Boromir, Thou Shall Live

By pmochizuki

Author's Note: And now I present to you chapter thirty-five! A little over two weeks to update, not too bad! I wrote this chapter in a very little amount of time, it's just that the Olympics started and I started getting caught up into it... :P

As most of you read in the previous chapter, I said that this will have the meeting between Faramir and Frodo/Sam. I hope you like the way I did, I based the meeting most entirely from the book, though you might recognize a line or two from the film version. Hope you enjoy!

Thanks so much for the wonderful reviews for the previous chapter! I'm so relieved that it seemed to have come off well and is well liked by many! T'was a hard chapter to write as I told you. I know many people have questions regarding the previous chapter. 1) Did Boromir meet with the Witch-King? 2) Did he kill the Witch-King if it was the Witch-King? 3) If it was the Witch-King, what about the prophecy about no living man being able to kill him {if he was indeed killed by Boromir}? 4) Was Boromir stabbed by a Morgul blade? 5) If so, is he in danger of becoming like a Wraith? Well, sorry to disappoint but I won't be able to answer those questions just yet. :P The mystery surrounding what happened that night will be revealed in future chapters since it will have more meaning later on.

Special thanks to reviewers at the bottom of the chapter. Welcome back iron-eyes24!

Disclaimer: This chapter I am taking much from the book, "The Two Towers", the chapter "Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit". Much of the conversation is taken directly from the book, though most of it has been changed to fit my own words.

Chapter Thirty-Five: Chance Meetings or Destined To Meet

It was a few hours after first light, and Faramir already knew it promised to be a beautiful day. The sky was clearer than it ever had been before, and it even felt like the Ithilien he remembered of old. It was spring, and Faramir wished he could take the time to enjoy it.

Instead, he returned his attention to the time at present. The full force of his army had already scattered to various posts, ready to spring the trap he had designed for the Haradrim. The Men of Harad were in for a surprise; they should never have openly marched into Ithilien. The road the enemy was traveling on led to the Dark Tower. And Faramir had no intention of letting them make it to their destination.

There was really nothing more to do but to wait.

Out of the corner of his eye, Faramir saw Elbaran approaching. Faramir was pleased to see him; he had sent Elbaran and his group of Rangers to go spy on the enemy. Faramir was eager to know if there was any new information to be learned. Most of all, he needed to learn exactly when the Haradrim would be arriving in the area.

"Elbaran, I trust all is well."

The soldier stood at attention and spoke. "Aye, Captain Faramir. The Haradrim are continuing to make their way in our direction. They should be arriving around noon, at the very latest early afternoon."

Good, exactly what Faramir wanted to hear. "Have they sent ahead any scouts."

"They are mostly relying on lookouts riding the Mumakil. Fortunately, my men and I were able to discover that there are maybe ten or twenty scouts spread out ahead of the main force of their army."

"What are their scouts like."

"The lands of Harad are a sun-baked land," Elbaran remarked dryly. "I fear they are not quite used to our forests, thus they cannot blend into Ithilien as well as they hope. Fear not, our men will spot them from a mile away."

Faramir smiled, knowing if Elbaran was that confident, then there was nothing to worry about. Elbaran made a good scout by being realistic and logical. He could take in situations in a glance, be quite level headed, blend into his surrounding, and most of all, he had an excellent memory. All the requirements of a good spy.

"Well done." At Faramir's words, Elbaran bowed respectfully. "I want you to notify the lieutenants about the Haradrim scouts," Faramir continued. "Tell them to be careful not to let our positions be discovered before I give the signal."

"Aye, Captain."

Faramir was about to dismiss Elbaran when he saw Mablung and Hirlon approaching. As they neared, their walk faltered, and Faramir saw them looking at him uncertainly. Faramir frowned, curious to say the least. He knew the two Rangers hated disturbing their captain at all; so if they were hesitating in approaching him, whatever they had to say would be interesting indeed.

Faramir gestured for them to come forward. Mablung lowered his head. "I'm sorry to disturb you, Captain – "

"You would never disturb me unless it was something important. Speak up."

The older Ranger glanced at Hirlon. "Hirlon just came back from a small lake which is not too far from here."

Stepping forward, Hirlon continued. "I went there to fill some water skins for the men because of the heat. And I thought I saw something."

Something. The way Hirlon said it made Faramir sharply ask, "What did you see?"

Hirlon's eyebrows furrowed as he tried to explain. "I really couldn't tell if it was man or beast. It had arms and hands like those a man I think, but it moved like an animal."

Mablung shot a look at Elbaran. "You're sure none of our scouts were followed back."

Feeling somewhat indignant by the remark, Elbaran narrowed his eyes. The act made Faramir watch the man's movements carefully. It wouldn't do to have two of his Rangers' tempers flare over this matter. Mablung had all but accused Elbaran of incompetence, and the scout was intolerant of being criticized.

Seeming to have noticed Faramir's change of expression, Elbaran took a breath and Faramir could see him calming down noticeably. "My lord," Elbaran addressed his captain, "I fail to see how anyone could possibly get past our net of soldiers which is between us here and the main Harad army. Hirlon must have seen some kind of creature."

