Boromir, Thou Shall Live
By Priscilla Stafford
Author's Note: Sorry it took almost a week to finish another chapter! I happened upon what all author's fear... a sudden attack of nerves! I know, you were probably thinking I got writer's block but far from it! I have almost the whole story pretty much figured out in my head (and my little notebook). But no, I got an attack of nerves. That happens when an author reads someone else's work and is soooo awed but what he/she read that he/she cannot possibility even THINK of writing anything up to par!!! But, thankfully my 'attack' lasted only a few days and I strove to finish yet another chapter as quickly as possible.
Well.... 'the coolness' of my story in the form of the GREAT BOROMIR is back! ^_^ I hope you like him in this chappie! Chapter Eighteen is separated generally in three parts, with some 'intermissions' from an omniscient point of view, something I haven't tried yet. Enjoy!
Special thanks to reviewers are at the bottom of the chapter.
Chapter Eighteen: Sounding of the Hornburg
Sudden and terrible, from the tower above, the sound of the great horn of Helm rang out. All that heard that sound trembled. Many of the Uruk-Hais cast themselves on their faces and covered their ears with their claws. Back from the Deep the echoes came, blast upon blast, as if on every cliff and hill a mighty herald stood.
**********
Eowyn woke up suddenly as if something had forced her awake. What had awoken her?
She was startled to realize that she had fallen asleep on the floor, leaning against her bed. She looked around and grimaced as she saw the broken pieces of the cup she had thrown across the room. She would have to clean that up.
The Lady of Rohan closed her eyes and involuntarily, an image came into her mind. It was one of Aragorn, high above standing at the top of a wall. His clothes were all dirty and his face was streaked with sweat from battle.
But it was his face that captured his attention. He glowed with an unearthly glow, his eyes alight with a fire from within. The perfect image of a king, the king he would become, the king he already was.
In frustration Eowyn opened her eyes and brought a hand up to rub her forehead. Why did this strange man of the Dunedain have such a strong hold on her? Her haunted her both in her dreams and in the day time. The intensity of his eyes whenever he looked at her, the warm feel of his hand whenever he had touched her... The thought made her hands tremble.
But why, why, why? Why did he make her feel this way? She had never felt this way for anyone. These feelings of confusion for someone she barely knew. Eowyn tried to push him out of her mind. She had enough confusion in her life to not be bothered with one more. Yet, she knew that she would never, ever completely rid him from her thoughts
Once more she wondered why she had awakened so suddenly. She had cried herself to sleep last night, and though she wasn't sure of the time, she knew it had been very late into the night. It was always that way for her, she didn't like the darkness of the night, she would stay up until the candle light would die out, then she would stare into to the blackness until she fell into a dreamless sleep, exhausted beyond all reason.
Which was why she usually woke up much later in the morning. Yet now, here she was awake, and sun had still not come up from over the horizon.
The room she was staying in was cold. How Eowyn hated the cold. Getting up stiffly, she went over to her closet to get a robe to wear. It was then that she heard it.
The sound of a great horn reached her ears. The sound rung through the air, so clear that Eowyn wondered how close the sound was coming from. Yet, it still sounded distant, as if it was actually an echo she was hearing. It was indeed so strange that Eowyn forgot to get her robe and instead went to the window.
Just as she reached the window, the sun began rise from over the crest of hills ahead. Little by little, the light from the sun stretched out to cover the land with its brilliance. The warmth of its rays touched Eowyn's face, warming her cool skin.
For some unknown reason, Eowyn felt a smile on her lips coming forth straight from her heart. It was a rare moment when it did happen, all the more strange it was that she did. Maybe the saying was true, that hope comes forth as does the dawn...
**********
On the wall of Helm's Deep, the men looked up, listening with wonder for the echoes did not die. Ever the horn blasts wound on among the hills; nearer now and louder they answered one to another, blowing fierce and free.
"Helm! Helm!" the riders of Rohan shouted. "Helm is arisen and comes back to war. Helm for Theoden King!"
And with that shout the king came, at his right hand was Aragorn the heir of Isildur and behind him rode the lords of the House of Eorl the Young.
**********
"Forth Eorlingas!"
As the cry came forth to reach the ears of those in the caves, Haldir finally sprang into action. It was only a little while since he had departed from the deeper caverns to join into the fray of the defense.
But when the sound of the horn had reached their ears, time seemed to have stood still. The battle had stopped as fear had struck the hearts of the Uruk-Hais. The men of Rohan and the Elves, too had frozen in mid-fight.
Being the seasoned warrior he was though, Haldir knew that this was now the time to act. He grabbed his brother's arm who was standing just a short distance away. "Rumil, now is our chance to use their distraction to our advantage. We must make an offensive."
"But brother, you know as well as I do that it will be a near impossibility to strike out from our position here."
Haldir knew that Rumil was right, for even though the enemy was at the moment so startled that they could hardly keep up a good offense, the men and Elves of the Deep would have to be able to cut through the vast armies well.
It was then that Haldir was struck with a plan of action. Informing Rumil that he would soon return, Haldir reached out to grab a random Rohirrim. "Soldier, I am told that many of your horses are being kept within the caves?"
The man in surprise nodded dumbly then quickly found his voice to protest. "But my lord Elf, surely you are not thinking of..."
"Just tell me where the horses are being kept, then gather as many men as you can who have their horses kept here," Haldir said in a tone that signaled that there would be no more argument. "And quickly, no time must be lost."
