Boromir, Thou Shall Live
By Priscilla Stafford
Author's Note: YAY, I've reached over 100 hundred reviews! *jumps up and down, up and down, up and down...* For so long, I thought that it was an unattainable goal for me to have over 100 reviews. But you wonderful guys have made it all possible, thanks a million! Special thanks are at the bottom of the chapter!
Hopefully, this chapter is going to clear up some questions you probably have about why Boromir is where he is. Also, a reviewer (the great leafgirl!) who wrote me a wonderfully long review pointed out the fact that Eomer has in fact met Boromir once. I hadn't been sure whether they had met before, so thanks very much for the info!
Thus, I had to change just one small part to make it that Boromir and Eomer had met before yet Boromir wasn't recognized. In the last chapter, around the last part I wrote that - 'And for the first time, Eomer could really look into the stranger's face and into the stranger's greenish-grey eyes.' I've changed it to - 'And for the first time, Eomer could see that the stranger's eyes were greenish-grey in color.' I hope this clears things up! Plus, in the next few chapters I'll make it a point to explain that indeed, Boromir and Eomer have met before. Thanks so much for you patience to my mistakes!
Another change is that Haldir traveled to Helm's Deep with TWO hundred Elves. One hundred was too small in numbers so I increased it a bit. Changed Chapter Seven to make it two hundred.
Anyway, this is an interesting chapter. Separated into three parts, this tells three points of view on the night when the Battle of Helm's Deep approaches. I'd like to give special thanks to the terrible rain and weather we're having here in Japan. The rain gave me the inspiration to write three different points of view on rain. I know, it sounds weird but when you read it I think you'll get it. Hope you enjoy!
Chapter Thirteen: The Rain Cometh
"You may call me Lavlaisi."
Eomer only looked hard into the other's eyes. Boromir tried to keep his face neutral. It seemed to work for Eomer not only nodded, but then left after telling him to stay put.
Boromir breathed a sigh of relief and tried to let his nervousness abate. He had met Eomer a few times before and was afraid that man would recognize him. But their meeting before had been brief, once when Boromir had traveled through the gap of Rohan to go to Rivendell. Boromir was relieved that Eomer did not discover who he was. Boromir would have to keep his head down and covered if he wanted to keep his identity a secret.
He had not told an untruth when he provided the name of Lavlaisi, for that was now his Elvish name. Yet somehow he felt as though he was telling only a half truth, keeping his real name and title from Eomer. But it was a necessary thing. Eomer must have met Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli at one point, and Boromir could not be sure what they had said about anything, including his 'disappearance'. Besides, he still wanted to keep his presence a secret.
He had to admit, in the short time he had known him, Boromir had found Eomer a likable young man. He appeared to have a sensible head on his shoulders and Boromir admired that in any man. He hated to hide anything from him.
The man of Gondor watched from beneath his hood as the Rohirrim prepared to abandon the camp. Boromir was impressed by their efficiency and swiftness of the soldiers. Eomer must have done well to train his troops. But not only that, Boromir could see that Eomer's men loved their captain very much, and that fact was far more important in his eyes.
Out of habit, Boromir brought up his right arm to rub the soreness from his wounded shoulder. The healing powers of the Elves were truly amazing and the wound had closed completely though there would be a scar. But the muscles still tended to stiffen so Boromir had to be careful not to strain it.
As he massaged the shoulder, Boromir turned to his thoughts. Things had not turned out exactly as he hoped for, and he could not understand whether it was for the best or not.
After Gwaihir had left him, Boromir had continued his journey south, making his way towards his homeland. But his mind had been occupied with what the Eagle had revealed to him. Rohan was on the brink of war, facing a battle they could not possibly win. And Boromir could do nothing to help.
The thought had frustrated him as he tried to reason with himself that his choice to continue on the Minas Tirith was the best one. He would not reach Helm's Deep in time to enter without being onset by the Uruk-Hais, that much was certain. Already the sun had been sinking low in the sky.
Boromir had then remembered something which Gwaihir had mentioned, about Eomer being banished from Rohan. Where was he now? Boromir thankfully knew he had one very important clue to Eomer's whereabouts. He had noticed that the Wargs he had slain had wet fur. Meaning, they had at one point crossed over the Entwash into the Wold.
He had hoped that he had guessed correctly that Eomer would be somewhere on the western shores of the Entwash. In either case, Boromir had made up his mind. He had steered Maiorama towards the descending sun and headed for the river.
Planning to follow the river, Boromir had crossed onto the western shores of the Entwash. Whether or not he would find Eomer had been a mystery, yet Boromir would at least try.
Boromir remembered how relieved he had been to find the Rohirrim camp. He had lost almost all hope of finding it. The problem then had been to convince Eomer to believe in what he spoke.
