Boromir, Thou Shall Live
By Priscilla Stafford
Author's Note: I've come back from camp! Just to tell you guys, I had TONS of fun! Well, throughout the whole camp I was thinking about how I was going to write this chapter, that's why I was able to get this out so quickly. Plus, this was a chapter that was sooo much fun for me to write!
Anyway, you Boromir fans are probably saying, "Give us more Boromir!" Well, this chapter is ALL Boromir (with a touch of other characters), I hope you like it!
Thanks to all my reviewers are at the bottom of the chapter. I've reached the point where I now have SIXTY reviews! Hurray! Thanks so much y'all!
This chapter begins on the night of the same day King Theoden and his men have left for Helm's Deep while Eowyn and the people of Edoras have left for Dunharrow.
Chapter Nine: A Night of Memories and Choices
Boromir looked out from one of the highest balconies in Lorien. It was just barely overlooking the trees and the sun had already passed out of sight, its glorious rays still lightening up the sky. With his head full of thoughts, Boromir leaned against the railing of the balcony. It was peaceful and beautiful here, yet he was still ill at ease.
Was it because he felt that this was a place of dreams, an escape from reality? Boromir pondered the new idea for the more he thought of it, the more he understood. He had seen much war, for most of his adult life, and even his young adulthood, he had fought and kept the forces of Mordor from mounting an offensive against Gondor.
To him, this was only temporary. Soon he would have to go back to war and try to keep Middle Earth from falling into the hands of Sauron and his minions. Lothlorien, too, with all her beauty and tranquility, will fall.
He had seen bloodshed and much death. Yes, death was nothing new for Boromir, for as a child he had suffered the greatest loss no one should ever have to endure, and that was the loss of his mother.
He still remembered her in a vague sort of way, so comforting for she always had a kind word for everyone. He especially remembered how she would take his brother Faramir and himself upon her knee and she would tell stories of long ago.
Though he would never admit it, Boromir remembered each and every story she had told them. From the tale of the love of Beren and Luthien, to the Narn I Hin Hurin, and even of the courageous deeds of Glorfindel, Boromir could recall it clearly. But more than anything, he remembered how Finduilas' eyes would light up from within her as her voice would raise in escalation whenever she reached a point of great heroism or a high point of interest.
At the end of the story, ever the inquisitive Faramir would have questions for her. Boromir would always try to quiet him, telling him to wait until their mother had told them another story.
Then Finduilas would always take each of her son's head into her hands and kiss them each just on the corner of their temple and whisper the words which would always silence them. 'I love you.'
Boromir smiled up into the heavens where he imagined she still looked upon him with a smile on her lips. "I shall always remember and love you."
He turned from the wondrous view and started walking down to his room. Ever since Haldir had left that morning, the halls of Galadhrim seemed quieter than usual. Boromir had to admit that he would miss Haldir's comforting presence for besides Isilme and the Lady Galadriel, he had basically been left to himself.
As he walked down the deserted halls, he flexed his shoulder slowly. It hurt, but it wasn't that bad, he had felt worse. It was the side wound that hurt for every time he walked he would move his hip, sending a throbbing pain up his whole side.
But he only gritted his teeth and kept from limping, he would not show any weakness. That's what his father had taught him, never show weakness for that weakness could be used against that person.
Boromir remembered a time when he and his brother, along with other children from the city, had gone onto the high walls of Minas Tirith. Faramir had still been a young and curious seven year old.
The children had all leaned over the wall, looking far down at the small figures of the people of Gondor. Yet when Faramir had looked down, he had suddenly jerked back. After questioned about his behavior, Faramir had simply said that the height bothered and scared him.
Almost immediately, the other children began to tease him. Boromir remembered how Faramir had tried not to cry. At that moment, Denethor had appeared, grim faced and ordering everyone to leave besides Boromir and his brother.
Denethor had seen the whole scene and had harshly told Faramir that weakness must not ever be shown to others, for it was a deadly weapon that could be used against you.
Now, so many years later, Boromir pondered whether Denethor had been not only talking to Faramir, but to himself. Ever since Finduilas' death, his father had become... distant. Cold.
Boromir reached his rooms and when entering, saw that another occupied the room. It was a familiar looking Elf, but Boromir could not place who it was.
The golden haired Elf bowed and was the first to speak. "I am Orophin, younger brother to Haldir."
