Berethor

Berethor is one of the six main characters of the video game The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age (2004).
Following Boromir, Captain of the Guard of Minas Tirith, Berethor fights his way through the game. He and his companions Hadhod, Morwen, and Idrial also appear in Electronic Arts' The Lord of the Rings: Battle for Middle-earth II as pre-made custom heroes.
== Biography ==
In The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age, little of Berethor's early life is told, save that he was previously Captain of the Citadel Guard in Minas Tirith. At the wishes of Denethor, Berethor and his men fought to reclaim Osgiliath from the invading Orcs. As they fought, The Witch-king arrived and attacked them. When he encountered Berethor, he stabbed the Gondorian with his blade, with the tip breaking off inside the wound. The cursed essence of the blade corrupted Berethor, tainting him with the same dark power that turned the former Númenórean king into a Wraith. The Witch-king had hoped to enslave Berethor with this power, turning the Gondorian into a Wraith himself, loyal to Sauron. The evil metal of the blade made Berethor unable to harm the Witch-king (as revealed later in the story). 
Upon being stabbed, the Morgul poison twisted Berethor's mind, nearly driving him insane. Taking advantage of Berethor's fragile mental state, Saruman assumed control of him. Knowing that the One Ring would soon emerge, he anticipated that Boromir of Gondor would become seduced by its power and attempt to steal it from Frodo Baggins. Saruman used his powers to compel Berethor to track down Boromir at any cost, hoping the new, dark power in his body would make Berethor capable of taking the Ring from Boromir and delivering it back to Isengard. 
In his delirious state, Berethor obeyed Saruman, and fled from Osgiliath mid-battle. Other Gondorian soldiers present mistook his desertion for mere cowardice. This act was also observed by Eaoden, a rider of the Rohirrim Royal Guard who was in Osgiliath at the time. For his dishonorable act, Denethor decreed Berethor stripped of his rank in the Citadel Guard, and was forbidden from entering Minas Tirith, as was his fiancée, Morwen, along with her family. Eaoden and Morwen would later end up in Berethor's company on his journey. However, Eaoden would initially fail to recognize Berethor, and Morwen made no attempt to acknowledge that she knew him, out of spite for being exiled (which would later result in her parents' deaths after they relocated to Rohan and were attacked by Sauron's army), despite still having feelings for him.
Hoping to keep Berethor from resisting his plan, Saruman wiped any memories he retained of the battle at Osgiliath, instead making Berethor believe that Denethor had requested he follow Boromir to ensure his journey to Rivendell was a successful one. Sensing Saruman's plan and knowing the terrible threat it posed, Gandalf sought to aid Berethor by warning the Elves about what happened, and periodically advising Berethor telepathically. Intent on avoiding any further malice from Saruman, Gandalf would support The White Wizard's fabricated story when speaking to the Gondorian. However, he would continue to subtly compel Berethor to discover the truth throughout his journey. Lady Galadriel, hoping to keep The Ring out of Saruman's hands and prevent Berethor from succumbing to the darkness, dispatched one of her servants, the Lothlórien warrior and mage, Idrial. She commanded her to seek out and protect Berethor. Idrial would arrive in Eregion just in time to find Berethor and save his life. She would go on to use magic and the power of several mystic relics scattered throughout the Elven ruins to nullify The Witch-king's curse and halt Berethor's transformation into a Wraith. While she was successful in suppressing the evil within the Morgul metal, Saruman retained a level of influence over Berethor's mind, continuing to threaten the Gondorian and continually attempt to control his mind. 
=== Chapter One - Eregion ===
==== Journey to Rivendell ====
At the start of The Third Age, the player follows the journey of Berethor, as he seemingly follows Boromir to Rivendell. While Boromir sits at the council, Berethor is ambushed by a group of Nazgûl, who mistook the Gondorian for a mere hapless traveler impeding their pursuit of The Ring. Berethor fights bravely, but is overcome and wounded by the Nazgûl. Before they can deliver the killing blow, however, Idrial rushes to his aid. Subduing the Nazgûl with water magic, she is able revives him with a "gift of the Elves", after which Berethor declares himself in her debt. They then set off to an Elven waystation to heal his wounds and equip him for the long road ahead.
==== The mountain pass ====
In the mountain pass, Berethor and his Elven companion came upon a Ranger named "Elegost". After clearing the pass full of Wargs and Orcs, they set upon a quest to track down a Mordor Orc and his band, who stole a map from Elegost. At first the Gondorian didn't trust the Ranger and vice versa, only Elegost gained some trust in the Gondorian after Idrial voiced for him, in name of the lady of the light. After the group rescued the Elven altars from corruption and found map, they left the mountains in search of Elegost's friend.
==== Journey to Moria ====
When they got back down, Elegost tracked his Dwarven friend and the group was able to find him, deadlocked in a battle with a troll. Thanks to Berethor's sword the party could withstand the troll's fury. Following the Fellowship, the party set out for Moria.