Haldir was glad that the soldier did not argue any further and curtly explained where to reach the stables, if they could be called that when they were in the caves of the Deep. Then the man of Rohan left in search of some recruits.
The Elf with light feet ran in the direction of where he was told his destination was. When he reached there, he was pleased to see that indeed the horses of Rohirrim were of a strong and sturdy build, surely any man or Elf would be honored to have such a steed under him in battle.
The man whom he had sent after some men returned with about fifteen men, all eager to follow any orders the Elf Captain would give them. In few words, Haldir explained what they were to do and nodding to show they understood, the men rushed to their horses and began saddling up.
Casting a cursory glance over the horses, Haldir spotted one horse in particular that stood out. Black as night, his mane and tail were almost blue-black in color. Of good lineage to be certain by the way the well developed muscles rippled as he moved. Nice conformation and the Elf admired the long but powerful looking legs. A proud one to be sure, by the way the horse lifted his horse and eyed the intruders carefully. Haldir leaped over the fence keeping back the horses to approach the black stallion.
The horse, uncertain how to react towards the stranger coming towards him, stepped daintily away and watched him with a look between apprehension and curiosity.
"Come, beautiful one," Haldir said, his voice no more than a whisper. "I will not hurt you. Come."
Inquisitiveness won over fear, and the horse immediately walked over to the Elf to sniff the outstretched hand. Taking a chance, still speaking soothingly, Haldir reached up to stroke the horse's nose.
"You have a way with horses. That is for certain lord Elf." Haldir turned to see that one of the men of Rohan, already saddled upon another horse was watching him with obvious admiration. "He is named Ebon for his coat, but we simply call him 'the proud one'. 'Arrogant one' would also suffice for he tends to be a... how shall we say, an impolite creature. He will usually let none but his master neither ride nor touch him. But there was yet a time for him to meet an Elf." The man suddenly narrowed his eyes with some distrust. "Pray tell, what magic did you use to charm him?"
Haldir smiled, somewhat like the look an adult would give a child. The Elf would really never understand men's fear of the Elves' so-called magic. "Not magic, just a gift. Tell me, would Ebon's master mind much if I were to borrow him?"
"Nay, he would not mind much. He is a good man, I would rather think him pleased to know that Ebon would allow only an Elf besides himself to ride him."
Hearing thus, Haldir looked straight into the horse's eyes and spoke calmly, "You're your permission?" The horse seemed to nod and Haldir demonstrated some more of his gift as he leaped onto Ebon bareback. Displeased somewhat that his side was already protesting of too much movement, Haldir ignored his physical pain and bade everyone to follow. With a touch of his heels and a quiet word, Ebon leaped forward with no more urging.
They rode as quickly as was allowed in the caves and reached one of the entrances in no time. Haldir hastened to ride to where Rumil stood. "Brother, you will lead from behind. We will cleave a way through our enemy then together we shall drive them away from the Deep."
Not awaiting for an answer, for Haldir put must trust in his brother, he leaned forward to speak to his steed. "Ebon, are you ready for battle?" The horse only answered by a shake of his proud head. Haldir allowed himself a brief chuckle before he became serious.
Unsheathing his sword, he raised it high in the air. "Ten tuure! For victory!"
With the cry of the men and Elves of the Deep, Haldir surged forward and with a sweep of his sword, had the first kill in the offense from the caves.
**********
And ever the sound of blowing horns echoes in the hills and the mountains around. With a cry and a great noise, the king and his men charged down from the gates. Over the causeway they swept, and they drove through the hosts of Isengard as a wind among grass. Behind them from the Deep came the stern cries of men issuing from the caves, driving forth the enemy led by the Elf captain.
**********
How can one man feel ever hopeful yet so fearful at heart at the same time? For that was how Boromir was feeling, hearing the horn blasts of the Helm. Have they arrived in time to save their friends? Or did it just signal a disaster far worse than imaginable?
He did not know, but Boromir would not let his fear and emotions control the here and now. But what if they were too late? Would it be his entire fault?
Be at peace, be at peace.... the words flowed through his head yet were illusive to grasp as the gentle and flowing breezes. The man of Gondor could only gripped his reigns tightly in his fists and try to let his tension go.
Out of the corner of his eye, Boromir saw Gandalf move his staff to catch his attention. "Just over this ridge, Lavlaisi!" he shouted over the thunder of hooves from the riders of Rohan and the feet of Erkenbrand's foot soldiers behind.
Gandalf leaned forward in his horse to whisper into Shadowfax's ear and the horse with a light toss of his head quickened his pace towards the ridge. Boromir, not to be left behind, with a nudge of his heals, had Maiorama follow the wizard.
Finally, side by side, they stood at the top of the ridge, looking down into the Deep. Boromir opened his mouth slightly in utter shock for what he saw astonished him.
Thousands and thousands of the enemy filled the Deep. But in the midst of it all he could make out a very small army of men on horses. These men were cutting down the enemy as if swatting flies away, for it seemed that the Uruk-Hais could not withstand them.
"Do you not see, Boromir, that it is good to keep faith in the maia." Gandalf said and the man of Gondor could see his smile. "A wizard is never late."
Boromir could not help a smile from forming on his lips also. "I shall never doubt again, Mithrandir." He narrowed his eyes as he scanned the land. "But what is this. I knew not of a forest grew in the Deeping-coomb?"