The man of Gondor finally remembered where he had seen the Elf, at the edges of Lothlorien when the Fellowship had first arrived. But at the time, Boromir had not really studied any of the Elves, not even the two brothers of Haldir.
Orophin was slightly shorter and leaner in frame than his older brother, his features also appeared leaner. His eyes were dark brown and unlike Haldir, who gave the impression of being more serious minded, Orophin showed signs of a more youthful joy. Even now, the Elf's lips were turned upward in a relaxed way.
Boromir bowed slightly from the waist. "I owe my life to your brother."
Orophin shrugged in the graceful way of the Elves. "He has spoken much of you. And from what he has said, I believe he thinks very highly of you."
It was Boromir's turn to shrug. "The feeling is mutual to be sure." He gestured for the Elf to sit on one of the empty seats. "Won't you sit?"
"I cannot stay long. I only stopped by to give you this." Orophin handed him a letter. As Boromir took it, Orophin spoke. "It is from Haldir. He said for you open it when you prepare to leave Lorien." With a bow, the Elf left the room with silent footsteps before Boromir had time to respond.
The solitary figure stared at the letter for some moments before neatly placing it on where he had left his sword lay. For he knew, whenever he left, wherever he left for, he would not leave his sword behind.
**********
Faramir dropped his pen and sighed deeply as he stared at the lists and different reports scattered around his desk. Well, desk was actually an overstatement, it was in actuality a makeshift table. As soon as he had arrived in Ithilien just hours before, the men had set it up in the quieter parts of the caves in which they dwelled.
A cold wind swept through the caves and Faramir's eyes strayed to the flickering light of the candle upon his table. Making sure that the light did not blow out, Faramir once more tried to sort out the disarray of paper. Supplies were clearly running out and scouts had reported that bands of Easterlings were coming in through Ithilien. The bottom line: resources were low and there were not enough men to protect both the northern and eastern borders of Gondor.
Most of all, the morale of the men were down. It was not surprising to Faramir, for he too felt his spirits sink as he thought of the many months ahead, for they would be crucial in the fight against Sauron.
But he was Captain, Captain of the Ithilien Rangers. He would not, will not, give up on his men. There was still hope, there had to be. And even if there wasn't, Faramir would lead his men with all of his being, even to death.
Faramir leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes for throughout his readings he had developed a headache. It was late at night, and reading in the dark with such weak candle light always made him feel dizzy.
He tried to relax, to leave behind work for a few minutes. Not surprisingly, his thoughts turned to his brother. Of late, he often thought of Boromir, for he was sick at heart with worry. Where was he now?
For some reason, his thoughts went way back to when he and Boromir were still young children. Especially one incident which he remembered clearly.
It had been a beautiful day to be outside so Boromir and he had gone to play outside with other children from the city. Somehow or the other they had ended up at one of the outer walls of Minas Tirith.
He had seen Boromir walk right up to the wall, then lean way over to look down. Faramir recalled how Boromir and the others had called out for him to join them.
So Faramir did. And instantly regretted it. For the height had made him feel light headed. He had stepped back immediately. Boromir, as did the other children, went to him, asking him what was the matter. Looking into his brother's eyes, Faramir said simply that he didn't like heights.
Much to his chagrin, the city boys started laughing and taunting him. Oh, how that had hurt! Faramir looked down, afraid to see his brother's face.
Then their father had come and after dismissing the other children had spoken to Faramir and Boromir in a secluded corner. The words still rang in his ears, even now. 'Never show weakness, never."
Faramir had not understood. So he had just nodded his head. After Denethor had left, Boromir had said in a sharp tone for him to go back to their rooms. But Faramir had not wanted to obey so he had silently followed his older brother. He had always been good at sneaking after anyone he wanted to without the other's knowledge.
The young boy followed his older brother till Boromir had caught up with the other children. To Faramir's surprise, Boromir challenged all of them, calling them cowards for picking on his younger brother. The boys had liked the odds of all of them against one.
So it was that Faramir proudly watched his brother fight the boys, expertly throwing them on the ground knocking the breath out of them, yet bestowing no harm. But more than anything, Faramir felt like the luckiest boy in all of Middle Earth, having such a brother as Boromir.