But Boromir had to admit, he understood Eomer's indecision. For he was naught but a stranger, and Boromir knew trust was something to be earned. Trust was not taken or given easily in this day and age.
Eomer also had to think of what would happen if Boromir was laying out a trap from him. Banishment was indeed a very serious matter, and Eomer knew that even being the nephew of the King of Rohan could not save himself from orders to be executed.
So there was only thing which Boromir could really do to ensure Eomer would go in aide to King Theoden. Hesitatingly, Boromir had said that he would accompany Eomer to Helm's Deep to prove that he spoken the truth.
Even now though, Boromir wondered whether it was the best decision. He knew in his heart that all would not be well in Minas Tirith because of his long absence. He missed his brother and father dearly and wanted nothing more than to return home and help fight off the growing enemies in Mordor.
But, could he really leave Rohan, knowing what peril he left behind? If he could not convince Eomer to go, what will happen to King Theoden and his friends? He could not leave them, his conscious wouldn't let him.
With a smile, Boromir also figured he owed it to Haldir. He did not doubt the Elf's battle prowess, but Isilme would never forgive him if anything happened, especially since she knew he was the one who had urged Haldir to speak to her in the first place. No, maybe this was the path meant for him to travel on. By now, Boromir understood that the path laid before him was ever changing, he would never know where each twist and turn, dip and rise, would lead him to.
Boromir suddenly stood up with a start as he felt a light touch on his shoulder. He had barely unsheathed his sword before he realized it was Eomer. "Peace, Lord Lavlaisi. My men will be ready to ride in a short while. For now I bring you your horse."
Giving a hasty apology, Boromir took the graciously offered reigns to his horse. Maiorama seemed pleased to see her master as she lowered her head onto Boromir's shoulder in a friendly gesture. Boromir returned the gesture with an affectionate pat on her neck and a whispered greeting in her ear.
Eomer watched with an amused expression on his face. "My respect for you has risen, for I see that your steed loves and respects her master."
Boromir laughed out loud. "I see that the fact of a good relationship between master and steed would receive respect from any man of Rohan."
At his words, Eomer narrowed his eyes as he said sharply, "Ah, so I am right to assume you are not from Rohan."
Trying to keep his tone neutral, Boromir only nodded. "You are."
The man of Rohan broke the silence with a snort. "A mystery you remain to be, Lord Lavlaisi. I shall respect your wishes to remain an enigma. For now." Eomer left to mount his own horse which had been brought to him. "Now, I invite you to ride alongside me."
"Am I to understand that the only reason I ride beside you is so that you can keep an eagle's eye upon me?" Boromir said with a slight challenge.
"Only if there is reason to keep watch on you."
Boromir strategically did not answer. He only bowed and said, "It would be an honor." He got into Maiorama's saddle and led her to Eomer's side. As he did, thunder made the land tremble and it began to rain. At first only a few drops, then steadily.
Thankful for the large and well made cloak by the nimble hands of the Elves, Boromir arranged the cloak more tightly around his body to ward off the chill and rain.
For some reason, Boromir looked in the direction of his homeland, Gondor. It was so dark he could not see to far across the horizon. He closed his eyes to picture in his mind the city of Minas Tirith. There it stood, in the bright daylight. No rain, no clouds, no darkness. It was home, pictured when times were not so evil, seen with the eyes of a wide-eyed innocent young boy he had been. So long ago.
He opened his eyes and once again saw only night and the pouring rain. The wind picked up and sent cold drops into the openings of his cloak. So cold. Sadness enveloped Boromir as he knew that the Minas Tirith he saw in his mind's eye was different from what it truly was. It was so dark now, so dark it was hard to breathe. What would it be like now after his absence? Was it even worse? He shuddered at the thought.
Boromir turned around to see that Eomer was looking at him strangely. The man of Gondor wiped off some of the rain on his face, along with the few teardrops he had cried. But as he rode, the memory of the darkened Minas Tirith could not be wiped away as easily as the rain.
**********
Legolas saw that Aragorn stood slightly behind him. Gimli, who had stayed near Legolas spoke, "Well, lad, whatever luck you live by, let's hope it last the night."
Lightning struck and it illuminated the sky for a brief second. What he saw made Legolas's heart clench for the land was covered with Uruk-Hais, marching steadily towards Helm's Deep. He spoke to Aragorn, not only to reassure his friend but himself to. "Your friends are with you Aragorn."
Unfortunately, Gimli had to add, "Let's hope they last the night."
The Elf was glad to see that Aragorn took the Dwarf's words lightly. Patting Legolas on the back, Aragorn left to see to the other archers.
Legolas surveyed the rest of the Elves. His heart gladdened knowing that his kin were fighting alongside him, reassuring him of the upcoming battle. He, Gimli, Aragorn, and half of the Lothlorien Elves were now on the Deeping Wall. A hundred of the rest of the Elves were inside the Deep, ready to hold the defense and shoot over the wall.