Or he must have been mistaken about seeing anything at all. Faramir could very much imagine Elbaran thinking that exact thought. But Faramir had been watching Hirlon, and one thing could be said for the lad, he was looking quite adamant. Adamant that he really had seen something that needed to be brought to Faramir's attention.

Faramir weighed the options, and found that he had already made his decision. Hirlon must have seen something, and whatever it was, there was plenty of time for Faramir to have a look. Better to be safe than regret any inaction later on.

Calling out to Damrod, who had been watching the proceedings for some time, Faramir told him to ready some of Elbaran's men and bring to also bring Faramir's bow and quiver. It only took a few moments for them to do so, for having just returned from the scouting trip they were all prepared. As three soldiers stood before him, Faramir raised an eyebrow, noting that Damrod came to stand next to him. And Damrod was carrying his own longbow with him, his quiver already strapped on his back.

Taking Faramir's expression into account, Damrod handed his captain's longbow with a grin. "I would not miss out of all the fun, if you pardon me for speaking freely, my lord."

As if Damrod ever worried about speaking out of rank. In all of the years Faramir knew Damrod, the soldier had never once succeeded in keeping opinions to himself. In a way, Faramir mused that Damrod's interesting personality was what made him so likable, in an indescribable sense.

Taking a few more moments to explain what was happening, Faramir then led the way to the dell where Hirlon had last seen the mysterious something. As they walked, Faramir pulled his mask on over his nose and mouth then covered his head with his hood, the others following his example.

When they got quite close, Faramir signaled for the others to stay back as he went on alone. The dell was quite shallow, the small, clear lake lying in the broken ruins of an ancient stone basin. Careful not to slip on the moss and rose brambles which covered the rim of the basin, Faramir crept forward.

Besides the buzzing of insects, the air was still. There was nothing to see.

Instead of feeling any relief and just turning away, Faramir stayed where he was, eyes taking in every bush, every tree. Better to be safe than...

There.

Faramir narrowed his eyes, wondering if his eyes were playing tricks on him. But no, there was nothing wrong with his eye sight.

Not man, not beast; just as Hirlon had said. Whatever it was, its height could not be guessed for it crouched and hunched its shoulders. Its skin was of a grey pallor, and its eyes seemed unnaturally large. It was then that Faramir saw it reach out with one of its arms down into the water. It had a hand, with fingers and a thumb.

Faramir felt disturbed by what he had seen. His feelings told him that this thing was not quite what it seemed. And his feelings told him also that this thing held some important significance. Whatever it was, there was no reason to just let it go without learning more from it.

Carefully turning his head around, Faramir caught his men's attention. Pointing out where the creature was crouching at the lake's edge, he gestured for them to circle around. Hopefully they would be able to capture it from behind. Immediately understanding their captain, they all crept away, all except for Hirlon who came quietly to Faramir's side.

Faramir heard the call of a bird, but he knew instantly that it was Mablung's signal that they were in place. He replied with his own call, telling them to make their move.

At that moment, the beast looked up suddenly and before Faramir could register anything, his eyes met with that of the creature. For one split second in time, Faramir saw a look of undisguised fear in its eye. Then just as quickly as their eyes had met, the creature disappeared.

Knowing that his position was already given away, Faramir got up but stayed where he was, confident his men would catch the creature. He was still feeling unnerved by the expression he had seen it the thing's eyes. Could it have been some sort of intelligence he had seen in its depths? But there had also been something else. Something wild, and a little unbalanced...

Faramir heard the rustle of movement behind him and he whirled around. Hirlon, having heard it, too, pointed up the hill. "Up the hill."

"I heard it, too," Faramir responded quietly. Were there more of that creature he had seen? He then saw a thin spiral of blue-grey smoke rising from the direction of the noises.

He felt rather than heard his men coming towards him. He frowned, seeing that only Mablung, Damrod, and Elbaran had returned. The three of them looked grim and Faramir already knew what they were going to say.

"It got away. Slippery little devil, it was."

"Slippery, and very sneaky," Damrod added to what Mablung said. "I can't see how it got past us."

"Where are the others?"

"Trying to find any trace of it," Elbaran replied to Faramir's question. "And though I hate to say it, I'm afraid that they won't be quite successful."

Damrod nodded. "It moved so quickly, it's probably all the way back in Mordor where it came from."

At his words, the Rangers gave Damrod a hard look. Damrod only shrugged. "It must be from Mordor! Some new creature, some new devilry of the Enemy."

"A spy?" Hirlon asked with worry in his eyes.

"Spy. Scout. Whatever you want to call it."

Faramir didn't know what to think, but he had to admit, Damrod was raising some very serious and frightening questions. If the creature was indeed some kind of new breed from the depths of Mordor, he needed to know more of what he was up against.

He motioned for Hirlon to listen. "I want you to go find the soldiers who went after the creature. Tell them to continue their efforts until about an hour before noon, then go back to their positions."

With a quick nod, Hilron left and Faramir next addressed the three remaining Rangers. "I saw some smoke coming up from this hill. Let us go see what it is."

"Hoping to find more of that creature?" Elbaran asked softly.

"Either that or some answers, I will take one or the other," Faramir said as he began walking up the hill. The four men, as if of one mind, spread out from each with Faramir slightly in the lead.