"That is no simple forest. But now is not the time to give an explanation. Look!"
The man of Gondor saw that the Uruk-Hais had noticed the presence of the two riders. Crying out in dismay and ran towards the bottom of the slope leading up to the ridge. They pointed their spears and their lances upwards to try to hinder in any assault from the ridge.
Boromir felt a cold calm descend over his soul and mind. He silently prepared himself for battle and unsheathed his sword. Elanorcil shone with the same magically brightness when Boromir had fought the Wargs.
Experimentally he touched the blade and felt some warmth through his glove. Oddly enough, the warmth comforted him. As a sort of habit, he twirled the sword with the skill of someone who had fought for almost his whole life.
He heard the rest of the riders of Rohan come up from behind, Eomer riding up all the way between Gandalf and Boromir. To the very far right, Boromir saw Erkenbrand with his red shield jump up onto a large boulder. "Erkenbrand's men will come from behind after the riders," Eomer spoke. "Would you, Gandalf?"
Nothing more needed be said for Eomer's words to be understood. With a cry, down leaped Gandalf upon Shadowfax, like a deer that runs surefooted in the mountains. And right behind Boromir also galloped forward, leaning back to keep from losing balance and falling forwards.
Down and down they continued to gallop and Boromir saw that though the Uruk- Hais knew they would be slaughtered, kept their place at bottom, lances and spears glinted.
'Have faith,' Boromir repeated Gandalf's words. Then suddenly, just when they were about to fall upon the enemy, what could only be explained as a miracle happened.
The light of day streamed down from behind, so brilliant in its shine that it blinded the Uruk-Hais. No other force by either nature or the hands of men could create such an effect upon the dark hordes of Saruman. They howled in fear and frustration and in that moment, they either raised or lowered their weapons.
Boromir raised his sword to strike down upon his first foe. Maiorama seemed to know exactly what to do so Boromir gave her free reign. Finding a narrow space between two Uruk-Hais, with a mighty surge of her feet, Maiorama leaped between them.
The warrior struck down on his right, striking the dark creature right on the side of his helm and with satisfaction Boromir heard a crunch of smashed bones for his blow had been hard.
Knowing he was hard pressed from behind with the eager men of Rohan, Boromir bothered not with the right or left but continued to fight further and further into the Deep. Right and left, left and right, Boromir gave the invaders no chance to escape, every single one he encountered felt the sting of his blade.
The experienced warrior, the magical sword, the Elvish horse; they were all one, fighting as one, as fluid as the water from a stream. But at the heart was Boromir, with the slightest flick of the reigns or the slightest touch of his heels had Maiorama swerving to the left, twisting to the right. With the simplest flick of his wrist Elanorcil swung through the air with a deadly accuracy, giving death to whomever it touched.
He caught the glint of a sword in his peripheral vision and turned to see a man on a horse killing off an Uruk-Hai. But this was not just any man for Boromir saw that it was Aragorn.
The ranger looked up once to meet his eyes and for one brief second, Boromir thought he could see confusion in the ranger's steely grey eyes. Then the confusion fled as Aragorn only nodded then continued to battle.
In shock, Boromir could not take his eyes off the other man. Why had Aragorn not recognized him? Yes, his hood was pulled over to cover much of his features. With a slight pang of sadness, the man of Gondor thought that maybe Aragorn and he did not know each other as he might have liked. Indeed they had their differences and with shame he knew that many of their arguments had been started from himself.
But he pushed those thoughts away, they were not the kind to dwell upon in battle. He convinced himself that Aragorn had only been preoccupied with matters on hand. He could not expect the other to have recognized him for the ranger probably thought him dead.
Yet... Boromir himself had been able to see something different in Aragorn, something that one would think only the closest of friends could distinguish. This was not the Aragorn he had known, of that he was sure.
Just at that moment before he could put his finger upon what bothered him about this different Aragorn, the ranger had frozen to face the fleeing Uruk-Hais, his face profile perfectly in Boromir's line of sight. With a sudden startling clarity, Boromir could really see him, see Aragorn as he truly was.
Of noble birth, of noble blood, a man who was of the purest nobility. A man who could lead men to battle, nay, not just into battle. A man who could lead a whole nation, a whole country, the whole of Middle Earth. And with perfect peace, Boromir finally knew in his heart that here was a man he could trust to take care of and rule his beloved city of Minas Tirith and his beloved country of Gondor. A man who could follow to any end.
Suddenly, a great weight seemed to be lifted from his spirit. Boromir knew why; it was because he was finally at peace with Aragorn. Aragorn was indeed the heir of Isildur, he would make a good king, and Boromir was at peace with that.
As he tried to clear his vision which seemed be blurred, Boromir could see that there was no more hope for the Uruk-Hais and the enemy understood the fact, too. The orc-goblins cast aside both sword and spear and like a black smoke was driven by a mounting wind they fled. Those that could escape death passed under the waiting shadow of the trees of the mysterious forest Boromir had remarked upon. And from that shadow none ever came again.
And in his heart, Boromir felt that a part of the shadow in his heart had fled, too.
**********
Author's Notes: So, is Boromir cool or what? ^_^ Of course he is!! Hee hee! Anyway, the next chapter will have some 'reunions' up, but don't expect too much. I'm going to keep some special scenes for later on in the story.