After Boromir officially won the fight by shaking hands and getting the other boys' apologies, Faramir ran to his room and waited for Boromir to come.
Boromir came minutes later and told Faramir to come with him. Faramir obediently followed until Boromir told him to stop. Ordered to close his eyes, the younger brother did and yelped in surprise as he was settled upon his older brother's shoulders. Eyes still closed, Faramir knew not where he was being taken.
Finally, Faramir was told to open his eyes and look forward. So he did.
Even now, Faramir had never seen a more beautiful scene in his entire life. He could see the whole land of Gondor, the sky was blue and stretched forever while he could make out far off mountains.
Faramir realized then that they were right at the wall where they had been earlier. He made up his mind and asked to be put down. As soon as his feet touched the ground, he went forward to try to peer over the wall. But again, fear overcame will and he stepped back.
Then he felt somebody take his hand and saw that it was Boromir. Boromir smiled and said that they should look down together. So together, hand in hand, they leaned over the wall. Though at first Faramir tried to pull away, Boromir held on tight and pointed to a house, asking if Faramir recognized it.
Faramir, curiosity winning out, tried to see what Boromir was pointing at. It was the house where their nurse's family lived and they often went to visit.
Startled, Faramir discovered that he was now looking down with no problem whatsoever. With a gleeful shout, Faramir proudly told his brother. Boromir had only wrapped his arm around the younger boy's shoulders and smiled proudly.
Then, at that exact moment, Faramir had felt for the first time since their mother's death, everything would be all right. Because he would always have his brother, for all time.
Faramir shook himself from his thoughts, realizing that the caves were considerably darker than it had been before he had escaped from work.
But as he continued to work, Faramir could not help but think that ever since his brother had left, everything was not all right.
**********
Boromir tossed and turned in his bed, sleep completely eluding him. Finally with a grunt of irritation, he got out of bed. Not knowing where else to go to, he walked out of the room into the peace of the gardens. The gardens were empty as usual and so he wandered through them as his mind worried over one particular matter.
He knew deep down that his heart felt restless and ill at ease, the reason for not being able to sleep. And he knew the reason why.
Ever since his hand had touched the letter from Haldir, and overwhelming sense of confinement had settled on his mind. His injuries still hurt, but he could bear them so long as he didn't exert himself. And it would take much to exert himself. He simply felt with every fiber of his being that he had to leave and do something.
But here was where Boromir always got stuck. Do what? Go where? To Minas Tirith where his father waited for him? To Helm's Deep, where others of the Fellowship had journey to? Or would he seek out and search out Frodo?
Too many choices, yet the decision was not an easy one to make. He sighed deep from the center of his soul, and tried to release all of his anxieties. Yet, he couldn't.
Before he knew it, he had entered a familiar glade and the Mirror of Galadriel stood in his line of sight. Boromir unconsciously rubbed his fingers of his right hand together. Though the burn had faded away, it could be said that the memory of touching the Mirror was engraved in his memory.
Boromir started backing up but was stopped as he saw the Lady of Lorien step from the shadows, a silver ewer in her hands.
~I knew when the time was right you would be led here~
The man did not answer, only watched in silence as Galadriel filled the ewer with water from the stream nearby which Boromir had never noticed before. She poured the water in the basin of the Mirror. She bent down low and softly blew on the surface of the water till it rippled from her breath. When the water was still again, Boromir spoke.
"My pardon Lady, but I wish not to look upon such magic again."
To his surprise, the glade was filled with Galadriel's soft laughter. "I have never understood clearly what your people mean when they call something magic, for they seem to use the same word for the deceits of the Enemy."
The laughter left her eyes as her tone became serious. "The Mirror show things unbidden, like when you first looked upon it. What you will see, if you leave the Mirror free to work, I cannot tell. But am I not Galadriel, Lady of Lothlorien? Many things I can command the Mirror to reveal, and to some I can show what they desire to see."
Boromir stood still, indecision keeping him from speaking. Finally, Boromir slowly approached the Mirror, his eyes staying on Galadriel. When he reached the base of the pedestal, he opened his mouth to speak but the Elf Lady stopped him with a motion of her hand.
~I know what you desire to see, fear not~
So Boromir leaned down to peer into the Mirror, for words need not be said to say that he trusted in Galadriel.
As before, the water was still and dark and Boromir saw only the reflection of himself. Questioningly he looked, only for the Lady of Galadhrim gesture for him to look on. And he did.
