(Disclaimer: I own or claim none of Tolkien's work or characters, the only character that I claim is Brenna.)
Brenna spent most of the night tossing and turning with nightmares plaguing her sleep. With the recent battle fresh on her memory, she could not find rest. Subconsciously she sought the Valar for comfort and relief. In response she was embraced into the realm of Irmo or Lorien who controlled dreams and visions. He eased her mind and stilled her thoughts allowing her to find a peaceful and healing sleep.
The other Valar came to her in her dreams and healed her hurts, both physical and emotional. They did what they could to soothe her aching and weary heart. Brenna was a gentle and kind soul, and the death and destruction in the world around her was beginning to take its toll on her free spirit.
Her breathing evened out and she found rest for the first time in a long time. The wounds on her body completely healed throughout the night and she felt refreshed and renewed as she awoke. There was very little light out when she rose. She shivered as her feet touched the cold stone floors. Wrapping a robe around herself, she went to stand by the window.
Opening the shutters she looked out towards the fields below. People had worked overnight, piling the enemy to burn the carcasses. She sent winds out over the fields to fan the stench of it away from the city. Trenches had been dug for the bodies of the allies for a more respectful resting place. The wounded and injured had been brought to the House of Healing for treatment and when that was full the neighboring buildings were used for the over flow.
Sighing Brenna turned and dressed for the day. She removed the bandages and saw pink healed flesh. Touching them lightly she smiled. Turning away from the windows, she walked silently out of her room and made her way towards the parlor they had been to the night before. She sat quietly in one of the chairs, waiting for the rest of the household to wake for the day.
As she heard the city begin to stir she began to get restless. Standing she went back to her rooms and strapped her weapons on. Walking quietly she made her way to the front hall towards the entrance. She stopped a servant on the way, asking for directions to the House of Healing and then she left. She was beginning to feel cooped up and closed in and had to get out of there.
Walking quietly through the empty streets to the House of Healing, Brenna looked around her, taking in the architecture. White stone walls with intricate and decorative carvings lined the streets. She marveled at the craftsmanship and the beauty of the work around her. She observed the weary city beginning to wake and greet the day.
Upon reaching the House of Healing, Brenna quickly set to work. She went from room to room, humming quietly and checking on the injured. Calling on her gifts, she used the powers she had been given to heal many of them, including those that would have been fatal wounds. She helped to redress and clean wounds. Soothing away pain and weariness, she helped all that she could quickly losing track of time.
Beleg and Telgalad had set out from the prince's dwelling with the five men of Rohan that had guarded her in their realm. When they had found that she was already up and had left for the House of Healing, they swiftly departed in search for her. They found her swaying, leaning against a wall having just healed another man. Moving quickly to her side, they led her to a stone bench in the nearby gardens.
Eothain turned to his kin and bade them check on their men within the halls. The five men left, telling her that they would return shortly. They went and greeted each of the men, asking of their health. Soon they heard that Lady Brenna and Princess Lothíriel had treated many of them the previous day and that Lady Brenna had come back to help again this morning. Many of their men suffered grievous injuries that would leave them crippled or maimed. Though they did not fall to despair, Brenna had assured each of them that they still had a purpose and a duty in this life. The men left returning back to Brenna thanking her for her kindness towards their kin. She smiled wearily and waved it off telling them it was part of what she was meant to do.
Turning to face the East she shivered. Her eyes were wide and her breathing became shallow. She gripped the stone bench making her knuckles go white. They noticed that she had gone pale. The silver stars on her forehead glowed faintly and she relaxed a bit, nearly slumping over.
Beleg and Telgalad and the others looked at her in concern. Turning to face them she was still pale and shaky. Drawing a deep breath she seemed to pull herself together.
"We need to return to the King's Hall for that meeting of the military leaders. There is much to discuss and we need to be ready to leave in two days' time at dawn." She told them softly.
Standing she brushed off the dress and looked around at the garden. Sighing upon seeing its wilting state, she went towards one of the plant beds and knelt down. Burying her hands deep in the dry soil, she pushed out her healing powers yet again. Calling the water and moisture, she felt the soil become damp and rich. Tendrils of blue power reached out from her hands spreading throughout the garden and beyond. It keep reaching and creeping throughout their level within the city.
Pulling back, she sat back on her heels exhausted. Beleg and Telgalad gently cleaned her hands and helped her to her feet. The men of the Rohirrim had not witnessed it first hand, but now knew that she was indeed a great gift to them. They watched as the garden around them seemed to flourish with life. Bowing to her as she passed, the made note to spread word of what she had done, not only for their men, but for the lands as well. They wanted to pass it along that she was to be watched over and protected at all times.
The males flanked the young elf maiden, escorting her out of the House of Healing and back towards the Prince's holdings. Outside of Imrahil's dwelling they met the rest of the group who were looking at Brenna in concern seeing how pale and tired she was. Gandalf went to her and drew her to his side talking to her quietly. She leaned into him as they walked to the King's Hall.
They were talking so quietly that the others could not hear what was said. Gandalf looked to her smiling softly and led her up the stairs and into the large stone hall. He escorted her to a bench within the hall and urged her to sit down. The others came in and observed her quietly. Elladan looked at her in concern but she just smiled softly and shook her head.
Aragorn crouched near her and took her hands in his own. "Little sister, are you well?"
She nodded and assured him that she was fine, even pointing out that when she awoke her wounds were completely healed earlier in the morning. Waving off his concern, she urged the meeting to continue, but Eothain interrupted and spoke up.
"When we awoke and found that she was gone, we went in search of her to make sure that she was safe. We found her in the House of Healing. She had been there since early this morning, healing and helping. Our men informed us that many owe her their lives. We then watched as she healed the gardens and who knows how far out her power reached. She was swaying with exhaustion," he told them.
Aragorn looked at her shaking his head. He would have scolded her, but she had done so much to help. Instead he thanked her and urged her to sit and rest. He asked her to give counsel and let them know if there was anything that they should do or know. She nodded in agreement and sat quietly, letting the men figure things out.