I hope you like what Boromir finally sees in Aragorn. He's realized now that Aragorn is indeed the future King of Middle Earth, and he now has no qualms about it. As you expect, there's going to be some complications when Boromir meets up with his father and tries to explain this! But that's for future chapters...
SPECIAL AUTHOR'S NOTES: There are some (like my dear friend Maria) who aren't registered with fanfiction.net so don't get new chapter alerts. So those who wish to receive an e-mail to notify if I have any new chapters, please 'alert' me! Thank you much, but please, there isn't any pressure! This is just something I'm doing for my good friend.
Special thanks to:
*Daughter of Olorin* ~ Wow, I didn't think you would read my fic! You're a WAY better writer than me (if anyone else is reading this, you have to read Daughter of Olorin's fic, "Of Soul and Being"). But don't get me wrong, I'm so please you are reading and so far have being enjoying the story. Oh, so Haldir is a favorite of yours? Yes, he is a pretty cool Elf though Prince Legolas is, too. There'll be more Isilme coming up in future chapters, teamed up of course with Haldir. ^_~ I really hope you continue enjoy the rest of my story! Thanks so much for reviewing!
*Daisy Brambleburr* ~ Oh, you're not a scatty reviewer at all! I'm pleased even to get any reviews at all! Yes, it's nice that Haldir's not dead, he's a pretty cool Elf (the more so now that I get to write him any way I like in my fan fic!) Hee hee! Boromir's finally in Helm's Deep, yet hasn't had any 'reunions' though he has seen Aragorn. But it doesn't seem like Aragorn recognizes him, does it? Poor Boromir... *wink*!
*Alex92* ~ Yup, yup, yup! Gimli is indeed very funny, his gruffness is so sweet and cute I can't help adding more of him to my fic! I had to have a place where he meets Isilme. He's so completely taken with Galadriel, why shouldn't he also like another fair Elf-maiden? Especially one smart enough to get Haldir... *smiles*!
*Spry Sprite* ~ Thanks for reviewing yet again! I'm glad you like Isilme showing up at Helm's Deep! Haldir needed some comforting. Hee hee! Well, I must say, your recent chapter for your story was HILARIOUS! Can't wait for more! More meepage!! Umm... sorry, I keep getting carries away... the coolness.... *wink*!
*Aelimir* ~ If you have any 'horse sense' to give me, please tell me! I know a little about horses and what little I knew I wrote in this chapter. But if you think I should add more, please don't hesitate to tell me! Yeah, I think I'm going to send Haldir back to Lorien with Isilme and the rest of the Elves. There's war coming to Lothlorien from Dol Guldur and they're going to need their able Captain! I'm just wondering if I should write about that battle, or concentrate on Boromir... hmmm, I'll have to decide on that later. Oh, so you get claustrophobia, too? I got it only once though, the strangest thing was that it happened when I was scuba diving! It was my first time and when we got thirty feet down, for some STUPID reason I looked up. WAYYYY up! The surface of the water looked so far I suddenly had a panic attack and couldn't breathe. I tried to put some of my feelings into Haldir though it's a bit different between being stuck in a cave and being thirty feet under water... Anyway, I do hope in TT:EE they have the part where Aragorn talks to the Uruk-Hais. POWERFUL scene! I hope you like this chapter, thanks for reviewing!
*Maria* ~ Hewo! Yep, I think I'm sending Haldir back 'home' with Isilme, but NOT without meeting with Boromir first! I have some great ideas involving a little 'matchmaking'... *wink*! Anyway, how I'm going to have Denethor in my story is still a MAJOR secret so I'm not letting anything leak out. :P Glad you weren't too.. how shall I say, 'disturbed' by the romance! *wiggles eyebrows* I know you were probably thinking "yewwww!" P.S. Yes, Pippin is cool, but Boromir and Faramir are just TOO way up there.
*you-know-who, I think* ~ I believe you're the same person as 'you know you'... hee hee! Anyway, I hope you get a chance to read this while having your 'guests' at your place. :P I hope you enjoy some of the action!
*iwantboromir* ~ I'm really glad you enjoyed my little Haldir/Isilme scene! And I'm even more glad that you liked sweet Gimli, for all his gruffness he's a softie inside, especially for Elf ladies! Hee hee! Oh, yes, a Sean and Kiefer scene (drool....) ahem, yes, the scene is coming up, either in the next chapter or the next after that. Another question about "Young Guns", my dad still monitors R-rated movies for me, so could you tell me if there's really anything pretty bad or questionable in the movie? I would really appreciate it! *hugs*! Well, this chapter's for you, with plenty of Boromir-ness. I hope you like! I'm glad your wrist is better, don't put too much stress on it!
*iron-eyes24* ~ ^_^ I'm honored to have such an enthusiastic reader/reviewer such as yourself! I'm 'tickled pink' you're liking the story! I hope you're satisfied with the Boromir-ness of this chapter! Boromir/Lavlaisi is definitely in the next chapter though I haven't decided yet if it will be in his point of view. We'll see... Anyway, I loved your chapter two! So, Boromir did NOT try to take the Ring! So, what's going on from there? Update soonie, pretty please!
*Moonbeam* ~ Thanks for reading and reviewing my story! You're on my 'family of reviewers' now (the family keeps growing and growing!). Anyway, you must be the only person who figures out about Isilme! I wasn't sure if anybody would pick that part up in chapter seven, but since no one mentioned it, I decided to keep it pretty much a secret! ^_^ Thanks so much again for taking the time to review! I hope you like this chapter!