The smoke had disappeared but he remembered distinctly in what direction it had been. As they walked, Faramir listened with one ear as the others spoke to each other in hushed tones.

"I told you that there was no way our scouts were followed back here," Elbaran whispered harshly to Mablung.

"Considering you were disbelieving Hirlon of seeing anything in the first place."

"I didn't say anything of the sort."

"Anyway," Damrod cut in, "we're not really sure where exactly that creature came from. If it hadn't come from way of Mordor, it could very possibly have followed Elbaran and his men."

Faramir inwardly cursed at Damrod. This was one of the times he wished his guard would keep his mouth shut. Fortunately, he found a way to distract them from having a full blown argument. "Here. Here is where the smoke came from. In the fern, no doubt."

"Aye," Mablung answered back. "Hopefully we shall findout what kind of thing it is."

"And what it knows," Elbaran added morosely.

At the same time, the men walked into the deep brown bed of last year's fern. The scent of sweet, burnt wood made Faramir look down at the ground and saw the remains of a small fire made inside a small hole. He looked up and saw a sight which utterly surprised him from the unexpectedness.

There standing before him were two small people who had jumped out from a thick cluster of ferns. Small for the top of their heads barely came up to his chest. Both of them had curly hair and somewhat pointed ears. Their clothes were dirty and travel stained, and their cloaks were of a greyish-green color which the Gondorian was surprised for how well it blended into the landscape. Faramir was surprised to see that they wore no shoes or boots; instead, they were barefoot.

As soon as the small people looked upon Faramir and his men, the captain was disturbed by the look in the darker haired one. Blue eyes had widened in maybe a little recognition. Recognition which Faramir was a little more than suspicious of.

"We have not found what we were searching for," Elbaran said slowly, as if still not believing his eyes. "But what is it exactly that we have found?"

"Not orcs, that is for certain," Mablung said, and Faramir saw him release the hilt of his sword which he had not drawn out from his scabbard completely. True, the beings did not seem dangerous, though Faramir was wary of the short swords they held in their hands.

"Elves?" Damrod asked doubtfully.

Faramir held back a smile which threatened at the corners of his lips. "Nay, I do not believe them to be Elves," Faramir spoke carefully as he gestured for Elbaran to stay back, for the soldier appeared as if to try to take hold of the small beings. "Elves do not walk in Ithilien, especially in these times. And Elves are wondrous fair to look upon, or so it has been said of them."

The brown haired one with who slightly the larger snorted. "Meaning we're not if I understand your meaning. Thank you kindly!" He spoke the Common Speech, albeit it with a slight accent that Faramir couldn't quite place. "And when you've finish discussing us," he continued to speak, "perhaps you'll say who you are, and why you can't let two tired travelers rest in peace."

The annoyance he heard in the short man's voice made Faramir laugh grimly. He contemplated just ordering his men to take hold of them, but immediately put away that thought. He saw that the blue-eyed one had lowered his sword, and Faramir read in his expression that he really did not mean any harm. He thought it better to continue the conversation. "I am Faramir, Captain of Gondor. But travelers are few and scarce in this land. Only servants of the Dark Tower, or of the White."

Faramir was pleased as the dark haired being spoke next, confirming his belief that though the other was more outspoken, the quiet one was actually the leader. "But we are neither. And travelers we are, whatever Captain Faramir may say."

But we are neither. Faramir immediately became very suspicious. The answer was not satisfying, and he hated not knowing the hard facts. And he guessed that whatever questions he asked would be met with half-hearted replies. He needed to know the truth. Speaking a bit harshly to make sure the two knew he was serious, Faramir said, "Then make haste to declare yourselves and your errand. My men and I have work to do, and this is no time or place for riddling or parleying."

A sudden thought entered his head. Without pause, Faramir asked, "Where is the third of your company?"

With some hesitation, the dark-haired one replied quietly, "The third?"

Knowing he had asked the right question, Faramir stepped forward. "Yes, the skulking fellow that we saw with his nose in the pool down below. He had an ill-favored look. Some spying breed of Orc, I guess, or a creature of theirs. But he gave us the slip by some trick."

"I do not know where he is," the quiet one answered, and Faramir instantly knew he was telling the truth by the look of disbelief his companion shot him. "He is only a chance companion met upon the road, and I do not answer for him.

"But if you do come across him, please spare his life. Bring him or send him on his way back to us. He is only a wretched creature, but I have promised to keep him under my care for a while."

He paused for a moment, then as if coming to a decision, continued to speak, his eyes keeping contact with Faramir's. "As for us, we are hobbits of the Shire, far to the North and West. Frodo son of Drogo is my name, and my friend here is Samwise son of Hamfast, worthy hobbit in my service."

Seeing the expression of Samwise's face, Faramir raised his eyebrows. "Bodyguard?"

"His gardener," Samwise corrected sullenly.

However strange the reply was, Faramir gestured for Frodo to continue speaking. Frodo had immediately caught his attention by saying the words 'hobbit' and 'Shire'. "We have come by long way, out of Rivendell, or Imladris as some call it."

Imladris! Faramir couldn't help but start at the mention of that place. Imaldris, the mysterious place where Boromir had made his way almost eight months ago! Did this hobbit have some information of his brother? Unexpected hope rose within him and Faramir leaned forward, listening intently.

