Boromir, Thou Shall Live
By Priscilla Stafford
Author's Note: Well, it's been almost exactly one week since I last updated! As I promised, here's chapter fifteen all ready for you guys to read and (I hope) enjoy! I finished reading my book and writing a report on it fairly quickly, so I give you chapter fifteen one day earlier than my expected one week. ^_^ And knowing that you all had to be so patient to wait a WHOLE WEEK, I've made this chapter to be one of the longest I've written.
Thanks so much for the encouraging and wonderful reviews! Many people pointed out the only thing wrong with the previous chapter was the absence of our dear Boromir! So, I hope you like the chapter since it has lots of 'Lavlaisi', though not written in his point of view.
Giving you guys a break from all the action in the previous chapter, this chapter is a bit slower. But knowing that many of you guys like action, *smile*, I've added a small part at the end of the chapter bringing up the action. I really hope you enjoy it!
Thanks to all my reviewers are at the end of the chapter!
Chapter Fifteen: No Sign of Day
They had ridden hard and fast all night throughout their journey to reach Helm's Deep. Eomer had not slowed down his company except occasionally to give their horses some relief. Knowing that his kinsmen were in need of his aide, Eomer put away any thoughts of rest away from his mind.
But he knew that the horses would be tired no matter how strong they were. He signaled for his men to slow down. They smoothly changed paces to a comfortable jog for the Riders of Rohan prided themselves in their horsemanship.
The captain turned to observe his riding companion. Lavlaisi, too seemed to be an accomplished rider. He matched speed with Eomer with ease which appeared to come to the man naturally.
Lavlaisi, the man was certainly a mystery. The name, Elvish perhaps it was. Eomer had never thought that Elves or men associated with each other much often, yet here was a man, dressed in Elven clothing and riding an Elvish horse. These were strange times indeed.
Though the rain had stopped, the stranger continued to have his hood pulled over his head, obscuring any view of his face. The fact made Eomer uncomfortable. Why the reason for the mystery? Could it be that this man was a spy and wanted to keep his identity a secret?
But Eomer had also another explanation. Maybe in reality, Eomer and this Lavlaisi had met once before. And for some reason, the man did not want himself to be made known. Then there was the eternal question once more. Why?
Why. How Eomer hated not knowing. He was still a young man though he was close to being thirty. The impatience of youth always forced itself upon Eomer's mind and even now, frustration of not knowing the answers to his many questions made Eomer unconsciously grip his reigns even tighter in his hands.
He scoffed silently at himself. He had to control his thoughts and with firm resolution pushed all frustrations from his mind. His mind wandered instead to his sister, back to days when they were young and carefree, not knowing or being troubled by the problems of Rohan. How he missed the companionship they had shared! She had always been outspoken, maybe too outspoken for a girl on the verge of womanhood, yet in spite of himself, he liked that fact about her.
But maybe six years ago, everything had changed. Their Uncle Theoden had begun to act strangely, finding comfort only in the presence of his niece, Eowyn. As the King of Rohan began to weaken before their very eyes, so had the land of Rohan. Eomer remembered that so often he and his cousin, Theodred, had to leave Edoras to fight off the enemies closing in.
From then, he had hardly ever been able to sit down with his sister. Their reunions were always tender but always full of sorrow, for who knew if Eomer would return from his journeys?
Eomer berated himself for not noticing how Eowyn began to withdraw from everyone, including himself. Their meetings became more and more brief, until one day, Eomer realized that he could hardly recognize his own sister.
He remembered the day clearly, for it had been the day in which he had brought the body of Theodred back to Edoras. Ever since their mother's death, Eowyn and Eomer had lived in the house of their Uncle. Cousin Theodred became more than only their cousin, he became much closer, as if he was their brother at heart though not in blood. Through all the dark days that had followed from being orphaned at such young ages, Theodred had taken care of them. Like a brother he was the one who teased Eowyn till she would smile and laugh. Like a brother he was the one who had helped trained Eomer to sword fight, helped him learn all there was to riding a horse.
Eomer still lamented the loss of one who he honored calling his older brother. At that time, he had been too numbed from the loss to release any emotions. But more than anything, he knew he had to be strong, for Eowyn's sake. Eomer had feared telling Eowyn the tragic news. How would she react, what would she do? As he had searched the halls for any signs of his sister, he tried to think of how he would break the news to her.
But when he had finally found her, he could only look at her in alarm. Eowyn had been sitting on the window ledge of her room, staring out into the distance. She had turned when she heard him enter, then stood up slowly with a smile on her lips. Yet in Eomer's mind he could not see the expression as a smile.
The lips were turned up at the corners, in a gesture of smiling. Yet the smile did not reach her eyes. She had always had a willowy and slim figure but Eomer saw that her cheeks appeared shallower than always. And her skin, her tan from always being outside had completely disappeared, her white dress making her skin seem, oh, so pale. Her golden hair which she would always arrange beautifully upon her head now was let loose to hang behind her back and shoulders.
No, this could not be the Eowyn he had known! This was only a faded, frail imitation of the vigorous and strong willed sister he knew. When had she changed so much? How could he have missed so much?
Eowyn had looked at him, puzzled by his silence for still Eomer could not speak. "What is the matter, brother?" Eomer had closed his eyes in pain, even her voice was softer than he remembered.
He had whispered for he could not get the words out. "Theodred, he..." He opened his eyes as he felt a light touch on his arm. He met the eyes of Eowyn, ice blue in color. And sad. They were still brother and sister, words needn't be said for Eowyn to understand.
She had startled him by pulling herself towards him in a steady embrace. Eomer could only put his arms around her and squeeze her gently in support. But she did not weep, nor did she tremble, remaining steady in his arms. He had pulled her away to look into her face.
