady. That you are." Haldir said shocked at what had just transpired. A tension began to build within the elf with the woman on top of him. Reggie let the elf up from his position on the ground. She stared at him for a moment hoping he would understand her feeling towards everything that was going on.
"I am sorry." Reggie said as she turned to leave but was stopped by the sound of his voice and the words he spoke.
"No my lady, it is I who should be sorry."
Reggie was stopped dead in her tracks as her eyes widened at his words. He moved quickly and circled in front of the teen and bowed. "My Lady I am sorry. You are right, you do not need a male to protect you but I would like to offer my services if you ever need them."
"Thank you for understanding, and for the offer." Reggie said with tears in her eyes as she embraced the elf.
Haldir was startled by the embrace and thrown by her reaction to the whole conversation that had just occurred. He began to remember what his queen, the Lady Galadriel had said to him before he was sent on his journey to Helm's Deep and into the battle where Mike had saved his life. He had forgotten about the white witch's vision.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
*flashback*
Lothlorien
1900 Hours
March 5, 3019
(Middle Earth)
Lady Galadriel waited for her March warden to return from patrol, and as he arrived he was summoned telepathically to her side.
"My lady you wished to speak with me." Haldir said as he bowed to the white witch.
"Yes, My March warden you are to go to the land of Rohan and to the Aid of Men, at Helm's Deep." The elf queen spoke
"I shall do as you say My Grand Lady. But I do fear that I will not return from such a battle." He said bowing his head to the queen.
"Do not despair my dear Lothlorien March warden. You shall not parish in this battle for you will be saved by one and will stay by their side until you have repaid that debt. But even when you have you will not return, for you will have been taken from me by love." Galadriel said as she looked off into the distance.
"My queen, how could I be taken from you? I am devoted to you and my Lothlorien kin."
"My dear Haldir, you shall be taken from me, I would not lie. You will know her when the time comes. I may be your queen, but she will be your goddess. Your love will last longer than most elves' lifetimes." The queen spoke as she envisioned a being from another world that would take the heart of the March warden.
Haldir merely kept silent thinking that this could not be. Galadriel continued to tell him about the being. "You will find her in another land, another world. You will know her when a great and noble feline attack and you are not harmed by the creature. She is one of great strength and compassion will see this in her eyes. She will find comfort by your side as do you at hers. Know that she will be by your side when you do return to me."
"My lady, I believe that you would not lie, but I have not met such a being and I cannot see my self not being by your side protecting my queen and king." Haldir said looking baffled at the events to happen.
"And when the time come, and you will know of it you will give theses three packages to her and her two companions, a blessing from your queen. And she will be there as well." Lady Galadriel said pointing towards a beautiful black mare.
"As you wish my lady." Haldir said taking his leave from the queen and gathered his troop for a battle.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
As Haldir remembered this scene he became very still and quiet. "Haldir, Haldir" Reggie said as she shook him lightly but received no response. "Earth to Haldir. Do I need to toss and straddle you again to get your attention?" She stood up on her tip toes and brought her face close to his face. The elf quickly regained his faculties as a kiss was placed on his check to snap him out of the trance he had entered.
"Well I'd better be getting off to bed now." Reggie said as she left the stunned elf in the court yard.
As Reggie left the elf stared at her and thought to himself "She must be the one that My Grand lady was speaking of. I did not connect it before but now I relies she is when I saw the emotion in her eyes. She is the one I am to love and our love is to last longer than most elves' lifetimes, but how can this be? She is mortal?" The elf wandered the grounds of Edoras for a while to clear his earlier tension.
Reggie entered the chambers to find Erica still up waiting for her. "I take it you discovered our new guests." Reggie said when she noticed that Erica wasn't too happy with her.
"Well you could have told me earlier!" Erica said with a scorn full look in her eyes.
"You were busy and so was I. And then you put me on dish duty all night, beside that I had some issue that the King wanted to discuss." Reggie retorted
"Whatever. NEXT Time tell me, we have guests." Erica jeered at her cousin and then notice she had been crying. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing." Reggie said as she wiped her face.
"Don't give me that. I know you; you could never hide anything from me. You're upset for some reason. What happened?"
"I just had an argument with Haldir." Reggie said "But we worked it out."
"Do I need to hurt that elf?" Erica asked to make Reggie laugh.
"No, we are fine now." Reggie smiled
"Do you want to talk about it? At least give me the cliff notes"
"Cliff notes are that he thought I shouldn't be demonstrating my skills or fighting in this battle to come. And that I should let the men do the fighting for me. Well you can imagine what happened." Reggie explained the rest as she noticed that her cousin was tired. "I guess we should go to sleep, you have that fun run in the morning and I am going to do a little training of my own before I show the king my demonstration." Reggie laughed.
+++
After talking to her cousin, Erica drifted off to sleep and began dreaming of horrible events. She awoke with sweat dripping down her face, startled from the horrible image of a gangly creature betraying the two hobbits she had dreamt of before and of a mysterious being seeking the death of the teens. Erica was overcome with emotion that she wanted to cry out to someone, but to her dismay everyone was asleep. She quietly exited her chambers to get some air and hopefully clear her mind of all the evil that plagued her thoughts. The young girl walked out onto the balcony over looking the city and stared towards the East.
A male being walked up quietly from behind her and placed his hand on her shoulder as if to comfort the girl. Erica turned around to find Vidmor trying to sooth her pain. She had hoped that it was Legolas but she was so upset that she embraced the elf to seek some sort of comfort from the evil ever present in her minds eye.
"What is the matter Lady Erica?" The elf asked cradling the girl in his arms.
"I can't sleep. I am having horrible dreams that won't let me rest." She answered
"Is there anything I can do for you to help ease your troubles?" He asked lifting the girls face to look into her teary eyes.
"Just hold me." She said shaking.
"As you wish my lady, as you wish."
Meanwhile just out of sight of Erica and Vidmor, Legolas watched the scene unravel. The elf was upset to see his cousin comforting the girl. Jealousy began to consume the elf. He left swiftly to release the green monster building inside him.
+++
The next day started off with a three mile run before breakfast and physical training. Following breakfast, the first field exercise had been set up. Mike led the recruits a short distance outside the wall and called for the officers to gather. He waited for David, Earl and the others to gather around. Kneeling down, he got out a piece of paper and began outlining the exercise. "Okay, today we are going to assault a fixed position. I have already managed to get the Rohirrim to set up the enemy positions and act as said enemy for the field ex." The boys gathered closer and listened intently.
The teen began drawing symbols on the paper as he continued, "Okay, this hilltop overlooks the valley and the enemy has set up a prepared position on its top. Now we are going to be setting up a base of fire on the enemy and charge in there hard and fast in three squads of three."
"Who do we have?" asked the teen.
+++
A small crowd had gathered to observe the exercise. Included within the gathering were Reggie, Haldir, Theoden, Eomer, Aragorn and the remaining members of the fellowship.
"I have a feeling I am going to be enjoying watching this excursion." Reggie remarked to
Haldir, "That is, if Earl does one of his famous stunts.
"Why do you say that, My Lady? He is quite a good fighter." Haldir remarked as they watch the boys from a distance.
"I know, but he does things that wouldn't necessary be considered smart action." Reggie laughs " I suspect he takes his lead from Mike."
+++
Mike listened to Earl and David call out the new recruits' names. Finally he decided, "Okay, Earl and David, both of you will take two men with you. I'll take three, now lets move out."