By Priscilla Stafford
Author's Note: Sorry it took almost a week to finish another chapter! I happened upon what all author's fear... a sudden attack of nerves! I know, you were probably thinking I got writer's block but far from it! I have almost the whole story pretty much figured out in my head (and my little notebook). But no, I got an attack of nerves. That happens when an author reads someone else's work and is soooo awed but what he/she read that he/she cannot possibility even THINK of writing anything up to par!!! But, thankfully my 'attack' lasted only a few days and I strove to finish yet another chapter as quickly as possible.
Well.... 'the coolness' of my story in the form of the GREAT BOROMIR is back! ^_^ I hope you like him in this chappie! Chapter Eighteen is separated generally in three parts, with some 'intermissions' from an omniscient point of view, something I haven't tried yet. Enjoy!
Special thanks to reviewers are at the bottom of the chapter.
Chapter Eighteen: Sounding of the Hornburg
Sudden and terrible, from the tower above, the sound of the great horn of Helm rang out. All that heard that sound trembled. Many of the Uruk-Hais cast themselves on their faces and covered their ears with their claws. Back from the Deep the echoes came, blast upon blast, as if on every cliff and hill a mighty herald stood.
**********
Eowyn woke up suddenly as if something had forced her awake. What had awoken her?
She was startled to realize that she had fallen asleep on the floor, leaning against her bed. She looked around and grimaced as she saw the broken pieces of the cup she had thrown across the room. She would have to clean that up.
The Lady of Rohan closed her eyes and involuntarily, an image came into her mind. It was one of Aragorn, high above standing at the top of a wall. His clothes were all dirty and his face was streaked with sweat from battle.
But it was his face that captured his attention. He glowed with an unearthly glow, his eyes alight with a fire from within. The perfect image of a king, the king he would become, the king he already was.
In frustration Eowyn opened her eyes and brought a hand up to rub her forehead. Why did this strange man of the Dunedain have such a strong hold on her? Her haunted her both in her dreams and in the day time. The intensity of his eyes whenever he looked at her, the warm feel of his hand whenever he had touched her... The thought made her hands tremble.
But why, why, why? Why did he make her feel this way? She had never felt this way for anyone. These feelings of confusion for someone she barely knew. Eowyn tried to push him out of her mind. She had enough confusion in her life to not be bothered with one more. Yet, she knew that she would never, ever completely rid him from her thoughts
Once more she wondered why she had awakened so suddenly. She had cried herself to sleep last night, and though she wasn't sure of the time, she knew it had been very late into the night. It was always that way for her, she didn't like the darkness of the night, she would stay up until the candle light would die out, then she would stare into to the blackness until she fell into a dreamless sleep, exhausted beyond all reason.
Which was why she usually woke up much later in the morning. Yet now, here she was awake, and sun had still not come up from over the horizon.
The room she was staying in was cold. How Eowyn hated the cold. Getting up stiffly, she went over to her closet to get a robe to wear. It was then that she heard it.
The sound of a great horn reached her ears. The sound rung through the air, so clear that Eowyn wondered how close the sound was coming from. Yet, it still sounded distant, as if it was actually an echo she was hearing. It was indeed so strange that Eowyn forgot to get her robe and instead went to the window.
Just as she reached the window, the sun began rise from over the crest of hills ahead. Little by little, the light from the sun stretched out to cover the land with its brilliance. The warmth of its rays touched Eowyn's face, warming her cool skin.
For some unknown reason, Eowyn felt a smile on her lips coming forth straight from her heart. It was a rare moment when it did happen, all the more strange it was that she did. Maybe the saying was true, that hope comes forth as does the dawn...
**********
On the wall of Helm's Deep, the men looked up, listening with wonder for the echoes did not die. Ever the horn blasts wound on among the hills; nearer now and louder they answered one to another, blowing fierce and free.
"Helm! Helm!" the riders of Rohan shouted. "Helm is arisen and comes back to war. Helm for Theoden King!"
And with that shout the king came, at his right hand was Aragorn the heir of Isildur and behind him rode the lords of the House of Eorl the Young.
**********
"Forth Eorlingas!"
As the cry came forth to reach the ears of those in the caves, Haldir finally sprang into action. It was only a little while since he had departed from the deeper caverns to join into the fray of the defense.
But when the sound of the horn had reached their ears, time seemed to have stood still. The battle had stopped as fear had struck the hearts of the Uruk-Hais. The men of Rohan and the Elves, too had frozen in mid-fight.
Being the seasoned warrior he was though, Haldir knew that this was now the time to act. He grabbed his brother's arm who was standing just a short distance away. "Rumil, now is our chance to use their distraction to our advantage. We must make an offensive."
"But brother, you know as well as I do that it will be a near impossibility to strike out from our position here."
Haldir knew that Rumil was right, for even though the enemy was at the moment so startled that they could hardly keep up a good offense, the men and Elves of the Deep would have to be able to cut through the vast armies well.
It was then that Haldir was struck with a plan of action. Informing Rumil that he would soon return, Haldir reached out to grab a random Rohirrim. "Soldier, I am told that many of your horses are being kept within the caves?"
The man in surprise nodded dumbly then quickly found his voice to protest. "But my lord Elf, surely you are not thinking of..."
"Just tell me where the horses are being kept, then gather as many men as you can who have their horses kept here," Haldir said in a tone that signaled that there would be no more argument. "And quickly, no time must be lost."