=== Chapter Two - Western Moria ===
==== The Entrance Halls and Mine Galleries ====
The Fellowship encounters the Watcher in the Water just before and after they enter Moria. Both times, Idrial and Hadhod use water and fire powers (respectively), and Elegost uses his deadly arrows to defeat the Watcher. The first time, the Watcher gets angry and destroys the rubble blocking the gateway into Moria, allowing the party to flee inside. The second time, they actually succeed in defeating it. Hadhod is unhappy when entering Moria, and vows to make sure it is destroyed. A little while in a true cave-like section of Moria, they discover a chest with one of seven ancient runes, which supposedly lead to a great treasure. In the mine galleries, they fight and slay a Goblin Shadow Chieftain. Hadhod and Elegost discover a map that leads to the great Mithril pit of Moria, and soon Berethor's party set off for the Necropolis, fighting many Goblins along the way. Unlike the Fellowship of the Ring, Berethor's party was willing to enter the dark caverns, almost eager to discover Moria's secrets (at the urging of Hadhod), and pass through it without urgency.
==== The Necropolis and the Right Path ====
Berethor's Company soon arrives at a huge necropolis, and begin searching the small chambers in the great halls. Many of these chambers contain ambushes by Goblins but Berethor and his party soon defeat them all. During the search they discover two more ancient runes. The Party then arrives at the Crossroads that the Fellowship had previously reached. After brief deliberation and rest, the party decides to choose the right path (which leads downward). This path leads to the great Mithril Pit of Moria. The party, seeing a way out in the far distance and collecting another rune in a chest, make their way to the far area. Before they can get there, however, a goblin body falls to the ground in front of them. Gandalf scolds Pippin (high up in the Chamber of Mazarbul), and Idrial picks up a key presumably leading to the Throne Room. The Balrog soon makes its appearance. It doesn't see Berethor's party, but it does smash the path leading to the exit. This alerts the Goblins and six warriors ambush the Company, surrounding them. The Company fortunately survive, and make their way back to the necropolis despite four more attacks. The company has now discovered the terrifying truth about Moria, but they are still willing to explore its various secrets.
==== The Throne Room ====
After escaping back to the Necropolis, the Company proceed to the left path. This leads to an immense cavern consisting of high walls/ceiling and a pit, which is spanned by a mighty bridge. While crossing, they are occasionally ambushed by Goblins. After the Company enter the Antechamber (again being ambushed by Goblins and discovering an ancient rune), they cross to the Throne Room. This particular room is held by an archer, a warrior, and a mighty Goblin sorcerer, called a Moria Goblin Shadow Commander. The Company defeats this attacking party and reads Moria's Book of Secrets, using the key they found on the Goblin body. An ancient door with symbols is discovered, and a key to some ancient sealed door revealed. The Company then checks an adjacent room, finding the last axe forged from Erebor stolen by goblins and another ancient rune. After brief ambushes, they make their way safely back across the huge pit cavern and back to the necropolis.
==== The Left Path - Tomb of the Ancients ====
There is only one path left for Berethor's Company, the left path. This leads to the final ancient rune and a majestic tomb. The Company slay all the Goblins in the area, and use the runes to open up the tomb. There is a sealed door a little to the left, and Idrial incites the spell written on the Book of Secrets. The ancient door opens, and the Company proceeds to the halls of Dwarrowdelf.
==== Halls of Dwarrowdelf ====
While viewing the majesty of these ancient halls, the Company slowly make their way across, fighting Goblins and opening various treasure chests. At the end of the road lies the entrance to Balin's Tomb. The Company enter inside only to find five Goblins. After a fierce fight, all the Goblins are successfully slain.
=== Chapter Three - Eastern Moria ===
==== Balin's Tomb ====
Berethor's company enter the now-deserted Balin's Tomb, seeking an escaped goblin. The goblin jumps right in front of them, ready to attack, but the Balrog suddenly breaks in the eastern wall of the tomb. The company instantly hides in various parts of the tomb, while the goblin is killed. The Balrog then leaves seeking Gandalf, and Idrial warns that the Company must find him first.
==== Crossing Dwarrowdelf ====
Berethor and his company being making their way to the door at the opposite end of the Dwarrowdelf hall. They begin discussing the sheer might of the Balrog, while escaping various Goblins, including another surrounding fight. When they reach the end of the hall, they make their way through to find a huge chasm spanned with small bridges.
==== The Mighty Chasm ====
Company proceeds over the chasm, defeating any Goblins they encounter. Hadhod vows to cleanse Moria once and for all, and Idrial promises to help clear out the Goblins. A Goblin archer sees them, but they kill him before he can warn the others. After a bit Idrial almost falls into the chasm, but Berethor saves her. They express mutual affection for one another and a kiss, then proceed up the stairs and venture further into the Dwarrowdelf.
==== Attacking the Goblins ====
Soon afterwards, the company proceeds to find a different way out of Moria, destroying many Goblin rituals and gatherings along the way. Their first challenge comes when they arrive at an ancient Balrog altar, where a Shadow Commander is a ritual for the Balrog. The company slowly defeats the shaman and moves on. Their next challenge is a Goblin drummer, who summons more Goblins from the depths. After slaying him, they proceed to the ancient Mausoleum of the Goblins. Berethor and his company eventually makes it to an ancient Goblin chamber, where they slay many Goblins and find ancient Goblin treasure.