Seeming to have noticed Faramir change of expression, Frodo spoke a little more slowly. "Seven companions we had. One we lost in Moria..." the hobbit paused and Faramir saw a flash of pain flicker in his eyes before he continued. "The others we left at Parth Galen above Rauros. Two were of my kin, hobbits also from the Shire. A Dwarf there was also, and an Elf, and two men. They were Aragorn, and the other who said that he came out of Minas Tirith was Boromir."

"Boromir!" Faramir dimly heard the other three Rangers exclaim but he himself only overwhelmed. Boromir, did this Frodo and Samwise know what had happened to Boromir? He had last been seen at Parth Galen? What had happened since then?

With all these thoughts running through his head, only one other thought was most clear. It was just too coincidental. That he should meet unexpectedly with two beings who knew about Boromir, of all the places in all of Middle Earth to meet!

"Boromir, son of the Lord Denethor?" Frodo confirmed Faramir's question with a nod.

Trying to remain calm though his mind raced with thoughts and his heart raced at a fast race, Faramir narrowed his eyes. "You came with him? That is news indeed, if it be true. Know, little strangers, that Boromir son of Denethor was High Warden of the White Tower, and our Captain-General. We miss him sorely." Sorely is he missed by his brother, Faramir thought to himself before asking, "Who are you then, and what had you to do with him? Be quick, for the sun is climbing."

Frodo was quiet, indecision written over his features. Finally, he said, "Are the riddling words known to you that Boromir brought to Rivndell?

Seek the Sword that was Broken.

In Imladris it dwells.

Do you know the words, Captain Faramir?"

As Frodo spoke the words, Faramir was assaulted with the memory of that haunting vision. The eastern sky growing dark, the growing thunder, then the pale light lingering in the West. Then the voice crying out with the riddling words. In astonishment, Faramir said, "The words are indeed known to me. It is some token of your truth that you know them also."

"Aragorn whom I named is the bearer of the Sword that was Broken," Frodo said, appearing glad that maybe Faramir was going to believe him. He then gestured to Samwise and himself. "And we are the Halflings that the rhyme spoke of."

It was finally all too clear to Faramir, and he couldn't understand how he didn't realize it from the very beginning. "That I see." But still suspicious of coincidences, he also said, "Or I see that it might be so." He then asked the most puzzling about the rhyme, the reason why Denethor had been so determined to send someone to Imladris. "And what is Isildur's Bane?"

With experience of interrogation, Faramir noted Samwise shift his weight and refrain from looking at his companion. Frodo, too, betrayed some unease as he put his sword away before answering. "That is hidden. Most probably it will be made clear in time."

Faramir was most certain that Frodo was hiding something. But he decided not to press it. At least, not now. "We must learn more of this, and know what had you so far east under the shadow of yonder – " Faramir pointed east but said no name. "We have business at hand. You are in much danger and you would not have gone very far by field or road today. There will be combat nigh at hand before the day is full. Then death, or swift retreat to the River Anduin. I will leave two of my men to guard you, for your own good, and for mine."

Holding up a hand for he saw that Samwise was about to protest, Faramir interrupted him before he could speak. "Wise men trust not to chance meetings on the road. Especially in this land. If I return, I will be honored to speak more with you."

Frodo, also noticing Samwise's irritation, laid a hand on his friend. "Farewell," Frodo said with a bow. "Whatever you may think, I am a friend of all enemies of the One Enemy. We would go with you, if we Halfling folk could be of any service to you, such doughty men and strong as you seem, and if my errand allowed it. May the light shine on your swords."

Faramir chuckled at the hobbit's words. "The Halflings are courteous folk, whatever else they may be."

The captain turned to his men. "I will need two men to watch them," he spoke in low tones so that the hobbits would not hear. "Damrod –"

Damrod rolled his eyes. "Yes, I know. Though I hardly think we need two people to watch two very little people. They said they were Halflings, right? Means only half a person. I don't see why two people are needed..."

Ignoring the rest of Damrod's speech on 'Halflings', Mablung cut in. "I'll stay and keep Damrod quiet."

Faramir breathed a sigh of relief. Faramir and Mablung were the only ones who could keep Damrod in line, it would be best if the two good friends stayed together. Nodding his acknowledgment, Faramir turned around to face the hobbits.

"Farewell, we shall meet again soon."

Frodo bowed once more, Samwise following his example mere seconds later. With that, Faramir with Elbaran right at heels, left the area for the sun was rising, and the enemy would soon be upon them.

But as he left, Faramir had a feeling that his mind wouldn't be completely into the upcoming battle. Instead, he found his mind dwelling on the strange encounter with the hobbits. As he had said, 'Wise men trust not to chance meetings on the road...'

Faedwyn entered the tent and as quietly as possible knelt on the floor next to the unconscious man. She laid a hand on his forehead and noted with concern that his temperature was still quite warm.

She carefully lifted the cloth which covered the man's right forearm. The wound had finally stopped bleeding, thanks to the bandage Bawuer had tied firmly above the injury to staunch the blood flow. But the gaping wound pierced through the arm did not appear to be healing in the least bit.