A single tear was glistening on her cheek. Her lips quivered imperceptible, only enough for Eomer to see. Her eyes, they were so sad, and so very cold. As if something alive had died, replacing her spark of life with a dull glow.
Eomer had taken her into his arms once more, holding on as if his life depended on it. Strangely enough, though he had expected her to cry, he was surprised to know that it was he who cried quietly while he stroked his sister's hair.
Eowyn had always been his jewel. Now, his jewel had slipped out of his hands. He should have held on tighter. The darkness had not only descended on his land, but upon his family. His parents were gone, Theodred was gone, Theoden's health was not what it used to be, and his sister, his dear sister! She was but a remnant of the sister he remembered. He should have looked after her more. He should have tried to protect her. Then on that same day, he had been banished by that cowardly snake, Wormtongue. She was out of his grasp. But he hoped not forever.
The Third Marshall of Rohan blinked away tears that formed now in his eyes as he returned to the present. The sky was cleared away from the dark clouds of the night and the moon was sinking down. The stars were still shining brightly in the sky, offering what little comfort they could. Eomer sighed, this was one of the longest nights he had ever endured.
Once more he turned to glance at Lavlaisi. The man did not even seem to notice that Eomer was watching him. He continued to look straight ahead. Eomer imitated the other by bringing his eyes forward to gaze ahead. For some reason, Eomer wanted, needed some companionship. His heart was filled with so many thoughts but who was there to tell them to? Besides his sister and uncle, he really had no friends, for he was the Third Marshall of the Riddermark. Rohan had for so long been isolated from all other lands.
For one brief moment, Eomer thought that maybe he could talk to this stranger riding next to him. He immediately crushed the thought and inwardly laughed at himself. He must be really lonely to even consider sharing any of his thoughts to this total stranger, this stranger who even refused to where and who he was! Eomer decided that maybe it was about time to quicken the pace for his thoughts were beginning to make him ill at ease.
But before he could signal his men, to his utter astonishment Lavlaisi spoke. "I can see that something is troubling you, young lord." The man turned ever so slightly that in the little light given from the moon, Eomer could see the light reflect from Lavlaisi's eyes.
More than a little disturbed that this man, a complete stranger, could sense his mood, Eomer considered leaving the question alone. But he knew that Lavlaisi had given him an opening, maybe he could learn something about this other man. So he continued at the same pace so they could converse without the deafening noise of the horses' hooves interrupting them.
"Many things are troubling me," Eomer said in a light tone, hoping that he could encourage the other to speak. "My thoughts keep returning to the fact that I still no nothing much about you. I do not even know where you are from, only that you are not of Rohan."
Lavlaisi laughed deep in his throat. "You are a very curious person, I give you that much." There was silence for a few moments before he continued. "But tell me honestly, would your curiosity subside any less if I were to tell you where I come from?"
The man of Rohan looked down at his hands slightly unsettled. Lavlaisi had seen through his innocent question, knowing that Eomer was baiting him to find out more about this man. He would have to be straightforward to actually find out anything.
"You are a very shrewd person. My curiosity is like the very pestilence of a plague, Lord Lavlaisi, and it would take much to humor it," Eomer replied in jest, yet truthfully. The conversation was polite enough, and Eomer wondered how far he could push the man. "But my curiosity will subside somewhat if you answer one question."
The other shifted in his saddle as if uncomfortable. "The question which is?"
Eomer thought out what to ask carefully. Finally, he asked, "The reason why you are keeping yourself such a secret."
The silence stretched out and Eomer feared that he had gone too far. But his fears were laid to rest when Lavlaisi spoke. "Do you know what the name Lavlaisi means?"
The man of Rohan shook his head and the other continued to speak. "It means 'given new life.' Everyone's life has a past, present, and future. What happens when all three seem to lose all meaning because of one incident that changes your life?" Lavlaisi now spoke as if he was talking to himself. "All you can really do is try to keep going, to not let the past control what life you have now. To not let it control what future, what life you have been given. Yes, that is all I can do."
To Eomer's surprise, Lavlaisi suddenly chuckled. "Let us just say, Eomer, son of Eomund, that if I told you who I was, the past shall catch up with me. And I am not ready for that. But someday I hope to. So for now, let us leave it at that. Does my answer help you in any way?"
Eomer mulled over the other's words. They did not make sense to him, yet one thing he did understand. Something haunted this man Lavlaisi which caused him to remain anonymous. Whatever it was, he did not know. But, he had detected a hint of pain in Lavlaisi's voice. He decided he could respect the other's wishes. "Yes, strangely enough, your answer is satisfactory."
"Good." Under his breath, Lavlaisi spoke in low tones which Eomer felt were not for his ears. "I wish someone could explain it to me." Eomer pretended not to hear so instead stayed quiet.
Once again, Lavlaisi was the one to break the silence. "So, now it is your turn to tell answer my question. The question being what is troubling you."
The man had answered his question, why shouldn't Eomer do the same? He first posed a simple question. "Do you have any brothers or sister, Lord Lavlaisi?"
Lavlaisi paused then answered quietly, "Yes, one younger brother."
"Ah, then you know what it means being the eldest son." Knowing this fact made Eomer relax. "I have one younger sister."
"Eowyn, I believe her name is."
Eomer did not question the man's knowledge of the fact. Instead, he nodded his head in acknowledgment and found himself speaking even more freely with his companion. "I feel as though I must protect her always, yet here I am, fighting battles and ridding the land of our enemies. But not at home, hardly ever at home, to watch out for her."
"I feel as if we are mutual in that respect, Eomer. For I too know what it is like."
The man of Rohan only laughed quietly and bitterly as he remembered that last he had seen of Eowyn. So pale, so quiet, so... different. "What you are saying is, that you feel as if you've disappointed her as much as you are disappointed in yourself? You feel as if you would do anything, anything to make it as it used to be?"