Back and forth they argued what was their next course of action. It was decided that Imrahil would remain behind and act in Faramir's stead. Imrahil urged Aragorn to lead them as King and for him to take his place. Aragorn argued against this, but acknowledged his heritage. He told Prince Imrahil that he would come to claim the throne but it was not yet the right time to do so. The argued and bickered for what seemed like hours, until finally Brenna could stand it no more.
Turning to Gandalf with a quirked eyebrow, she nodded her head. He fell silent and just stared at her. Sighing heavily he nodded, leaning on his staff waiting for the others to quiet down.
"If you're all quite done talking over each other and generally getting nowhere, you should know that you need to march out of here towards the Black Gates in two days. So instead of sitting here bickering over nothing you might want to consider a real plan of action here. I for one am sick of hearing about who's staying, who's going to be in charge, who will lead and what not. Why not just agree to ride together and be done with it?" she said annoyed.
A snort from the other side of the room alerted them to Lothiriel's presence. She walked forward and sat next to Brenna with a smile. She too looked around the room at the males and rolled her eyes at them.
"I don't know how we put up with men all the time," she stated to Brenna with a grin.
"With the patience of saints my friend," Brenna replied with a slight chuckle.
Gandalf coughed, covering a laugh as he looked at the two young women. He tried to look at his granddaughter sternly, but failed. The others looked a little shocked at their words, but they too laughed.
Brenna looked at the group, "Well now that you know when you need to leave and where you need to go, I assume that I am no longer needed in this meeting of men beating their chests and talking strategy?" she asked in a laughing voice.
Standing, she turned to Lothíriel with a mischievous look that the other woman returned. With a wink, she whispered for her to follow lead. They looped arms and slowly made their way out of the hall taking their leave of the men.
"Come my friend, let us go wreak havoc and mayhem," Brenna stated laughing. "Do you know any good places to go swimming?" she asked with a giggle.
"Well there aren't many places in the city, though there are plenty of fountains nearby," was her replied contemplatively.
The male sputtering behind them as the doors shut made them double over with laughter. The men turned to each other not sure if they were kidding or not. Prince Imrahil in particular looked concerned that they would follow through with it. Though his daughter was every bit the princess, she often chafed at the stiff rules of propriety that came with it. She was a free spirited girl. Lothíriel did her duties and played the part of princess perfectly in public, but he knew that outside of the public eye she was a wild one often getting into things that a princess should not.
Lothíriel turned to Brenna as they walked and said, "For request that you would have to come visit me in Dol Amroth for a time. While there I can take you swimming and show you my home. We wouldn't have to worry about the stiff courts that are held here in Minas Tirith and will be able to move more freely."
Brenna thought about this and nodded. She thought for a minute and turned to her friend. "I am new to these lands and know little about the customs or people. Perhaps while there you can teach me what I need to know so that I do not cause too much trouble," she asked. "Where I am from the roles of women and the expectations of them are very different. Where I was raised, women are equal and can do anything that men can. My mom, my adoptive mother, worked side by side with my adoptive dad as an equal and partner. They were both in politics and diplomats before they passed." she explained to her friend. "For instance the issue with dancing has come up and let me assure you back home it is very different than here, so I will need someone to show me"
Lothíriel nodded in understanding and told her that she'd talk to her father seeking permission to have her stay with them for a time. The two women continued walking, coming to one of the gardens. Brenna sighed looking around. Although this garden did have some green, it too was fading. Lothíriel watched as Brenna moved forward and knelt by the plant beds. She observed her friend closing her eyes and burying her hands deep in the soil. Watching quietly she saw the faint blue glow surround her friend and then spread out over the garden and beyond its walls out.
Lothíriel went to her friend and put a hand on her shoulder. She knew that Brenna was already tired and drained and was worried for her. Brenna pulled back, but she had done too much too fast this day, especially after all that she had done the day before and the battle that she had fought. Lothíriel called out in alarm as Brenna leaned into her weakly with her eyes closed. She held her friend, looking around not sure what to do to help her.
Her startled call alerted her brothers who had been walking nearby in search of her. They quickly made their way to the garden followed by the others who had just left the meeting. Upon entering the garden they found Brenna kneeling and leaning on Lothíriel apparently resting. Her brothers went to her side, checking on the elf maiden whose guard and family moved forward.
Sighing and making his way towards his granddaughter, Gandalf shook his head knowing that she had overtaxed herself. He rested his hand on her forehead and whispered something under his breath, causing Brenna to stir and open her eyes. She blinked tiredly and looked around her. Her somewhat unfocused and blurry gaze swept around the group present.
Pushing herself up she tried to stand up, but found she did not have the energy to do so. Lothíriel and Gandalf helped her up, but she swayed on her feet. She was very pale and having trouble keeping her eyes opened. Aragorn stepped forward and swept her up in his arms, sighing at her. He turned and asked Prince Imrahil to show him where she was staying so that she could rest.
The group seeing that she was taken care of took their leave of each other to make the necessary preparations for their upcoming departure. The men of Rohan were going to see their kinsmen camped out in the fields and staying in various places throughout the city. The elves followed Aragorn back to the prince's dwelling. The prince's sons left to speak with their contingent of men. Gandalf left to address the men of Gondor. Pippin had gone to the House of Healing to check on Merry who was recovering from his wounds. Legolas and Gimli trailed behind the group, talking quietly together. Lothíriel walked with her father, hurrying ahead to arrange the evening meal with the servants.
Brenna drifted, in her mind she sought the Valar and soon she found herself in the blooming meadow with Elbereth and Este. The two Valar moved to her side and healed her. Elbereth sat with Brenna's head on her lap, singing quietly to her as Este help restore her strength, healing her. Brenna had used too much power at once for someone just coming into their gifts. She would have to wait many years before she would be able to exert herself so much in such a short span of time, though they admired her drive and need to help and heal. This visit, though brief was calming and peaceful, but also very informative. Brenna used this time to ask them some things that she had been wondering about.