Haldir was glad that the soldier did not argue any further and curtly explained where to reach the stables, if they could be called that when they were in the caves of the Deep. Then the man of Rohan left in search of some recruits.
The Elf with light feet ran in the direction of where he was told his destination was. When he reached there, he was pleased to see that indeed the horses of Rohirrim were of a strong and sturdy build, surely any man or Elf would be honored to have such a steed under him in battle.
The man whom he had sent after some men returned with about fifteen men, all eager to follow any orders the Elf Captain would give them. In few words, Haldir explained what they were to do and nodding to show they understood, the men rushed to their horses and began saddling up.
Casting a cursory glance over the horses, Haldir spotted one horse in particular that stood out. Black as night, his mane and tail were almost blue-black in color. Of good lineage to be certain by the way the well developed muscles rippled as he moved. Nice conformation and the Elf admired the long but powerful looking legs. A proud one to be sure, by the way the horse lifted his horse and eyed the intruders carefully. Haldir leaped over the fence keeping back the horses to approach the black stallion.
The horse, uncertain how to react towards the stranger coming towards him, stepped daintily away and watched him with a look between apprehension and curiosity.
"Come, beautiful one," Haldir said, his voice no more than a whisper. "I will not hurt you. Come."
Inquisitiveness won over fear, and the horse immediately walked over to the Elf to sniff the outstretched hand. Taking a chance, still speaking soothingly, Haldir reached up to stroke the horse's nose.
"You have a way with horses. That is for certain lord Elf." Haldir turned to see that one of the men of Rohan, already saddled upon another horse was watching him with obvious admiration. "He is named Ebon for his coat, but we simply call him 'the proud one'. 'Arrogant one' would also suffice for he tends to be a... how shall we say, an impolite creature. He will usually let none but his master neither ride nor touch him. But there was yet a time for him to meet an Elf." The man suddenly narrowed his eyes with some distrust. "Pray tell, what magic did you use to charm him?"
Haldir smiled, somewhat like the look an adult would give a child. The Elf would really never understand men's fear of the Elves' so-called magic. "Not magic, just a gift. Tell me, would Ebon's master mind much if I were to borrow him?"
"Nay, he would not mind much. He is a good man, I would rather think him pleased to know that Ebon would allow only an Elf besides himself to ride him."
Hearing thus, Haldir looked straight into the horse's eyes and spoke calmly, "You're your permission?" The horse seemed to nod and Haldir demonstrated some more of his gift as he leaped onto Ebon bareback. Displeased somewhat that his side was already protesting of too much movement, Haldir ignored his physical pain and bade everyone to follow. With a touch of his heels and a quiet word, Ebon leaped forward with no more urging.
They rode as quickly as was allowed in the caves and reached one of the entrances in no time. Haldir hastened to ride to where Rumil stood. "Brother, you will lead from behind. We will cleave a way through our enemy then together we shall drive them away from the Deep."
Not awaiting for an answer, for Haldir put must trust in his brother, he leaned forward to speak to his steed. "Ebon, are you ready for battle?" The horse only answered by a shake of his proud head. Haldir allowed himself a brief chuckle before he became serious.
Unsheathing his sword, he raised it high in the air. "Ten tuure! For victory!"
With the cry of the men and Elves of the Deep, Haldir surged forward and with a sweep of his sword, had the first kill in the offense from the caves.
**********
And ever the sound of blowing horns echoes in the hills and the mountains around. With a cry and a great noise, the king and his men charged down from the gates. Over the causeway they swept, and they drove through the hosts of Isengard as a wind among grass. Behind them from the Deep came the stern cries of men issuing from the caves, driving forth the enemy led by the Elf captain.
**********
How can one man feel ever hopeful yet so fearful at heart at the same time? For that was how Boromir was feeling, hearing the horn blasts of the Helm. Have they arrived in time to save their friends? Or did it just signal a disaster far worse than imaginable?
He did not know, but Boromir would not let his fear and emotions control the here and now. But what if they were too late? Would it be his entire fault?
Be at peace, be at peace.... the words flowed through his head yet were illusive to grasp as the gentle and flowing breezes. The man of Gondor could only gripped his reigns tightly in his fists and try to let his tension go.
Out of the corner of his eye, Boromir saw Gandalf move his staff to catch his attention. "Just over this ridge, Lavlaisi!" he shouted over the thunder of hooves from the riders of Rohan and the feet of Erkenbrand's foot soldiers behind.
Gandalf leaned forward in his horse to whisper into Shadowfax's ear and the horse with a light toss of his head quickened his pace towards the ridge. Boromir, not to be left behind, with a nudge of his heals, had Maiorama follow the wizard.
Finally, side by side, they stood at the top of the ridge, looking down into the Deep. Boromir opened his mouth slightly in utter shock for what he saw astonished him.
Thousands and thousands of the enemy filled the Deep. But in the midst of it all he could make out a very small army of men on horses. These men were cutting down the enemy as if swatting flies away, for it seemed that the Uruk-Hais could not withstand them.
"Do you not see, Boromir, that it is good to keep faith in the maia." Gandalf said and the man of Gondor could see his smile. "A wizard is never late."
Boromir could not help a smile from forming on his lips also. "I shall never doubt again, Mithrandir." He narrowed his eyes as he scanned the land. "But what is this. I knew not of a forest grew in the Deeping-coomb?"