Lavlaisi did not say about Eomer's outburst. Instead, his voice became distant, his mind seemingly far away. "I have been so long gone from my home. They say that love conquers even distance, yet it does nothing to comfort my heart which aches for my brother. But one thing I can say, things never go back to the way they used to be. All you can really do is, go on."
Eomer was touched by his words. Lavlaisi was right, he should not dwell on what had happened. He wished with all his heart that he would be able to see his sister again. He would try to make everything right between them. Eomer opened his mouth to thank Lavlaisi for his encouragement when he was interrupted by one of his men. He realized it was Eothain and seeing the expression on his face, he ordered everyone to halt. Eothain bowed his head quickly and spoke. "Lord Eomer, our scouts have reported a large army of men on foot some distance away."
"You know not who they are?"
"No, sir."
"We'll wait here until the scouts have established who these men are."
"Understood." With a tug of his reigns, Eothain went off to give his instructions to the scouts.
Eomer pondered who these men were. The wild men of Dunland? If so, though Eomer very much wanted to fight them off, he knew that he must reach Helm's Deep at all possible speed. He hoped that they would be able to avoid this army and continue onward.
He decided to continue the conversation he had been having. "Lord Lavlaisi..." But when he looked towards his companion, he was stunned by what he saw.
Lavlaisi was looking way up into the sky and by the light of the moon, Eomer could actually see the side of the man's face.
The face, that face! There was no way that he could be...
The other seemed to feel Eomer's startled gaze for he dropped his head and once more the hood cast a dark shadow upon his face. Only then did he turn his head to face Eomer.
It couldn't be, could it? Eomer pictures in his mind once more of Lavlaisi's face, trying not to forget any detail. Then he envisioned the face he remembered of the Steward of Gondor's eldest son.
Very much alike from what he could recall. Same face structure, including the straight nose and beard. He tried to remember what color the Steward's son's eyes were but try as he might he could not.
But the more he tried to look for any more similarities between the two men, Eomer assured himself that these men could not have been the same. The impression Boromir had left with him was one of strength, power, and firm resolution.
Lavlaisi portrayed strength both in mind and body, of that Eomer was sure. He also gave out a sense of power in his movements and words, obviously trained from a young age to handle himself physically and mentally.
But the firm resolution, there was where Eomer felt the biggest difference. Boromir had been a determined and resolute man. He seemed as if the type of man who expected everything to go as he decided to be. His whole presence demanded respect and respect was what he got. He was the future Steward of Gondor, Boromir would have to be that kind of man to be able to rule a country.
Then there was Lavlaisi. In him Eomer felt a quieter spirit. Quieter not meaning in the slightest that he was weak or lacking decision. His presence was not overpowering but instead, he controlled himself more than others would. In a subtle way he displayed that he was a man to be respected.
Yet, Eomer sensed that this man's heart was troubled by something indecipherable. From what he had learned from their conversation, Lavlaisi was a man whose path appeared non-distinguishable, clouded even to the man who traveled the path himself.
No, these two men had many similarities, but a few major differences. Seeing that Lavlaisi was staring at him beneath his hood, Eomer hastened to speak. "Forgive my silence, Lord Lavlaisi. I stunned by your face, for you look very much like someone I know. I mean not to offend, but may I ask specifically if you are from Gondor?"
Lavlaisi stiffened visibly and Eomer was puzzled by the action. The other man said stonily, "Yes, you have guessed rightly."
Eomer smiled, trying to lighten the mood. "Then the fact explains everything. For you have many similarities between this other man who is of Gondor also."
The man now established as from Gondor seemed to relax. "Yes, we men of Gondor are very alike to people not from out land."
Suddenly, the scout whom Eomer knew had been sent to look out came galloping towards them at full speed. "Lord Eomer!"
"What news?"
"It... the army... you must come see!" The man appeared so overwhelmed that he could hardly get the words out. Eomer did not hesitate and kicked his heels for his horse to go over the crest of the small hill ahead. He heard the others follow but kept his eyes forward. When he reached the top, he too became dumbfounded by what he saw.
A large army of maybe a thousand men were traveling on foot. Their banner was red, as was the shield of the man who appeared to be leading the army.
"Erkenbrand!" Eomer said in astonishment. "It is Erkenbrand!"
"Not only Erkenbrand," Eomer heard Lavlaisi say. "Look!"
It was then that Eomer saw a rider, clad in white, shining from the light of his own. The horse he recognized to, for it was the horse of all horses, the most beautiful of them all.
"Mithrandir," Lavlaisi whispered in awe. "It is Gandalf the White who leads them!"
**********
There came a blare of trumpets. Then there was a crash and a flash of flame and smoke. Aragorn looked on with fear and wonder as a part of the wall before his very eyes exploded. Rocks the size of boulders flew in the air and came crashing down upon the Uruk-Hais below. Aragorn could hardly breathe, knowing that many lives of both Elves and men had been lost on the wall.
He felt an arm upon his shoulder and looked behind to see that it Legolas. The Elf appeared to be just as dumbstruck at the ranger, his eyes widened in surprise. Aragorn finally found his voice and spat the words out. "Devilry of Saruman. They have crept in the culvert again, and they have lit the fire of Orthanc beneath our feet."
Aragorn raised his head to look up at the sky, pleading for the dawn. The sky appeared brighter than it had only a little while ago, but dawn was still so far away. 'Please', Aragorn said in his head. 'Bring hope with the dawn!'
Raising his sword high, he cried, "Elendil! Elendil!" With a mighty leap he jumped down into the breach from the wall, and not a moment too soon. For at that exact moment, a hundred ladders were raised against the battlements. Over the wall and through the opening in the wall the last assault came sweeping like a dark wave upon a hill of sand.
Aragorn fought his way to the broad stairway that climbed from the Deep up to the Rock and the rear-gate of the Hornburg. When he reached his destination he turned and fought each and every Uruk-Hai who dared approach the stairs. He saw with relief that Legolas too was fighting near him with his long knives, for he had used his last arrow.
