Boromir, Thou Shall Live
By pmochizuki
Author's Note: Growl, I finished this story a few days ago, but stupid fanfiction's document manager was down the whole time, telling me I couldn't update! ::grumble::
Anyway, it took a less than two weeks to get this chapter up. I know for some readers it may have been too long, but I'm actually proud that I got this chapter finished so quickly! :P The reason was because this chapter was very hard to write.
I hope you all like it; as I said, it was a difficult chapter to write, considering I'm having Boromir face off with a Ringwraith. I really hope it came out all right… Also, I don't know if this chapter's title was any good or not. If you have any ideas, please share!
Shout-outs to all reviewers are at the bottom of the chapter as usual! If you've written a review, I wrote you a reply back!
Just to let you know, the 'present' time of this chapter is late evening of March 6th, 3019 in Middle Earth. If you're all wondering, I'm keeping my story strictly with all 'real' time events from the book as I am writing my story with the timeline at my side with notes written all over.
Disclaimer: In the beginning of this chapter, the descriptions I used for the winged creature is taken from Tolkien's "Return of the King". I give all credit to him.
Chapter Thirty-Four: The Powers of a Deathless Enemy
Boromir's breath caught in his throat and he could neither move nor make a sound. For before him was the most hideous and fearsome beast he had ever laid his eyes upon. He almost closed his eyes, wishing that the terrible sight before him would somehow disappear from view. Yet whether it would or not, there was no way such a sight could ever be completely wiped away from his memory.
The winged creature was greater than all birds, for no bird could achieve such breadth of body and height of its entire being. Neither quills nor feathers did it bear on its skin. Instead, it was naked, its skin thick and almost scaled in appearance of a burnt gray color. The vast pinions were as web's hide between horned fingers.
The Gondorian dimly recalled something Faramir had told him at one point. Rumors there had been of these creatures, and as a matter of course, the younger brother had decided to search for any information that could be obtained. What was it that Faramir had said?
'A creature of an older world maybe it was, whose kind, lingering in forgotten mountains beneath the moon, outstayed their day, and in hideous eyrie bred this last untimely brood, apt to evil. And the Dark Lord took it, nursed it with fell meats, until it grew beyond the measure of all other things that fly; and he gave it to his servant to be his steed.'
Realizing he had been holding his breath, Boromir let it out and tried to breathe easily. As soon as he took his first breath, however, he wished he hadn't. He could hardly contain his gagging, for the creature stank of rotted flesh. Bringing his attention to the creature's mouth, he indeed saw dark blood staining its rows of deadly teeth.
Finally, for what seemed like years, though only a few fleeting moments had gone by, Boromir raised his eyes to meet those of the beast's rider. Except, there was no face to behold.
In horror he saw that the Rider, or if it could be called such, could only be viewed as a large shape, black mantled and oh, so terrifying. And underneath his hood, no face or features could be determined. Save only for a deadly gleam of eyes which seemed to stare straight at Boromir.
Suppressing a shudder, Boromir willed himself to meet the gaze. Slowly, yet as calmly as one could in such circumstances, he straightened himself up.
The Ringwraith hissed, but whether it was in anger at Boromir's defiance or in cruel humor at what might have been an act of stupidity, Boromir could not tell. But before he could even try to think of what to do now, the Rider spoke. "Reveal to me your name, human."
The words were whispered in a low voice, words formed by the winds itself and reaching not the ears yet the mind. Not unlike listening to Lady of the Woods. But while Galadriel's voice was soothing to the soul, a comfort to those who would listen as such, the Ringwraith's voice was harsh, demanding, and sent a shiver unbidden through the listener.
Somehow, Boromir found the initial terror begin to fade from his mind as tried to relax his tense body. Summoning up his voice, he replied coldly, "From when have the corrupted servants of Sauron cared in making proper introductions with others?"
For a split second, those gleaming eyes appeared to narrow. Boromir stood his ground and refused to back down. Finally, the Ringwraith spat back, "So be it."
Then all of a sudden, the Nazgul spoke sharply in what might have been the Black Speech to the winged monstrosity. Given a command, the creature shook its head stretched up its long, sinuous neck, giving out a cry. Then it fixed its sharp eyes upon Boromir and there was no mistaking the look in its eyes. The look a predator would give to its prey.
This time he would not be caught unawares and Boromir was not giving up so easily. He pulled back the hood from over his head, undid the clasp of his robe and with a jerk through the cloak out of the way. An encumbrance it would be against a foe so big in proportions.
But just as he laid his hand upon the hilt of his sword, the creature's head suddenly reared up and Boromir saw that its reigns had been sharply pulled back, accompanied by another command by the Rider.
The shape of the Ringwraith seemed to disappear, displacing its black presence with the black of night. Only when he stepped out in view of the dim moonlight did Boromir perceive he had dismounted his steed. Even now he stepped, no, glided towards him, the only sounds being the gentle whispers of the Ringwraith's robes and the dull footsteps of his big strides. For a moment, Boromir was distracted by the glint from the metal gauntlets the Nazgul was wearing.