"That is no simple forest. But now is not the time to give an explanation. Look!"
The man of Gondor saw that the Uruk-Hais had noticed the presence of the two riders. Crying out in dismay and ran towards the bottom of the slope leading up to the ridge. They pointed their spears and their lances upwards to try to hinder in any assault from the ridge.
Boromir felt a cold calm descend over his soul and mind. He silently prepared himself for battle and unsheathed his sword. Elanorcil shone with the same magically brightness when Boromir had fought the Wargs.
Experimentally he touched the blade and felt some warmth through his glove. Oddly enough, the warmth comforted him. As a sort of habit, he twirled the sword with the skill of someone who had fought for almost his whole life.
He heard the rest of the riders of Rohan come up from behind, Eomer riding up all the way between Gandalf and Boromir. To the very far right, Boromir saw Erkenbrand with his red shield jump up onto a large boulder. "Erkenbrand's men will come from behind after the riders," Eomer spoke. "Would you, Gandalf?"
Nothing more needed be said for Eomer's words to be understood. With a cry, down leaped Gandalf upon Shadowfax, like a deer that runs surefooted in the mountains. And right behind Boromir also galloped forward, leaning back to keep from losing balance and falling forwards.
Down and down they continued to gallop and Boromir saw that though the Uruk- Hais knew they would be slaughtered, kept their place at bottom, lances and spears glinted.
'Have faith,' Boromir repeated Gandalf's words. Then suddenly, just when they were about to fall upon the enemy, what could only be explained as a miracle happened.
The light of day streamed down from behind, so brilliant in its shine that it blinded the Uruk-Hais. No other force by either nature or the hands of men could create such an effect upon the dark hordes of Saruman. They howled in fear and frustration and in that moment, they either raised or lowered their weapons.
Boromir raised his sword to strike down upon his first foe. Maiorama seemed to know exactly what to do so Boromir gave her free reign. Finding a narrow space between two Uruk-Hais, with a mighty surge of her feet, Maiorama leaped between them.
The warrior struck down on his right, striking the dark creature right on the side of his helm and with satisfaction Boromir heard a crunch of smashed bones for his blow had been hard.
Knowing he was hard pressed from behind with the eager men of Rohan, Boromir bothered not with the right or left but continued to fight further and further into the Deep. Right and left, left and right, Boromir gave the invaders no chance to escape, every single one he encountered felt the sting of his blade.
The experienced warrior, the magical sword, the Elvish horse; they were all one, fighting as one, as fluid as the water from a stream. But at the heart was Boromir, with the slightest flick of the reigns or the slightest touch of his heels had Maiorama swerving to the left, twisting to the right. With the simplest flick of his wrist Elanorcil swung through the air with a deadly accuracy, giving death to whomever it touched.
He caught the glint of a sword in his peripheral vision and turned to see a man on a horse killing off an Uruk-Hai. But this was not just any man for Boromir saw that it was Aragorn.
The ranger looked up once to meet his eyes and for one brief second, Boromir thought he could see confusion in the ranger's steely grey eyes. Then the confusion fled as Aragorn only nodded then continued to battle.
In shock, Boromir could not take his eyes off the other man. Why had Aragorn not recognized him? Yes, his hood was pulled over to cover much of his features. With a slight pang of sadness, the man of Gondor thought that maybe Aragorn and he did not know each other as he might have liked. Indeed they had their differences and with shame he knew that many of their arguments had been started from himself.
But he pushed those thoughts away, they were not the kind to dwell upon in battle. He convinced himself that Aragorn had only been preoccupied with matters on hand. He could not expect the other to have recognized him for the ranger probably thought him dead.
Yet... Boromir himself had been able to see something different in Aragorn, something that one would think only the closest of friends could distinguish. This was not the Aragorn he had known, of that he was sure.
Just at that moment before he could put his finger upon what bothered him about this different Aragorn, the ranger had frozen to face the fleeing Uruk-Hais, his face profile perfectly in Boromir's line of sight. With a sudden startling clarity, Boromir could really see him, see Aragorn as he truly was.
Of noble birth, of noble blood, a man who was of the purest nobility. A man who could lead men to battle, nay, not just into battle. A man who could lead a whole nation, a whole country, the whole of Middle Earth. And with perfect peace, Boromir finally knew in his heart that here was a man he could trust to take care of and rule his beloved city of Minas Tirith and his beloved country of Gondor. A man who could follow to any end.
Suddenly, a great weight seemed to be lifted from his spirit. Boromir knew why; it was because he was finally at peace with Aragorn. Aragorn was indeed the heir of Isildur, he would make a good king, and Boromir was at peace with that.
As he tried to clear his vision which seemed be blurred, Boromir could see that there was no more hope for the Uruk-Hais and the enemy understood the fact, too. The orc-goblins cast aside both sword and spear and like a black smoke was driven by a mounting wind they fled. Those that could escape death passed under the waiting shadow of the trees of the mysterious forest Boromir had remarked upon. And from that shadow none ever came again.
And in his heart, Boromir felt that a part of the shadow in his heart had fled, too.
**********
Author's Notes: So, is Boromir cool or what? ^_^ Of course he is!! Hee hee! Anyway, the next chapter will have some 'reunions' up, but don't expect too much. I'm going to keep some special scenes for later on in the story.
I hope you like what Boromir finally sees in Aragorn. He's realized now that Aragorn is indeed the future King of Middle Earth, and he now has no qualms about it. As you expect, there's going to be some complications when Boromir meets up with his father and tries to explain this! But that's for future chapters...