The heir of Isildur saw with horror that many of the men of Rohan could not make it to the stairs for the onslaught of the enemy was fierce. Those who survived were pushed further and further into the Deep. Hopefully they would make it to the caves. Only a few sum could cut their way back towards the citadel and saluting Aragorn and Legolas in thanks went up the staircase to safety.
Where was Haldir? Aragorn suddenly thought. As he fought he strove to catch sight of the Elf. Finally he saw him, on the wall protecting one of the stairs leading down to the Deep to give his Elves a chance to retreat.
"Haldir!" he cried! "Retreat!" Aragorn saw that with the keen hearing of the Elves, Haldir had heard him. The Elf turned and raised his sword to signal that he understood. Making sure that all of the Elves had left the top of the Deeping Wall, Haldir himself tried to reach the top of the staircase.
But the Uruk-Hais had chosen that instant to send another horde of Uruk- Hais up the ladders and over the parapet of the wall. Aragorn saw that Haldir was outnumbered, he would not be able to make it off the wall. He heard Legolas call out to him. "All who can have now gotten safe within the Hornburg, Aragorn. Come back!"
Aragorn shook his head. "Legolas protect the stairs! I shall be back!"
"Aragorn, you cannot!"
But Aragorn did not heed his words. He fought his way through the enemy to try to reach a friend in help. He feared he would be too late.
**********
Author's Note: Ahhh, I know! It's a cliffhanger! Finally, in the next chapter you all shall know whether Haldir will die or remain for the rest of my story. I'm sorry, but Boromir will NOT be saving Haldir, it is an established fact that he is too far away to make it in time. Also, another point I must say. I haven't changed neither the books nor movies unless Boromir being alive directly changes the plot. There's my hint for all of you!
As I said, the most part of this chapter is slow because I wanted to put more depth in the brother/sister relationship between Eomer and Eowyn. Also, as someone pointed out, I needed to explain why Eomer feels that Boromir and 'Lavlaisi' are different. I hope it came out satisfactorily, if any of you have any complaints or suggestions on how to make it better, please tell me in a review!
I hope to have the next chapter up as soon as possible. I already have the outline for it in case anyone's worried that I have no idea what to write! ^_^
Special thanks to:
*Melodist* ~ Yeah, it's so disappointing that Faramir is hardly in the trailer for ROTK! Except for one SMALL part where he only says that 'Osgiliath has been over run'. Hmph, too short! But readers of LOTR know that he gets a bigger part, don't we? *wink*! I'm glad that you handle both my 'boring' chapters and action ones. ( thank you!
*~C~* ~ Kiefer plays a vampire? Interesting... I'll have to check that one out. I'm hoping to rent "The Cowboy Way". It sounds a bit stupid, but hey, it does have Kiefer Sutherland, right? *smiles*! Plus in real life he's a rodeo rider and he gets to rodeo in this movie, definitely worth a look I think. I hope you like it that I have lots of sort-of-Boromir in this chapter (I'm saying sort-of because he's under the name Lavlaisi). Verbal book reports? I don't have any of those, thankfully!
*Alex92* ~ Glad you liked chapter 13! Since I heard you missed Boromir in the last chapter, I knew I needed to put plenty of him. I hope you like the way I've written him in this chapter! I have a really cool idea for an upcoming chapter where I'm REALLY going to describe his character from the point of view of.... not telling! *wink!*
*Spry Sprite* ~ You've seen "The Three Musketeers", too? That IS a great movie, he's soooo cool and having Charlie Sheen as Aramis is a plus side to watching it! Hee hee! The coolest Athos scene in my opinion is where his right arm is injured and he just takes his saber into his left hand and continues the fight! Too, too good! Anyway, I hope you like this new updated chapter! So... when are you going to update? ^_^
*you-know-who* ~ Glad you liked the chapter. Hope you enjoy this chapter though probably in your book it's 'technically boring'.
*Aelimir* ~ Oh, short review, long reviews, I appreciate ALL reviews! Thanks for even taking the time to write a review! So, do you rent a stall at a stable or do you have your own stables for Cricket? A Quarter horse? Ooohh, sooo cool! My biggest dream is to someday (though very improbably) ride a thoroughbred. Have you seen the movie "Seabiscuit"? It's a pretty good 'horse' movie. Anyway, I really hope you enjoy this chapter!
*Diadora* ~ Thanks for reviewing once again! Yeah, I agree, the battle of Helm's Deep is better described in the books than in the movies. Some events they mixed up in the movies... I can't wait to get the Extended Edition DVD on November 18th! I've already made my sister who lives in the States promise to buy it ON that day and send it, too! Well, Haldir's part in my story is coming up full force in the next chapter! I hope you will think my version is satisfactory! ^_^
*Maria* ~ Whoah, a VERY long review from one of my favorite people! ^_^ thanks so much! Yeah, poor Hama... sniff, sniff. Ha ha! It was funny how you listed all the reasons why you liked the previous chapter! Thanks so much for that! I'm sorry, but Boromir won't be able to save Haldir, he's just too far away! I'm hoping to put the next chapter up pretty quickly, enjoy!
*Boromir Defender* ~ Oh, you liked my Gimli? I'm glad you did! Not many people write about him in their fics. Legolas is cool, but Gimli is likable, too in a gruff way. *smiles*! I hope you like this chapter!
*iron-eyes24* ~ Hello again! Yeah, I had known that Aragorn was older than Boromir. But until you mentioned it, I didn't realize that out of the whole fellowship, Boromir is the third youngest of the nine members! Interesting... it DOES put everything in an interesting perspective. Yeah, the last chapter lacked dear Boromir. But I've put plenty of him (Lavlaisi) in this chapter. Haldir coming up in the next chapter!