He kept his hand upon Elanorcil's hilt, not daring to draw until the Ringwraith made the first move. The foe came to a halt and spoke. "Your name, and the name of your companion," the robed figure said with a small motion to where Bawuer lay.
Boromir wondered why he was being questioned so closely about his identity and now the identity of Bawuer. He knew with certainty that this deathless being could kill him in an instant if he so chose to, but why had he stopped the winged creature? Better to catch the Ringwraith by surprise, it would be his only chance. Slim chance though it be.
But before he drew Elanorcil, a thought entered his head. Once he drew his sword, he would be killed for sure in a matter of moments. Yet besides not wanting to have his life taken from him, he also wanted to help Pippin and Gandalf the best he could. The Nazgul would head east, of that he was certain. The same direction in which Shadowfax with his riders were headed.
Stall… even if he had to stall this Nazgul with his death…
Stall as long as he could…
He relaxed his form slightly which caused the Nazgul to narrow his eyes once more. Boromir spoke. "You would care very much to have my name. Yet once more I decline to give you the pleasure of having such knowledge."
"Then I will wrench the name from your mind," he said with cold cruelty, "after I cut your tongue out for your foolish insolence." The opponent pulled out his sword and a split second later, Boromir had unsheathed Elanorcil.
As soon as he laid eyes on Boromir's sword, the Ringwraith froze, his advance checked by some sudden hindrance. Surprised by the strange action, Boromir held his breath, wondering what was going on.
The Ringwraith spoke, a strange thoughtfulness in its tone, "No heir of Isildur are you for you bear not the sword of Elendil."
In a flash of understanding, Boromir now knew what had caused the Nazgul to stop the creature from attacking him. He had thought that Boromir was Aragorn when he had taken off his cloak! There was indeed some similarities between the two Men, both were dark haired and grey eyed, though Boromir's were more of a green nature. And Boromir guessed that both had vaguely similar features at a first glance from strangers.
And the Ringwraith thought Boromir was Aragorn. At least, not until Boromir had shown he wielded Elanorcil and not Anduril, the Blade that was Broken. But that understanding only allowed a small amount of fear to fill a corner of his mind. How did it know anything about Aragorn?
But now there was nothing stopping this deadly enemy in killing him. Deciding to strike the Ringwraith with as much doubt as he could muster against him, Boromir lifted Elanorcil. "Nay, I am no heir of Isildur, nor is my companion. Nor he nor I wield the Sword of Isildur. Instead, here in my hand I take up Elanorcil, Sword of the Stars. Given to me by the Lady of Galadriel herself, and I carry with me her blessing."
Sure enough, the Ringwraith still remained unmoved, perhaps now with doubt gnawing at him. Then the dark figure began to walk slowly around Boromir and the Gondorian found himself feeling once more like the prey to a vicious predator. Yet he did not move except for his head and his eyes, making sure to keep the Dark Servant in sight.
"You know too much," the Nazgul remarked. "You will tell me all I need to know about Isildur's heir."
"Or what?" Boromir asked, trying to keep his terror in check.
The Ringwraith gave out a harsh cackle. "Then I shall bring you before my Master. From him your defiance will not last in his Gaze. He will leave you stripped with nothing. No strength, no will… no life." The last was said in a whisper, causing Boromir to shudder. "In the end when all your secrets have been stolen from your very mind, you will beg the Eye to have mercy on, for your life to be ended. But I will tell you now… my Master knows no mercy."
Stall…
"Then it will be in my best interests not to allow you to bring me to your Master."
His only warning was a shift in the Nazgul's robes as the figure raised its sword. Boromir lifted his own sword to meet it. Sword clashed upon sword, and Boromir felt the shock of it run up his arm. Gathering all his strength, he pushed the Ringwraith's blade away from his own and took a swing at the figure which was seemed like only a shadow. His sword hit nothing but air and he stumbled slightly before righting himself. He barely blocked another strike at his head then slammed his shoulder against the Nazgul, hoping to knock the being down. Instead, all he felt was pain in his shoulder then was pushed away with strong force.
As he stepped back for a moment to take a breath, he saw the Black Rider calmly, coldly, waiting. Seeing that, fury rose within Boromir, fury against this lifeless, deathless servant of Evil. Just his presence would cause many a brave soldier to flee in fear. Boromir had seen it happen and the fact disgusted him.
In his anger, Boromir lashed out. "Do not think your mere presence would strike fear in my heart. I have seen it happen, even in Osgiliath where fought the bold soldiers of Gondor. But it will not happen now. Not while there is strength in my arms and breath in my body."
"You are a man of Gondor," the Ringwraith replied, a vague triumph in his tone.
"Aye, that I am," Boromir said, smiling without any humor.
No more stalling.
