Dated this day, February the 23rd, 3019 of the Third Age

Faramir,

I wish to close the doors and shut the world away…we have journeyed now for two months, scarcely eating and barely sleeping. The closer we come to our destination, the more we are assailed from ever angle. I am a soldier, I have seen my share of pain and fear and hardship, but this…I am weary. All the fight has left me. I don't know what tomorrow will hold Faramir, nor the next day, nor the next. There is no longer a guide light when the next step is unclear.

This morning we encountered one of the Nine on a great winged beast. Its very presence chilled us all to the marrow and then it let out a wail so terrible as to shatter one's very soul. I felt my body cringe inwardly as though I would turn inside out. It is a hellish experience to feel one's blood freeze and boil all at once. And in my dreams I hear it still. It torments me, this other-worldly voice, like the hiss of a snake in my ear. Telling me to take it, to use it and Gondor will be safe…

I once made a promise to you when you were still in your cradle. Our grandfather Ecthelion had just passed from this world and I was angry with him for not coming back. It was then I promised you that I would always return to you, no matter where the roads lead me. I cannot keep that promise Faramir, for I am not coming back. I know that now. I knew it even in those moments of our last parting.

This voice in my dreams is my own…and that is a foe no man should have to face.

Gondor needs you Faramir, you are the one who must now take up the torch and lead them out of the darkness. In truth, I was afraid to let you stay behind. I wanted to be the one to give you hope. You are the strongest of souls out of any of us brother, the bravest of hearts and I know not even this will break you. Keep your mind on what's here today. The past is all that's gone and so, hold your memories bittersweet until you leave this lonely world of ours and we meet again. I cannot tell you do not weep, just be on your way and don't shade your future with what's behind…don't wait for me.

I have come to the edge Faramir, and there is no other side.

Now and Forever,

Boromir