"I was wondering what was now going to happen to the world I grew up in," she inquired in a soft whisper. "Now that I'm back in my rightful home, what is to become of the place that I was raised and the people that I knew?"
"Young one, the world that you knew is no longer. When you chose to come here that world ceased to be and time fragmented. Things will be different, yet the same. As you know some things are meant to happen, some wars will take place, and some events will take place. However, your saving some people, like Halabard for instance will have an effect on the future. His is a strong and noble people and his descendants will be so also. Your healing of the lands will help the world flourish. Your healing of the many injured, your actions in saving so many lives will strengthen their lines. You, my child have done so well, though this is but the beginning of your task. In such a short span of time, you have already begun to heal the hurts of this world. Now little one, you must return. Rest and be at peace," Elbereth told her, kissing her brow.
Brenna returned with a sigh and awoke to Aragorn and her guard leaning over her with frightened expressions. She found herself laying on one of the couches in the front parlor of the Prince's home. Aragorn was kneeling at her side, holding her hand tightly in his own. He looked so worried, as did the others.
Trying to sit up, she was pushed back down by many sets of hands and shouts for her to stay where she was. Lothíriel was hovering in the background, looking on anxiously. Brenna asked if she could sit up, and much to the protest of those present, she did just that. Taking a deep breath, she relaxed resting her head against the back of the couch. She briefly closed her eyes humming the song Elbereth had sung her and felt her forehead warm and glow. She smiled softly and opened her eyes to look at her friends.
Lothíriel sat on the couch next to her and took her hand in her own. Brenna turned to her friend and smiled reassuringly. She observed the young woman and a thought came to her.
"Forgive me if this is rude, but how old are you?" she asked the other woman.
Lothíriel looked startled at first but replied, "I am twenty, why do you ask."
Brenna grinned and then giggled softly. "Well my friend, we are the same age it would seem. My birthday is the first of December," Brenna told her.
Lothíriel returned her smile and replied, "Mine is the third of February."
Sighing Brenna looked at the males now standing or sitting in various areas around the room. She noticed that though they were engaged in their own conversations, they kept glancing at her. Shrugging she stood, smoothing out the skirt of her dress.
Aragorn exasperatedly called for her to stay sitting for a while. He explained that she had gone completely limp in his arms and that she had gone cold. She had left them briefly, but it was greatly distressing because of the amount of energy and power that she had used over the last twenty four hours. He told her that they feared that she was lost to them, that he had feared she had used too much of herself.
Turning to him, she explained that yes, she knew she used too much power and too soon. She also told him and the others who were listening that the Valar had healed her and that she was well. So long as she took the next two days off, she would be back to herself in time for them to march to the Black Gates. When they would have protested, she looked at them with her eyes glinting.
"I must go with you to the Gates Aragorn," she looked him pointedly. "I've got some unfinished business with a couple of Nazgul who will seek to wreak havoc on your numbers. The two that I will face, I have already faced once before. If I am not there, let's just say it won't be a good outcome."
Lothíriel and Imrahil looked shocked at her declaration. They had no idea that she had faced the Nazgul. Turning to their others they noticed the pale and grim expressions on their faces and knew that there was more to this story than Brenna was letting on.
Elladan had gone pale at her admission. His breath left him and he looked at her in horror. She actually expected them, expected him, to let her face two Nazgul by herself. He shook his head in disbelief, in denial of what she was telling them.
As if sensing his struggle, his brother touched his arm in comfort. He looked to Brenna with a grave and stern look on his face. Brenna bit her lip, but held his gaze. She nodded to the hallway and Elrohir made to follow her. Brenna turned excusing herself for a moment and telling them that they'd be right back.
When she got in the hallway Elrohir was already there leaning against the opposite wall waiting for her. He watched her quietly. Once the door to the parlor was closed the two looked at each other for a few moments waiting.
"Elrohir, you have to trust me when I tell you that I would never do anything to intentionally hurt your brother physically or otherwise. But you both have to understand that there are things that I'm going to have to do that you may not agree with and probably won't like, but regardless I must do them," she told him. "I care a great deal for your brother, and while I cannot say for certain what my feelings are, I do know that I cannot survive without him. It will one day develop into a love and bond so very deep that I cannot find the words to describe it. I know that not only because I have seen it, but also because the Valar have told me it will be so. I would never do anything to put that in jeopardy, you have to believe that."
Elrohir watched her carefully. He took her words to heart and smiled softly at the young woman who would someday be his sister. He grinned at the thought and nodded to her. Brenna released a relieved breath and returned his smile.
"Well, now that we've sorted that out," Elrohir laughed, "why don't we return to the others before my brother comes storming out demanding to know what I've done to upset you and what was said. Better yet, before everyone comes out demanding to know what I've done!"
Brenna laughed softly as they returned to the room. She returned to the couch where Lothíriel was still sitting quietly. Brenna smiled shyly at Elladan and nodded to him. Looking around the room she looked to her friends smiling and laughed softly.
"Now that that's out of the way," she said humorously. She looked to Lothíriel with her eyebrow quirked. "Perhaps we should go to the House of Healing to see if they need any help."
Various shouts of "no" rang out around the room. Sighing, Brenna shook her head and looked down at her hands. She hated to admit it, but she was bored, something she never thought she'd admit. Looking at Lothíriel who was watching her with mirth in her eyes, Brenna shrugged.
"Brenna, would you like something to do, perhaps I can get you some needlepoint?" Lothíriel suggested.
Brenna grimaced and cringed, causing the males in the room to chuckle. "I mean no offense, but other than mending tears I'm all thumbs at sewing," she admitted.
Lothíriel laughed at her friend's admission and regarded the other girl perceptively. "Well let's run through a few things shall we? We cannot go swimming, unless we take a dip in one of the many fountains. We cannot go for a ride because it is still not safe to do so. You cannot go to the House of Healing or into the gardens because you've already tried to heal too much all at once. You cannot and do not like to sew. Have I missed anything so far?" Lothíriel asked cheekily.