The warrior straightened his shoulders drawing himself up to his full height. "I am Boromir, Captain of Gondor, son of the High Steward of Gondor, Denethor."
The Ringwraith was silent then finally said, "It has been long since you have been home. Do you know how soon it will be before Minas Tirith is taken. Even now, Osgiliath's last stand is being crushed. Your country has no chance and will soon be under Sauron's power."
The Gondorian shook his head. "He should be aware by now Gondor will never submit under His Shadow. The return of the King is near at hand, and then Sauron will know only defeat."
And Sauron does not know that the Ring of Power will soon bring Him to destruction, Boromir thought silently to himself. If Frodo and Sam make it…
Harsh laughter filled the air as the Nazgul began circling Boromir once more. "Then where has this King been all this time. No one has seen him, no one knows him. And you say he shall take up the throne. What do you think shall happen to the Stewards of Gondor."
Boromir tried not to listen but the Ringwraith's voice reached his ears as if the words were being spoken directly into his ear. The hairs on the back of his neck stood on end, a prickly feeling coming all over of his skin. "The Stewards of Gondor will be forgotten just as quickly as the line of Isildur was. But if Gondor were to surrender to the Eye…"
With shock, the enormity of what the other was saying hit Boromir full force. Was the Ringwraith…? No, he couldn't be… could it…?
Sure enough, the Black Rider continued. "You shall have great power, Son of Gondor. Power beyond anything imaginable."
As if under a spell, Boromir could only listen, his mind feeling dizzy beyond control. The voice began to sound so coaxing…
"The new King will never accept you or your family."
That voice… so inviting…
"Instead, you would rule Minas Tirith."
That voice… so familiar….
"Join with my Master."
And with a sudden, mind numbing clarity, Boromir seemed to feel suddenly awake. That voice, speaking those words. With shock he realized that so much of what the Ringwraith had said… had been the same things he had heard in his heart from one source. Such an evil source.
The Ring.
He shut his eyes and could feel the shame well up inside of him. What had he been doing, listening to the Nazgul? Power beyond imagination. He did not want that power! Rule instead of the King. No, that was not what he wanted!
At least… not anymore.
He opened his eyes and faced down the Ringwraith with a glare. With slow, purposeful words he gave his answer. "Your words… are full of venom."
The Ringwraith cried out in anger, realizing that he was having no more effect on Boromir.
Feeling as if a sudden weight had been taken off his mind, feeling incredibly free, Boromir continued to speak. "Your offer is but a lie, for your promise is worthless considering they are coming from a Servant of a Master of Lies. Your promise of power is only a promise of destruction and I cannot be bound to such a promise.
"I have sworn to rid my country of the evil shadow your Master has spread out from Mordor. He is planning to put his control over all of Middle Earth. But I say He shall not get past the borders my country to infect the rest of Middle Earth with your foul minions. No further shall He get than the walls of Rammas Echor and no orc, Easterling, or Haradrim shall set one foot in the region of Anorien."
"And what can one man do," the Ringwraith hissed in Boromir's face, causing the Gondorian to look away from the gleam of cruel eyes. "Your people will perish, your precious land will not see the light of the sun again. The hour is coming when the Eye will triumph. But alas…"
Here the Black Rider swung his sword and Boromir blocked it and for a few moments, the two weapons were locked in a battle of strength. The enemy leaned forward into Boormir's face once more and whispered, "Alas, you will not be in Gondor to see it happen." The bright eyes shined even more brightly. "You will never see Minas Tirith again."
Boromir gritted his teeth. "The only way you can keep me from my home is through my death." And helpless as the situation was, Boromir grinned, feeling incredibly reckless for some reason. Maybe it was because of the helplessness. In either case, Boromir was bold enough to spit onto the Ringwraith's blade.
A furious screech filled his ears, causing Boromir to flinch. That small distraction cost him much as he was pushed away with such force that he found himself flat on his back. Ignoring a sharp pain in his spine where he had fallen especially hard upon a stone, Boromir rolled to narrowly escape the Ringwraith's blade.
He was just about to get up when something slashed against his upper back. Biting back a cry, Boromir rolled once more, pushing aside the feeling of the blaring flame across his shoulders. The Ringwraith's blade had penetrated his chain mail but because of Boromir's movement, it had only caused the weapon cut a wide path from one side of the shoulder to the other. Any more accurate, Boromir knew he would have been skewered.
Finally able to stand again he barely blocked a strike which would have gone straight through his chest. Boromir moved to strike his own offensive.
Stall…
Boromir knew he had to keep fighting, rather than give up and be brought before the Eye. The thought brought a fresh wave of anger which helped fuel his mind with refusal to surrender.
Back and forth, offensive to defensive, Boromir kept up a constant rhythm in the clang of weapon against weapon. For some time, he could only concentrate on the flash of the Ringwraith's blade. Thrust, parry, duck, swing. Again. And again.
