Bali saw the enemies pouring through the gate. Knowing that it would be easier to defend the fortress if fewer Uruk Hai could get through, he ordered the company to retreat for the next passageway. This door was small, but thick and strong.
"We have little time until they break through this defense. Arlome, you, Belegond, Einin and Gromfelt must stay here with a group of elves. When the door collapses, do as much as you can, and then fall back to the hall straight away." A slight tremble entered Bali's voice, knowing that he may have condemmed members of his company to an almost certain doom.
"The rest of you, come back to the keep with me. We will organize guerilla resistance from the hall. I want small parties of defenders to wait at various passagways, and when enemies appear, launch a quick volley at them and disappear. We will continue moving backwards until they reach the hall. After that, we stand and fight for our families, and the lives of the people of Erebor."
As the group hurried up the stairs, bound for the keep, Bali stayed at the door with Arlome and the others for a moment. "Remember, just slow them down enough to give us time to get arrows and hatchets, and find our positions. Then run, and don't look back."
Arlome looked Bali straight in the eye, and when he answered, his voice showed that he was prepared for the worst. "We know what we must do, Bali. Go, lead the warriors to victory."
Bali looked around one final time at the warriors. "All of you have followed me from your homes. I will never forget you, should the worst come."
The dwarf grasped Arlome's hand in a vice-like grip. "Make them fear the name of Erebor!"
As Bali ascended the stairs, he caught a last glance from Belegond. The dwarf knew what they would do. The warriors would fight to the end. And as the arrived at the keep, he heard the haunting sound of splintering wood, and the clash of steel ringing out from below.
[ April 18, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]
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