Then it began to rain. Cold, wet, pouring rain.
The rain came down in torrents and Legolas had to keep blinking to keep the raindrops from blinding his eyes. Yet the rain did nothing to hinder the horde of Uruk-Hais, they kept coming as if nothing could, and nothing would stop them.
Legolas heard Aragorn shout out in Elvish. "Show them no mercy for you shall receive none!" Barely suppressing a shudder, Legolas shifted his feet and peered into the night, watching the Uruk-Hai.
Gimli unfortunately made Legolas's attention waver as he jumped up and down trying to see over the wall. "What's happening out there?" he finally demanded.
Finding some humor in the situation, Legolas smiled. "Should I describe it to you, or would you like me to find you a box?" Legolas was rewarded with a rumble of laughter from the Dwarf. The Elf felt better, the Dwarf always seemed to make his heart feel lighter.
Seeing that there was some commotion within the enemy ranks, Legolas perceived through the rain an Uruk-Hai climbing onto a huge rock, weapon raised. The creature roared a challenge and soon, all the Uruk-Hai began yelling and roaring, hitting their spears upon the ground, mocking and taunting them.
Suddenly, an arrow flew out from the gates of the Hornburg. The arrow struck its target, either by skill or luck Legolas did not know. Either way, the Uruk-Hai was hit in the neck and was dead in an instant.
Was it the signal to fire? Legolas turned to look at Aragorn who had his sword unsheathed. But the ranger yelled for them to wait.
Legolas saw that now the Uruk-Hais appeared angry. Howls and growls of fury erupted from the horde and when given the signal, the Uruk-Hais rushed towards Helm's Deep.
As he saw them approach, Legolas looked up into the sky and offered a silent prayer of protection. Upon both his friends and Elves and humans who were strangers to him. May they have victory this night.
"Prepare to fire!" Aragorn shouted over the roar of the enemy.
As if one in body and spirit, Legolas drew his bow in perfect timing with all the other Elves. He felt a raindrop run down his cheek and drop from his chin. The cold sent a chill up his spine, a chill of fear. Yet he pushed aside his fear and apprehension of the battle to come.
"Their armor is weak at the neck and beneath the arm," Legolas said, mostly to himself than to the others. The battle for Helm's Deep was about to begin.
**********
Faramir woke up with a start, his whole body covered in sweat. With trembling hands he brushed his hair back then rubbed his neck and shoulders. Waking up suddenly from a dream always caused a throbbing headache and the massaging helped, though only a bit.
He dreamt no more of the death of his brother, never again seeing Boromir's dead body. The fact scared Faramir more than having the vision itself. Was Boromir in fact, already dead, that there was nothing he could do?
But the dreams he dreamed now, they too were terrible and filled his nights with fear and dread. Every single detail of the vision came back to him in flash even as he tried to ward them off. They always did, no matter how hard Faramir tried. It was as inevitable as trying to keep from having the visions in the first place.
It always felt so real. The heat was stifling. He was lying down on a hard floor, with his eyes closed. But he could see fire, so much fire. The stench made his stomach turn but he could say nothing as if his mind was not connected to his lips. He could hear voices, none he could recognize. He strained to hear yet could not catch any of the words spoken as if his ears were covered, the words indistinguishable for they echoed in his head.
He called out the name of the person he loved most, to help him, save him from this misery! But no one came to help, no one came to save him, so Faramir remained silent.
The fire, oh how it burned him, how he hated the heat! He would do anything to get away from the fire.
For one brief moment in time, he could open his eyes and saw a face. Try as he might, the face remained blurred and he did not know who it was. Was he in safety, had the danger passed? Then suddenly, the flames surrounded and encompassed him in its fiery arms, refusing to let go.
Faramir could not take the memories of the dream anymore. He jumped from the bed and almost fell as his legs gave way. He grunted and tried to ignore the feeling of nausea sweep through his body. He resolutely planted his feet on the ground and straightened up. As soon as he knew that he could stand, he walked out of the cavern where he dwelt in Ithilien.
Though late at night, the Ithilien rangers were still up and about, performing late night duties. Faramir nodded to the rangers when they stopped and noticed that it was their Captain who walked in their midst.
He finally reached one of the entrances and nodded to a sentry. The sentry, seeing that Faramir wanted to be alone, gave a salute and melted away into the cave.
It was raining, and for that Faramir was thankful. Ignoring the fact that the rain would be cold, he stepped out from the confines of the cave.
Indeed, the rain was cold and Faramir shivered as the drops hit his exposed face. Instantly the images of fire and heat faded away from Faramir's mind as he savored the chill the rain gave him.
