"By order of the king, the city must empty!" Hama announced to the people. "We make for the refuge of Helm's Deep. Do not burden yourself with treasures. Take only what provisions you need."
Solatiri went with Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli who were following Gandalf to the stables. Gandalf was leaving and they were all going to bid him farewell.
"Helm's Deep", Gimli grumbled. "They flee to the mountains when they should stand and fight. Who will defend them if not their king?"
"He's only doing what he thinks is best for his people", Aragorn said.
"It is true", Solatiri said. "Helm's deep will protect these people better than Edoras will."
"Helm's Deep has saved them in the past."
"There is no way out of that ravine", Gandalf said. "Theoden is walking into a trap. He thinks he's leading them to safety. What they will get is a massacre. Theoden has a strong will but I fear for him. I fear for the survival of Rohan."
"I do as well", Solatiri said.
"Take care of your family", Gandalf told her. They will need you more than ever."
She nodded before turning back toward the Golden Hall. At the bottom of the stairs, she found Hama helping Halleth prepare for the long journey.
"Halleth", she called.
"Solatiri!" he said smiling. "I heard you had arrived."
"I missed you, little brother."
Hama watched his two children embrace like a real family would. He started feeling guilty about sending Solatiri away. She had grown strong and had become independent. Solatiri was the exact opposite of what he thought she would be. Hama was proud of her.
"Solatiri", he said. "I need to ride with the king. Will you watch Halleth?"
"Of course", she answered smiling at Hallath. "Let me fetch Eothain and Freida."
Hama nodded and entered the Golden Hall where Theoden was getting ready to leave. Solatiri entered to get the children when she heard the king speak to Gamling and Hama. Both men looked depressed, not wanting to leave their homes.
"I am ready, Gamling", Theoden said. "Bring my horse."
Gamling nodded as he left the room leaving Hama with Theoden. The king noticed his expression and tried to give him reassurance.
"This is not a defeat. We will return."
Solatiri mounted a horse with Hallath riding with her. She looked at Eothain and Freida who rode next to her.
"Hold on tight", she said. "We're in for a long journey."
"How long?" Eothain asked.
"Days."
She looked at Freida who looked like she was going to cry. Solatiri knew she missed her mother like most children would.
"Dear child, do not fret", she said. "Remember what I told you. Your mother may be waiting for us at Helm's Deep."
"I miss Mama", Freida cried.
"I know. But for now, show your brave face. We must make this journey."
They looked ahead to see Theoden looking back at Edoras as they reached the river outside the city. Everyone knew Theoden was doing this for their own good. The people of Edoras began their long journey as they formed a line miles long. The only times they would be able to stop were for food and sleep.