SPECIAL AUTHOR'S NOTES: There are some (like my dear friend Maria) who aren't registered with fanfiction.net so don't get new chapter alerts. So those who wish to receive an e-mail to notify if I have any new chapters, please 'alert' me! Thank you much, but please, there isn't any pressure! This is just something I'm doing for my good friend.
Special thanks to:
*Daughter of Olorin* ~ Wow, I didn't think you would read my fic! You're a WAY better writer than me (if anyone else is reading this, you have to read Daughter of Olorin's fic, "Of Soul and Being"). But don't get me wrong, I'm so please you are reading and so far have being enjoying the story. Oh, so Haldir is a favorite of yours? Yes, he is a pretty cool Elf though Prince Legolas is, too. There'll be more Isilme coming up in future chapters, teamed up of course with Haldir. ^_~ I really hope you continue enjoy the rest of my story! Thanks so much for reviewing!
*Daisy Brambleburr* ~ Oh, you're not a scatty reviewer at all! I'm pleased even to get any reviews at all! Yes, it's nice that Haldir's not dead, he's a pretty cool Elf (the more so now that I get to write him any way I like in my fan fic!) Hee hee! Boromir's finally in Helm's Deep, yet hasn't had any 'reunions' though he has seen Aragorn. But it doesn't seem like Aragorn recognizes him, does it? Poor Boromir... *wink*!
*Alex92* ~ Yup, yup, yup! Gimli is indeed very funny, his gruffness is so sweet and cute I can't help adding more of him to my fic! I had to have a place where he meets Isilme. He's so completely taken with Galadriel, why shouldn't he also like another fair Elf-maiden? Especially one smart enough to get Haldir... *smiles*!
*Spry Sprite* ~ Thanks for reviewing yet again! I'm glad you like Isilme showing up at Helm's Deep! Haldir needed some comforting. Hee hee! Well, I must say, your recent chapter for your story was HILARIOUS! Can't wait for more! More meepage!! Umm... sorry, I keep getting carries away... the coolness.... *wink*!
*Aelimir* ~ If you have any 'horse sense' to give me, please tell me! I know a little about horses and what little I knew I wrote in this chapter. But if you think I should add more, please don't hesitate to tell me! Yeah, I think I'm going to send Haldir back to Lorien with Isilme and the rest of the Elves. There's war coming to Lothlorien from Dol Guldur and they're going to need their able Captain! I'm just wondering if I should write about that battle, or concentrate on Boromir... hmmm, I'll have to decide on that later. Oh, so you get claustrophobia, too? I got it only once though, the strangest thing was that it happened when I was scuba diving! It was my first time and when we got thirty feet down, for some STUPID reason I looked up. WAYYYY up! The surface of the water looked so far I suddenly had a panic attack and couldn't breathe. I tried to put some of my feelings into Haldir though it's a bit different between being stuck in a cave and being thirty feet under water... Anyway, I do hope in TT:EE they have the part where Aragorn talks to the Uruk-Hais. POWERFUL scene! I hope you like this chapter, thanks for reviewing!
*Maria* ~ Hewo! Yep, I think I'm sending Haldir back 'home' with Isilme, but NOT without meeting with Boromir first! I have some great ideas involving a little 'matchmaking'... *wink*! Anyway, how I'm going to have Denethor in my story is still a MAJOR secret so I'm not letting anything leak out. :P Glad you weren't too.. how shall I say, 'disturbed' by the romance! *wiggles eyebrows* I know you were probably thinking "yewwww!" P.S. Yes, Pippin is cool, but Boromir and Faramir are just TOO way up there.
*you-know-who, I think* ~ I believe you're the same person as 'you know you'... hee hee! Anyway, I hope you get a chance to read this while having your 'guests' at your place. :P I hope you enjoy some of the action!
*iwantboromir* ~ I'm really glad you enjoyed my little Haldir/Isilme scene! And I'm even more glad that you liked sweet Gimli, for all his gruffness he's a softie inside, especially for Elf ladies! Hee hee! Oh, yes, a Sean and Kiefer scene (drool....) ahem, yes, the scene is coming up, either in the next chapter or the next after that. Another question about "Young Guns", my dad still monitors R-rated movies for me, so could you tell me if there's really anything pretty bad or questionable in the movie? I would really appreciate it! *hugs*! Well, this chapter's for you, with plenty of Boromir-ness. I hope you like! I'm glad your wrist is better, don't put too much stress on it!
*iron-eyes24* ~ ^_^ I'm honored to have such an enthusiastic reader/reviewer such as yourself! I'm 'tickled pink' you're liking the story! I hope you're satisfied with the Boromir-ness of this chapter! Boromir/Lavlaisi is definitely in the next chapter though I haven't decided yet if it will be in his point of view. We'll see... Anyway, I loved your chapter two! So, Boromir did NOT try to take the Ring! So, what's going on from there? Update soonie, pretty please!
*Moonbeam* ~ Thanks for reading and reviewing my story! You're on my 'family of reviewers' now (the family keeps growing and growing!). Anyway, you must be the only person who figures out about Isilme! I wasn't sure if anybody would pick that part up in chapter seven, but since no one mentioned it, I decided to keep it pretty much a secret! ^_^ Thanks so much again for taking the time to review! I hope you like this chapter!