Instantly, the Mirror grew grey and Boromir was shown the steep side of a mountain. Everywhere were rocks and dust, the sun's light could not come through the dark overcast clouds. He saw Frodo climbing, no, more like crawling up the mountain. Frodo's whole being radiated weakness for he could barely move.
Then Boromir saw himself bending over to help the small hobbit up, half carrying and half crawling up the mountain. Once, the image of Boromir caught sight of the Ring from around Frodo's neck, and his eyes misted over as if something came over his mind.
The Mirror rippled, showing another scene, this time at a huge battleground. Thousands and thousands of Uruk-Hais were attacking what Boromir guessed was Helm's Deep, for he had heard much of the historical place.
Boromir leaned in closer to see if he could see anyone familiar yet no face did he see that he recognized. At that moment, the gates of the Hornburg opened and riders streamed out into battle.
The image vanished, replaced with a familiar scene, one of the city of Osgiliath. Boromir's heart lifted when he saw his brother. Faramir was leading a group of men who were trying to keep orcs from gaining any ground.
Suddenly, Faramir froze seeing something in the distance. His eyes widened and he yelled, "Boromir!"
When he heard his name, Boromir shut his eyes and said, "Enough!" He stepped and kept his eyes closed, trying to sort through the images he had seen.
~Did you see what you wished to see~
Eventually, Boromir opened his eyes and looked up into the cool blue eyes of Galadriel. "I am not sure what I have just seen. Is it things that will happen if I go to those paths, or are those events going to happen if I am not there?"
Galadriel smiled gently at him. "I cannot give you all the answers. Listen to your heart, hear what it has to say to you."
For what seemed like an eternity, Boromir tried to do as he was told. Finally, he said softly, mostly to himself, "Then I have made my decision."
**********
Author's Note: ARGH! Cliffhanger! So sorry about that but I thought it was a good place to stop. Just to reassure you all, not only does Boromir know the decision, I too know the decision so hopefully the next chapter will come out pretty quickly. I hope you enjoyed this chapter!
Many thanks to:
*Melodist* ~ *waves back!* I'm thrilled that you've noticed that I've used a lot of stuff from both the books and the movies. A lot of people I've noticed know only the MOVIE Lord of the Rings and base most of their stories on that. But I love the books and some stuff in the books is way better than the way it was portrayed in the movies (though Boromir's death in the movies was excellently done!) I hope you like the lots of Boromir I've put in this chapter!
*you-know-who* ~ Yeah, I know who this is! I'm surprised you read my story, but it was a nice surprise! Since you complained the last chapter was too short, I hope the length of this chapter satisfies you! *wink!*
*BoromirDefender* ~ Glad you liked my Eowyn, I'm thinking of putting more of her in my story. And I'm most especially glad you like the way I blend my story with parts from both the books and movies! I plan to do that the whole way through so I hope it turns out great. *smiles!* Hurray for Boromir fans!!!
*Spry Sprite* ~ In your honor, I'll be having a Galadriel and Celeborn scene in the next chapter. I hope you'll enjoy it (and I especially hope it turns out right!). I'm glad you liked my Eowyn, I really can't wait to see her in the upcoming Return of the King movie! Your fic Insanity Abounds sounds interesting, I'll definitely give it a peek. I usually don't read humor or parody fics but from what your reviewers have said, there's some Boromir in it! Can't wait to read about him! Does he get a/the girl?
*Alex92* ~ Oooh, someone who likes my Pippin! Thank you! I like Pippin a lot, mostly because I love anybody who has an Irish accent! I think Irish accents are simply lovely, don't you think? I love watching the movie Evelyn just to hear the Irish!
*galadrielwannabe* ~ Wow! You must be really great at English! Please, if there are ANY grammatical, spelling, punctuation, word usage, etc., mistakes, PLEASE tell me! I want to try to keep my fic as well written technically as possible so don't hesitate to point out the mistakes, ok? I'd really appreciate it! Anyway, glad you like my chapter! Hope this chapter satisfies you!
*Aelimir* ~ I'm glad you liked the chapter! I'll definitely check out your fic, it's the least I can do for you reviewing my fic! It's an LOTR humor story? Hmmm... haven't read many of those but I'll read it as soon as I get the time! I'll review!