==== Escaping Moria and Battle with the Balrog ====
With increasing desperation and hope, the Company proceeds towards the same chasm, though now with access to the Bridge of Khazad-dûm. They see Gandalf battling the Balrog and rush to help. When they arrive, they prepare to battle. Knowing that their own chances of survive are very small, Berethor and his company mainly use their skills to weaken the Balrog and support Gandalf, while Gandalf combats the monster himself. After a long and grueling battle, The Balrog is finally defeated and both he and Gandalf fall into the chasm. The Company hurries to escape Moria, finally fleeing its dark halls.
=== Chapter Four - East Emnet Gullies ===
[UPDATE PENDING]
=== Chapter Five - Rohan ===
[UPDATE PENDING]
=== Chapter Six - Helm's Deep ===
[UPDATE PENDING]
=== Chapter Seven - Osgiliath ===
[UPDATE PENDING]
=== Chapter Eight - Minas Tirith ===
[UPDATE PENDING]
=== Chapter Nine - Pelennor Fields ===
[UPDATE PENDING]
=== Chapter Ten - Barad-dûr ===
[UPDATE PENDING]
== Abilities ==
Berethor is the "leader" of the company, and fittingly possesses several "Leadership" Skills. His primary skill, though, is Sword Craft, which allows him to use powerful attacks that stack with his already high strength rating.
Later in the game, Berethor acquires a handful of swords with the Biting Blade ability as well as several with the Weeping Blade ability. These abilities replace his normal Attack. Weeping Blade does damage over time, while Biting Blade returns damage dealt by him back as health-points (similar to Eaoden's Drain Health). Weeping Blade and Biting Blade also replace Berethor's Counter Attack.
=== Sword Craft ===
Guardian Strike 	A slightly more powerful attack
Orc Bane 	Increased damage against Orcs. Slight turn penalty.
Shattering Strike	Lowers the target’s armor rating.
Counter Attack 	Allows Berethor to counterattack an enemy’s melee attack.
Citadel Rage 	Two-strike attack.
Uruk-hai Bane 	Increased damage against Uruk-hai.
Ecthelion Wrath 	Three-strike attack.
Defensive Strike 	An attack that cannot be counterattacked.
Targeted Strike 	Ignores enemy armor.
Stunning Strike 	Inflicts Stun on the target.
Gondor Rampage 	Five-strike attack.
=== Leadership ===
Company Might 	Increases damage done by the party and increases effectiveness of Fellowship and Royal Grace.
Company Valor 	Increases the Dexterity of all allies and lowers the Dexterity of all enemies.
Stand Fast 	Makes the party immune to Stun for the duration of the battle.
Fellowship Grace 	Grants the party AP regeneration over time.
War Call 	Makes two active allies attack the target immediately, without AP loss.
Company Resistance	Decreases Spirit damage done to the party by 25%.
All Retreat 	Makes the entire party retreat from battle.
Company Rally 	Increases the Perfect Mode Momentum gained.
Royal Grace 	Grants the party HP regeneration over time.
Shield of Courage 	Makes the party immune to Fear and removes all negative statuses from the party.
Last Gasp 	Whenever an ally with more than 1 HP would be killed by an attack, that ally remains at 1 HP instead of dying.
War Cry 	Makes three active allies attack the target immediately, without AP loss.
Company Power 	Forces all of the party’s physical attacks to be critical hits.
Captain's Inspire 	Reduces the party’s AP cost for all attacks by 50%.
=== Passive Skills ===
Citadel Might 	Increases Berethor’s Strength.
Ithilien Inspire 	When in Perfect Mode, the AP costs for all of Berethor’s attacks are reduced by 25%.
Rising Valor 	Increases Berethor’s maximum AP.
Gondorian Evade 	Allows Berethor to dodge enemy attacks.
Challenge of Gondor	Increases Berethor’s melee damage against Taunted foes.
Increased Armor 	Increases Berethor’s armor rating.
Immune to Fear 	Makes Berethor immune to Fear.
Citadel Evasion 	Increases Berethor’s chance of dodging enemy attacks.
Double Attack 	Enables the use of Double Attack.
Ecthelion Might 	Increases Berethor's maximum HP.
== See also ==
=== Berethor's Fellowship ===
[* signifies that this individual only aided Berethor's Fellowship temporarily]
*Idrial
*Elegost
*Hadhod
*Gandalf* (Eastern Moria, Minas Tirith)
*Aranel* (East Emnet Gullies)
*Morwen
*Eaoden
*Legolas* (Helm's Deep)
*Gimli* (Helm's Deep)
*Aragorn* (Helm's Deep, Pelennor Fields)
*Faramir* (Osgiliath)
*Éowyn* (Pelennor Fields)
== Trivia ==
* In a picture included in an EA Games newsletter exclusive, Berethor is shown holding a spear rather than a sword and a shield. This could indicate that this was intended to be his weapon during the early development stages of the game.
== References ==
729869_1306583795418_full.jpg (1024×807) (fanpop.com)
Category:BFME default heroes
Category:The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age characters
Category:Non-canonical Men of Gondor
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