Mike led the group to a dip in the land that screened them from the others on the hill. The teen crawled to the edge of the rise and look over. Filing what he saw to memory, he moved back down. He turned to Earl, "Earl they have group of archers protecting the position. Get in close and when I give the signal throw the practice grenades. David, you and I will open up and draw their attention. As soon as Earl takes out that first position, we'll rush it. Earl, wait until we start firing before throw the grenades."
"Yes sir" Earl said giving him a salute.
"Yes Sir," answered David.
Mike waited for Earl to move out while he took his people towards the left. He turned back to the recruits, "Now wait until I fire before shooting."
"Yes SIR!" The group resounded.
The teen took a deep breath, raised his rifle and let off four quick shots. The blanks sounding like live fire was quickly followed by the others. At first the group was startled but they did as they were told.
A couple hundred yards away, Earl pantomimed throwing the grenade when the archers began firing their padded arrows at Mike's group.
"It looks like the battle as started." The King remarked to Eomer who watched along with him.
As one, the two Rohirrim under Earl threw the practice grenades that went off with loud bangs.
The Rohirrim archers who had been posing as the enemy were surprised to see three orbs land within inches from them. One of them was about to reach for one when it went off with a loud bang. The man was shocked and fell back at the noise
Mike looked up when the grenades went off. Seeing that the archers were stunned, the boy jumped up and yelled back, "LETS GET GOING, FOLLOW ME!" The recruits followed their new leader closely.
+++
"That boy has courage," Eomer replied.
"These weapons, are fake, the real one with actually do a lot of damage." Reggie remarked to the King.
Theoden rubbed his chin in quiet reflection, "Interesting."
+++
Mike led the boys up the hill and jumped over the wall. He quickly snapped off a three round burst at an opposition soldier. Within seconds it was over as the enemy' surrendered. Mike signaled for the others to cease fire and end the exercise. The teen looked back at the adults who were coming over and waited before debriefing his company.
+++
"Mike has never been one to sit on the side lines. He definitely has more than guts." Reggie said with a smile. "But don't tell him I told you."
Theoden smiled and asked, "So you do respect him?"
"Yes, but I will never admit it to him. He'll get a big head if I do," Reggie laughed.
"I will keep your secret my lady."
+++
Eomer and Xander observed field demonstration side by side.
"Boy that kid knows his field tactics." Xander quietly remarked to Karen
"I know nothing about field tactics, but you're right."
"Xander, what do you think of my cousin's demonstration?" Eomer asked the former sport extremist.
"Not bad for a kid" He replied and was slapped up side the head by Karen
"Stop being an ASS, Xander. And be honest." Karen demanded
"Okay, jeeze, when did you come all bossy?" He replied rubbing his bald head.
"What you don't like the new me." Karen jeered "I have been hanging out with one the girls. Dena has taught me that I should slap any guy upside the head if he isn't being a gentleman or well in your case being honest. Because let's face it Xander, have never and will never be a gentleman, you are too much of a chauvinistic pig. I think I will go find Dena and discuss our male bashing tactics"
"Hey now that hurts," Xander quipped
"What did she mean by a chauvinistic pig?" Eomer questioned as he watched Karen walk away towards Dena who had been watching the exercise from the sidelines.
"Let just say, chauvinistic pig is a man who doesn't like to be ordered around by women and make it very clear that he is the dominant force of the genders." Xander replied
"Oh, I see so I would be a chauvinist as well." Eomer questioned not knowing fully the meaning of the word.
"I guess if the shoe fits."
Eowyn had been listening to the end of the conversation and decided that she was not pleased with its outcome. She approached the two men from behind and smacked them both and proceeded towards the field to where Karen and Dena were standing.
"What was that for?" Eomer questioned but received no reply.
"She has some spunk." Xander smirked "I may need to get to know her better."
"It would be advised not to, that is my sister you are talking about." Eomer informed him with a look that struck fear into the hearts of his men.
"Oh. Sorry, I meant nothing by it." Xander replied staring at the sheildmaiden.
+++
When the adults were within earshot, Mike began, "Okay, that was how we take a fixed position. First, we pinned down the enemy with our shooting. Did anybody learn anything from that?"
"Always follow your leader." One of the boys said hoping it was the right answer.
Mike waited for one of the recruits to answer before continuing, "When the enemy became distracted by our shooting it enabled Lt. Beegle's squad to get close enough to throw hand grenades. Had this been for real, the enemy force would have been eliminated."
Most of the boys look in disbelief in what they had just done and were unable to answer.
"Normally, you would have nine weeks of basic training to learn how to soldier. We don't have that long so we will have to make do. Listen to your officers and learn what they have to offer,
"Mike is wise." Haldir commented to Reggie.
"Don't go around telling him that." Reggie laughed
One of the younger boys finally asked what some of them were thinking. "Sir?"
"We will be going through as many field exercises as possible to get your skills up." Mike turned to the recruit and asked, "Yes?"
"We will follow you and Lt. Beagle but some of our group do not believe we should follow women even your American ones." The boy admitted. "Is their lack of skill why they are not out here."
"Did I hear that boy correctly?!!" Reggie said as she started to clinch her fist and snarl a little
Mike nodded and grabbed his collar, "In this unit we have a chain of command. I am the commanding officer with Lt. Marr being second in command, followed by Lt. Beegle and Lt. Simms. Now in the army you respect the rank and not the person wearing it. If a superior officer tells you to do something, you salute and obey the order."
"But why are they not here to help lead than?" The boy whimpered. "Yeah Lady Erica seems to be better in the kitchen than on the battle field," Another remarked.
"I can't believe what I am hearing." Reggie remarked as Haldir place his hand on her shoulder to calm her
"Mike." Erica said as she placed a hand on his should to calm her friend down. "I think I will join these boys in one of Reggie's training sessions."
Mike ignored his friend, narrowed his eyes and in a low voice growled, "THAT, borders on insubordination. Now, you will obey your superiors whether you agree with them or not. Is that clear?"
"They are boys, and do not know your worth, yet." Haldir whispered into her ear.
Mike stalked closer to the recruit and asked, "Now, there will be times when I will not be present to personally oversee your training. Does that make me unworthy to command?"
Erica walked up and placed a hand on Mike's shoulder, "Mike, calm down. They are boys raised by fathers who felt this way about women. So let's just give them a jolt of what women can really do than we lay into them about insubordination."
"I will just lay into them in training." Reggie thought to herself.
Mike nodded then turned back, "Erica, right now this is a military organization and we will have discipline in the ranks."
"You are right Lt. Wolfe." Erica said with a salute. "I agree so let me take them on another 10 mile march." Erica replied. "Now."
Mike returned the salute and turned back to the recruits, "Lt. Mars, you have command. Form up the company and march them to the firing range for some target practice."
"ATTEND HUT!" The Girl Bellow out in a voice that left no room for argument. "LISTEN UP YOU SHIT HEAD MAGITS! YOU THINK MIKE WAS BAD NOW YOUR ASSES ARE MINE AND I NOT YOUR MOMMY. SEE THOSE MONTAINS. THATS WHERE WE'RE HEADING. DOUBLE TIME!" Erica ordered. All of the new recruits followed her as they headed for the Mountains with Erica at the lead.
Mike watched as his second in command led the company off to the range. When the last soldier had marched off he walked over to where the adults were watching. He approached the king and asked, "What did you think?"
"Michael, your demonstration was very promising," The King said with a smile
Mike grinned, "I'll let Erica take them on the march. I figure ten miles with full pack should wear them down. Although I am hoping to eventually expand this unit into a full fledged rifle company." He paused and asked the king, "So what do you think about a little shooting at the range while waiting for them to come back?"