Brenna laughed and shook her head. "So, where are these fountains?" she asked with just as much humor in her voice.
"Oh dear!" Prince Imrahil exclaimed. "I fear that you two will be a bad influence on each other."
Brenna turned to the men in general with a mischievous grin, "Just you wait until Eowyn joins in our fun and mayhem." Brenna declared, sharing a look with Lothíriel and winking. "Perhaps we ought to see if Arwen will join our merry band of ladies," she said in peels of giggles.
The men sat there not sure what to make of the two laughing young women. They knew that somehow, they were only half kidding and weren't sure what to make of it. However, they were glad that the high ranking ladies of the realms got along so well.
Brenna stopped laughing and a seriously look came over her face. Turning towards the others she asked, "Was there any sight of Ash? I completed forgot about him until now!"
Aragorn nodded saying, "Yes he was found in the fields and brought to the stables. He luckily did not sustain any wounds, many of the horses of the Rohirrim were not as lucky."
Brenna nodded sadly, as her eyes welled up with tears. Though she previously did not have good experiences with horses, she had come to greatly admire and love the noble horses of the Rohirrim. Her thoughts strayed to Hiril and she wondered how her friend was doing.
Letting her thoughts drift, she had a contemplative look on her face. She tried to focus on Frodo and Sam. She found that nothing happened except for a headache for her efforts. She gasped in shock and touched her temple in worry. Looking wide eyed at Aragorn, he came to her side in concern.
"What is it Brenna?"
"When I tried to 'see' nothing happened," she told him.
"Perhaps it's because you're supposed to be resting and conserving your energy Brenna," he told her sternly.
She nodded at him in understanding. "I see and know there is wisdom in it, but there has to be something that I can do. I cannot just sit around for the next two days before we leave for battle. I will go stir crazy!"
Lothíriel grinned at her and remembered their earlier conversation. "Perhaps we can begin to teach you what you asked about earlier," she suggested vaguely in front of the others. Her eyes were sparkling and dancing with mirth.
Brenna grinned in response and nodded. "Yes, perhaps we could start those lessons now."
"What lessons?" Aragorn asked curiously.
Brenna shrugged and nodded to Lothíriel. "Lady Brenna asked me to teach more about the ways of our culture and people. She confessed that her culture has some vast differences from our own and she wants to be able to acclimate better."
The others nodded seeing the wisdom in this. Elladan watched her quietly. She had told them about some of her world, but he had a feeling that she had left a lot out. She was so very different from the females of this world. He just hoped that she wouldn't change much in order to feel acclimated and like she fit in. As far as he was concerned she fit in just fine as she was now.
"Brenna, would you tell us more about the differences of your world and culture and that of the culture here?" Aragorn asked as Gandalf and the others had returned and entered the room.
"Well," she drew the word out trying to organize her thoughts. "The roles of men and women are vastly different and yet the same as they are here. There are the typical gender roles, but they've blended a bit more where I grew up. Men and women are equals, with the same rights. I myself went to a boarding school for girls until I was almost eighteen. I was given the freedom to learn things that women here would never be allowed normally. Mathematics, sciences, reading and writing, history, are all major subjects that are learned. While fencing, archery, the arts, music and sports are electives that can be chosen to fill one's schedule."
"What's a boarding school?" Gandalf asked her.
"It's a private school that often wealthy families pay to send their children to in order to get a private education. Students that learn there live at the school for the duration of their education there. For eight months out of the year I was away from home at school from the age of twelve until I was almost eighteen."
"Does everyone go to 'school'?" Aragorn asked curiously.
"Actually, it was against the law to deny anyone an education. It was the law that children attend some form of schooling until they were at least sixteen years of age," she explained to them. "This allowed for everyone to be given the same chance at succeeding in life. We were all given basically the same education, though some schools were better than others. Though much of the way we lived our lives when the war broke out," she told them quietly.
"Interesting," Aragorn said thoughtfully and the others nodding, intrigued by the idea.
"I'm not sure what the writing looks like here, I may need to learn all over again. I don't know any of the elvish dialects, written or spoken. I don't know Rohirric either. If I'm to live here for an extended period of time, I need to learn about this place and better acclimate myself to this world and culture."
"Well we will have to have someone tutor you," Gandalf told her with a smile. "But I recommend you pick one language at a time or you will be overwhelmed quickly. Now," he paused looking at her seriously, "I believe there was a conversation in Rohan about the differences in dancing."
Brenna's eyes went wide and she flushed brightly. "Yes, dancing from where I was raised is very different, I will have to learn the dancing styles from here." She told him, hoping that he would drop the topic in front of the large crowd, but alas he did not.
"Brenna, how is the dancing different?" her grandfather asked looking at her intently.
"Well, you see," she stammered turning an even brighter red if it was at all possible. "Society in my world, my time is a bit more relaxed in many ways. Dancing in particular is a bit more, um, provocative?" she squeaked out. "Society where I was raised was a bit more relaxed about things, particularly relationships."
"So when you said that you couldn't show Pippin dancing from your world…" Gandalf trailed off, waiting for a response.
Drawing a breath and letting it out. "By the standards of this society it would seem that you as my grandfather would either have to fend off said dance partner, defending my honor or you would have to marry me off to them to avoid a scandal," she said quietly avoiding all eye contact.
"Brenna," Gandalf paused unsure of how to continue.
Lothíriel came to the poor girl's rescue. She hadn't meant for the conversation to go in this direction, she was actually shocked that it did so. Taking her friend's hand and squeezing it she turned to the males, who by now had looks ranging from shock to anger on their faces.
"Which is exactly why I will be helping Brenna to understand what is acceptable by the standards of our society and culture," she told the assembled group firmly.
"Brenna," Gandalf began again, "perhaps I could speak to you in private for a moment?"
She nodded and followed her grandfather to the hallway. He turned to her and regarded her with an unreadable expression. Sighing he took her hands in his own.
"Child I'm not sure if you know this about the elves," he began somewhat awkwardly. "For elves the act of intimacy itself seals and bonds them to their mate," he told her cautiously.
