Boromir awoke early the next morning, troubled by a strange dream. He was bewildered by its meaning and wondered if it were an omen of some kind. He decided that he must speak with Faramir and his father about it later that day. He dressed quickly and made his way to the Houses of Healing, ever hopeful of good news.
When Ioreth met him at the door he inquired after Eswen's father. Sadness filled the old woman's face as she told him the grievous news. She showed him to Mabon's room and he halted outside for a moment before he stepped through the door.
He saw Mabon lying peacefully on his bed, no pain was written on his face. By his beside Eswen sat holding one of his hands in hers. She looked up when she heard Boromir enter the room.
Her cheeks were stained by tears and her eyes were full of sorrow. Boromir's heart broke to see her in so much distress and moved over to her. Eswen stood up to face him and he embraced her as she burst once again into tears.
Even though she was full of grief Eswen felt comforted by Boromir's presence.
"I know that I promised you to bring him safe and well," Boromir told her as he held her. Pulling back slightly Eswen looked up at him.
"You promised me that you would try and that is all that you could have done.
"You could have done worse however, and not returned yourself. I do not blame you," She reassured him as she lifted her hand to his face and smiled ever so faintly up at him.
"And you should not blame yourself either, I am thankful for what you were able to do." Tears sparkled in her eyes again and she rested her head on Boromir's shoulder.