"Do you think it is a good notion to let them go off on their own with a woman leading, even if it is Erica?' the King inquired.
"I have every confidence in her abilities."
+++
Mike and the adults were soon walking back towards the firing range that had been set up on the outskirts of Edoras. On the way Mike asked the king, "I feel my people can contribute if you ride to aid Gondor."
"We will see. I will tell you my decision later, I wish to see how Lady Reggie will handle herself against one of my guard." Théoden replied to his son's question.
"Oh yeah that should be good." David comments.
Mike nodded, "I'll hold off badgering you. But remember, the Rohirrim can't shoot anything beyond bow range. My mortars and heavy machine guns can support the riders at ten times that range."
"Michael if I hear you speak of it one more time My answers will be NO." The King retorted.
"Hey, this is the first time today!" defended the teen.
"It may be the first time today, But I have come to know you my son, and it won't be the last time." The King said "So enough!"
"Mike quit while your ahead." Earl whispered to his friend.
Changing the subject, Mike said, "I was talking with Xander yesterday and he said that some of the Boulder survivors had opened a flying school..."
"A flying school?" The king questioned
"Oh shit." Earl muttered
Mike nodded, "Yeah, that's where they teach people how to fly aircraft."
"Mike I could always teach you." Reggie said with a little smirk.
"And I was thinking about taking flying lessons."
"Gandalf already warned me you would ask such a thing and after seeing Erica's report on you my decision is not until you are 21 winters or I am dead." The King informed him. "DO NOT ASK AGAIN!"
"Daddy, not going to let you learn, Mikey," Reggie giggled. "This day is starting to look up."
Mike jumped back, "I take it Erica mentioned the plan to hook loudspeakers and a tape deck to a helicopter?"
"One of many things she has yet to mentioned." The king said and gave Mike a harsh look, "And Michael I think you know my answer."
"Okay, could I take helicopter lessons then?"
"I said do not speak of it again! Or it will be never!"
"No she didn't but Gandalf did." Eomer told him
Mike gave a fake whine, "You never let me have any fun."
"You probably won't be having any." Reggie whispered in Mike's ear.
"Thanks Reg," said Mike through gritted teeth. Then he picked up, "Looks like I'll just have to settle for staying on the ground. But seriously, it would be nice to be the first person to fly around Middle Earth or set a world speed record."
"Michael!" The King said in a warning tone
"I might teach you." Reggie snickered.
"I think your grandfather has other plans for you young lady." The king remarked.
"Oh, crap!!" Reggie muttered and turned to Mike, whispering, "I have a feeling we are going to be in for something."
Mike shrugged, "So I'm grounded for now. I'm sure I could figure a way to get enough fuel to Middle Earth to drive a tank." He looked back to Earl, "Hey Earl, can you imagine the enemies' reaction to 70 tons of heavy metal crashing down on them?"
"Mike don't go there." Earl said.
A loud smack could be heard as Eowyn walked by both the boys. "Gandalf told me to do that if either of you two mentioned anything with fuel." Eowyn informed them
At this Reggie and David began to laugh.
Mike shrugged, "Give me enough time, we could form and operate an Armored Cavalry Regiment. Of course, that includes the attached field artillery units. It would be neat to introduce Mordor to Steel Rain."
"Mike I don't want to be slapped anymore." Earls said as he rubbed his head "Keep your plans secret for now."
"Why do you say that?" asked the teen. "Think about it, cruising into Mordor at treetop level, doing 100 knots and dropping on a hot LZ."
"Mike, your father has already said no. I really don't want to face his version of a court marshal." One of the teens answered. Of course Théoden and Eomer were looking in his direction while he was making the proposal.
"Hey, Dad said I could not take piloting lessons until I'm 21. He didn't say anything about hopping a ride."
"Besides where are we going to get the fuel. Be realistic Mike." Reggie said wondering how Mike was going to pull off this hair brain scheme.
Mike shrugged, "If we use Blackhawks, we could fit the drop tanks on the fuselage hardpoints. That would give us the range if we form up in Hartfield Airport in Atlanta and then fly through the portal."
"Mike's daddy at 6 o'clock," David warned the teen to shut him up.
Reggie turned and whispered to Earl while rolling her eyes in Mike's direction "We are going to be in trouble, if Mike has anything to say about it."
Mike slowly turned around and smiled, "Hello Father."
"Oh, Hello your Majesty," Reggie said with an innocent smile.
"Just what are you discussing?" The King inquired but dreaded the answer.
"Oh, nothing important, just random American Teenage things," Reggie quickly said.
Mike grinned, "Oh nothing much just planning an Air Assault on the Dark Lord himself."
"Mike is only joking." Reggie quickly answered as she elbowed the teen in the gut
"You best be joking for if you aren't, you will never fly." The king informed him.
"Owww!" Mike squealed from Reggie elbowing him and replied to his father, "Well I did agree to follow your wishes and not take flying lessons and I wouldn't be piloting the choppers. Just riding in the first wave."
"Mike doesn't know when to shut up." Earl commented to David quietly.
"Mike shut up!" Reggie said elbowing him again and stepping on his foot with her boot heal.
"10 says he never gets up in the air while daddy is alive at this point." David jeered back.
"I will admit that we will most likely have a hot LZ facing us but throw in some gunships for close support and maybe add some ARA and tac air to go with it."
"Michael I told you I have had enough on THAT SUBJECT!" Théoden remarked. "You are my son less than a day and already you do not respect my wishes?"
"Your majesty, I believe it is time for MY demonstration." Reggie said as she looked at Mike and gave him a look that screamed, shut the hell up.
Mike looked at his father in all seriousness, "I was joking. Besides we won't have the capability to properly support such an operation for at least two years. That includes setting up support structures and training personnel."
"Mikey, let's quit while you are somewhat ahead," Reggie whispered to him.
"That typing of joking is not welcome. For that, you have just volunteered for lady Reggie's practice session." The King informed his son in a tone as not to be argued with.
Mike softly replied, "Yes sir. As long, as we are finished before Erica gets back. We still have to work on their marksmanship."
"That is all up to Lady Reggie." The King answered.
At this Reggie smiled devilishly at her friend and giggle saying "YES!"
"Mike is so dead," David laughed.
"Why is Mike dead?" Xander asked as he walked up next to the teens.
"Because Mike's new daddy volunteered him to be a practiced dummy for Reggie's Hand to hand session. And she cheats." Earl laughed.
"Oh Mikey trust me, we won't be done!!" Reggie laughed.
Mike leaned over to Reggie and whispered, "Reggie, I wonder if my father would like to know that you and Erica always clean the kitchen after cooking? Especially after Mr. Cuddles clawed him?"
"Trust me Mikey, I don't care if you tell him or not." Reggie replied "I have a feeling that he won't be too happy with the dirt I got on you already."
Mike shrugged, "Okay, if that's what you want." He began walking near his father,
"Oh your majesty, I was wanting to tell you about your son and some of the things he has done in the past." Reggie began to say as Mike walked towards his father. Mike looked back at the girl to as if to tell he gives in and follows his father towards the practice arena Reggie had set up earlier in the day.
++++
The group traveled towards the middle of the court yard in front of the great hall. The court yard's ground was covered in dirt, soft and hard. Mike cringed as they approached the area.
Waiting for them was Eomer and a not too happy Rollo. Along with the King and the sisters still hidden in boy's clothes with a crowd of Rohirrim folk looking on.