By Priscilla Stafford
Author's Note: Well, it's been almost exactly one week since I last updated! As I promised, here's chapter fifteen all ready for you guys to read and (I hope) enjoy! I finished reading my book and writing a report on it fairly quickly, so I give you chapter fifteen one day earlier than my expected one week. ^_^ And knowing that you all had to be so patient to wait a WHOLE WEEK, I've made this chapter to be one of the longest I've written.
Thanks so much for the encouraging and wonderful reviews! Many people pointed out the only thing wrong with the previous chapter was the absence of our dear Boromir! So, I hope you like the chapter since it has lots of 'Lavlaisi', though not written in his point of view.
Giving you guys a break from all the action in the previous chapter, this chapter is a bit slower. But knowing that many of you guys like action, *smile*, I've added a small part at the end of the chapter bringing up the action. I really hope you enjoy it!
Thanks to all my reviewers are at the end of the chapter!
Chapter Fifteen: No Sign of Day
They had ridden hard and fast all night throughout their journey to reach Helm's Deep. Eomer had not slowed down his company except occasionally to give their horses some relief. Knowing that his kinsmen were in need of his aide, Eomer put away any thoughts of rest away from his mind.
But he knew that the horses would be tired no matter how strong they were. He signaled for his men to slow down. They smoothly changed paces to a comfortable jog for the Riders of Rohan prided themselves in their horsemanship.
The captain turned to observe his riding companion. Lavlaisi, too seemed to be an accomplished rider. He matched speed with Eomer with ease which appeared to come to the man naturally.
Lavlaisi, the man was certainly a mystery. The name, Elvish perhaps it was. Eomer had never thought that Elves or men associated with each other much often, yet here was a man, dressed in Elven clothing and riding an Elvish horse. These were strange times indeed.
Though the rain had stopped, the stranger continued to have his hood pulled over his head, obscuring any view of his face. The fact made Eomer uncomfortable. Why the reason for the mystery? Could it be that this man was a spy and wanted to keep his identity a secret?
But Eomer had also another explanation. Maybe in reality, Eomer and this Lavlaisi had met once before. And for some reason, the man did not want himself to be made known. Then there was the eternal question once more. Why?
Why. How Eomer hated not knowing. He was still a young man though he was close to being thirty. The impatience of youth always forced itself upon Eomer's mind and even now, frustration of not knowing the answers to his many questions made Eomer unconsciously grip his reigns even tighter in his hands.
He scoffed silently at himself. He had to control his thoughts and with firm resolution pushed all frustrations from his mind. His mind wandered instead to his sister, back to days when they were young and carefree, not knowing or being troubled by the problems of Rohan. How he missed the companionship they had shared! She had always been outspoken, maybe too outspoken for a girl on the verge of womanhood, yet in spite of himself, he liked that fact about her.
But maybe six years ago, everything had changed. Their Uncle Theoden had begun to act strangely, finding comfort only in the presence of his niece, Eowyn. As the King of Rohan began to weaken before their very eyes, so had the land of Rohan. Eomer remembered that so often he and his cousin, Theodred, had to leave Edoras to fight off the enemies closing in.
From then, he had hardly ever been able to sit down with his sister. Their reunions were always tender but always full of sorrow, for who knew if Eomer would return from his journeys?
Eomer berated himself for not noticing how Eowyn began to withdraw from everyone, including himself. Their meetings became more and more brief, until one day, Eomer realized that he could hardly recognize his own sister.
He remembered the day clearly, for it had been the day in which he had brought the body of Theodred back to Edoras. Ever since their mother's death, Eowyn and Eomer had lived in the house of their Uncle. Cousin Theodred became more than only their cousin, he became much closer, as if he was their brother at heart though not in blood. Through all the dark days that had followed from being orphaned at such young ages, Theodred had taken care of them. Like a brother he was the one who teased Eowyn till she would smile and laugh. Like a brother he was the one who had helped trained Eomer to sword fight, helped him learn all there was to riding a horse.
Eomer still lamented the loss of one who he honored calling his older brother. At that time, he had been too numbed from the loss to release any emotions. But more than anything, he knew he had to be strong, for Eowyn's sake. Eomer had feared telling Eowyn the tragic news. How would she react, what would she do? As he had searched the halls for any signs of his sister, he tried to think of how he would break the news to her.
But when he had finally found her, he could only look at her in alarm. Eowyn had been sitting on the window ledge of her room, staring out into the distance. She had turned when she heard him enter, then stood up slowly with a smile on her lips. Yet in Eomer's mind he could not see the expression as a smile.
The lips were turned up at the corners, in a gesture of smiling. Yet the smile did not reach her eyes. She had always had a willowy and slim figure but Eomer saw that her cheeks appeared shallower than always. And her skin, her tan from always being outside had completely disappeared, her white dress making her skin seem, oh, so pale. Her golden hair which she would always arrange beautifully upon her head now was let loose to hang behind her back and shoulders.
No, this could not be the Eowyn he had known! This was only a faded, frail imitation of the vigorous and strong willed sister he knew. When had she changed so much? How could he have missed so much?
Eowyn had looked at him, puzzled by his silence for still Eomer could not speak. "What is the matter, brother?" Eomer had closed his eyes in pain, even her voice was softer than he remembered.
He had whispered for he could not get the words out. "Theodred, he..." He opened his eyes as he felt a light touch on his arm. He met the eyes of Eowyn, ice blue in color. And sad. They were still brother and sister, words needn't be said for Eowyn to understand.
She had startled him by pulling herself towards him in a steady embrace. Eomer could only put his arms around her and squeeze her gently in support. But she did not weep, nor did she tremble, remaining steady in his arms. He had pulled her away to look into her face.
A single tear was glistening on her cheek. Her lips quivered imperceptible, only enough for Eomer to see. Her eyes, they were so sad, and so very cold. As if something alive had died, replacing her spark of life with a dull glow.