Without thinking, Faedwyn looked towards the tent's entrance, knowing that Bawuer was probably still standing guard, just waiting. She had told him to get some rest for he seemed tired, considering the long journey he had just come from.

Bawuer had told her vaguely what had happened that had brought him and his friend here to Dunharrow. And though Bawuer had tried to make light of his own injuries, Faedwyn could tell that the gash on his forehead was bothering him. Try as he might, she couldn't help worrying about the way he kept closing his eyes for a few moments at a time, as if he was trying to control some headache or dizziness. It was so frustrating since he wouldn't let her look at the injury.

Looking back to the unconscious man on the floor of her tent, Faedwyn suddenly made a decision.

She reached for her satchel containing all of her herbs and medicinal plants and dug through until she found what she was looking for. She pulled out a small packet and unwrapping the paper, displayed the contents which were nine dried leaves.

Faedwyn remembered clearly the time she had picked the leaves. It had been so many years ago, countless years ago, when she had journeyed to Lossarnach. The land had been an abundance of flowers and herbs; both a naturalist and a healer's delight.

She had come across the plant and had immediately loved the aroma it had given off when the leaves were crushed. More wholesome than sweet, she had gathered many of the leaves, thinking to dry them and use it to freshen the house with its smell. Of course when brought before the herb master, he had only told her that kingsfoil possessed no healing properties. And Faedwyn believed him.

That is, until one day she had crushed some of the dried leaves and soaked it in water. She left the bowl of sweet smelling water in the kitchen and went out to the marketplace. When she returned home, she found her husband awake, his headache which he had been suffering from for many days having left him. Faedwyn tentatively believed that the kingsfoil had something to do with it, considering she and her husband slept in the room next to the kitchen.

Her husband. Thoughts of him made Faedwyn wish she could see him again...

Shaking away the thought, Faedwyn chose three kingsfoil leaves and put the rest away. Ever since that day when she had first guessed the plant's powers, she never used the leaves, deciding them to only be used when she felt that there was no other alternative.

One thing she knew, the man in front of her had been unconscious for far too long. And she did not like the look of his injuries...

At that moment, Faedwyn heard the tent flap being opened behind her and she turned to see Deluen enter the tent, a bowl of steaming water in her hands. Faedwyn gestured for the Rohirrim woman to sit next to her.

"Deluen, you come just in time," Faedwyn said, taking the bowl from the young woman.

"Has he woken at all?" Deluen asked softly.

Answering only by shaking her head, Faedwyn placed the bowl down in front of her then picked up the kingsfoil leaves she had set aside. Whispering a blessing over the leaves, she crushed them and she welcomed the almost overpowering scent it gave off.

Deluin breathed the air in deeply and smiled. "I remember when you last used kingsfoil."

"Let us be thankful I remembered I had these leaves at all or your grandfather would most certainly have lost his leg," Faedwyn said as she placed the kingsfoil into the water. Taking a clean cloth, she dipped in the scented water and bathed the unconscious man's face.

Faedwyn smiled, seeing that the man stirred though he did not open his eyes. "Deluen, hold the bowl next to his head so that he can continue to breath in the aroma."

As the young woman obeyed, Faedwyn dampened her cloth some more then carefully laved his injured arm. After she was done, she decided to go ahead and bandage the arm and did so.

Just as she finished, she saw the man open his eyes. He blinked for a few moments and then focused his gaze on her. Faedwyn smiled at the look of confusion on his face. "Glad to see you are awake, my lord."

The Gondorian Captain-General stared at her questioningly. "Have we met?"

"We have not had a formal introduction yet," Faedwyn said. "You were quite unconscious when you arrived. I doubt you remember anything of the past six or seven hours."

"Am I in Dunharrow?" Boromir asked, furrowing his eyebrows in thought.

"Most assuredly."

"And the time?"

"It will be noon in an hour."

Boromir tried to sit up but was stopped by Faedwyn and Deluen's hands on his shoulders. The man grunted and using his uninjured arm pushed their hands away. "I can't think lying down," Boromir said in irritation.

Shaking her head at his obstinacy, Faedwyn spoke to Deluen. "Would you please go get some more blankets and pillows? And on your way out, tell Bawuer to come in here."

As Deluen left, Faedwyn helped Boromir sit up, albeit a bit awkwardly. Boromir was a tall man and in his weakened condition, besides having an injured arm, didn't have much strength to accomplish even a simple task. As for Faedwyn, she had to say she was quite the opposite in being fairly small and not a physically strong woman. She wasn't as young as she used to be she mused quietly to herself.

Bawuer entered the tent and immediately went to kneel next to his friend, putting a helping hand on Boromir's back. Boromir hissed in pain as Bawuer did so, making the Rohirrim soldier jerk his hand back.

"Boromir has quite an injury on his back, watch what you touch," Faedwyn scolded Bawuer with a pointed look.

Shamefaced, Bawuer tried to apologize but Bawuer cut him off. "Now that I'm awake, tell me what has happened. I can hardly remember anything after meeting the Ringwraith."

"You don't remember anything?"

Boromir shook his head, so Bawuer began to explain. "I guess that is not quite as surprising as it should be. Once we started heading towards Dunharrow, you could barely keep conscious. It was a chore to get you here without you falling off your horse."