Brenna flushed brightly and nodded, "I know grandfather, and I assure you that by any culture's standard I am unattached and untouched. I may have lived in a world where things were more acceptable than they are here, but I was raised differently than most. My parents made sure that I knew right from wrong. They instilled in me the value of waiting until marriage before letting things progress to that stage."
He let out a breath of relief. Nodding, he put his arm around her shoulder and led the blushing girl back into the room. Brenna quickly went over and sat with Lothíriel. She put her face in her hands, still blushing brightly. Lothíriel, not sure what to do put her arms around the girl.
"This is by far the most mortifying conversation that I've ever had to have," Brenna's muffled voice rang out in the quiet room. She peeked through her hands at the group. "Let's just leave it at I'm free to live my life without any consequences or attachments from my previous life and home. Now can we please change the subject," she managed to croak out.
Elladan who sat still as a statue during the conversation, unclenched his fists and let out his breath. He hadn't even thought that would have been a possibility and for the first time he was realizing the drastically different home she must have had. He watched her closely and saw that she was still blushing in embarrassment. He saw her glancing at him, biting her lower lip in concern and he nodded to her in understanding. He couldn't fault her or blame her for the life that she had lived prior to coming her, but he did want to talk to her about it more in private at a later date, perhaps years from now when it would be less awkward.
"Wait," Amrothos interjected, "our Lothíriel is going to teach the Lady Brenna to behave like a lady? Lothíriel can manage the royal household, talk politics and a full range of other things, but she's been chasing after me in a tunic and leggings since she could walk! She's been caught causing more mischief than any of us and you're going to let her teach Lady Brenna?" he exclaimed with mirth. "Ada, surely you see the humor in this. Do you not remember the last suitor that she drove away with her antics?"
"He was a fat, lazy simpering old toad!" she exclaimed. "If he wanted some air headed, powdered lady he could have gone elsewhere! But no, Lord Hereford wanted to marry a princess a third of his age!"
Brenna squeezed her friend's hand in understand. "Where I was raised arranged marriages were rare if seldom used. People chose their own partners in life and that's exactly what spouses were viewed as. Partners, help-mates, companions, you were meant to marry your better half. How can other's know what's right for you?" she asked rhetorically. Turning back to Lothíriel, "Do not worry my friend, when you marry it will be for love. And I can assure you now that it will not be some old toad that is fat and lazy," she told her laughing while glancing casually at Eomer.
Brenna's breath caught in her throat. Her eyes went unfocused and then she saw things that she was least expecting. She saw Elfwine, Eomer and Lothiriel's son who was a perfect blend of his parents, and three more children, a boy and two girls, laughing and running towards him in the distance. She saw Elboron, Faramir and Eowyn's son and a little girl running up towards him, she was maybe three years younger. She saw Eldarion, Aragorn and Arwen's son, standing beside four older sisters. Then she saw her own. A little girl that would be named Dúiel, a son named Tirnel, and twin sons Lanion and Gilornion. She and Elladan would have four children! Elrohir and a dark haired elleth would have three, two boys and a girl. She saw the children of each of her guard, including the men of Rohan, for their paths were now linked with hers, as they would become her Guard while in Rohan. Brenna saw the happy lives and futures of not only others, but she had seen it for herself as well.
Brenna came back to the present with silent tears running down her cheeks and a huge smile on her face. With big sparkling eyes she turned to Gandalf, bursting to let someone know what she had seen. She giggled and let the happiness pour into her soul, thanking and praying to the Valar that the future she had just seen would come to pass for each of them. She heard Elbereth's tinkling laughter in her mind and felt her brow warm slightly. He looked at her quietly and nodded slowly as if sensing she wanted to tell them. She silently asked if it would be alright, and the answering warmth in her brow was all the reassurance she needed.
"Brenna?" Aragorn asked.
"I was just shown the happiest thing you could ever imagine," she told the group, beaming. "Someday I will tell you all, perhaps as wedding gifts to each of you, but I cannot tell you exactly everything right now. We will all live very blessed lives. Our lines and legacies will be strong and true," she told them with a softy wistful smile gracing her face. "There is such a happy future awaiting us."
Aragorn looked at her with large hopeful eyes. She just nodded softly to him in response. He smiled and nodded to her, but his eyes now showed with emotions that she hadn't seen there in a long time. Looking around she realized that it was not just in his eyes, but all of their eyes. She saw hope.
"I did not tell you this to make you careless or reckless," she cautioned. "I told you to make you understand what you're risking and what is now at stake for each of us. We need to be careful and vigilant. The Battle at the Black Gates will be long and hard, but we need to remain true to our purpose and true to each other. While there we need to watch each other's backs and stay alert. Now, Lothíriel I believe you owe me some lessons."
With a laugh the two got up to leave the room. Brenna paused at the door and met Elladan's eyes. Her gaze softened into something that neither of them was ready to define, and she smiled and nodded to him.
"By line and legacy she meant our children correct?" Eothain asked, looking a little shaken.
"Yes, I do believe she saw the children of those sitting in this room," Gandalf told him, seemingly lost in thought.
The group of males talked quietly, Aragorn excused himself and went in search of Halabard and his Dunedain kinsmen. They were staying in the dwelling of the Steward, which was nearby. Prince Imrahil granted them leave to stay there as he had run out of room for all in Aragorn's company and Lady Brenna's ever growing group of guards.
He found them sitting cleaning their weapons and talking quietly. Some of them had been present at this morning's discussions, but they didn't know of Brenna's tale from the night before. He paused at the doorway of the room, observing his kin and brethren.
The men of the Gray Company greeted him, waving him into the room. Walking in greeting each of them, he walked to an open seat and began to explain to them, particularly Halabard, what Brenna had done. The stunned silence that met the end of his explanation stretched on for a while. They looked from one to another unsure of what to say. The girl didn't cease to amaze them, especially since the first time they met her she had just taken on two of the Nazgul and survived.