Peace descended over him and Faramir breathed easier. He welcomed the rain, anything that would take away the nightmares of his sleep. The rain he loved more than ever, for it gently reminded him that he was still alive and that the vision was just what it was, still only a vision.
Finally, after feeling refreshed, Faramir stepped away back into the caves and leaned against the walls. Until the sentry returned, Faramir stayed where he was, watching the pouring rain as it soothed his spirit.
**********
Author's Note: So, was it any good? I hope you enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed writing it! Faramir's part of the story was the easiest to write strangely enough. Hee hee!
Anyway, the next update might take a while because I'm not very good at writing battle scenes. I have to study the books and the movies to make sure I get it right. I hope you'll be patient with me!
Special Thanks To:
* to story reader and Alex92 * ~ I hope you got my replies to your reviews on chapter 11! It's on the previous chapter.
*Melodist* ~ Am so glad you enjoyed my Eowyn! I hope to put a lot more of her in my story since I'm finding her a fascinating character to write! So, you had Lavlaisi all figured out! *claps hands* I was trying to make it seem that he 'might' have been a ranger from the North, but I guess I couldn't fool you! *wink*!
*Diadora* ~ Thanks for the TWO reviews! I'm glad ff.net didn't really 'eat' up your first review! Hee hee! Anyway, so glad you liked the sudden appearance of our dear Boromir! Just for you, I've updated as soon as possible to give some more Boromir! Enjoy!
*Spry Sprite* ~ YAYAYAYAYA! Thanks for being 'Reviewer Number One Hundred'! Thanks a million for being so faithful! Glad you liked Eomer! Anyway, I was reading over your story again. Hee hee! Hope you got my latest review! I just wanted to say though that before I had missed the part you wrote about 'burninating'. LOL! Not many people know about Strong Bad, it was such a treat for me to see that! Do you like Trogdor (or was it Trokdor?)? Update soonie!
*~C~* ~ I DEFINITELY agree with you. School. Is. Evil. Just plain and simple. Hee hee! Well, actually, school isn't too bad for me this year thankfully. But I think it just means it's going to get worse... anyway, Boromir's going to Helm's Deep, but I promise to make his and Faramir's reunion a very special one. *smiles!*
*Maria* ~ Hey, Maria! I bet you're a bit surprised that I finished so quickly! Sorry, no 'Boromir-loses-his-memory' subplot. *wink!*
*BoromirDefender* ~ Hiya! Here's a quick update for you! Anyway, Lavlaisi is the Elvish name Galadriel gives to Boromir. I think it's in Chapter 10. I hope you enjoy this new chapter, it explains more of why Boromir is where he is.
*Aelimir* ~ Wow, you've given me such a wonderful and long review! *hugs and hugs!* Well, as for if Eowyn's going to marry Boromir or Faramir.... hmmm... my little secret but I hope whichever it is satisfies you and makes you happy! Which would you prefer? Nope, it's not Gandalf, it's our dear Boromir! Am very glad you liked Eomer's point of view, I'm thinking of writing a cool scene from his point of view (well, I 'think' it'll be cool, depends how it comes out...)! Boromir's meeting with Frodo is certainly going to be interesting, I hope that it too comes out great. Thanks so much for the compliment of my blending of the books and the movies! You read Pirates of the Caribbean fanfics? Which are your favorites? Have you read Rangers and Pirates? That's a hilarious crossover of LOTR and POTC! Thanks for reviewing once again!
*you-know-who* ~ Sorry, no Warg-taming in this chapter. Hee hee!
*iron-eyes24* ~ Whoah, I've never gotten such an enthusiastic review! *big smiles!* Thanks so much, I really appreciated your review, it made me all bubbly inside. Hee hee! Glad you think the story's brilliant, even more glad that you agree that Boromir IS brilliant! ^_^
*leaf girl* ~ Your review has certainly inspired me a lot! Besides being long, it gave me lots of encouragements, thank you so much for that! Thanks for the tip that Eomer and Boromir HAVE met. I hope you're happy with the small change I made in the previous chapter so it works out well. Also, (as I will mention in future chapters), I wanted it to seem that Boromir looks and has a different 'feel' to him than when Eomer had met him before. I'm so glad you liked Eowyn! She's turning out to be a really fascinating and interesting character to write. Well, in my story anything seems to happen because the words just flow out of me into the keyboard (hmm... that came out poetic...) *wink*! Anyway, I'm not sure what's going to happen with Eowyn or whether she's going to be paired up with Boromir and Faramir. I've 'kind of' decided, but not really. I'm also very pleased that you enjoyed Boromir's and Faramir's reminiscence stuff. The wall incident just came to me and thankfully it came out all right. Yeah, it certainly an interesting theme of what it would be like if Boromir had lived. It gives the author a chance to explore any and all possibilities of how it would work out. Thanks so much for reviewing! I hope you enjoy this new chapter!