Before long, Boromir began to weary while on the other hand the Nazgul appeared tireless. Flicking his sweat-slick bangs away from his forehead, Boromir resorted in keeping up only a defensive, hoping to reserve as much as he could for a final strike. But as they fought on, Boromir realized that just maybe there would be so last offensive left in his arms. Already his muscles were trembling slightly and blood was pounding in his ears.
Throughout the whole fray, the two assailants had only fought with their swords. All of a sudden though, the Ringwraith struck out with his hand, backhanding Boromir across the face. The force of the hit caused the Gondorian's head to snap back, and he instantly tasted blood where his cheek had been crushed against his own teeth.
While he tried to sort through the strange haze through which he couldn't see straight, his sword was struck out from his hand. Even as the hilt slipped through his fingers, another blow to his chest caused Boromir to be thrown back several feet to land flat on his back. His head struck something hard and the haze before his eyes seemed to darken considerably.
Trying to hard focus on the present, Boromir struggled sit up but something pushed against his chest caused his to fall back again, his head once more striking something hard, a searing pain now making itself known across the back of his shoulders.
Blinking his eyes, through the pain he was finally able to make out the shadowy form of the Nazgul bending over him. It was then realized that the constant pressure on his chest was the Ringwraith's knee holding him down.
"Now you shall be brought before my Master."
"Never."
Boromir reached out to try to push his assailant off. But before his fingers even caught hold of the dark robes, his hand was being grasped in the vice like grip of the Ringwraith's hand. The other's strength was too much to resist, and Boromir arm was forced down back on the ground.
Then suddenly, Boromir heard the sound of something metal being unsheathed. The Ringwraith raised something up and Boromir saw a flash of a blade. He cried out as he felt the blade pierce through his lower arm. Through the pain he noticed that the Nazgul had straightened up a bit, not taking out the blade in his arm. He tried to move his right hand but only clenched his teeth, feeling that the knife was still in his flesh, his arm pinned to the ground.
Slowly and surely, the Ringwraith began applying a crushing pressure upon Boromir's upper body. It was getting harder and harder to breath, as he could not take air into his lungs. Along with the several injuries and being hit on the back of his head, Boromir found himself slipping into unconsciousness. Black spots appeared in his vision and there was no way he could focus any more.
He couldn't stall any longer…
Boromir knew with certainty, once he blacked out, there was no stopping the Ringwraith taking him to Barad-dur. And then there would be no hope for Middle Earth for who knew how long Boromir could stand a grueling questioning by the Lidless Eye.
He. Could. Not. Pass… out…
Suddenly, in a voice that sounded so very distant, Boromir heard someone calling out his name.
The weight on his chest lifted slightly and Boromir took in a deep breath, helping him to clear his mind.
"Boromir!"
There it was, that voice again…
Boromir turned his head to the side and saw that Bawuer was getting up from where he had fallen down. He felt a smile upon his lips, glad that his friend was all right. But that relief was dashed to pieces as he heard the Ringwraith speak.
"You will be taken care of in due time."
Bawuer unsheathed his sword. "You will not take the life of one so noble, foul creature. Not while this sword be in my hand."
The Nazgul then spoke out in the Black Speech, but Boromir was no longer listening or paying attention. For when he had turned his head to the side, his eyes had caught sight of something.
The hilt of Elanorcil.
Would he be able to reach it? Boromir doubted it, but there would be no sense in not trying, not at a time like this. Carefully so as not to get the Black Rider's attention, Boromir little by little crept his hand forward.
But alas, when he had stretched out his hand as far as he could, he found he could barely brush his fingertips across the hilt. Frustrated, Boromir only wished his other arm wasn't pinned down.
He was just about to try once more to grab hold of Elanorcil when the pressure returned to his chest. Boromir looked up to see the Ringwraith watching him sharply.
Boromir couldn't give up, not now. Or it would mean death to so many. And he could not allow it. He would rather die than be made captive.
Taking a quick glance at Elanorcil, Boromir heard the Ringwraith scream. The Nazgul had most probably seen the sword. Now or never.
With a burst of strength boosted by his determination, Boromir threw his whole body, left hand outstretched, towards his sword. The movement caused the blade still in his right arm cut through even more, causing Boromir to cry out.
But no matter, he now clutched the hilt of Elanorcil in his left hand.
In triumph, Boromir took the sword and thrust the blade upwards straight into the Nazgul's upper body.
Bawuer knew that things weren't going too well when the Nazgul had spoken in the Black Speech to his steed. As soon as it heard the command, the winged creature hefted its wings and took flight.
Keeping his eyes trained on the threat, Bawuer prayed to the Valar that he would live the night.
Then suddenly, just as the great beast began its assault on Bawuer, it froze then screeched as it wildly beat its wings and threw its head around as if in pain. The screech was accompanied by another sound and Bawuer looked to where the Ringwraith had been bending over Boromir.
But now to Bawuer's great surprise, he saw that Boromir held his sword Elanorcil. And the whole length of the blade was thrust deep into the Ringwraith's chest.