By Priscilla Stafford
Author's Note: I've come back from camp! Just to tell you guys, I had TONS of fun! Well, throughout the whole camp I was thinking about how I was going to write this chapter, that's why I was able to get this out so quickly. Plus, this was a chapter that was sooo much fun for me to write!
Anyway, you Boromir fans are probably saying, "Give us more Boromir!" Well, this chapter is ALL Boromir (with a touch of other characters), I hope you like it!
Thanks to all my reviewers are at the bottom of the chapter. I've reached the point where I now have SIXTY reviews! Hurray! Thanks so much y'all!
This chapter begins on the night of the same day King Theoden and his men have left for Helm's Deep while Eowyn and the people of Edoras have left for Dunharrow.
Chapter Nine: A Night of Memories and Choices
Boromir looked out from one of the highest balconies in Lorien. It was just barely overlooking the trees and the sun had already passed out of sight, its glorious rays still lightening up the sky. With his head full of thoughts, Boromir leaned against the railing of the balcony. It was peaceful and beautiful here, yet he was still ill at ease.
Was it because he felt that this was a place of dreams, an escape from reality? Boromir pondered the new idea for the more he thought of it, the more he understood. He had seen much war, for most of his adult life, and even his young adulthood, he had fought and kept the forces of Mordor from mounting an offensive against Gondor.
To him, this was only temporary. Soon he would have to go back to war and try to keep Middle Earth from falling into the hands of Sauron and his minions. Lothlorien, too, with all her beauty and tranquility, will fall.
He had seen bloodshed and much death. Yes, death was nothing new for Boromir, for as a child he had suffered the greatest loss no one should ever have to endure, and that was the loss of his mother.
He still remembered her in a vague sort of way, so comforting for she always had a kind word for everyone. He especially remembered how she would take his brother Faramir and himself upon her knee and she would tell stories of long ago.
Though he would never admit it, Boromir remembered each and every story she had told them. From the tale of the love of Beren and Luthien, to the Narn I Hin Hurin, and even of the courageous deeds of Glorfindel, Boromir could recall it clearly. But more than anything, he remembered how Finduilas' eyes would light up from within her as her voice would raise in escalation whenever she reached a point of great heroism or a high point of interest.
At the end of the story, ever the inquisitive Faramir would have questions for her. Boromir would always try to quiet him, telling him to wait until their mother had told them another story.
Then Finduilas would always take each of her son's head into her hands and kiss them each just on the corner of their temple and whisper the words which would always silence them. 'I love you.'
Boromir smiled up into the heavens where he imagined she still looked upon him with a smile on her lips. "I shall always remember and love you."
He turned from the wondrous view and started walking down to his room. Ever since Haldir had left that morning, the halls of Galadhrim seemed quieter than usual. Boromir had to admit that he would miss Haldir's comforting presence for besides Isilme and the Lady Galadriel, he had basically been left to himself.
As he walked down the deserted halls, he flexed his shoulder slowly. It hurt, but it wasn't that bad, he had felt worse. It was the side wound that hurt for every time he walked he would move his hip, sending a throbbing pain up his whole side.
But he only gritted his teeth and kept from limping, he would not show any weakness. That's what his father had taught him, never show weakness for that weakness could be used against that person.
Boromir remembered a time when he and his brother, along with other children from the city, had gone onto the high walls of Minas Tirith. Faramir had still been a young and curious seven year old.
The children had all leaned over the wall, looking far down at the small figures of the people of Gondor. Yet when Faramir had looked down, he had suddenly jerked back. After questioned about his behavior, Faramir had simply said that the height bothered and scared him.
Almost immediately, the other children began to tease him. Boromir remembered how Faramir had tried not to cry. At that moment, Denethor had appeared, grim faced and ordering everyone to leave besides Boromir and his brother.
Denethor had seen the whole scene and had harshly told Faramir that weakness must not ever be shown to others, for it was a deadly weapon that could be used against you.
Now, so many years later, Boromir pondered whether Denethor had been not only talking to Faramir, but to himself. Ever since Finduilas' death, his father had become... distant. Cold.
Boromir reached his rooms and when entering, saw that another occupied the room. It was a familiar looking Elf, but Boromir could not place who it was.
The golden haired Elf bowed and was the first to speak. "I am Orophin, younger brother to Haldir."