By Priscilla Stafford
Author's Note: YAY, I've reached over 100 hundred reviews! *jumps up and down, up and down, up and down...* For so long, I thought that it was an unattainable goal for me to have over 100 reviews. But you wonderful guys have made it all possible, thanks a million! Special thanks are at the bottom of the chapter!
Hopefully, this chapter is going to clear up some questions you probably have about why Boromir is where he is. Also, a reviewer (the great leafgirl!) who wrote me a wonderfully long review pointed out the fact that Eomer has in fact met Boromir once. I hadn't been sure whether they had met before, so thanks very much for the info!
Thus, I had to change just one small part to make it that Boromir and Eomer had met before yet Boromir wasn't recognized. In the last chapter, around the last part I wrote that - 'And for the first time, Eomer could really look into the stranger's face and into the stranger's greenish-grey eyes.' I've changed it to - 'And for the first time, Eomer could see that the stranger's eyes were greenish-grey in color.' I hope this clears things up! Plus, in the next few chapters I'll make it a point to explain that indeed, Boromir and Eomer have met before. Thanks so much for you patience to my mistakes!
Another change is that Haldir traveled to Helm's Deep with TWO hundred Elves. One hundred was too small in numbers so I increased it a bit. Changed Chapter Seven to make it two hundred.
Anyway, this is an interesting chapter. Separated into three parts, this tells three points of view on the night when the Battle of Helm's Deep approaches. I'd like to give special thanks to the terrible rain and weather we're having here in Japan. The rain gave me the inspiration to write three different points of view on rain. I know, it sounds weird but when you read it I think you'll get it. Hope you enjoy!
Chapter Thirteen: The Rain Cometh
"You may call me Lavlaisi."
Eomer only looked hard into the other's eyes. Boromir tried to keep his face neutral. It seemed to work for Eomer not only nodded, but then left after telling him to stay put.
Boromir breathed a sigh of relief and tried to let his nervousness abate. He had met Eomer a few times before and was afraid that man would recognize him. But their meeting before had been brief, once when Boromir had traveled through the gap of Rohan to go to Rivendell. Boromir was relieved that Eomer did not discover who he was. Boromir would have to keep his head down and covered if he wanted to keep his identity a secret.
He had not told an untruth when he provided the name of Lavlaisi, for that was now his Elvish name. Yet somehow he felt as though he was telling only a half truth, keeping his real name and title from Eomer. But it was a necessary thing. Eomer must have met Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli at one point, and Boromir could not be sure what they had said about anything, including his 'disappearance'. Besides, he still wanted to keep his presence a secret.
He had to admit, in the short time he had known him, Boromir had found Eomer a likable young man. He appeared to have a sensible head on his shoulders and Boromir admired that in any man. He hated to hide anything from him.
The man of Gondor watched from beneath his hood as the Rohirrim prepared to abandon the camp. Boromir was impressed by their efficiency and swiftness of the soldiers. Eomer must have done well to train his troops. But not only that, Boromir could see that Eomer's men loved their captain very much, and that fact was far more important in his eyes.
Out of habit, Boromir brought up his right arm to rub the soreness from his wounded shoulder. The healing powers of the Elves were truly amazing and the wound had closed completely though there would be a scar. But the muscles still tended to stiffen so Boromir had to be careful not to strain it.
As he massaged the shoulder, Boromir turned to his thoughts. Things had not turned out exactly as he hoped for, and he could not understand whether it was for the best or not.
After Gwaihir had left him, Boromir had continued his journey south, making his way towards his homeland. But his mind had been occupied with what the Eagle had revealed to him. Rohan was on the brink of war, facing a battle they could not possibly win. And Boromir could do nothing to help.
The thought had frustrated him as he tried to reason with himself that his choice to continue on the Minas Tirith was the best one. He would not reach Helm's Deep in time to enter without being onset by the Uruk-Hais, that much was certain. Already the sun had been sinking low in the sky.
Boromir had then remembered something which Gwaihir had mentioned, about Eomer being banished from Rohan. Where was he now? Boromir thankfully knew he had one very important clue to Eomer's whereabouts. He had noticed that the Wargs he had slain had wet fur. Meaning, they had at one point crossed over the Entwash into the Wold.
He had hoped that he had guessed correctly that Eomer would be somewhere on the western shores of the Entwash. In either case, Boromir had made up his mind. He had steered Maiorama towards the descending sun and headed for the river.
Planning to follow the river, Boromir had crossed onto the western shores of the Entwash. Whether or not he would find Eomer had been a mystery, yet Boromir would at least try.
Boromir remembered how relieved he had been to find the Rohirrim camp. He had lost almost all hope of finding it. The problem then had been to convince Eomer to believe in what he spoke.