The Nazgul lifted his head up and screamed in a mixture of extreme fury and pain. As Bawuer watched, the air around the Ringwraith seemed to swirl into the very folds of the cloak hiding the Black Rider. The air seemed to vibrate like an upcoming thunderstorm; then with the Ringwraith's final cry, a strong blast of wind erupted from within the being, causing Bawuer to fall back from the force of the gale, as if struck by some very physical object.
The roar of the wind and a bodiless, shrill wailing filled his ears for a few moments and then… nothing.
Bawuer lifted his head and saw there was no longer any Ringwraith to behold. He got up as quickly as he could and raced to where Boromir lay. But before he could reach his friend, Bawuer felt another gust of wind, yet this time from above.
Instinctively he bent down to the ground and the winged creature landed just beyond Boromir. It faced Bawuer, a deadly look in its half-crazed eyes. Then it slowly dropped its gaze to the lying form of Boromir. And Bawuer knew what kind of look the creature was giving the Gondorian.
The Rohirrim soldier gritted his teeth. "Oh, no you shall not," he whispered as he once more raced towards Boromir, this time to try to save his companion in time. He yelled out loud, hoping to grab the creature's attention. "Do not dare to even touch a man when he is down!"
Bawuer stood between his fallen companion and the huge beast. Not giving even a pause for breath, the creature lashed out with its head, aiming to catch Bawuer into its mouth. The man shifted just enough out of reach to be in safety, but not too far so that his sword would not miss.
The edge of his blade sliced from the steed's snout to just under its eye. Bawuer was pleased to note with satisfaction that the skin wasn't as thick as he had imagined it would be. He had been worried that his sword would not inflict as much harm as he hoped it would against such a foe.
But there was no more time to dwell on his feeling of relief that the creature was not as indestructible as it seemed. The beast shook its head from the pain, scattering blood. Crying out in anger and irritation from the wound, it tried once more to snap at Bawuer.
Knowing he had to finish it now, Bawuer once more only jumped to the side then thrust his sword into the creature's head, right in the jawbone area. The blade bit deep, and Bawuer drew it out then stepped back cautiously.
The creature did not make any noise. Instead, a strange look came into its eyes, as if it could not really make out what had happened. It craned its neck then jerked its head and then gave out a strangled croak. It stretched out it wings and took flight.
For a few moments, as it disappeared into the dark sky, Bawuer wondered if it was going to attack again. But then he saw its dark form highlighted in the moonlight, heading east at a slow pace.
Bawuer dropped his sword with a sigh. It was over. The creature had obviously been injured too deeply, and knew that Bawuer was no easy prey. And besides, the fact of the matter was that its master was dead. It would return to Mordor, and who knew to what fate.
Turning on his heel, Bawuer went over to Boromir. He saw the shapeless robes and the sword belonging to the Ringwraith on the ground next to his companion, and he kicked both objects away. Kneeling before his fallen friend after laying his own sword out of the way, he saw that Boromir appeared to be unconscious. Bawuer took the time to go over the man's injuries. What came most to his attention was the hilt of a blade sticking out from the Gondorian's right arm. Wincing, Bawuer saw the blade had been pierced straight down near the elbow, just between the two long bones of the lower arm. At a closer inspection, Bawuer saw to his horror that while still being run through the arm, the dagger had then been drawn towards the wrist an inch or so.
The wound was bleeding steadily and Bawuer knew with certainty that if it wasn't stopped, Boromir would not regain consciousness. Even now, the injured man's pallor was ashen, becoming a sharp contrast against the dark beard and hair.
Cursing the night for the poor visibility, Bawuer tore a thin strip of cloth from his cloak. He tied it tightly around Boromir's arm, just above the elbow, to keep the bleeding in check. He grasped the hilt of the blade then glancing to make sure Boromir was still unconscious, he pulled it out.
The thin knife, for that was what it was now that Bawuer could see it, was much longer than he had thought it would be. Well, he would inspect it later so he set it aside and reached for the buttons of Boromir's shirt. The wound need to be bandaged properly if the bleeding was to stop.
But as his fingers touched the first button, a low voice reached his ears. "You look terrible."
Bawuer looked in surprise at the pair of green-grey eyes regarding him carefully. Hiding the worry he had been harboring for his friend behind a smile, Bawuer remarked curtly, "You don't look very good yourself." Softly, he added, "You look like you just fought against a very dangerous foe. Though you don't look very much like the victor."
Boromir shook his head then winced. "I don't feel very much like the victor."
"Well, let's try to remedy that. I'm going to need your help in taking off your shirt and hauberk."
Groaning at the thought, Boromir made a face. "Do we really need to?"
"I won't be able to bandage your arm if we don't. The bleeding won't stop easily considering the Ringwraith opened up your arm pretty good."
"Oh. Well, to tell you the truth…" Boromir stopped talking for a moment as Bawuer helped him sit up. When he spoke again, his voice was somewhat breathless. "The Ringwraith may have put the knife through me, but I was the one who moved - "
"While the knife was still in your arm?" the Rohirrim soldier asked in surprise.