Eomer had taken her into his arms once more, holding on as if his life depended on it. Strangely enough, though he had expected her to cry, he was surprised to know that it was he who cried quietly while he stroked his sister's hair.
Eowyn had always been his jewel. Now, his jewel had slipped out of his hands. He should have held on tighter. The darkness had not only descended on his land, but upon his family. His parents were gone, Theodred was gone, Theoden's health was not what it used to be, and his sister, his dear sister! She was but a remnant of the sister he remembered. He should have looked after her more. He should have tried to protect her. Then on that same day, he had been banished by that cowardly snake, Wormtongue. She was out of his grasp. But he hoped not forever.
The Third Marshall of Rohan blinked away tears that formed now in his eyes as he returned to the present. The sky was cleared away from the dark clouds of the night and the moon was sinking down. The stars were still shining brightly in the sky, offering what little comfort they could. Eomer sighed, this was one of the longest nights he had ever endured.
Once more he turned to glance at Lavlaisi. The man did not even seem to notice that Eomer was watching him. He continued to look straight ahead. Eomer imitated the other by bringing his eyes forward to gaze ahead. For some reason, Eomer wanted, needed some companionship. His heart was filled with so many thoughts but who was there to tell them to? Besides his sister and uncle, he really had no friends, for he was the Third Marshall of the Riddermark. Rohan had for so long been isolated from all other lands.
For one brief moment, Eomer thought that maybe he could talk to this stranger riding next to him. He immediately crushed the thought and inwardly laughed at himself. He must be really lonely to even consider sharing any of his thoughts to this total stranger, this stranger who even refused to where and who he was! Eomer decided that maybe it was about time to quicken the pace for his thoughts were beginning to make him ill at ease.
But before he could signal his men, to his utter astonishment Lavlaisi spoke. "I can see that something is troubling you, young lord." The man turned ever so slightly that in the little light given from the moon, Eomer could see the light reflect from Lavlaisi's eyes.
More than a little disturbed that this man, a complete stranger, could sense his mood, Eomer considered leaving the question alone. But he knew that Lavlaisi had given him an opening, maybe he could learn something about this other man. So he continued at the same pace so they could converse without the deafening noise of the horses' hooves interrupting them.
"Many things are troubling me," Eomer said in a light tone, hoping that he could encourage the other to speak. "My thoughts keep returning to the fact that I still no nothing much about you. I do not even know where you are from, only that you are not of Rohan."
Lavlaisi laughed deep in his throat. "You are a very curious person, I give you that much." There was silence for a few moments before he continued. "But tell me honestly, would your curiosity subside any less if I were to tell you where I come from?"
The man of Rohan looked down at his hands slightly unsettled. Lavlaisi had seen through his innocent question, knowing that Eomer was baiting him to find out more about this man. He would have to be straightforward to actually find out anything.
"You are a very shrewd person. My curiosity is like the very pestilence of a plague, Lord Lavlaisi, and it would take much to humor it," Eomer replied in jest, yet truthfully. The conversation was polite enough, and Eomer wondered how far he could push the man. "But my curiosity will subside somewhat if you answer one question."
The other shifted in his saddle as if uncomfortable. "The question which is?"
Eomer thought out what to ask carefully. Finally, he asked, "The reason why you are keeping yourself such a secret."
The silence stretched out and Eomer feared that he had gone too far. But his fears were laid to rest when Lavlaisi spoke. "Do you know what the name Lavlaisi means?"
The man of Rohan shook his head and the other continued to speak. "It means 'given new life.' Everyone's life has a past, present, and future. What happens when all three seem to lose all meaning because of one incident that changes your life?" Lavlaisi now spoke as if he was talking to himself. "All you can really do is try to keep going, to not let the past control what life you have now. To not let it control what future, what life you have been given. Yes, that is all I can do."
To Eomer's surprise, Lavlaisi suddenly chuckled. "Let us just say, Eomer, son of Eomund, that if I told you who I was, the past shall catch up with me. And I am not ready for that. But someday I hope to. So for now, let us leave it at that. Does my answer help you in any way?"
Eomer mulled over the other's words. They did not make sense to him, yet one thing he did understand. Something haunted this man Lavlaisi which caused him to remain anonymous. Whatever it was, he did not know. But, he had detected a hint of pain in Lavlaisi's voice. He decided he could respect the other's wishes. "Yes, strangely enough, your answer is satisfactory."
"Good." Under his breath, Lavlaisi spoke in low tones which Eomer felt were not for his ears. "I wish someone could explain it to me." Eomer pretended not to hear so instead stayed quiet.
Once again, Lavlaisi was the one to break the silence. "So, now it is your turn to tell answer my question. The question being what is troubling you."
The man had answered his question, why shouldn't Eomer do the same? He first posed a simple question. "Do you have any brothers or sister, Lord Lavlaisi?"
Lavlaisi paused then answered quietly, "Yes, one younger brother."
"Ah, then you know what it means being the eldest son." Knowing this fact made Eomer relax. "I have one younger sister."
"Eowyn, I believe her name is."
Eomer did not question the man's knowledge of the fact. Instead, he nodded his head in acknowledgment and found himself speaking even more freely with his companion. "I feel as though I must protect her always, yet here I am, fighting battles and ridding the land of our enemies. But not at home, hardly ever at home, to watch out for her."
"I feel as if we are mutual in that respect, Eomer. For I too know what it is like."
The man of Rohan only laughed quietly and bitterly as he remembered that last he had seen of Eowyn. So pale, so quiet, so... different. "What you are saying is, that you feel as if you've disappointed her as much as you are disappointed in yourself? You feel as if you would do anything, anything to make it as it used to be?"