But Boromir had to admit, he understood Eomer's indecision. For he was naught but a stranger, and Boromir knew trust was something to be earned. Trust was not taken or given easily in this day and age.
Eomer also had to think of what would happen if Boromir was laying out a trap from him. Banishment was indeed a very serious matter, and Eomer knew that even being the nephew of the King of Rohan could not save himself from orders to be executed.
So there was only thing which Boromir could really do to ensure Eomer would go in aide to King Theoden. Hesitatingly, Boromir had said that he would accompany Eomer to Helm's Deep to prove that he spoken the truth.
Even now though, Boromir wondered whether it was the best decision. He knew in his heart that all would not be well in Minas Tirith because of his long absence. He missed his brother and father dearly and wanted nothing more than to return home and help fight off the growing enemies in Mordor.
But, could he really leave Rohan, knowing what peril he left behind? If he could not convince Eomer to go, what will happen to King Theoden and his friends? He could not leave them, his conscious wouldn't let him.
With a smile, Boromir also figured he owed it to Haldir. He did not doubt the Elf's battle prowess, but Isilme would never forgive him if anything happened, especially since she knew he was the one who had urged Haldir to speak to her in the first place. No, maybe this was the path meant for him to travel on. By now, Boromir understood that the path laid before him was ever changing, he would never know where each twist and turn, dip and rise, would lead him to.
Boromir suddenly stood up with a start as he felt a light touch on his shoulder. He had barely unsheathed his sword before he realized it was Eomer. "Peace, Lord Lavlaisi. My men will be ready to ride in a short while. For now I bring you your horse."
Giving a hasty apology, Boromir took the graciously offered reigns to his horse. Maiorama seemed pleased to see her master as she lowered her head onto Boromir's shoulder in a friendly gesture. Boromir returned the gesture with an affectionate pat on her neck and a whispered greeting in her ear.
Eomer watched with an amused expression on his face. "My respect for you has risen, for I see that your steed loves and respects her master."
Boromir laughed out loud. "I see that the fact of a good relationship between master and steed would receive respect from any man of Rohan."
At his words, Eomer narrowed his eyes as he said sharply, "Ah, so I am right to assume you are not from Rohan."
Trying to keep his tone neutral, Boromir only nodded. "You are."
The man of Rohan broke the silence with a snort. "A mystery you remain to be, Lord Lavlaisi. I shall respect your wishes to remain an enigma. For now." Eomer left to mount his own horse which had been brought to him. "Now, I invite you to ride alongside me."
"Am I to understand that the only reason I ride beside you is so that you can keep an eagle's eye upon me?" Boromir said with a slight challenge.
"Only if there is reason to keep watch on you."
Boromir strategically did not answer. He only bowed and said, "It would be an honor." He got into Maiorama's saddle and led her to Eomer's side. As he did, thunder made the land tremble and it began to rain. At first only a few drops, then steadily.
Thankful for the large and well made cloak by the nimble hands of the Elves, Boromir arranged the cloak more tightly around his body to ward off the chill and rain.
For some reason, Boromir looked in the direction of his homeland, Gondor. It was so dark he could not see to far across the horizon. He closed his eyes to picture in his mind the city of Minas Tirith. There it stood, in the bright daylight. No rain, no clouds, no darkness. It was home, pictured when times were not so evil, seen with the eyes of a wide-eyed innocent young boy he had been. So long ago.
He opened his eyes and once again saw only night and the pouring rain. The wind picked up and sent cold drops into the openings of his cloak. So cold. Sadness enveloped Boromir as he knew that the Minas Tirith he saw in his mind's eye was different from what it truly was. It was so dark now, so dark it was hard to breathe. What would it be like now after his absence? Was it even worse? He shuddered at the thought.
Boromir turned around to see that Eomer was looking at him strangely. The man of Gondor wiped off some of the rain on his face, along with the few teardrops he had cried. But as he rode, the memory of the darkened Minas Tirith could not be wiped away as easily as the rain.
**********
Legolas saw that Aragorn stood slightly behind him. Gimli, who had stayed near Legolas spoke, "Well, lad, whatever luck you live by, let's hope it last the night."
Lightning struck and it illuminated the sky for a brief second. What he saw made Legolas's heart clench for the land was covered with Uruk-Hais, marching steadily towards Helm's Deep. He spoke to Aragorn, not only to reassure his friend but himself to. "Your friends are with you Aragorn."
Unfortunately, Gimli had to add, "Let's hope they last the night."
The Elf was glad to see that Aragorn took the Dwarf's words lightly. Patting Legolas on the back, Aragorn left to see to the other archers.
Legolas surveyed the rest of the Elves. His heart gladdened knowing that his kin were fighting alongside him, reassuring him of the upcoming battle. He, Gimli, Aragorn, and half of the Lothlorien Elves were now on the Deeping Wall. A hundred of the rest of the Elves were inside the Deep, ready to hold the defense and shoot over the wall.