Halabard, for his part sat frozen in his chair. He honestly didn't even remember the Haradrim aiming an arrow at him. He thought back and didn't remember when he had come so close to death. He had some wounds from the battle, but he would live and survive all because one small, young elleth had saved his life. He was stunned and fought for words to say to his chieftain and king. He knew that Brenna was like a sister to the man. Aragorn clasped the man on the arm and left him to his thoughts. He told the others of the plans that were forming before taking his leave.
Turning to them, but focusing on Halabard, "She has risked even her own life in the effort to save others, do not let her work be in vain. Take care with what you do, use the gift of life given and be watchful." Aragorn paused, thinking of what else to tell them. "Brenna has seen many things and a hopeful future for us, but we must be cautious in the coming battle. Not everything is for certain and now it's not just our lives hanging in the balance. She's seen children, my children and those of others. There is more at stake than before and we need to fight and live to see that future."
Halabard nodded to his captain. He was quietly contemplating what he had been told as were the others. The hope of Brenna's words warmed them. She gave them something more to fight for, something to hope for beyond the battle and defeat of evil.
Back in the Prince's home, Elladan's mind was racing. Children! She had seen children! He couldn't get his mind around the thought. He longed and ached to have that one day. He had to keep reminding himself that he had at least another thirty years to wait to bond with her and claim her as his mate. He rationalized that they should and would wait until they reached Valinor before they contemplated having a family. At peace with his thoughts, he turned to his brother who looked just as stunned. His twin also had that same look of longing on his face, a look that was mirrored by all of the elves in the room. First Brenna had given them the hope of their soul mates, and now she gave them the hope of family and children. Most of them had resigned themselves to being alone and going to find peace in Valinor, but now they knew that there would be much more awaiting their arrival on those distant shores.
Meanwhile, Brenna and Lothíriel were quietly talking about the roles and various expectations of a noblewoman. Lothíriel explained that with Gandalf as her grandfather she would have been considered such, but with Aragorn and the other's claiming her as kin and sister as well, she would be regarded as high-born lady. Brenna looked puzzled. Lothíriel broke it down for her based on her family members. Her grandfather was an Istari. Her grandmother was a member of the court of Mirkwood and friend of the Queen. Her mother was friend of the Lady Galadriel and held in high regard as was her father. Now add King Aragorn's claim of kinship, Prince Legolas's claim of the same and that of Gimli. Added to that she was Valar Blessed, a true Healer, and Wielder of Water and Wind, making Brenna a highly respected and regarded young elf maiden.
Brenna sat down on shaky legs. Looking at her friend with wide eyes, she didn't know what to say. Lothíriel looked at the truly stunned girl and sympathized with her. As she was explaining Brenna's nobility to her, she herself was struck by all of the ties that the young elf maiden had and that wasn't even counting her bond and future union with Lord Elladan!
A servant came to them announcing dinner and the two young women walked together to the dining room. The whole group had assembled, but the Gray Company was also attending the meal. It was a lively affair, where bonds of friendship were deepened even more. The time passed quickly and soon it was time to retire for the night.
The next two days fell into a rhythm of meetings, planning and preparations. The males talked strategy and organized supplies. Brenna and Lothíriel continued talking about what would be expected of Brenna as a member of high society. Though she would not live in any one place for very long periods of time, when she was within the realms there were certain things that would be expected of her. Certain behaviors that she would be expected to live by, publically at least. Lothíriel explained to her that much like in her father's household, in private they could be have in a more relaxed manner.
Brenna sighed when she entered her room after one such "lesson." She was having a hard time getting her mind around the life and idea of high society. She didn't understand the pomp and circumstance of things. It would take a while to make the necessary adjustments, but she would try her best. Brenna knew that she was very lucky to have Lothíriel and to have made a fast friend in her.
In between their preparations for the army's departure and society lessons, the two young women found time to time for dance lessons. Lothíriel found that Brenna had the basics of the more formal courtly dances. Once she was satisfied with that, she began to show her the more lively dances and reels. The laughter of the two could be heard off and on during the course of the two days they had leaving up to Brenna's departure. Lothíriel wanted to make sure her friend could at least enjoy a few turns around the dance floor with ease.
In between her talks with Lothíriel, Brenna was often found talking with her friends in the Fellowship and her new friends from all of the different realms. She spent time visiting the ill and injured at the House of Healing. Even though she wasn't allowed to use her healing powers, she would often talk and sing to comfort them. Her presence brought a peace to those residing in the Halls of Healing. Those well enough and able bodied enough were discharged. Some would remain behind in the defense of the city, while most would march out with the army to Mordor. Brenna greeted each person with the same friendly regard. She would talk to each of them, reminding them that though they were gravely injured, their life was a blessing from the Valar and they should treasure and honor that. Explaining to each of them that they still had a purpose in this life, she urged them to not lose hope. Her words deeply touched not only the wounded men, but the healers who treated them.
Brenna could also be found with Merry and Eowyn. Eowyn was quite melancholy, seeming almost disappointed that she didn't die. Brenna observed Faramir watching Eowyn and smiled softly. She talked to Eowyn of a hopeful future, filled with laughter, love, and a man that understood and appreciated her for who she was. Eowyn looked hopeful and wistful, but was still upset that she wouldn't ride to the Gates of Mordor with the others. She would remain behind while her friends rode out to war without her because she was still healing, not just physically, but also in spirit.
Trying to diffuse any problems from the woman, Brenna introduced Lothíriel and Eowyn. Though the two were cautious at first, at Brenna's urging the two became friends and found they had a lot in common despite their differences. Brenna grinned, knowing that once Arwen joined them the group would become a very close knit bunch. She smiled softly knowing that at least privately her friends would be able to act freely with each other.
In her time there she also visited Faramir, introducing herself. Though he already knew who she was already having heard the tales of her deeds, he appreciated meeting her in person. The two talked of Boromir and Brenna told him that his brother kept his honor and fought bravely. She told him that he fought and died protecting other members of the Fellowship, her words giving him some comfort.