The crowd of people formed a circle around Reggie and Mike. "Mikey, we are going to start with the basics for our new comrades." Reggie said as she started to demonstrate a basic stance.
"5 says Mike kisses the ground at least 5 times in less than a minute." Earl bet David.
"I'd say it more like 8 in less than a minute." David answered. "You're on."
Mike took off his helmet and placed it beside his web gear and weapon. Getting into position, he sighed, "Lets get this over with. I have a busy day."
"Oh Mike, it may take all day." Reggie laughed.
Reggie started with the basics of breathing and balance.
"No it won't. we can't afford to have our people miss any training."
"You must be centered in this before we can begin, Mike." Reggie said as she started her breathing
Many of the Rohirrim warriors made quite snide remarks about the female and the fighting demonstration. Hearing his Reggie turned and said, "Mike I think I need a little warm up before I have you engage in the demonstration." She turned towards Rollo and said "You try to attack me." The Rohirrim warriors soon quit making their remarks as the teen had Rollo attack her. Rollo kissed the ground five times within the span of less than a minute
"Now I will show you another move." Reggie explained, "Mike come at me like you have a knife or sword." She turned back to the students, "This move is meant to disarm and dismember but I am doing it slow so I won't hurt him to much."
"Mike going to get his now," Earl snickered
Mike looked down at the Rohirrim, "Hello, you do realize that I was supposed to be practicing with Reggie."
The teen walked past the Rohirrim, shaking his head as he 'accidentally' kicked him.
"Mike, why did you do that?" Reggie whispered to him as he centered the ring
Mike whispered back, "The son of a bitch tried to stir up things with our elven friends back in Atlanta."
Mike took up a small stick at aimed it at Reggie's chest. Reggie caught his wrist then twisted it and stepped behind him with it. Than she placed her foot into the back of Mike's knee forcing him down. "Now matter how big your opponent is they have a weakness ... Their own strength." Reggie explained as she twisted his wrist a little
"I got tired of that racist BS he was spouting. In fact I came close to capping his butt but Haldir and Eomer talked me out of it."
"Oh, Really...I am not done with that bastard than!" Reggie said letting Mike up.
Mike gave the girl a short bow, "Then by all means, have at him."
"But let get your part over with before so the King thinks you have had your punishment.' Reggie told him. She went on with her demonstration. "Now this doesn't quite work for men but I find it very, very useful in street fighting." Reggie said as she approached the teen and kissed the teen on the lips. Mike turned red as he Reggie proceeded to knee him in the gut. He keeled over as Reggie giggled
David, Earl and Xander all flinched in sympathy pain after seeing Mike receive a devious blow to the stomach. Mike picked himself up and walked over to pick up his gear. On his way out Mike leaned over and told the three, "Congratulations."
"Huh" the three questioned.
You guys just volunteered to go in after she finished with Rollo."
"I think Mike may have had enough, for now." Reggie giggled and started to snarl at the Rollo.
"Now you get it!" Mike smiled evilly at that the three.
"This going to be a good workout," Reggie snickered.
"Them not me," Xander snickered.
Mike gave all three the evilest grin, "Actually, Master Xander news of your exploits has spread through the capital. So you go in as soon as she finishes sweeping floor with Rollo."
"It will be payback for subjecting me to see you in that Speedo." Reggie snickered.
At her remarks one of the sisters asked. "What's a Speedo?"
"Bad mental image," Reggie says as she hit her head.
The other two teens began laughing at Xander's expression. Mike silenced their laughter with an ominous, "You two go after Xander. Bye."
"Mikey don't you want to stay and see it." Reggie called after him
Mike shouldered his rifle and turned back, "I would love to but the recruits are almost back from Erica's fun run and I need to greet them at the range."
"Okay now that I am finished Mike it time to kick some serious ass." Reggie snarled and looked in Rollo direction
Mike walked over to Théoden and Eomer. Stopping in front of the king, he quietly said, "I was never serious about the flying into Mordor remark."
"I am glad to hear that. However, my son I am beginning to become aware of when you are lying to me." The King smirked
"You caught on fast," observed the teen. "Care to join me on the range for some target shooting?"
"Wait a moment, I wish to see how she will take on my warrior." Théoden says
As Théoden, Eomer watched the girl snarl at the warrior, Mike turned around and replied and asked. "I've seen her in action and saved her but a few times so I'll still head over to the range. Are you coming by later?"
"Of course, I would not miss you demonstration." The king replied
Reggie looked at Rollo with an evil glare and sneered. "I have heard that you do not think highly of other? Well what do you think of me?"
Mike began to walk away but paused and yelled back, "HEY REG, KID GLOVES ARE OFF!"
"Not a problem Mikey, I never put them on for bigots like him." Reggie yelled back
Mike chuckled and walked off towards the firing range.
"I asked you a question, shithead." Reggie turned back to Rollo
"I am holding back earlier for I didn't wish to harm you." Rollo lied
"Yeah Right, whatever! You don't think I am a warrior do you?" Reggie sneeringly inquired
"A girl is no match for a trained warrior," challenged the Rohirrim as he rushed Reggie.
"Let's dance shithead." Reggie said as she side stepped and side wiped the rushing Rohirrim
++++
Erica with the troops arrived back in time to see Reggie take on the racist bastard.
"ALRIGHT SHIT HEADS ! ANY MORE COMMENTS LIKE BEFORE AND WE RUN THE REST OF THE NIGHT!" Erica bellowed at the group that had just halted and fallen to the ground in front of the combat arena where Reggie was demonstrating.
One young boy mumbled something. "What DID you say?" Erica demand .
"Shut up, we do not want to go for another run." The recruits tell the whimpering boy.
++++
"What's going on?" Erica asked Eomer
Haldir voice called from above. "Lady Rajani" But Reggie ignored him and said "Sorry handsome can't talk now in the middle a fight."
Eomer answered, "Your cousin has decided to use Rollo for her demonstration."
"Why him and not Mike?" Erica questioned.
"Michael didn't tell about what happened at the armory?"
"No what happened?" Erica questioned as she noticed her cousin taken a lot of pleasure in beating the shit out of the man
Eomer scratched his chin and answered, "I believe that is up to my new cousin. Needless to say, the boy was about to shoot Rollo before I stopped him."
The Rohirrim got up and tried rushing her again grabbing her from behind. Reggie stomped on his foot and did a quick reversal and kicked the man in the knee sending him to the ground. She than proceeded to kick him in the ass pushing him into the dirt face first. As the man got up she did a solid round house kick to his jaw sending him flying back over a fence into the horses' water trough.
"Well if Mike was that piss." Erica remarked than yelled. "Reggie, just remember Gramps said don't kill anyone EVERYTHING else is fair game." The teen than left to find Mike and find out what happened in Atlanta.
"Oh, don't worry cus, I know." Reggie answered as she walked over toward the man who stood up out of the water. "Shall we continue?" Reggie said going back into her stance.
+++
Out on the firing range, Mike unpacked a box of rifle magazines and placed each on a nearby table. He than began walking out on the range making sure the targets we're ready for the first recruit.
Aragorn walked silently up to the boy and asked. "Do you think it is wise to leave Rollo to Lady Reggie?"
Mike finished reading the last target as he answered, "Reg promised Gandalf that she wouldn't kill anyone so she won't kill him. Now, messing him up is another matter entirely."
He got up and faced the Ranger, "What did you think of that little field exercise this morning?"
"I found it to be quite interesting." The ranger said as she rubbed his chin and thought to himself. "Since they came from someone so young."