Then it began to rain. Cold, wet, pouring rain.
The rain came down in torrents and Legolas had to keep blinking to keep the raindrops from blinding his eyes. Yet the rain did nothing to hinder the horde of Uruk-Hais, they kept coming as if nothing could, and nothing would stop them.
Legolas heard Aragorn shout out in Elvish. "Show them no mercy for you shall receive none!" Barely suppressing a shudder, Legolas shifted his feet and peered into the night, watching the Uruk-Hai.
Gimli unfortunately made Legolas's attention waver as he jumped up and down trying to see over the wall. "What's happening out there?" he finally demanded.
Finding some humor in the situation, Legolas smiled. "Should I describe it to you, or would you like me to find you a box?" Legolas was rewarded with a rumble of laughter from the Dwarf. The Elf felt better, the Dwarf always seemed to make his heart feel lighter.
Seeing that there was some commotion within the enemy ranks, Legolas perceived through the rain an Uruk-Hai climbing onto a huge rock, weapon raised. The creature roared a challenge and soon, all the Uruk-Hai began yelling and roaring, hitting their spears upon the ground, mocking and taunting them.
Suddenly, an arrow flew out from the gates of the Hornburg. The arrow struck its target, either by skill or luck Legolas did not know. Either way, the Uruk-Hai was hit in the neck and was dead in an instant.
Was it the signal to fire? Legolas turned to look at Aragorn who had his sword unsheathed. But the ranger yelled for them to wait.
Legolas saw that now the Uruk-Hais appeared angry. Howls and growls of fury erupted from the horde and when given the signal, the Uruk-Hais rushed towards Helm's Deep.
As he saw them approach, Legolas looked up into the sky and offered a silent prayer of protection. Upon both his friends and Elves and humans who were strangers to him. May they have victory this night.
"Prepare to fire!" Aragorn shouted over the roar of the enemy.
As if one in body and spirit, Legolas drew his bow in perfect timing with all the other Elves. He felt a raindrop run down his cheek and drop from his chin. The cold sent a chill up his spine, a chill of fear. Yet he pushed aside his fear and apprehension of the battle to come.
"Their armor is weak at the neck and beneath the arm," Legolas said, mostly to himself than to the others. The battle for Helm's Deep was about to begin.
**********
Faramir woke up with a start, his whole body covered in sweat. With trembling hands he brushed his hair back then rubbed his neck and shoulders. Waking up suddenly from a dream always caused a throbbing headache and the massaging helped, though only a bit.
He dreamt no more of the death of his brother, never again seeing Boromir's dead body. The fact scared Faramir more than having the vision itself. Was Boromir in fact, already dead, that there was nothing he could do?
But the dreams he dreamed now, they too were terrible and filled his nights with fear and dread. Every single detail of the vision came back to him in flash even as he tried to ward them off. They always did, no matter how hard Faramir tried. It was as inevitable as trying to keep from having the visions in the first place.
It always felt so real. The heat was stifling. He was lying down on a hard floor, with his eyes closed. But he could see fire, so much fire. The stench made his stomach turn but he could say nothing as if his mind was not connected to his lips. He could hear voices, none he could recognize. He strained to hear yet could not catch any of the words spoken as if his ears were covered, the words indistinguishable for they echoed in his head.
He called out the name of the person he loved most, to help him, save him from this misery! But no one came to help, no one came to save him, so Faramir remained silent.
The fire, oh how it burned him, how he hated the heat! He would do anything to get away from the fire.
For one brief moment in time, he could open his eyes and saw a face. Try as he might, the face remained blurred and he did not know who it was. Was he in safety, had the danger passed? Then suddenly, the flames surrounded and encompassed him in its fiery arms, refusing to let go.
Faramir could not take the memories of the dream anymore. He jumped from the bed and almost fell as his legs gave way. He grunted and tried to ignore the feeling of nausea sweep through his body. He resolutely planted his feet on the ground and straightened up. As soon as he knew that he could stand, he walked out of the cavern where he dwelt in Ithilien.
Though late at night, the Ithilien rangers were still up and about, performing late night duties. Faramir nodded to the rangers when they stopped and noticed that it was their Captain who walked in their midst.
He finally reached one of the entrances and nodded to a sentry. The sentry, seeing that Faramir wanted to be alone, gave a salute and melted away into the cave.
It was raining, and for that Faramir was thankful. Ignoring the fact that the rain would be cold, he stepped out from the confines of the cave.
Indeed, the rain was cold and Faramir shivered as the drops hit his exposed face. Instantly the images of fire and heat faded away from Faramir's mind as he savored the chill the rain gave him.