"Probably because I hit the back of my head," Boromir said, wincing as he tentatively touched the area mentioned.

Faedwyn shook her head. "I quite doubt it as much as the fact you arrived in a terrible state, with your injuries and your high fever." She reached to feel his forehead. "I do believe you still have a fever, though it has subsided a little with the kingsfoil."

Boromir stared at her for a few moments then glanced at Bawuer. "I think it's about time you introduced me to this lovely lady."

Though waving the compliment away, the woman couldn't help smile at his words. "My name is Faedwyn, your humble servant. I am only too happy that my skills as a healer were able to be of any service."

"Not only is she a wonderful healer," the Rohirrim soldier said with a smirk on his face. "She's also my mother."

"Then the pleasure to make your acquaintance has doubled," Boromir remarked, surprise evident in his face.

Deluen joined them, her arms piled with the items she was asked to get. "And this is my sister, Deluen," Bawuer said as she knelt to arrange the pillows and blankets so that Boromir could lean back without lying down completely. As Boromir lay back, he winced slightly but tried to get comfortable even with his wound on his back.

But he smiled as his eyes met Deluen's. "I have heard your brother mention you more than once. It is very nice to meet you."

Faedwyn was puzzled to see Deluen blush and only murmur in reply, "You are too kind, my lord."

Her daughter usually was never so affected by any other man, and Faedwyn was suspicious by the way Deluen tried not to meet anyone's eyes. But in a way, Faedwyn expected any sensible young woman to act that way. Boromir was very handsome and there was no missing his well built physique for the blanket had slid down to reveal his bare, broad chest.

Yes, indeed. Deluen would be a fool not to be affected by this man. Besides, it had been far too long since...

Her thoughts were cut short as Boromir spoke to Bawuer, a hesitant tone in his voice. "Do they know... well, do they know who – "

"They know of your identity, there was no way I could hide it," Faedwyn's son said worriedly.

Seeing how uncomfortable the two men looked, Faedwyn tried to ease the tension and addressed Boromir. "Believe me, my lord, my daughter and I have promised not to divulge anything you wouldn't wish to have known to others. We respect your reasons, so only a few of the guards know you and Bawuer are here, and even they do not who you really are." She shrugged her shoulders. "And of course, I recognized you as soon as I saw you. You cannot imagine the shock I had when I saw you – "

"You have seen me before?" Boromir interrupted with a confused expression on his face.

As his question was so strange, Faedwyn couldn't help but mimic his expression. "Why, of course. How can I not know you considering..." She stole a look at Bawuer and saw he had gone a little pale. Finally, she understood.

It saddened her to know that her own son was still having trouble dealing with his anger. Anger, frustration... yes, even a little pain and rejection. It had been so many years ago, but maybe it wasn't as long ago for Bawuer as it was for her. Obviously he still avoided talking about it, even to one he seemed to treat as a friend.

Deciding it was best to just leave it like it was, at least for the moment, Faedwyn spoke of something else entirely. "I do not know your plans, but I assure you that I cannot let you leave in the condition you are in."

Boromir sighed, taking the change of subject in quiet stride. "How long do you expect me to stay?"

"I cannot say for sure. Besides the obvious injuries, how are you feeling?"

The Gondorian moved his shoulders uncomfortable. "I am fine."

Faedwyn raised his eyebrows, disbelieving him. "I beg to differ, but I'm a healer. I know you are not 'fine'. Your right arm is almost completely useless for now. Your whole chest is bruised and considering you seem uncomfortable when you breathe, you must be feeling some kind of tightness in your chest. You have a gash at the back of your head. You have a sword wound on your back. Shall I continued, there are a few more injuries to mention."

The healer was astonished to hear Boromir chuckled. "You're not going to let me go, are you."

"No."

"Then I am stuck here. But only for the time being," Boromir added in a no-nonsense tone.

Knowing that the best that could be compromised for the moment, Faedwyn relented. "We shall see how long I can keep you here."

She stood up and spoke to her children. "We should leave and give Boromir some rest now."

As Faedwyn and her children got up to leave, Boromir caught hold of her sleeve. "Please. The name is Lavlaisi."

She nodded. "Rest well, Lavlaisi. I shall be back within the hour to see how you are doing."

The last one to leave the tent, Faedwyn took one last look at her patient. He was already laying back, his eyes closed. Though his breathing still seemed labored, there was a more peaceful expression on his face compared to his unconscious state of just a few minutes before.

She had finished giving healing for the moment. But there was another kind of healing she needed to give to someone who needed her attention. Faedwyn left the tent to search for Bawuer.

Author's Note: Liking it so far? I hope you like this version of Faramir's meeting with the hobbits. I tried to keep it faithful to book, yet not wanting it to be outright plagiarism, I changed the words to fit my own thoughts.

I've added into the story a few new original characters: Elbaran, Hirlon, Faedwyn, and Deluen. Tell me what you think of the characters!

I know that during the Third Age, hardly anyone knew of kingsfoil's power. But as I wrote, Faedwyn, though a healer, doesn't really know the extent of its power.