The man of Gondor finally remembered where he had seen the Elf, at the edges of Lothlorien when the Fellowship had first arrived. But at the time, Boromir had not really studied any of the Elves, not even the two brothers of Haldir.
Orophin was slightly shorter and leaner in frame than his older brother, his features also appeared leaner. His eyes were dark brown and unlike Haldir, who gave the impression of being more serious minded, Orophin showed signs of a more youthful joy. Even now, the Elf's lips were turned upward in a relaxed way.
Boromir bowed slightly from the waist. "I owe my life to your brother."
Orophin shrugged in the graceful way of the Elves. "He has spoken much of you. And from what he has said, I believe he thinks very highly of you."
It was Boromir's turn to shrug. "The feeling is mutual to be sure." He gestured for the Elf to sit on one of the empty seats. "Won't you sit?"
"I cannot stay long. I only stopped by to give you this." Orophin handed him a letter. As Boromir took it, Orophin spoke. "It is from Haldir. He said for you open it when you prepare to leave Lorien." With a bow, the Elf left the room with silent footsteps before Boromir had time to respond.
The solitary figure stared at the letter for some moments before neatly placing it on where he had left his sword lay. For he knew, whenever he left, wherever he left for, he would not leave his sword behind.
**********
Faramir dropped his pen and sighed deeply as he stared at the lists and different reports scattered around his desk. Well, desk was actually an overstatement, it was in actuality a makeshift table. As soon as he had arrived in Ithilien just hours before, the men had set it up in the quieter parts of the caves in which they dwelled.
A cold wind swept through the caves and Faramir's eyes strayed to the flickering light of the candle upon his table. Making sure that the light did not blow out, Faramir once more tried to sort out the disarray of paper. Supplies were clearly running out and scouts had reported that bands of Easterlings were coming in through Ithilien. The bottom line: resources were low and there were not enough men to protect both the northern and eastern borders of Gondor.
Most of all, the morale of the men were down. It was not surprising to Faramir, for he too felt his spirits sink as he thought of the many months ahead, for they would be crucial in the fight against Sauron.
But he was Captain, Captain of the Ithilien Rangers. He would not, will not, give up on his men. There was still hope, there had to be. And even if there wasn't, Faramir would lead his men with all of his being, even to death.
Faramir leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes for throughout his readings he had developed a headache. It was late at night, and reading in the dark with such weak candle light always made him feel dizzy.
He tried to relax, to leave behind work for a few minutes. Not surprisingly, his thoughts turned to his brother. Of late, he often thought of Boromir, for he was sick at heart with worry. Where was he now?
For some reason, his thoughts went way back to when he and Boromir were still young children. Especially one incident which he remembered clearly.
It had been a beautiful day to be outside so Boromir and he had gone to play outside with other children from the city. Somehow or the other they had ended up at one of the outer walls of Minas Tirith.
He had seen Boromir walk right up to the wall, then lean way over to look down. Faramir recalled how Boromir and the others had called out for him to join them.
So Faramir did. And instantly regretted it. For the height had made him feel light headed. He had stepped back immediately. Boromir, as did the other children, went to him, asking him what was the matter. Looking into his brother's eyes, Faramir said simply that he didn't like heights.
Much to his chagrin, the city boys started laughing and taunting him. Oh, how that had hurt! Faramir looked down, afraid to see his brother's face.
Then their father had come and after dismissing the other children had spoken to Faramir and Boromir in a secluded corner. The words still rang in his ears, even now. 'Never show weakness, never."
Faramir had not understood. So he had just nodded his head. After Denethor had left, Boromir had said in a sharp tone for him to go back to their rooms. But Faramir had not wanted to obey so he had silently followed his older brother. He had always been good at sneaking after anyone he wanted to without the other's knowledge.
The young boy followed his older brother till Boromir had caught up with the other children. To Faramir's surprise, Boromir challenged all of them, calling them cowards for picking on his younger brother. The boys had liked the odds of all of them against one.
So it was that Faramir proudly watched his brother fight the boys, expertly throwing them on the ground knocking the breath out of them, yet bestowing no harm. But more than anything, Faramir felt like the luckiest boy in all of Middle Earth, having such a brother as Boromir.
After Boromir officially won the fight by shaking hands and getting the other boys' apologies, Faramir ran to his room and waited for Boromir to come.