Mike motioned for him to follow, "How so?"
"The strategic placement of your men was unnerving at first because I didn't know where or how you planned to take on the Enemy." Aragorn replied to the teen's question "It was much like trick or a slide of hand, distracting your opponent." Aragorn said surveying the target range
Mike nodded, "That was the entire idea. Hit the enemy where he least expect it and maximize my assets. If I was back home, I probably would have called in an air strike to soften them up first."
The ranger laughed at the boy's remark
"But since we don't have any close air on hand, we have to make do with what we have. Thus, getting these recruits acclimated with the weaponry. God how I wish I had nine weeks to properly train them."
"But you do not Master Michael. I am not sure of how long we have." Aragorn said. "I am afraid we are lucky to even have this." Aragorn answered
Mike shook his hand, "You don't know how right you are. That's why I'm cramming as much as possible in the few days we have. You want to watch the demonstration?"
"Of course it seems Dena sold tickets." Aragorn replied with a smile
"Tickets to a firearms demonstration?"
"Yes, she said it should be quite a sight."
"At least that is what she said she would have to do since everyone was interested in being there." Aragorn answered
Mike walked over to a table and picked up his M-4. Flipping it over, he removed the magazine filled with blanks. "Don't see what all the fuss is. I mean you were there with Earl and I up on the wall."
"Mike what the hell happened?" Erica's demand voice called out.
Mike chuckled, "I think she was referring to the new recruits taking their first shots." The teen looked up at the approaching girl, "Looks like Erica wants something."
"Damn straight I do. Why were you so pissed at that Rohirrim that Reggie is beating the shit out of?" Erica asked as she came up.
Mike picked up a fresh magazine and slammed it into his weapon. "That wouldn't happen to be our dear friend Rollo?"
"Yeah I guess that is his name. So what did he do?" Erica inquired.
Mike aimed his weapon downrange and sighted on an Uruk chestplate held up on a dummy. He fired off three rounds in single action mode. "Let's just say he made the mistake of questioning Haldir's honor."
"WHAT!? When she's done with him I get him for Kitchen duty." Erica demanded.
The teen raised his rifle a couple inches and punched a further two holes into the helmet.
"Yeah, if it hadn't been for Eomer I would have given him a sever case of lead poisoning."
"Eomer is smart enough to know that there are worse punishments than lead." Erica snickered at what she was going to have the shit head do.
"Where are the troops?"
"I gave them a twenty minute break Dena should be bringing them by any minute." Erica answered. "I am heading to check on dinner."
Mike nodded, "Okay." He turned back to Aragorn, "Should I be aware of any other important people dropping by for the demonstration?"
"Just about everyone in the entire town," Erica answered as she left.
Mike nodded and muttered something about making a note to share some favorite blonde jokes with Earl that night.
On her way back Erica notice Legolas and Vidmor coming through the gates. "Where were you two?" She questioned
Legolas answered, "Just settling our differences."
"What do you mean by that?" Erica question
Legolas simply stated, "We just had a difference of opinions on an issue and needed to clear it up."
"Whatever." Erica said than headed for the kitchen all the while not believing them
+++
Reggie finished kicking the shit out of Rollo and moved on to Xander, Earl and David. She didn't hurt them too much but she did send the Rohirrim to the infirmary for a little nap. The girl took a breath as she followed the group up to the sight of Mike's demonstration
Mike motioned for Aragorn to grab a seat while they waited for the recruits to show up. A short time later, the sound of marching feet could be heard followed. The teen waited for them to arrive before ordering, "Listen Up, we have space for five shooters at a time. So, the first five move up to the firing line."
Dena's voice repeated Mike's command than she turned over command to him
Mike nodded and walked over to the first firing position. Stopping beside the weapon, he yelled out, "Before we get started, let's go over a few safety rules."
"First, keep your weapon aimed towards the range. Right below you is a white line. If I see a barrel cross that line, that person will receive my boot in their butt. Is that clear?"
"YES SIR." The recruits answered
"Next, do not begin shooting until I give the command. When I say cease fire stop shooting and return the weapon to the platform with the barrel facing out.""
The men stood in there designated spots waiting for there commanding officer's order
to begin firing
The teen picked up what appeared to be some kind of head set and placed them on his head. "Okay, place the ear protectors over your ears like this."
The recruits did as they were told
Mike did a quick check down the firing line. Ensuring that everything was in order, he went back to his position and yelled out,"
Load your weapons!" Slowly the group did as they had been shown.
"Sight on your targets the way I demonstrated yesterday." They raised their weapons and sighted their targets
Mike picked up a pair of binoculars as he called out, "Select single fire mode and fire one shot."
Tiredly the recruits did what they had been shown and shot at the targets
Mike observed as the first shots struck home. He looked down and said, "Aim a little higher." Several of the group did as they were told
Mike nodded and yelled out, "You have ten shots. Makes sure you aim each one. You may begin!" The group commenced firing upon the targets. As the shoots bombed out several of the elves flinched at the pain it caused.
Finally, Mike called out, "CEASE FIRE, CEASE FIRE! Place your weapons beside you and stand up." The recruits did as they were told.
"The men aren't bad for their first time." Reggie remarked to Haldir who had come up behind her.
Several of the Rohirrim look on in interest as to what the newly young prince would have the recruits do. Mike focused on the targets, then lowered his field glasses. Finally, he turned around, "Not bad for beginners. Okay, I want you to move back and allow the second group their chance."
"YES SIR!" The recruits said and than moved for the next
Fifteen minutes later, the second group was finished. Mike waited for that group to stand up before beginning, "I have to say that you did well on your first time. It is my intention to get you people qualified on the M-16 today. So, I am turning this over to Lt's Beegle and Sims." He walked over to the teens, "It's all yours."
+++
Inside the Great Hall Erica had just finished helping the ladies finish placing the food when she stop and looked towards the east with a weary feeling.
Mike walked up the hill towards the great hall. Outside the building, he noticed Aragorn eating from the bowl. "You aren't watching the show?" asked the teen.
"I found it to be a little loud." Aragorn replied as he looked up and saw a bright light lit in the distance.
"That's why you wear ear protectors," answered the teen as he sat down. "Erica fix you that?"
The fires of Gondor have been lit. He ran towards great hall and burst through the doors. "The signal has been lit. Gondor calls for aid."
Mike looked over to where Aragorn had been watching, "Oh Shit," muttered the teen as he took off after the Ranger.
Inside the King was speaking to Eomer about the new weapons when Aragorn rushed in to the great hall.
Mike was on the Rangers heels as he barreled into the hall, yelling out, "The fires are lit. Gondor calls for Aid!"
"And Rohan shall answer." The King announced.
"Sounds like we going to have to save the day, again." The teen answered with a smile
Mike walked over to the king, "I'm coming with you father."
+++
As they listened to the discussion occurring in the great hall, Dena approached Mike
"Mike, you and I need to talk NOW!" She tells him
Mike turned back and faced the girl. "What do you want?"
"In private now!" Dena tells him in a concerned voice
Mike took one look back and followed hid friend outside. Making sure that they were alone, he asked, "What did you want to say?"
"Mike I know you don't want to know what's going to happen but I think you will with what I have to tell you." Dena begins
"Okay, go on."
"Mike you have lost so much already and I can't bare to see you loose more." Dena said as she looked towards the great hall where the king was
Mike followed her gesture and noticed that she was looking at the king. A sense of dread fell on him as he grabbed his friend by the shoulders.