Faramir told her of watching the elvish boat pass him on the river. He explained that when he saw it he went to investigate it and found his brother in it. He told her how he took the Horn of Gondor from the boat to bring to his father and how he watch the boat continue on down the river, bearing his brother out to sea. Brenna comforted him, telling him that the Valar had assured her that Boromir was at peace and resting in the Halls of Mandos.
Brenna noticed that over the course of the two days, that while she was in the presence of people her guardians trusted, they felt at ease enough to go about their own tasks and duties. She felt good about this, knowing that each of them still had their own duties and obligations that they needed to fulfill. Brenna knew that even though she had her tasks that the elves and men also had their own destinies. The elves of her guard were noble and honorable warriors and she knew that they would have many things to do and affairs to settle before they would remain with her at all times.
Pondering this, she sought the counsel of the Valar. She wanted to be sure that each of them would still be able to do what they needed to in their remaining time in Arda. She wanted to make sure that her friends would be able to spend time with their kin before they departed, but also that they could fulfill their obligations and roles to their own people.
The Valar assured her that it would be fine and expected. They explained that while she was staying in various lands for extended periods of time, her hosts would assemble and appoint a contingent of their own men to represent her guard, much like Rohan already had. They acknowledged that the five men chosen by Eomer would be part of her guard when she was within the realm, and though they had other obligations and jobs to do, they would see to her safety while she was in Rohan.
During the times of her extended stays in other realms, her elvish guard members would be able to travel and do their own duties and obligations. Only when she was traveling and after most of the elves had left with Celeborn, would they remain with her as her full time guard. Brenna asked the Valar if they could let her guard and the necessary leaders know this, to which they agreed.
In the meantime, they also showed her some of the changes taking place in the world she grew up in, though this time around Brenna wasn't in it. The world and that time period had begun to reform and reshape due to the changes Brenna had been making with the Valar's blessings and approval. She saw that even though there were still wars and many of the problems that men faced when she grew up. But she noticed that the world itself looked as though it was enduring and thriving much better this time around.
Brenna breathed a sigh of relief. Bittersweet tears poured down her face as she watched the world that she was no longer part of. She felt a pang and an ache of sadness seeing the Logans happily married with two children of their own. Her "dad" was running for political office and her "mom" was standing by his side. She saw her friends laughing and living, this time never knowing her. The world went on without her.
Brenna awoke on the morning of their departure with tears streaming down her face. Turning she saw Gandalf at her side looking concerned. Behind him she saw an anxious maid who apparently tried to wake her earlier. Brenna cried softly as Gandalf held her. Lothíriel had come to check on her, hearing that something was wrong. She heard her friend tell Gandalf what she had seen and what she was feeling.
Hearing all of this Lothíriel left the room and made her way to the front parlor to inform the others. She entered the room and quietly explained what had happened. The group was saddened for Brenna. None of them could imagine what she was going through. Each of them tried to think of what they would do or feel in such a situation and could not begin to ponder the pain it must be causing her.
Her guard and friends had been visited by the Valar over the past two nights. Their roles and further instructions were given to them. They saw the wisdom in the plan and were relieved that they would have time with their kin and people before they departed. They also felt at ease knowing that they could and were expected to live their own lives and fulfill their duties and obligations to their people and homes. The appointed and necessary rulers in each realm had also been informed of the plans.
Elladan was reluctant to be parted from Brenna, but he also knew that he needed to be with his family. It would be a bittersweet parting from his family and he knew that his father was mourning his sister's choice to remain and die with Aragorn. He and his brother also felt that loss sharply, but knew that she would never really be happy without the man.
He needed to see and to be with his people while they were still on these shores. It would be part of his job to help them relocate and begin packing for their departures. He needed to see to the safety of their home for their remaining time in Arda. Then he would aid and counsel Aragorn for a time and spend time with his sister. Only when these other tasks were done would he be able to Brenna's side more permanently. In his heart he knew that this separation would allow her to grow and would make their thirty year wait much easier on them. He knew that he would still see her during the thirty years and even though he didn't want to be away from her, he knew that he wanted her to have time to find herself and figure things out for herself in this new place and home to her.
The group was drawn from their thoughts when Gandalf returned. He told them that Brenna was changing and would be with them shortly. The others readied their things and prepared to leave. They were busy putting on their packs and strapping on their weapons. Each of them had a pouch of bandages and healing herbs with them at Brenna's insistence.
Brenna entered the room in a fresh tunic and leggings of Gondorian fashion. The dark colors of the material made her seem extremely pale. She had her weapons and pack on with her hair braided back out of the way. In her time with the Fellowship her hair had grown down to her waist, so she had to braid it and pull it back out of the way, especially when fighting. She wore the cloak gifted to her from Lorien as she waited near the door to leave. Her tears were dried and she wore a determined look on her face. She looked ready to go to battle.
The group walked out together, making their way to their respective groups and delegations of peoples. Lothíriel and Imrahil followed to see them off. Eothain walked forward with Ash already saddled for Brenna. He had a grim look on his face when he went to her.
"Do not lose hope Eothain," Brenna said with a smile. "Your lioness will be waiting for your return, though she doesn't know it."
Eothain looked startled at the reminder, but a slow smile crept across his face and his hope returned. He vowed to be careful, knowing what was at stake. He never worried for such things before, but now that he knew what his future could hold, he would do all he could to make that future come true.
"You have your dagger with you," he asked.
"Yes and it has already seen battle," she told him with a haunted look on her face. "It and the aid of your kin saved my life on Pelennor when I was separated from the others. I had been fighting two of the Southrons as others were circling in. One of the Riders saw this and came to my aid with a group of his men. He killed one of the men I was fighting but the other had disarmed me. He knocked me down and I don't want to think what would have happened had I not had the dagger. I killed him with it just as the others reached my side."
