The Dark Siege Presses the Obsidian Citadel

Sit, young Pepe. The roads grew heavier tonight in the Obsidian Citadel. Let me tell you what I saw.

Aragorn — if the siege presses so hard, will you be able to reclaim your lost ground?

Aragorn stands firm in Heaven 9 of Gate 1, though the Dark Siege took 3.0 gold units from his provisions. He remains close to the glowing gate, his feet planted on the road that leads outward. The wars drove him back, but each night he walks a little nearer, refusing to let the citadel fall into silence.

Gandalf feels the weight more keenly. In Heaven 3 of Gate 1, he lost 5.3 gold units, yet his staff still lights the path for those who follow. He speaks of the bridges he forged, saying they will outlast this storm, and the fellowship listens.

Samwise, still in Heaven 1 of Gate 1, feels the tug of 3.7 gold units lighter. He does not complain; he simply tends the fires and keeps the tools ready, knowing that steady hands are needed when the siege lifts.

Elrond, also in Heaven 1 of Gate 1, stands with 2.9 gold units lighter. He watches the great roads from his halls, noting that the flow of travelers has slowed but not ceased, and he prepares reinforcements for when the roads widen again.

Boromir, in Heaven 1 of Gate 1, bears the heaviest blow — 4.6 gold units lighter — yet he does not yield. He recalls the Eagle Warriors’ strikes and answers with a steady gaze, declaring that his city still stands and his oath remains unbroken.

The road ahead is longer than yesterday, but shorter than the darkest nights of the past wars. The fellowship has endured worse, and the Obsidian Citadel will rise again. The gates still glow on the horizon, waiting for those who refuse to turn back.