Chapter26: For the Love of a Father
Pippin was out with the soldiers of Gondor. Gandalf was waiting for Denethor to give him an audience when Faramir brushed past him and bowed to his father.
"So, you retreated," Denethor clicked disprovingly.
"We had no choice father. The Nine were on our tail. Men would have died if I didn't pull back."
"Men that would have gladly died for Gondor," Denethor stated, glaring at Faramir seethingly.
"Wheras Boromir would have fought valiantly and brought back a mighty gift, and would have given his life for Gondor. At times, it seems like I have an inadequate son."
Gandalf stared at Denethor, then at Faramir, shocked that a father would say that to his son. The look on Faramir's face was wounding.
"You…you wish that Boromir was here. That I took his place and he was here."
Denethor nodded. "Yes, I would like that."
Do you even know what you're saying anymore, Denethor? Gandalf thought. You have a good son. And you're sending them on suicide missions, expecting them to return victorious?!
"Verry well," Faramir stated. "Since you were robbed of Boromir, I will do what I can in his stead." He turned to leave. "If I return, think better of me, father."
"It would depend on the manner of your return."
Faramir exited the castle.
"Denethor," Gandalf growled. "That was uncalled for. He is a good captain! You just can't see it. Denethor, I should have seen it when I arrived. You're sick, you need medical attention."
"I'm fine, Gandalf. I don't need your pitty."
"You are a foolish man, Denethor. Your son tries so hard, why not give him the opportunity to prove himself to you."
"I've given him plenty of opportunity's, Wizard. What do you know of being a parent"
Gandalf sighed. He learned a bit from Ron, now Alastar. Of course, he would know what to do.
"I bet he would."
Not now, Sauron.
For once she listened.
"I had a very close friend who was a father. His son became a great leader."
"Really, who was this friend you speak of, pray tell."
"The Wizard Alastar Gilthoniel."
"I doubt a wizard could correct my parenting skills. Alastar Gilthoniel has been dead for several centuries now."
Gandalf wanted to scream. He never felt so annoyed in his life! And that's saying something. Gandalf stormed out of the throne room, and ran to find Faramir.
Moments later, after no success, Gandalf found a secluded place. He hadn't lost the ability to apparate, but how much did he remember. Apparently enough for a moment later, he was gasping for breath and had spotted Faramir and a small band of soldiers heading out to fight the battalion of Orcs near the city.
"Faramir!" Gandalf called, "Faramir! What are you doing?"
"Doing what my father wishes, Gandalf."
"Your father has been maddened by greif. Don't throw your life away so rashly."
"I told my father that I would do all I could to prove to him that I can be better than Boromir."
"Have you always loved your brother, but felt this accursed jealousy? Your father loves you, Faramir. In time, you will remember it."
Faramir looked as if the words had reached him, but his horse trotted onward.