Shrugging, Boromir allowed Bawuer to work on the buttons. "There was no choice. I couldn't reach my sword."
Bawuer followed Boromir's gaze to Elanorcil and for some strange reason, he felt that something was wrong. Boromir must have thought so, too, for the man reached out to touch the blade. As soon as he did though, he jerked his hand back. "It's cold," he said without emotion, but Bawuer could see the muscles in his jaw twitch as if something was bothering him.
Returning his attention back to the moment at hand, Bawuer cut the temporary bandage he had tied around Boromir's arm then completely removed Boromir's shirt and chain mail. Tearing another strip from his own cloak, Bawuer tied a pressure bandage around Boromir's arm again.
He noticed a slash across the back of Boromir's shoulders. He tried to comment but Boromir didn't allow him to speak. "It is nothing." Decided against arguing with the man who looked like he just wanted to get everything over with, Bawuer was just about to tear more strips from his cloak, when Boromir stopped him again.
"Maiorama and Ebon are just over there." Turning to where Boromir gestured, Bawuer saw that it was indeed true. Feeling relief that they appeared unharmed, Bawuer whistled and the horses came towards them at a slow walk.
"Bawuer." The Rohirrim soldier looked back at Boromir who was cradling his injured arm close to his body. "Look in Maiorama's saddlebag. I hope you won't be too displeased to know that I brought some bandages with me, for fear you would reopen the wound in your leg."
Half annoyed and half pleased that Boromir had been thoughtful enough to do that, Bawuer only smirked. "I do not feel any displeasure. Indeed I feel quite pleased to note the fact that I am not the one having to need the bandages."
Ignoring the glare Boromir gave him, Bawuer got up and went over to Maiorama. At first she shied from his touch, still nervous from the harrowing experience which had occurred. Speaking softly to her, he was able to get to the saddlebags and found what he was looking for.
With a gentle pat on Maiorama and a none too gentle swat at Ebon's nose, for the stallion acted like nothing had happened, Bawuer went to tend Boromir's arm. Tying the bandages as tightly as possible, when finished he saw in concern that the Gondorian appeared even more pale than before.
Keeping quiet, Bawuer worked swiftly and it wasn't too long before Boromir had his shirt back on. One button was left open just under the warrior's chest so he could tuck his injured arm in without having to make a sling.
Helping Boromir stand up, the Rohirrim soldier noticed with worry that the other man was unsteady on his feet. He called for Maiorama and when the horse came, Boromir leaned against her and closed his eyes.
"Where's your cloak," Bawuer asked softly.
Boromir waved in the general are where he must have taken it off. Bawuer found it laying a little ways away and he put it around Boromir's shoulders. He went to his sword and cleaned it on the grass. After sheathing it, he picked up Boromir's hauberk and went to retrieve Elanorcil.
Strangely, the sword indeed did feel cold to the touch.
He took the two objects to Boromir and tried to hand the sword to the other, but the Gondorian refused. "Sheathe it for me, Bawuer."
Though curious at the request, Bawuer complied then put the hauberk away in one of the saddlebags. As soon as he did, without a word, Boromir pulled himself up into Maiorama's saddle. More color drained from his face as he settled himself comfortably. The Gondorian closed his eyes again and used his left hand to rub his forehead.
"Take your time," Bawuer said. "There's something I need to do before I go."
Boromir only nodded.
Bawuer went over to his saddlebag and took out one of the blankets. He went over to where the Ringwraith's sword and the long, thin knife. He rolled both into his blanket and stood up. As he did, he saw the Nazgul's robes on the ground but he decided to leave it where he lay.
Tying the blanket back onto Ebon's saddle, he mounted then reined the horse next to Maiorama. Looking into Boromir's face, Bawuer hoped the Gondorian would be able to last the ride.
"Where to, my lord?"
Boromir gazed back at Bawuer, eyebrows furrowed in pain. "I believe you already have some idea where we should go."
"Dunharrow?" Bawuer bit his lip, wondering how his companion would react. Well, he couldn't help but want to have them head for Dunharrow. Boromir's wounds needed to be taken care of, and he knew someone who could help. And besides, Boromir looked terrible…
Thankfully, a wisp of a smile appeared on the older man's face. "Dunharrow it is."
With one last look at the dark robes on the ground, Bawuer turned away and lead the way as the two men headed for the mountains.
Author's Note: ::Peeks out from behind computer chair:: So…. what did you think? Did it come out ok? It's been a while since I wrote action, but it was fun!
So, Boromir and Bawuer have survived the ordeal. But, you know me! Is everything really all right? Is everything really the way it should be? Find out more in upcoming chapters!
Next Chapter: The long awaited chapter where we'll have Faramir and Frodo meet! Also, expect to learn more about Bawuer since we're heading for Dunharrow, too!