Lavlaisi did not say about Eomer's outburst. Instead, his voice became distant, his mind seemingly far away. "I have been so long gone from my home. They say that love conquers even distance, yet it does nothing to comfort my heart which aches for my brother. But one thing I can say, things never go back to the way they used to be. All you can really do is, go on."
Eomer was touched by his words. Lavlaisi was right, he should not dwell on what had happened. He wished with all his heart that he would be able to see his sister again. He would try to make everything right between them. Eomer opened his mouth to thank Lavlaisi for his encouragement when he was interrupted by one of his men. He realized it was Eothain and seeing the expression on his face, he ordered everyone to halt. Eothain bowed his head quickly and spoke. "Lord Eomer, our scouts have reported a large army of men on foot some distance away."
"You know not who they are?"
"No, sir."
"We'll wait here until the scouts have established who these men are."
"Understood." With a tug of his reigns, Eothain went off to give his instructions to the scouts.
Eomer pondered who these men were. The wild men of Dunland? If so, though Eomer very much wanted to fight them off, he knew that he must reach Helm's Deep at all possible speed. He hoped that they would be able to avoid this army and continue onward.
He decided to continue the conversation he had been having. "Lord Lavlaisi..." But when he looked towards his companion, he was stunned by what he saw.
Lavlaisi was looking way up into the sky and by the light of the moon, Eomer could actually see the side of the man's face.
The face, that face! There was no way that he could be...
The other seemed to feel Eomer's startled gaze for he dropped his head and once more the hood cast a dark shadow upon his face. Only then did he turn his head to face Eomer.
It couldn't be, could it? Eomer pictures in his mind once more of Lavlaisi's face, trying not to forget any detail. Then he envisioned the face he remembered of the Steward of Gondor's eldest son.
Very much alike from what he could recall. Same face structure, including the straight nose and beard. He tried to remember what color the Steward's son's eyes were but try as he might he could not.
But the more he tried to look for any more similarities between the two men, Eomer assured himself that these men could not have been the same. The impression Boromir had left with him was one of strength, power, and firm resolution.
Lavlaisi portrayed strength both in mind and body, of that Eomer was sure. He also gave out a sense of power in his movements and words, obviously trained from a young age to handle himself physically and mentally.
But the firm resolution, there was where Eomer felt the biggest difference. Boromir had been a determined and resolute man. He seemed as if the type of man who expected everything to go as he decided to be. His whole presence demanded respect and respect was what he got. He was the future Steward of Gondor, Boromir would have to be that kind of man to be able to rule a country.
Then there was Lavlaisi. In him Eomer felt a quieter spirit. Quieter not meaning in the slightest that he was weak or lacking decision. His presence was not overpowering but instead, he controlled himself more than others would. In a subtle way he displayed that he was a man to be respected.
Yet, Eomer sensed that this man's heart was troubled by something indecipherable. From what he had learned from their conversation, Lavlaisi was a man whose path appeared non-distinguishable, clouded even to the man who traveled the path himself.
No, these two men had many similarities, but a few major differences. Seeing that Lavlaisi was staring at him beneath his hood, Eomer hastened to speak. "Forgive my silence, Lord Lavlaisi. I stunned by your face, for you look very much like someone I know. I mean not to offend, but may I ask specifically if you are from Gondor?"
Lavlaisi stiffened visibly and Eomer was puzzled by the action. The other man said stonily, "Yes, you have guessed rightly."
Eomer smiled, trying to lighten the mood. "Then the fact explains everything. For you have many similarities between this other man who is of Gondor also."
The man now established as from Gondor seemed to relax. "Yes, we men of Gondor are very alike to people not from out land."
Suddenly, the scout whom Eomer knew had been sent to look out came galloping towards them at full speed. "Lord Eomer!"
"What news?"
"It... the army... you must come see!" The man appeared so overwhelmed that he could hardly get the words out. Eomer did not hesitate and kicked his heels for his horse to go over the crest of the small hill ahead. He heard the others follow but kept his eyes forward. When he reached the top, he too became dumbfounded by what he saw.
A large army of maybe a thousand men were traveling on foot. Their banner was red, as was the shield of the man who appeared to be leading the army.
"Erkenbrand!" Eomer said in astonishment. "It is Erkenbrand!"
"Not only Erkenbrand," Eomer heard Lavlaisi say. "Look!"
It was then that Eomer saw a rider, clad in white, shining from the light of his own. The horse he recognized to, for it was the horse of all horses, the most beautiful of them all.
"Mithrandir," Lavlaisi whispered in awe. "It is Gandalf the White who leads them!"
**********
There came a blare of trumpets. Then there was a crash and a flash of flame and smoke. Aragorn looked on with fear and wonder as a part of the wall before his very eyes exploded. Rocks the size of boulders flew in the air and came crashing down upon the Uruk-Hais below. Aragorn could hardly breathe, knowing that many lives of both Elves and men had been lost on the wall.
He felt an arm upon his shoulder and looked behind to see that it Legolas. The Elf appeared to be just as dumbstruck at the ranger, his eyes widened in surprise. Aragorn finally found his voice and spat the words out. "Devilry of Saruman. They have crept in the culvert again, and they have lit the fire of Orthanc beneath our feet."
Aragorn raised his head to look up at the sky, pleading for the dawn. The sky appeared brighter than it had only a little while ago, but dawn was still so far away. 'Please', Aragorn said in his head. 'Bring hope with the dawn!'
Raising his sword high, he cried, "Elendil! Elendil!" With a mighty leap he jumped down into the breach from the wall, and not a moment too soon. For at that exact moment, a hundred ladders were raised against the battlements. Over the wall and through the opening in the wall the last assault came sweeping like a dark wave upon a hill of sand.
Aragorn fought his way to the broad stairway that climbed from the Deep up to the Rock and the rear-gate of the Hornburg. When he reached his destination he turned and fought each and every Uruk-Hai who dared approach the stairs. He saw with relief that Legolas too was fighting near him with his long knives, for he had used his last arrow.