Boromir came minutes later and told Faramir to come with him. Faramir obediently followed until Boromir told him to stop. Ordered to close his eyes, the younger brother did and yelped in surprise as he was settled upon his older brother's shoulders. Eyes still closed, Faramir knew not where he was being taken.
Finally, Faramir was told to open his eyes and look forward. So he did.
Even now, Faramir had never seen a more beautiful scene in his entire life. He could see the whole land of Gondor, the sky was blue and stretched forever while he could make out far off mountains.
Faramir realized then that they were right at the wall where they had been earlier. He made up his mind and asked to be put down. As soon as his feet touched the ground, he went forward to try to peer over the wall. But again, fear overcame will and he stepped back.
Then he felt somebody take his hand and saw that it was Boromir. Boromir smiled and said that they should look down together. So together, hand in hand, they leaned over the wall. Though at first Faramir tried to pull away, Boromir held on tight and pointed to a house, asking if Faramir recognized it.
Faramir, curiosity winning out, tried to see what Boromir was pointing at. It was the house where their nurse's family lived and they often went to visit.
Startled, Faramir discovered that he was now looking down with no problem whatsoever. With a gleeful shout, Faramir proudly told his brother. Boromir had only wrapped his arm around the younger boy's shoulders and smiled proudly.
Then, at that exact moment, Faramir had felt for the first time since their mother's death, everything would be all right. Because he would always have his brother, for all time.
Faramir shook himself from his thoughts, realizing that the caves were considerably darker than it had been before he had escaped from work.
But as he continued to work, Faramir could not help but think that ever since his brother had left, everything was not all right.
**********
Boromir tossed and turned in his bed, sleep completely eluding him. Finally with a grunt of irritation, he got out of bed. Not knowing where else to go to, he walked out of the room into the peace of the gardens. The gardens were empty as usual and so he wandered through them as his mind worried over one particular matter.
He knew deep down that his heart felt restless and ill at ease, the reason for not being able to sleep. And he knew the reason why.
Ever since his hand had touched the letter from Haldir, and overwhelming sense of confinement had settled on his mind. His injuries still hurt, but he could bear them so long as he didn't exert himself. And it would take much to exert himself. He simply felt with every fiber of his being that he had to leave and do something.
But here was where Boromir always got stuck. Do what? Go where? To Minas Tirith where his father waited for him? To Helm's Deep, where others of the Fellowship had journey to? Or would he seek out and search out Frodo?
Too many choices, yet the decision was not an easy one to make. He sighed deep from the center of his soul, and tried to release all of his anxieties. Yet, he couldn't.
Before he knew it, he had entered a familiar glade and the Mirror of Galadriel stood in his line of sight. Boromir unconsciously rubbed his fingers of his right hand together. Though the burn had faded away, it could be said that the memory of touching the Mirror was engraved in his memory.
Boromir started backing up but was stopped as he saw the Lady of Lorien step from the shadows, a silver ewer in her hands.
~I knew when the time was right you would be led here~
The man did not answer, only watched in silence as Galadriel filled the ewer with water from the stream nearby which Boromir had never noticed before. She poured the water in the basin of the Mirror. She bent down low and softly blew on the surface of the water till it rippled from her breath. When the water was still again, Boromir spoke.
"My pardon Lady, but I wish not to look upon such magic again."
To his surprise, the glade was filled with Galadriel's soft laughter. "I have never understood clearly what your people mean when they call something magic, for they seem to use the same word for the deceits of the Enemy."
The laughter left her eyes as her tone became serious. "The Mirror show things unbidden, like when you first looked upon it. What you will see, if you leave the Mirror free to work, I cannot tell. But am I not Galadriel, Lady of Lothlorien? Many things I can command the Mirror to reveal, and to some I can show what they desire to see."
Boromir stood still, indecision keeping him from speaking. Finally, Boromir slowly approached the Mirror, his eyes staying on Galadriel. When he reached the base of the pedestal, he opened his mouth to speak but the Elf Lady stopped him with a motion of her hand.
~I know what you desire to see, fear not~
So Boromir leaned down to peer into the Mirror, for words need not be said to say that he trusted in Galadriel.
As before, the water was still and dark and Boromir saw only the reflection of himself. Questioningly he looked, only for the Lady of Galadhrim gesture for him to look on. And he did.