Replies to my "Family of Reviewers"
freelance beatnik Thanks so much for the review! Glad you though the previous cliffhanger was a good one! Hopefully, this chapter fulfilled your expectations when Boromir 'dukes it out with the Ringwraith'. Still loving Pip, huh? Well, he won't be coming out again for a while since he's off for Gondor. But don't worry, the spotlight will be back on him in a few days (Middle Earth days) .
Kaye Thorn Ha ha! I really laughed out loud when you wrote that Bawuer and Pippin were such smarty pants. hee hee! I'm glad you felt my cliffhanger was well placed, I really wanted to build up the suspense. But I'm afraid that this chapter won't meet up with my reader's expectations. Did you like it? I hope at least someone does! Oh, and as you see, Bawuer isn't dead. Of course I couldn't kill him, besides Boromir I love him too much! Lol
Pipkin Sweetgrass Oooh, "The Bee Charmer" sounds very interesting! A plot to remove Aragorn on Gondorian law, plus Boromir is a main character? I must read! I've been to Encyclopedia of Arda, that site is a wonderful site and I go to it often to research certain things I need to look up for my story. Wow, your history on Boromir lineage was soo cool! I didn't know that Boromir's family descends from Elros. Boromir and Arwen are cousins? From which side of the family does Boromir descend from Elors, Denthor or Finduilas? I would love to learn more, it sounds fascinating since I never heard of that before. "Death before Dishonor." Powerful words, which describes Boromir very well. Hope you liked this chapter, I'm actually very nervous about it, wondering if it came out well or not. I'm nervous how people will like it. I tried to make it feel as 'powerful' as I could, though I'm not sure if it does come out that way. Please tell me honestly what you think, you opinion are valued highly. Thank you for reviewing!
Redone Glad you liked the last two chapters! It was my greatest fun in having Pip swearing fealty to Boromir, I thought it'd fit in nicely of what I've written. I'm pleased you like the winged creature description, there's plenty more in here. I hope you enjoyed and liked this chapter!
Lauregil Thanks so much for reviewing! Wow, you finished reading what I wrote in two days? Whoah, I'm pleased you would find my story addictive. If you do indeed write a story where Boromir lives, please tell me! I'm always on the lookout for those stories where Boromir gets a second chance. One question, in your review you wrote 'Nai elen oisille, mellon.' I know that mellon means 'friend', could you please tell me what the rest means?
Lady Corinthian Thanks very much for review! Well, things are now quite a bit safe for Boromir, except… is he really all right? Gandalf and Pippin should be safe now. And Bawuer… well, you'll see! Hope you liked this chapter!
Celtic Angel18 Glad you liked the interaction between Bawuer and Pippin. They're both pretty feisty and act very 'young', if you know what I mean. Hope you liked this new update, it was hard to write but hopefully it came out ok.
Lady Laffs-a-lot Sorry about the cliffhanger. Lol! But I really had to put it there! I really hope this chapter lived up to any expectations you had. Thanks for the reviews!
Angel Queen Thanks very much for the review! I'm so pleased that you like the way I'm portraying Boromir in my story. It's really amazing that the more you write a character, the more you get a feel for them, and that's how I feel about Boromir. I feel very much like I 'know' him, strange as that may sound. As for Denethor's fate now that Boromir is alive, I have it all planned out. Hope you'll like the way I write it! And hope you liked the Boromir face off with a Ringwraith!
C Hello Daughters of Gondor! It certainly is a cool idea with Pippin swearing fealty to Boromir, you should have it in your story! Faramir spying on Boromir, hee hee! That idea was kind of a sudden thought which entered my head, so glad you liked it. Hope you enjoyed this new chapter!
Arianna Malfoy Thanks for reviewing again! Cliffhangers are evil, but I hope this chapter made it up! Yay, another person who's seen "The Three Musketeers"! Don't you love it? I do! Especially Kiefer, that's why I'm having him as Bawuer in my story!
Morwen Eleniel Ooooh… typo in the title. :P Stupid me. I'm fixing that as soon as possible. In fact, I'll fix it as soon as I update this chapter. I agree, Boromir, pick me! Your good looking, you can pick any female you want! ;) Really, you'd nominate me for a Mithril Award? Wow, that's such a compliment, thank you! Of course, I'd have to finish this story which may take… quite a while. :D Hope you liked this chapter!
Alex92 Sorry you hated the cliffhanger. :P Yeah, it's mean, but I had to do it! Hope this chapter makes it up to you!