Peace descended over him and Faramir breathed easier. He welcomed the rain, anything that would take away the nightmares of his sleep. The rain he loved more than ever, for it gently reminded him that he was still alive and that the vision was just what it was, still only a vision.
Finally, after feeling refreshed, Faramir stepped away back into the caves and leaned against the walls. Until the sentry returned, Faramir stayed where he was, watching the pouring rain as it soothed his spirit.
**********
Author's Note: So, was it any good? I hope you enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed writing it! Faramir's part of the story was the easiest to write strangely enough. Hee hee!
Anyway, the next update might take a while because I'm not very good at writing battle scenes. I have to study the books and the movies to make sure I get it right. I hope you'll be patient with me!
Special Thanks To:
* to story reader and Alex92 * ~ I hope you got my replies to your reviews on chapter 11! It's on the previous chapter.
*Melodist* ~ Am so glad you enjoyed my Eowyn! I hope to put a lot more of her in my story since I'm finding her a fascinating character to write! So, you had Lavlaisi all figured out! *claps hands* I was trying to make it seem that he 'might' have been a ranger from the North, but I guess I couldn't fool you! *wink*!
*Diadora* ~ Thanks for the TWO reviews! I'm glad ff.net didn't really 'eat' up your first review! Hee hee! Anyway, so glad you liked the sudden appearance of our dear Boromir! Just for you, I've updated as soon as possible to give some more Boromir! Enjoy!
*Spry Sprite* ~ YAYAYAYAYA! Thanks for being 'Reviewer Number One Hundred'! Thanks a million for being so faithful! Glad you liked Eomer! Anyway, I was reading over your story again. Hee hee! Hope you got my latest review! I just wanted to say though that before I had missed the part you wrote about 'burninating'. LOL! Not many people know about Strong Bad, it was such a treat for me to see that! Do you like Trogdor (or was it Trokdor?)? Update soonie!
*~C~* ~ I DEFINITELY agree with you. School. Is. Evil. Just plain and simple. Hee hee! Well, actually, school isn't too bad for me this year thankfully. But I think it just means it's going to get worse... anyway, Boromir's going to Helm's Deep, but I promise to make his and Faramir's reunion a very special one. *smiles!*
*Maria* ~ Hey, Maria! I bet you're a bit surprised that I finished so quickly! Sorry, no 'Boromir-loses-his-memory' subplot. *wink!*
*BoromirDefender* ~ Hiya! Here's a quick update for you! Anyway, Lavlaisi is the Elvish name Galadriel gives to Boromir. I think it's in Chapter 10. I hope you enjoy this new chapter, it explains more of why Boromir is where he is.
*Aelimir* ~ Wow, you've given me such a wonderful and long review! *hugs and hugs!* Well, as for if Eowyn's going to marry Boromir or Faramir.... hmmm... my little secret but I hope whichever it is satisfies you and makes you happy! Which would you prefer? Nope, it's not Gandalf, it's our dear Boromir! Am very glad you liked Eomer's point of view, I'm thinking of writing a cool scene from his point of view (well, I 'think' it'll be cool, depends how it comes out...)! Boromir's meeting with Frodo is certainly going to be interesting, I hope that it too comes out great. Thanks so much for the compliment of my blending of the books and the movies! You read Pirates of the Caribbean fanfics? Which are your favorites? Have you read Rangers and Pirates? That's a hilarious crossover of LOTR and POTC! Thanks for reviewing once again!
*you-know-who* ~ Sorry, no Warg-taming in this chapter. Hee hee!
*iron-eyes24* ~ Whoah, I've never gotten such an enthusiastic review! *big smiles!* Thanks so much, I really appreciated your review, it made me all bubbly inside. Hee hee! Glad you think the story's brilliant, even more glad that you agree that Boromir IS brilliant! ^_^
*leaf girl* ~ Your review has certainly inspired me a lot! Besides being long, it gave me lots of encouragements, thank you so much for that! Thanks for the tip that Eomer and Boromir HAVE met. I hope you're happy with the small change I made in the previous chapter so it works out well. Also, (as I will mention in future chapters), I wanted it to seem that Boromir looks and has a different 'feel' to him than when Eomer had met him before. I'm so glad you liked Eowyn! She's turning out to be a really fascinating and interesting character to write. Well, in my story anything seems to happen because the words just flow out of me into the keyboard (hmm... that came out poetic...) *wink*! Anyway, I'm not sure what's going to happen with Eowyn or whether she's going to be paired up with Boromir and Faramir. I've 'kind of' decided, but not really. I'm also very pleased that you enjoyed Boromir's and Faramir's reminiscence stuff. The wall incident just came to me and thankfully it came out all right. Yeah, it certainly an interesting theme of what it would be like if Boromir had lived. It gives the author a chance to explore any and all possibilities of how it would work out. Thanks so much for reviewing! I hope you enjoy this new chapter!