All gathered around as Gil-galad started his tale. “The evil of Sauron has come even unto the Halls of Mandos. There have been instances of some souls abiding there have been corrupted. Battles have been fought, and souls expelled because of this evil.

“The Nazgûl are here, bound for a time, to this cave.

“There are nine of us, against the nine wraiths. This will not be the final battle, but will, I trust, give you time to ready yourselves when the final battle will come.

“Therefore, I ask each of you - are you prepared to fight by my side? Do you do this of your own free will? For that is the each of you must answer in your heart before pledging yourselves.”

There was no hesitation as each affirmed the decision to assist the King.

Estel spoke as he looked Gil-galad in the eye. “I would lay down my life for my brothers as well as Legolas, Elrond, Glorfindel, or Arathorn. I will not falter.”

Gil-galad asked , “And what of you, Legolas? Would you also lay down your life for Estel? He is not a brother.”

Legolas answered, “Aye. He is also my brother, not by blood, but by the bond of friendship. We will fight together, or we will perish together.”

Elladan and Elrohir agreed. Elrond and Arathorn smiled at each other.

Elrond stated, “I would do the same for Glorfindel, as he would do for me. We share a bond that will never be broken. Many times has Glorfindel of Gondolin come to my rescue.”

Elros smiled at his twin. “As ever, gwador.” He then turned to Glorfindel saying, “I am happy gwador nin has had you backing him. Without you being there for him, it would have been difficult for him. Diola lle.”

Glorfindel said nothing, only bowed to Elros and Elrond, hiding the tears that sprang to his eyes.

Gil-galad nodded. They were ready.

Suddenly, there was a feeling of terrible evil within the confines of the chamber. As the nine arrayed themselves in a circle, facing outward, an ear-splitting screech was heard.

A sickly green light appeared, then formed into nine ghastly beings. They might have been human once, though it was difficult to tell. They swept around the chamber, then settled to the floor. Each was terrible to look at, with their emaciated forms, and orbs of red light where their eyes should be. Each was armed with a sword, as well as knives. Their clothing were but rags, slowly drifting as they moved.

Swords were drawn from scabbards, their whispers amplified by the walls of the cave. The nine companions waited for the first move to be made.

A sword was swiftly raised, and the first blow landed. Thus the battle began.