Galadrielwannabe (Cindy) Hi there! I had a wonderful time in Hawaii! Yup, now that it's summer vacation, I'm having more time to write. Oooh, 'exaggeratedly'. I'll fix that typo up. Thanks so much for pointing it out! I'm really grateful for you pointing out my errors, it's nice someone does that. Of course, I try to have as few typos as I can. :P Kiefer Sutherland is very excellent indeed! I just saw him in "Young Guns", a young 22-year-old Kiefer. sigh Very cool!
orlandos-girl21 Glad you're so pleased that Haldir gets to live! Yep, and Isilme was at Helm's Deep! Gimli's certainly a nosy Dwarf, I agree. :P You're right, in the book Gimli does get a gash on his head, that's how I got the idea to put it in. Then there's also the part where Aragorn goes up to talk to the Uruk-Hais. I thought that part in the book was soo cool, it's a bit too bad they didn't put it in the movie. It would have been fantastic I'm sure. Boromir: romantic, headstrong, and even more romantic. Ha ha! Your comment about him needing a woman to settle down with… lol! I was thinking 'You don't know just how many girls would be pleased to settle down with Boromir!' lol! Boromir climbing a tree IS cute. sigh Glad you liked all the Bawuer I've put in the story!
GreenCat3 I totally agree, too many people keep saying that Boromir is evil! Well, I hope that in my story I explain well that he was just human. I agree, Sean Bean was PERFECT as Boromir! Hope you continue liking my story!
hornofgondor2 Thanks so much for reviewing! Yup, Bawuer helping Pippin to eavesdrop is cute! Hope you liked the Boromir/Ringrwraith battle in this chapter!
Megaroo Wow… wow… That's all I can say, wow… Thanks for such a long review! It was lots of fun reading it! Oh, I know which fic you mean about 'a weird water creature bringing Boromir back to life' story. I just read the first chapter but I decided not to read any other Boromir-lives stories. I didn't want to feel too pressured that my story would be too much like other stories. But I'm so glad that you tried out my story and enjoyed it so much! Ha ha! You're an Aragorn fan, huh? I'm thinking of writing a vignette with Aragorn. I'll tell you when I actually write and finish it if you're interested. Boromir is a wonderful character to write, the more I write, the more I feel I 'know' him. And he's not bad to imagine in your head, either! Lol! I'm not too much of a Frodo fan myself. :P I mean, there are already too many Frodo and Legolas (especially Legolas!) fangirls who are totally crazy. Of course I'm crazy for Boromir, Faramir, and Pippin… but that's different! :P About who Boromir hooks up… I'm not telling! It's a big secret of mine, and I haven't revealed it to anyone. Well, I told my best friend, but she's not telling either. Quite faithful, she is. And don't worry, Boromir and whoever he falls in love with's romance will be very, very, very nice. You like Pippin, too, huh? He's so sweet, he makes such a good friend for Boromir, doesn't he? Anyway, I hope you like this new chapter! And thanks for compliment about me being a good writer. I'm just doing my best, and I'm glad everyone likes my best! Chow for now!
Daughter of Olorin Thanks for the review! I'm glad my message about the author alerts not working for chapter 32 helped you! It would have been a bit confusing I think if chapter 32 had been skipped. Glad you're liking Pippin and Boromir together. They're so sweet, don't you think? And I'm glad you also like Bauwer. I love him so much, I love Kiefer Sutherland so much! Also, the reason the Ringwraith would waste time on them incase your still unsure after reading this chapter is 1) Sauron knows that the heir of Isildur is alive, 2) and it seems that no one in that reason travels in such a small group as two or three men any more, especially at night. All of Rohan were quite wary of coming under attack. The Ringwraith must have been very curious as to who would dare be traveling by night. I hope that makes sense! P.S. Haldir and Isilme will be coming out in two more days, Middle Earth time. As for Eowyn, she's coming up soon!
KendraC Thanks for the review! It's too bad we missed each other in Hawaii. I know what you mean about getting so much junk mail in the e-mail inbox. ::rolls eyes:: Quite annoying. But I'm so glad you had a good time in Hawaii! How were the hula lessons? My sister takes hula and she tells me how hard it is. I haven't been to the Polynesian Cultural Center for so long. Did they still have the guys climbing the palm trees? Ha ha! 'Just let a certain match happen,' then Boromir would be an uncle. That's for sure! Knowing how much Boromir knows his father, I thought he'd give Pippin some advice on how to speak to Denethor. Glad you thought it was a good idea, too! Of course Gandalf noticed the eavesdropping, huh? He notices everything! I really hoped you liked this chapter, I value your opinions highly so please tell me what you really thought!
crimson-88 Glad you're liking my story! Hope you enjoy the new update!
AAAClub sigh I really need to visit Australia. Sounds so cool… Anyway, back to replying to your review. Yes, it's summer break right now since my school in Japan has the same system as in the USA (I go to my church's international school). Weird, your summer break is in December? Interesting. Definitely in the next few chapters, more will be learned about Bawuer since we're heading for Dunharrow. I hope you liked this chapter, what with lots of action!
flip8 Glad you're liking my story! And yes, Haldir/Isilme are so sweet! And thanks so much for pointing out the typo in the "Camped at the Isen" chapter. I'll get fixed. You're totally right, it should be 'extinguish', not 'distinguish' (why did I write that?). Anyway, hope you like new chapter! Chow!