The heir of Isildur saw with horror that many of the men of Rohan could not make it to the stairs for the onslaught of the enemy was fierce. Those who survived were pushed further and further into the Deep. Hopefully they would make it to the caves. Only a few sum could cut their way back towards the citadel and saluting Aragorn and Legolas in thanks went up the staircase to safety.
Where was Haldir? Aragorn suddenly thought. As he fought he strove to catch sight of the Elf. Finally he saw him, on the wall protecting one of the stairs leading down to the Deep to give his Elves a chance to retreat.
"Haldir!" he cried! "Retreat!" Aragorn saw that with the keen hearing of the Elves, Haldir had heard him. The Elf turned and raised his sword to signal that he understood. Making sure that all of the Elves had left the top of the Deeping Wall, Haldir himself tried to reach the top of the staircase.
But the Uruk-Hais had chosen that instant to send another horde of Uruk- Hais up the ladders and over the parapet of the wall. Aragorn saw that Haldir was outnumbered, he would not be able to make it off the wall. He heard Legolas call out to him. "All who can have now gotten safe within the Hornburg, Aragorn. Come back!"
Aragorn shook his head. "Legolas protect the stairs! I shall be back!"
"Aragorn, you cannot!"
But Aragorn did not heed his words. He fought his way through the enemy to try to reach a friend in help. He feared he would be too late.
**********
Author's Note: Ahhh, I know! It's a cliffhanger! Finally, in the next chapter you all shall know whether Haldir will die or remain for the rest of my story. I'm sorry, but Boromir will NOT be saving Haldir, it is an established fact that he is too far away to make it in time. Also, another point I must say. I haven't changed neither the books nor movies unless Boromir being alive directly changes the plot. There's my hint for all of you!
As I said, the most part of this chapter is slow because I wanted to put more depth in the brother/sister relationship between Eomer and Eowyn. Also, as someone pointed out, I needed to explain why Eomer feels that Boromir and 'Lavlaisi' are different. I hope it came out satisfactorily, if any of you have any complaints or suggestions on how to make it better, please tell me in a review!
I hope to have the next chapter up as soon as possible. I already have the outline for it in case anyone's worried that I have no idea what to write! ^_^
Special thanks to:
*Melodist* ~ Yeah, it's so disappointing that Faramir is hardly in the trailer for ROTK! Except for one SMALL part where he only says that 'Osgiliath has been over run'. Hmph, too short! But readers of LOTR know that he gets a bigger part, don't we? *wink*! I'm glad that you handle both my 'boring' chapters and action ones. ( thank you!
*~C~* ~ Kiefer plays a vampire? Interesting... I'll have to check that one out. I'm hoping to rent "The Cowboy Way". It sounds a bit stupid, but hey, it does have Kiefer Sutherland, right? *smiles*! Plus in real life he's a rodeo rider and he gets to rodeo in this movie, definitely worth a look I think. I hope you like it that I have lots of sort-of-Boromir in this chapter (I'm saying sort-of because he's under the name Lavlaisi). Verbal book reports? I don't have any of those, thankfully!
*Alex92* ~ Glad you liked chapter 13! Since I heard you missed Boromir in the last chapter, I knew I needed to put plenty of him. I hope you like the way I've written him in this chapter! I have a really cool idea for an upcoming chapter where I'm REALLY going to describe his character from the point of view of.... not telling! *wink!*
*Spry Sprite* ~ You've seen "The Three Musketeers", too? That IS a great movie, he's soooo cool and having Charlie Sheen as Aramis is a plus side to watching it! Hee hee! The coolest Athos scene in my opinion is where his right arm is injured and he just takes his saber into his left hand and continues the fight! Too, too good! Anyway, I hope you like this new updated chapter! So... when are you going to update? ^_^
*you-know-who* ~ Glad you liked the chapter. Hope you enjoy this chapter though probably in your book it's 'technically boring'.
*Aelimir* ~ Oh, short review, long reviews, I appreciate ALL reviews! Thanks for even taking the time to write a review! So, do you rent a stall at a stable or do you have your own stables for Cricket? A Quarter horse? Ooohh, sooo cool! My biggest dream is to someday (though very improbably) ride a thoroughbred. Have you seen the movie "Seabiscuit"? It's a pretty good 'horse' movie. Anyway, I really hope you enjoy this chapter!
*Diadora* ~ Thanks for reviewing once again! Yeah, I agree, the battle of Helm's Deep is better described in the books than in the movies. Some events they mixed up in the movies... I can't wait to get the Extended Edition DVD on November 18th! I've already made my sister who lives in the States promise to buy it ON that day and send it, too! Well, Haldir's part in my story is coming up full force in the next chapter! I hope you will think my version is satisfactory! ^_^
*Maria* ~ Whoah, a VERY long review from one of my favorite people! ^_^ thanks so much! Yeah, poor Hama... sniff, sniff. Ha ha! It was funny how you listed all the reasons why you liked the previous chapter! Thanks so much for that! I'm sorry, but Boromir won't be able to save Haldir, he's just too far away! I'm hoping to put the next chapter up pretty quickly, enjoy!
*Boromir Defender* ~ Oh, you liked my Gimli? I'm glad you did! Not many people write about him in their fics. Legolas is cool, but Gimli is likable, too in a gruff way. *smiles*! I hope you like this chapter!
*iron-eyes24* ~ Hello again! Yeah, I had known that Aragorn was older than Boromir. But until you mentioned it, I didn't realize that out of the whole fellowship, Boromir is the third youngest of the nine members! Interesting... it DOES put everything in an interesting perspective. Yeah, the last chapter lacked dear Boromir. But I've put plenty of him (Lavlaisi) in this chapter. Haldir coming up in the next chapter!