I've give more depth to four of Faramir's Rangers: Mablung, Damrod, Hirlon, and Elbaran. I would like to expand on one of the characters, please vote for which Ranger you would like to read more about!

Trivia: I am basing Damrod's character a bit on Gerard Butler's character of Andre Marek in the movie "Timeline". In the movie he uses a longbow so I thought'd it be perfect to have him as Damrod in my head.

I am basing Elbaran's character a bit on Charlie Sheen's character of Aramis in "The Three Musketeers". Come on, everyone has to admit, he was very, VERY cool in that movie! Perfect to be the base for my original character of Elbaran, don't you think?

Next Chapter: I might take a while to get the next chapter out since I need to update another chapter for my other story. But the next chapter will deal more with Faedwyn having a talk with her son, Bawuer. More will be revealed on Bawuer's history! Also, to give you guys a hint, Faedwyn might not be the only woman who's going to have a talk with Bawuer.... :)

Replies to my "Family of Reviewers"

freelance beatnik I'm glad you liked my illustration of Boromir fighting a Ringwraith! Again, sorry for the loss of Pippin in the next few chapters, but I promise that 'Borry-mere' and the 'ever faithful Bawuer' will continue to make appearances. :P

shie1dmaidenofrohan Yup, Boromir and Bawuer are in Dunharrow now! As for them running into Aragorn and co., you'll see! About your little quibble about the prophecy that no living man could slay the Witch-King. Much more will be revealed in the future but it's kind of a secret so I can't really tell you more. :P I promise that it'll work out well (I hope!)!.

Celtic Angel18 Glad you liked the previous chapter! I hope chapter thirty-five was up to your expectations!

crimson-88 Wow, I'm so honored you'd call the previous chapter a 'perfect chapter'. Am very, VERY happy you thought so!

Morwen Eleniel Thanks so much for reviewing! About your questions about how a Ringwraith can get killed as they are neither living nor dead. Like I said in the author's note, I really can't answer your questions because the mystery surrounding what really happened ties in with a great plot idea I have. Don't worry, it'll all make sense in the end! Cool, you've read the Silmarillion! I still haven't read it, I know, shame on me. :$ Yeah, the Encyclopedia of Arda is a great site, I go to that site very often. I hope you liked this new chapter!

Shallindra Glad that your only complaint is my taking so long to update. :P So sorry about that, I'm trying to get these chapters out as quickly as possible! Thank you for loving my Boromir (wow, my Boromir!) :P

Daughter of Olorin Thanks so much for the review! I'm so touched that you liked my descriptions so much! The idea about comparing the Ringwraith's words with the Ring's earlier words had hit me when I had actually already finished the chapter. I added it in only a few minutes before updating. I'm glad that I had inserted that part since you thought it was a nice touch! "The Bee Charmer of Buckland" I definitely have to read. Like you said, reading other Boromir lives stories might affect my own writing so I'm keeping off from reading "Boromir's Return" for a while. I'll have to finish this story pretty soon, huh? :P

Redone Glad you like the previous chapter! Yup, Boromir and Bawuer are now in Dunharrow! As for the mystery of the coldness of the sword, it shall be revealed in the next chapter or the chapter after that!

Phoenix Golden Fire (formerly AAAClub) Hmm... I'll have to get used to knowing you as 'Phoenix Golden Fire" now. At first when I was writing this reply, I was like 'huh'? Who is this? Someone new? Then I realized it was 'you', AAAClub. :P Anyway, cool, summer in December! I can't quite imagine it... Japan's pretty cool, but of course, I might be biased about that since I liver here. :P ha ha! Yokohama is the best place to visit, in my humble opinion. :P Glad you liked the previous chapter so much! And with Boromir and Bawuer now in Dunharrow, who knows who they'll meet! Hint hint! :P

Pipkin Sweetgrass Thanks for reviewing! Your reviews are always a great inspiration to me with all your helpful insight! I'm glad you liked the previous chapter, I have a hard time writing action but hopefully I got it right. As for getting this beta-ed, do you have any suggestions on where to look for a beta-reader? Or can you recommend a beta-reader to me? I don't know anything about finding them or anything like that. I never even considered trying to get a beta-reader because 1) I thought it would be bothersome always in contacting the beta-reader with my work, 2) I'm somewhat afraid that the beta-reader will try to change my work into something they want, and 3) I'm afraid that the beta-reader won't be faithful. I know, I sound paranoid but I can't help feeling that. If you have any help or suggestions, please let me know!

Kaye Thorn Hello there, thanks for the review! I've never really thought myself a good action writer but I'm pleased that you found my action very fluid and easy to visualize. Thanks for the info about Steward Boromir I for whom Boromir son of Denethor was named after. :D I think I'll be able to use it. Yup, I can't tell you what will happen, but I'm glad you're having fun hypothesizing. Hope you liked this new chapter!