"A Fell Beast and A Ring Wraith are going to kill you new dad after they start to win the fight," Dena explained in sorrow
Mike turned slowly around and asked, "Okay, what are you talking about?"
"Mike according to the books only a woman can kill the Ring Wraiths." Dena told him.
"What did the book say exactly?"
"The Rohirrim will arrive at Gondor's greatest need. They will send many enemies fleeing at seeing this, but the Head Ring Wraith will attack your dad. Eowyn will be in the battle she will kill it and the fell beast but not before." Dena says with sorrow. "They cause a death blow to him. So watch the skies."
A hard look came over the boy. "The hell it will. I've got some toys just for Mr. Nazgul and his fell beast."
"Mike I don't think your toys will kill it...Only a woman can. Ok Mike I hope this helps to change things. Because we already changed a few details. Like Haldir was to die at Helm Deep," Dena tells him
"What, Haldir was supposed to die at Helms Deep?" asked the teen.
"Yes and many more elves than that did all because we were there to kill more Orcs." Dena explain
"If I can save him, than I can save my father." Mike says looking back towards the king
"Mike there is something else you need to know." Dena explains
"I've already lost too many relatives. I'll be damned if I'm going to lose another. Not while I still draw breath."
"I was helping Erica just before Aragorn came in. Her eyes started glowing blue and she was looking to the east. I think she knew." Dena commented with a shiver
"Her eyes turned blue?" Mike questioned.
"No. They glowed blue. It was the weirdest thing I'd ever seen."
"Mike you can't tell him I don't think he'll understand plus he'll try and stop you from going if he knows you will try and stop it."
Before leaving, he gently grasped the girl's hands, "Look Dena, I won't spill the beans. But I will be there with him one way or another."
"Ok, but for now what about Erica?"
"I will talk to her later, but I must talk with my father now. You do understand?"
"Alright but I worried about what this is doing to her. She hasn't been sleeping well. She is constantly having nightmares. It's only after Legolas has song to her she can sleep. But he hasn't the last couple of night." Dena explained.
Mike nodded, "I understand," and turned back to enter the hall.
"Well than we have talk to Legolas and get him to sing to her again." Dena called after him
"We will, but I need to have a word with my father," said the teen as he walked back into the hall. He stopped in front of the king and said, "So you are going to aid Gondor?"
"Yes," Théoden replied with dread for he knew what he new son was about to ask
"I know what going to happen and really hope it doesn't." Reggie mumbled to herself as she watched Mike go and talk to the King." He can't loose another one."
Mike took a deep breath, "I promised you I would stay out of the fighting but there is no way I'm going to wait here, while you put yourself in danger. I lost one set of parents already to a plague. I'll be damned if I'm going to lose you to the Dark Lord and do nothing about it."
"I will allow you to go on two conditions." Théoden remarked knowing how the boy felt..
"What are they?"
"One you stay away as far as your weapon can keep you. Second your women are to stay out of the fight completely." He tells him. "At Helm's deep they fought well but this will be far worse. I will not have them risking they lives."
"I would agree with you on Dena, since she is pretty much our team medic. But Erica has been my second in command since we started school, I can't kick her out."
"These are my conditions either you obey them or all of you stay here." Theoden
Mike was not happy with the choice he was being forced to make. Mike took a deep breath and finally said. "I will relieve the females of my unit from active duty until you deem fit for them to return. I will go and inform them." Mike headed for the girl's Barracks.
+++
The teen left the hallway, wondering how he was going to explain to the girls. Finally, he stood at the door and knocked.
"Whose there?" A voice rang from within.
"It's me, let me in," answered a solemn teen.
"Boy you sound like someone just took your favorite toy." Erica laughed as she allowed him to enter.
"What's wrong Mikey?" Reggie asked.
Mike walked in and closed the door. He looked at Erica and said, "You might want to sit down."
The teen took a deep breath, "I talked with my father."
"Why do I suddenly have a bad feeling?" Dena muttered
Erica just raised an eyebrow at her friend but did as he asked.
"I don't know how to say this, so I'll come straight out and tell you. Dad wants you girls out of the fight and would only let me come along if I agreed to it."
"What the hell?" Reggie said
"WHAT THE BLOODLY HELL!" Dena yelled. "After what I told you, you agreed?"
Erica just looked at him in disbelief as argue started showing in her eyes. After a moment she finally spoke. "So you ditch your old family for your new." Erica hissed.
"Dang it Dena, I had no choice. It was either take you off active duty or we all stay. I couldn't let him ride off to certain death while waiting here"
"Mike, There is no way in hell that I am not going to fight. Didn't the king see how I handle myself with that bastard Rollo. If I can take one of his warriors I don't think he should hold us out of the fight." Reggie sneered
Mike walked over to the window and looked out, "What would you have me do? Tell him no and let him ride to his death. I lost one set of parents, I'm losing another."
With out looking at her friend Erica asked in a dead tone. "We are off active duty? So our time is our own?"
"Erica, you saw how losing my parents to the plague affected me. If what Dena says came true, I'm afraid I will be making a one-way trip to Mordor alone."
"I asked you if our time is our own." She said in a dead tone.
"Yes it is," he replied in an equally emotionless tone.
"I like your thinking cus." Reggie started to smile as she realized Erica's plan "If our time is our own and we can do whatever the hell we want and you won't be in trouble."
At his answer she turned to face him with a bright smile on her face and said. "Fine. But ask your father if we can at least come with you to the encampment." Erica asked with glee in her voice.
Mike turned around, "Just keep me out of any plans. Eowyn mentioned that the ladies of the court are accompanying the Rohirrim to the staging area. I believe you qualify as ladies of the court."
"Mike I am sorry about what I said earlier. I'm glad for you to have a father again." Erica finally admitted.
"Who ever thought I would like being called a lady, I like it." Reggie replied with a smile
Mike nodded and answered Erica, "That's okay. Get ready to move out."
+++
"Mike have you had a chance to talk to Legolas?" Dena asks after she follows Mike out
His task done, Mike walked out of the room. He was hallway down the hallway when Dena caught him. Looking back,, he asked, "What are you talking about?"
"Listen Mike I talked to Erica a couple of nights back about her nightmares and she told me that seems to sleep bed when he's song to her. She guess because it was because her mom used to sing to her after she had nightmares. But
"But what?"
"But when I tried it didn't work she still had more nightmare." Dena explained
Mike stopped, "Are they getting worse?"
"She wont admit it but it keeping her from any real sleep." Dena answers
"Maybe we should talk to her about it. Think we should bring in Legolas?"
"Yeah but I don't think he will agree he's been avoiding her lately. I've got a plan if you want to help." Dena tells him
"Spill..."
"Guilt tactics should work real well on the elf." Dena smiled
Mike looked at his watch, "We had better make it quick. I have to get my people ready to leave for the assembly area."
"You start in on him first than I will come in and blind side him." Dena told him
"And just what are you two up to?" Aragorn asks
Mike turned back to the Ranger, "Erica's been having some nasty nightmares and we are going to do something about it. Want to come along?"
"How may I be of assistance in this matter." The Ranger asked concerned for the girl
"It seems she only sleeps better after Legolas sings to her." Dena informed the Ranger
"Turns out that our elven friend can calm her down after a bad dream. I was thinking that he could help convince her to talk about it."
"He's be avoiding her lately and she hasn't slept well." Dena piped in
"Now Legolas has been avoiding Erica lately and we were thinking you could help talk him into coming along."