Instantly, the Mirror grew grey and Boromir was shown the steep side of a mountain. Everywhere were rocks and dust, the sun's light could not come through the dark overcast clouds. He saw Frodo climbing, no, more like crawling up the mountain. Frodo's whole being radiated weakness for he could barely move.
Then Boromir saw himself bending over to help the small hobbit up, half carrying and half crawling up the mountain. Once, the image of Boromir caught sight of the Ring from around Frodo's neck, and his eyes misted over as if something came over his mind.
The Mirror rippled, showing another scene, this time at a huge battleground. Thousands and thousands of Uruk-Hais were attacking what Boromir guessed was Helm's Deep, for he had heard much of the historical place.
Boromir leaned in closer to see if he could see anyone familiar yet no face did he see that he recognized. At that moment, the gates of the Hornburg opened and riders streamed out into battle.
The image vanished, replaced with a familiar scene, one of the city of Osgiliath. Boromir's heart lifted when he saw his brother. Faramir was leading a group of men who were trying to keep orcs from gaining any ground.
Suddenly, Faramir froze seeing something in the distance. His eyes widened and he yelled, "Boromir!"
When he heard his name, Boromir shut his eyes and said, "Enough!" He stepped and kept his eyes closed, trying to sort through the images he had seen.
~Did you see what you wished to see~
Eventually, Boromir opened his eyes and looked up into the cool blue eyes of Galadriel. "I am not sure what I have just seen. Is it things that will happen if I go to those paths, or are those events going to happen if I am not there?"
Galadriel smiled gently at him. "I cannot give you all the answers. Listen to your heart, hear what it has to say to you."
For what seemed like an eternity, Boromir tried to do as he was told. Finally, he said softly, mostly to himself, "Then I have made my decision."
**********
Author's Note: ARGH! Cliffhanger! So sorry about that but I thought it was a good place to stop. Just to reassure you all, not only does Boromir know the decision, I too know the decision so hopefully the next chapter will come out pretty quickly. I hope you enjoyed this chapter!
Many thanks to:
*Melodist* ~ *waves back!* I'm thrilled that you've noticed that I've used a lot of stuff from both the books and the movies. A lot of people I've noticed know only the MOVIE Lord of the Rings and base most of their stories on that. But I love the books and some stuff in the books is way better than the way it was portrayed in the movies (though Boromir's death in the movies was excellently done!) I hope you like the lots of Boromir I've put in this chapter!
*you-know-who* ~ Yeah, I know who this is! I'm surprised you read my story, but it was a nice surprise! Since you complained the last chapter was too short, I hope the length of this chapter satisfies you! *wink!*
*BoromirDefender* ~ Glad you liked my Eowyn, I'm thinking of putting more of her in my story. And I'm most especially glad you like the way I blend my story with parts from both the books and movies! I plan to do that the whole way through so I hope it turns out great. *smiles!* Hurray for Boromir fans!!!
*Spry Sprite* ~ In your honor, I'll be having a Galadriel and Celeborn scene in the next chapter. I hope you'll enjoy it (and I especially hope it turns out right!). I'm glad you liked my Eowyn, I really can't wait to see her in the upcoming Return of the King movie! Your fic Insanity Abounds sounds interesting, I'll definitely give it a peek. I usually don't read humor or parody fics but from what your reviewers have said, there's some Boromir in it! Can't wait to read about him! Does he get a/the girl?
*Alex92* ~ Oooh, someone who likes my Pippin! Thank you! I like Pippin a lot, mostly because I love anybody who has an Irish accent! I think Irish accents are simply lovely, don't you think? I love watching the movie Evelyn just to hear the Irish!
*galadrielwannabe* ~ Wow! You must be really great at English! Please, if there are ANY grammatical, spelling, punctuation, word usage, etc., mistakes, PLEASE tell me! I want to try to keep my fic as well written technically as possible so don't hesitate to point out the mistakes, ok? I'd really appreciate it! Anyway, glad you like my chapter! Hope this chapter satisfies you!
*Aelimir* ~ I'm glad you liked the chapter! I'll definitely check out your fic, it's the least I can do for you reviewing my fic! It's an LOTR humor story? Hmmm... haven't read many of those but I'll read it as soon as I get the time! I'll review!