His jaw tightened at the news as he helped her to mount Ash. Fram, Haleth, Dernhelm, and Wulf wore similar expressions upon hearing this. They were startled, having not known about this before. They shared a look, which was echoed by all of the males around her. Many of those present did not know about this part of her story and part of the Battle on Pelennor Fields. They would keep an eye on her and protect her as best they could in the coming battle.
Brenna looked around at the assembled group and prayed silently to the Valar for their safe return. She began saying prayers for strength, safety, guidance, protection and courage. As she was speaking this, they others overheard and added their own prayers. Once they were all mounted and had made their goodbyes, the group began moving out. With Aragorn, Eomer, the princes of Dol Amroth and the rest of the Fellowship leading the contingent they exited the city. The elves, Dunedain and Brenna's Rohirric guard members fell in behind the group them. The rest of their respective companies fell in line and formation behind them as they marched out towards Mordor.
Brenna looked to the blackened sky in front of them and began to sing softly. She let her voice carry on a gentle wind that swirled around the army of men. Courage and hope welled up in them, despite their fears they marched forward standing tall. Brenna kept praying as she was singing softly, her forehead shone brightly in the vast darkness they were walking towards. Looking around her she saw the destruction from the previous battle and vowed to come back and heal what she could on their return. As if sensing her intent Aragorn moved to her side.
"There will be time to heal little sister. Please do not over exert yourself again," he urged her. "A little at a time over an extended period of time will be more than I could ever ask or expect of you. The lands will heal, and though your gift will aid in that, I would have you whole and healthy as well."
Brenna smiled softly and nodded to him. She agreed with the wisdom of his words. Observing the lands around her she started a mental check list of all the places that she needed to visit and heal. Lothlorien would need to be healed from the destruction of the battle there as would Mirkwood. Rohan would need much healing from the years of Saruman's taint and evil. She remembered that she wanted to clean and heal the waters at Moria if there was time, but was unsure how safe it would be to do so. Fanghorn forest and Isengard would need her aid and healing. Gondor as a whole would need much of Brenna's time. She knew that she would take Lothíriel's offer and visit her in Dol Amroth. Prince Imrahil agreed readily, telling her that she would always be welcome there as an honored guest. Brenna pondered the Shire and vowed to check in on it from time to time to make sure that those living there were left untouched.
She was drawn back to the others, realizing that Aragorn had said something to her. She smile sheepishly and apologized. Brenna explained to him and the others her thoughts and conclusions. The group listened and made note to discuss this after they returned. They were beginning to realize the full weight of her gifts and obligations. Not only was she plagued by visions, she healed not just people but the lands. Hers was a task that would take years and a lot of her energy to complete. When she healed she was left weak and vulnerable, hence her need for a guard.
"Brenna, can you warn us of anything," Aragorn asked cautiously.
Brenna looked at him sharply. "Our enemy is cunning. They will seek to test our numbers and strength before we reach the Gates. We must remain focused and stay the course that we are now on," she told him with unfocused eyes. "I would feel much better if people would partner up with someone and fight side by side someone, but I know that's not realistic. It would be best if no one was separated from the others and we all watched out for one another. We will reach our destination in a week, we must be there in seven days and there we will meet our destinies."
Aragorn listened to her words and knew that she was holding something back. He wanted to ask her, but knew that he couldn't. She had told them before that she had one last task to do in battle. A cold chill ran down his spine at the thought of her facing two of the Nazgul again on her own. He held her weak and injured body the last time that she had faced them and did not relish the thought of doing so again.
Brenna knew where his thoughts went and her mouth tightened as did her grip on Ash's reins. She knew that she would have to face them again, if she did not one of the kingdoms of men would be without a king and chaos would ensue. Brenna trembled in her saddle knowing exactly what she would have to face. She had gone pale and had a foreboding look on her face. She would not leave one of her good friends to endure their lifetime alone and without the love of their life. Brenna knew what she had to do, and prayed that the cost would not be too great. She prayed that Elladan and the others would remain safe should the worst come to pass.
The others observed the change in her, but she said no more. The company moved forward, sending scouts ahead from time to time. Reports come back that the Nazgul are shadowing them as well as numbers of enemy scouts along the way. This does little to muster the spirits and courage of the men.
As they make their way, the return of the King is announced and heralded through the lands. Aragorn rides at the front of the column leading the army of free men to battle. Sensing the fear in some of the men he tells them to go, giving them the chance to leave before it is too late. Some do leave, walking away from the company and army, fearing death too much to carry on.
They push forward riding on, taking a slow pace as most of the army marched on foot. In the distance they heard the howling of the wolves and the unearthly cry of the Nazgul sounding in the dark. Brenna trembled at the noises that she heard. She was shaken to her very core. As they got closer to Mordor, the enemy was testing their numbers, creeping closer to them, testing their nerve and will. For days they marched on, stopping only for brief periods of rest because they knew that they were hunted.
Brenna's guard and friends tried to bring her into quiet conversations, but she had withdrawn. This was something the members of the Fellowship hadn't seen since they first set out from Rivendell and they were alarmed by the change in the girl. She stayed close to the others, taking comfort in their presence, but she knew that in the near future, she would have to go against her own advice and face her enemies alone.
Sighing she turned to see her friends watching her. She gave them a small sad smile. Humming softly to pass the time, she took solace in knowing that the Valar were with them. Taking courage in that fact, she began to mentally prepare herself for what she would have to do when they reached the Gates. Her voice carried on the wind calming and soothing the army, giving them hope. The answering cries of rage and fury from the enemy sounded in the distance startled Brenna and her friends. Closing her eyes she let the song fill her and she pushed the song out, pushing the wind to carry it. Her forehead glowed brightly in the surrounding darkness.
In the distance the sound of Nazgul's cry rang out. Brenna breathed deeply and wove the sound of her voice into the wind, bending it to her will. She put such a force behind it that she drove the Nazgul away, giving them some peace for the time being. Trembling, she knew that this would only be a temporary solution, that on the coming day she would have to face them head on, the fate of the world of men depended on it. Brenna knew that come what may she would face the Nazgul head on. With her guard and friends around her, she relaxed and rode forward humming.