"I am sure my presences will be a help to have my elven friend do this duty. I will gladly do anything to help Lady Erica." Aragorn replied
"Great we're going for the Guilt treatment tactic on him." Dena tells the ranger
Mike listened in and grinned, "You wouldn't happen know where the elf is ?"
"He is on the balcony over looking the Eastern borders. I believe Gimli is with him as well." The ranger informed them
The group headed for the balcony and was greeted by Gimli who was just about to leave that is until he saw the look on Dena's face
"This should be interesting." The Dwarf thought to himself.
Mike walked over and announced, "Hello Leggy, just the person we've been looking for."
The teen's words caused Gimli to laugh while the elf just stared of into the distances.
Mike continued, "You see the gang and I have noticed that Erica has been having really nifty nightmares lately,"
At the teens words the elf looked at him and said. "Nifty?"
"Now we are going back to see just what the heck has been troubling Erica and guess who we had to bring along?"
"Why would you want me along?" Questioned the elf
Okay, Mike stood aside and waved an arm at Dena, "Dena your turn!"
"We all know that when you sing to her it calms her enough down to sleep through the night. So she needs your help." Dena informed the elf
"Legolas, if you have helped the child before you should do so again. This may be the last time you see her." The Ranger sad to his friend
Mike stood off to the side and quipped, "Face it Leggy, you are surrounded and outnumbered. You might as well come."
"Legolas, I insist you do this." Gimli chimed into the conversation.
The elf gave the boy a disapproving look than say. "I had already planned on speaking with Lady Erica later."
"Well then, no time like the present. You might as well come along."
"What I have to say is for a private time." Legolas said than turn back towards the distance
Mike turned to Dena and said, "Get him."
"The fact is that she needs your attention now." Dena said "you may not have time latter."
The girl than reach up and grabbed the elves ear. "Listen up elf boy I know how and why this is so painful for your kind but you asked for it."
Mike leaned over to Aragorn and commented, "This is going to get messy. This is why it is often easier to just say yes and go along."
"Legolas I just you do as they asked." Aragorn smiled not helping his friend. Gimli whispered to Mike "You know your friend is doing something only females can get away with."
Mike nodded, "Yeah, she is good at that."
"LADY DENA REMOVE YOUR HAND AND I SWEAR BY VALAR I WILL SPEAK TO HER PRIVATELY!" Legolas sneered out
Mike just shook his head and smirked, "You would have think he would have learned by now."
"I am not letting go of your ear, until you do." Dena sneered right back with her hand pulling even harder on his ear.
Mike shook his head and asked Aragorn, "You want to head back to Erica's quarters?"
"I think Lady Dena has been around Lady Reggie a little too much, her attitude as become a tad aggressive." Aragorn says as he follows the teen
Mike nodded, "Lets' stop by the kitchen and get a couple drinks." He called back, "HEY DENA, LET US KNOW WHEN YOU FINISH WITH LEGGY AND ERICA!"
"I plan on locking them in a room together." Dena said as she pull the elf by the ear towards the barracks
Reggie is in the room trying to convince Erica she needs some sleep when all of a sudden
Mike pointed towards the retiring elf and girl, "See, I told you it would be a lot easier to agree then argue with her."
"Erica you should really get some rest, you are going to need it for tomorrows ride." Reggie said with concern
"Attend HUT!" Dena yells out as she enters the room with a certain elf in tow.
"Everyone out but Erica NOW!" Dena ordered
"Girls lets go." Reggie said as she hurried the young one to get out. "Is everything okay?" Reggie asked Dena as she walked by ushering the girls
"Later." Dena says.
"Most definitely." Reggie replies looking at the Elf who rubbed his ear
Legolas followed after Dena, rubbing his ear. Finally, he was alone with Erica. He began, "Your friends' have been concerned about your nightmares."
"You are only here because Dena dragged you in by your ear." Erica snapped at the elf then turn back to packing her back pack
Legolas walked over and said, "You need to tell someone. It will not be any good to hold it in."
"What ever one knows I am having nightmares. So they are just nightmares." Erica replied
"Sometimes dreams are windows to the soul and often have greater meaning. Why don't you tell me?"
"Trust if they are you don't want to know." Erica quietly replies
"Perhaps, but you need to let it out and I am here, "countered the elf.
"You can not hold them inside, they will eat at your soul."
"They already have..... Some much death... It's coming I can feel it. And not just on Middle Earth." Erica cries as she finally gives into the elf's words.
"Go on" Legolas said as he approached her wrapping his arms around her.
Erica started to tremble from the memories but continues. "Death... it's every where chasing me and my friends. It says we cheated it. That we belong to it."
"Let it out."
"Go on"
"It's angry because it can't have us. So it kills everyone around us. I saw some many falling under its hand." Erica cried.
"Was there anything else about the dream?" asked the elf.
"Yeah when death was finished with our friends and families it tried to come after us. For some reason it could not kill us. This angered it more." Erica answered and she rest against Legolas
"And then?"
"It left. But we had to face the dead and they were angry at us for failing them. That's about when I wake up." Erica admitted.
Legolas cradled the girl and thought for a moment, "Every one of you children have been through so much within the last few months. Have you truly mourned your friends and relatives who passed on?"
"I cried. I screamed. I think I did." Erica answered
Legolas paused then answered, "Could it have anything to do with the fact that you are Gandalf's grand daughter? If you truly are his blood, then you may share his immortality."
At his word the girl look at him strangely. "What? I don't that it's not just me it was my group and others from Earth."
"Then they may too share that immortality if you truly possess it. That would explain your dream where your friends cheat death."
"I never thought of it that way." Erica said as she snuggled closers into arms.
Legolas smiled, "Then clear your mind and sleep easily. Although, I cringe at the thought of Mike being immortal."
"Yeah we should keep it a secret from him. He might try doing even more stupider stunts." Erica smiled than said . "Could you sing to me again. It brings nice dreams, that aren't full of death and blood."
The elf smiled and began his song.
+++
Meanwhile, in the great hall, Mike handed Aragorn a can. "You should try one of these Cokes."
At that point Dena and Reggie walk in and look at them and said, "You better have one for us. It's going to be a long night."
Mike reached over and tossed two extra cans to the girls. Turning back to the Ranger, he asked, "What do you think about drinks from my world?"
"I have a feeling that I won't be sleeping at all tonight." Reggie commented to Dena.
"This is quite good." The ranger replied
"So Dena, what was that all about?" Reggie questioned her friend
Mike nodded, "I agree with there. I still have to get with David and Earl and get the unit ready to march." Mike turned back to the Ranger, "Now, what is really going on? How bad is it in Gondor?"
"When Gondor calls for aid it means it will fall if aid does not come." The Ranger said as with a shake of his head.
"So I take it there some serious crap coming our way," reasoned the teen. "Worse than Helms Deep?"
"Far worse. It would take an army of at least 50,000 orcs for Gondor to call for aid." Aragorn answered with dread.
Mike nodded his head, "Then Dad will need all the extra firepower, my people can provide."
"Unfortunately you are right. But you are so young to be in such a fight." Aragorn answered honestly. "I fear for you all you have lost so much in such a short time. Your friends nightmares are a clear sign none of you have complete mourned the lost."
Mike nodded, "Maybe so, but there is a war on. When this mess is over, then I will have time to mourn. But for now, my duties call me."
Aragorn went to say something decided against it and placed his arm on the boys shoulder and gave a small half heart smile at the boy's strength.
Mike looked up at the Ranger, was there something else?"
"Dena, are you even listening to me?" Reggie said as she slips the coke, while Dena stares off towards Mike and the conversation he was having Aragorn.