Michaela90 Cool, you're in two plays? What do you do in the plays, are you an actress? That is so cool, because my dream is to enter the film industry. I've directed, acted, danced, sang, did dance choreography, and wrote the script for two school plays. The latest one we're making into a video so I'm trying my hand at editing, too! Anyway, thanks for the reviews on the two previous chapters! Glad you like the Bawuer/Pippin eavesdropping part. They're behaved like kids, didn't they? :P A remake of "Pride and Prejudice"? That I've got to see! Keira Knightly is in my opinion actually a pretty good choice. She's played headstrong and stubborn girls, I'd like to see her play Elizabeth. But I agree, NO One can be Colin Firth! sigh fangirl moment ahem, sorry about that. It's just that Colin Firth is such a fantastic actor! Have you seen him in "Relative Values"? That's a good movie to watch! Highly entertaining. Sorry about my mistake in writing 'I finished this story a few days ago.' Stupid me, I meant 'finished this chapter a few days ago'. :P Sorry about that, my bad. I'm so pleased that the Ringwraith's one speech gave you chills, it was meant to! Yes, I tried to have Boromir have character development, for him to overcome the Ringwraith's words when he failed to turn away from the Ring. He's learned his lesson, don't you think? Well, as you read in this chapter, the healer won't be a potential love interest for Boromir or Bawuer. There was also more Faramir for you to enjoy, hope you liked it! And since Boromir and Bawuer are in Dunharrow, expect to read more on other characters! I'll have to check out your "Pride and Prejudice" story, sounds cool! Poor Darcy, you putting too much angst on him :P just kidding! Again, thanks always for the reviews!

flip8 Yes, I'm pretty lucky that I have many faithful reviewers. Boromir killing the Nazgul IS over the top, I agree! You're probably thinking, 'what?' Well, all I can say is 'you'll find out!'

Arianna Malfoy I know what you mean, writing good fights is really difficult. Glad you thought I did well in the previous chapter! I agree, Charlie Sheen as Aramis was another great character besides Kiefer's portrayal of Athos. Hope you enjoyed this new update!

Lady Laffs-a-lot Thanks very much for reviewing! Liked the descriptions of the Ringwraith, huh? I hope so, since I scanned through the entire three books of LOTR looking for any descriptions to be had on the Wraiths! A lot of work, but I guess it was worth it. As you read in this chapter, it's really Bawuer's mother who was the healer Bawuer had referred to in the previous chapter.

KendraC Interesting, you're a belly dancer. You don't often meet people who belly dance, if you know what I mean. As you read in my author's note, I really can't tell you exactly what happened in the previous chapter with Boromir's confrontation with the Ringwraith. :P I promise, little by little, things will be made evident in later chapters. Interesting assumptions you've made though about 'no living man can kill the Witch-King'. As you read in the chapter, Aragorn won't need athelas since Faedwyn has things well in hand. Of course... things are never what they seem and I enjoy putting unexpected twists into the plot... :P Thanks so much for reviewing, your reviews are always such a pleasure to read. Good luck in finding a job!

orlandos-girl21 You're almost caught up, woohoo! It's such an encouragement as an author to know that someone isn't giving up on my story and that you'd keep reading! Wow, thanks so much for always reviewing! Gimli and Legolas were pretty bad, sneaking up on sweet Haldir and Isilme. Hee hee! I've read "I Wish Upon Tonight", that's also a really sweet Boromir story. Glad you're so happy that Boromir and Pippin were finally re-united! I felt that it would be the perfect time to do so. Oh, you've looked at my drawings? ::blushes:: Thank you very much! Anyway, hope you continue to catch up!

hornofgondor2 Hello there, thank you for reviewing! Hee hee! So pleased to you see loved the previous chapter so much! Loved it 'bunches and bunches and oodles and oodles', huh? :P Hope you liked this newest chapter!

The Dark Wanderer Hurray, glad you liked chapter thirty four so much! It was so funny you mentioning that you almost thought that I was going to get Boromir killed. My friend was thought that and since she was reading while I was in the room, she started yelling at me, 'how dare you! You'd better not kill him!' Bawuer is indeed very loyal, I love him so much, considering I'm basing him on Kiefer Sutherland, one of my favorite actors! As for the Ringwraith wondering if Boromir was Aragorn, I was trying to think of a reason why the Ringwraith would stop to check out Boromir. Then it hit me, earlier that night, Aragorn had revealed himself in the palantir to Sauron. Sauron must know he was in the area, thus the reason why the Ringwraith had to discover Boromir's true identity. Hope you enjoyed this new chapter, with some members of Bawuer's family making appearances. Hope you liked their characters!

iron-eyes24 Wow, welcome back! Long time no see! Well, not really see considering we're talking over the internet. Well, not even talking considering this is the internet... whatever, this is getting confusing. I hope you had a great time on your trips, even though you didn't get to have much time on the Internet. You think my story's turning into a sort of epic? Wow, thanks so much! When you write charges forward on valiant steed and abruptly falls off and loses all sense was HILARIOUS! LOL! Hee hee, I really missed your humor. :P Oooh, had you almost cry with the scenes between Boromir and Pippin, huh? Thanks so much for pointing out that Boromir's the Captain-General, not just Captain. I'll be having to go through my story soon to clean up typos and make some changes. When I do that, I'll be sure to point out he's the Captain-General. Hope you liked this new chapter!

Diadora Hi, nice to hear from you! I understand completely about you not getting a chance to review. Busy is busy, right? I'm so glad you liked the confrontation between Boromir and the Ringwraith. Hope you liked this newest chapter, too!