"Just get some rest." The ranger tells him
"Ooops sorry what did you say?" Dena asked.
"What was that all about back there, I know Erica hasn't been sleeping, but is the elf going to do about it? And WHY did you pull his ear, don't you know what that does to an elf?" Reggie inquired.
Mike answered, "After I makes sure Earl and Dean have gotten the weapon and ammo packs ready for loading onto the horses."
"Haldir had several of the elves helping them." The ranger informed the boy
"What was that all about back there, I know Erica hasn't been sleeping, but is the elf going to do about it? And WHY did you pull his ear, don't you know what that does to an elf? "Reggie inquired
"I hope so, I already figured we needed four extra horses for carrying the mortars and bombs alone. Then we need pack animals for the fifty cal and ammunition."
"Yeah I know what it does to an elf and that is why I did it. Can you think of a better way to get a males attention." Dena snickered.
"No, but I didn't think would or could do that, but than again I haven't seen you in a long time." Reggie laughs but gets serious
"Why is Erica having these bad dreams and what they about, and why was Legolas needed?"
"Don't know what they are about but it seems after the elf sings to her she doesn't have them for the rest of the night." Dena answered.
"I believe Haldir also ordered your friends to bed. I think you should join them." Aragorn told Mike
"After I make my rounds," answered the teen as he began walking out the door.
"Well I hope it works, she needs her rest. I am really worried about her." Reggie say starring off towards the signals through the windows.
"I shall join you to make sure you get some sleep too." Aragorn informed the boy
"I worried about gramps as well. I just found them again and I don't want to loose them.
Reggie continued
"I got a feeling that old fart can take care of himself." Dena laugh as she remember how well he did with the staff spanking the teens on the ass before he left
"I know, but I strange things are happening. I know the story, but so much has changed already," Reggie replied still looking off.
Mike gave the Ranger a soft smile, "You don't trust me?"
"You two should go to bed too." The ranger told the girls as he followed Mike out
Than turning to the boy he grinned. "NO!"
"I can't sleep right now, I need some air." Reggie says as she walks off
Mike continued out the door, muttering something about overprotective big brothers.
"Reggie and Haldir sitting in a tree." Dena called out after the girl
Reggie didn't even turn around, and walking away saying "Whatever I could say the same thing about you and the Nephew." At her words Dena turned red for then, THE Nephew walked in
+++
The next morning the courtyard was filled with riders mounting up and getting ready to leave. Mike walked over to David and asked, "You got the mortar team situated?"
"They are ready to move, Sir." David said with a salute
Erica approached them in a happier mood than lately. "Your dad is allowing us to accompany you to the encampment." Erica said with glee
Mike returned the salute and went by each man, making sure tarps were tightened and gear stored properly. He walked over to Earl, are your people ready?"
"Of course, would you expect anything else, Sir." Earl said with a salute and grinned at mike
Mike nodded, "very well, have the company form up on the colors. Your squad is in the lead, David in rear."
"Yes Sir!" Earl answered then turned to his company. "Mount Up."
The King rode up to Mike and said. "You remember my conditions?"
Mike nodded and mounted Nickie, and rode over to the king. Snapping off a salute, he reported, "Sir my unit is ready to go when you give the word."
Nodding to his new son he smiled than heard Eomer's voice saying, "Riders of Rohan now is the time. Vows you have taken for lord and land. Vows you must fulfill."
Mike looked listened to his cousin's speech than gave them an evil grin. Turning back, he yelled out, "Lt. Sims sound the march"
Expecting the dirty look from Erica the teen smiled but was unnerved at the smile she gave him back.
"Oh no, no that bugle." Reggie said as she covered her ears. "I swear I am going to toss that thing in front of the M.A.P."
Mike turned back to the adults to see their reaction to David's bad playing.
King gave his son a strange look, while several of the elves covered their ears.
Mike shrugged and smiled, "Just thought I'd set the mood."
"Mike, don't set it." Reggie sneered.
"Reggie calm down, it my fault he has it." Dena said coming closer to her friend.
"So you're the one I am going to have to hurt." Reggie answered smiling evilly at Dena.
Théoden simply shook his head and gave the order to ride out.
"I think you need worry." Earl told Mike, "Erica smiling."
Mike shrugged, "I'm used to it."
"No I mean she's smiling sweetly. You remember the last time she smiled like that. Half the foot ball team ended up in the hospital." Earl replied
"But that was because they attacked her. If you are going to worry, then worry for the other guys."
"Yeah but I know your dad ordered them out of the fight." Earl comments as his eyes kept watching Erica
"But she not going to be in the battle, so that smile scares me even more."
Mike looked back, "I followed my father's wishes by releasing them from active duty. I no longer control their actions."
"Their time is their own?" Earl replied
"Now I am even more scared for the bad guys that is." Earl laughed
"They are no longer under my command and are not under any further obligation to follow my orders."
"You know I have a feeling we will be seeing them in Gondor, than." Earl whispered to Mike as they followed the column out of Edoras.
TBC
Authors Notes: This chapter turned out a lot longer than I had originally intended but I wanted to end this chapter with the Rohirrim leaving for Dunharrow. In response to my latest reviewer, I have included more scenes with Dena. She will be playing an even more important role in Chapter 6 as she and the girls under her charge follow the Rohirrim as the army's medical section. "Chapter 6, The Charge" will see the Americans split up with one group following Aragorn on the Path of the Dead and the others with the Rohirrim to Minas Tirith and end with the battle at Pelennor Fields. Expect to see lots of action not to mention a few surprises.
With this chapter I will be giving a little background on the characters and begin with Mike, the leader of the American teenagers. I had envisioned him to be a typical American teenager yet is already determined to be a career military officer. Away from the fighting, he likes to have fun pulling pranks and playing music. However, on the battlefield, when people's lives depend on his actions, he is a different person. Three people provided the inspiration for his soldier persona. The first is Major Richard Winters, who commanded a rifle company with the 101st Airborne during the Normandy campaign and Operation Market Garden (liberation of Holland). In my opinion, Maj. Winters exemplifies the best parts of an infantry officer. He is a good tactician and combat leader who lead by example and compassionate towards his men. During the attack on Carentan, he doesn't hesitate pulling soldiers out of ditches and kicking them in the butt when they are pinned down by enemy machine guns. Yet not long afterwards, when he runs into one of those soldiers at the aid station who had shut down, blind for no reason, he promised the soldier that he would see that he was sent back to England. The soldier quickly regained his sight and returned to his unit. More inspiration cam from General Hal Moore, who commanded a battalion of the 7th Cavalry Regiment in the Ia Drang Valley in 1965. He is another leader who puts his men in front of himself as he told his troopers, "I will be the first to set foot on the field of battle and the last to step off." Once again, he did not shrink from putting himself in danger when the situation called for it. Watch "Band of Brothers" and "We Were Soldiers" and you will see what I mean.
The character Earl is based on one of my best friends who served in the Army with Explosive Ordinance Disposal as his specialty and later was commissioned in the Navy, training as a Naval Aviator. Yes, the warped sense of humor shown by the character comes directly from him. I guess you need one if you mess with explosives and then fly. Many of the pranks described in the story are based on real life incidents involving my buddy. He is a good friend and if I were ever in combat I would want him fighting alongside.
That said, I appreciate all of the people who took the time out to review. Keep it up. As a further sign of appreciation, I will leave you with this piece of wisdom: When in doubt, empty your magazine.
Merry Prankster
