(Disclaimer: I own or claim none of Tolkien's work or characters, the only character that I claim is Brenna.)
Chapter 21
Brenna was up and moving before the sun had risen in the sky. She searched her wardrobe and found a simple green dress similar to the one that she had worn the night before. Quickly splashing water on her face, she dressed and got ready to leave her rooms. Strapping her dragger to her left thigh and grabbing her cloak, she left her rooms and made her way to stop at the kitchens.
Entering the main room of the kitchens, she asked if she could just get a simple bundle of fruit and bread to take with her. Not familiar with seeing her, the staff was startled to find someone in their domain, but complied when they realize who she was. She was handed a carefully bundled assortment of apples and other domestic fruits and some fresh bread. Smiling in thanks, she waved goodbye to the staff cheerfully.
Walking quickly through the maze of halls, Brenna oriented herself looking out at the City below to gauge her direction. When she had finally navigated back to the main entrance she stopped one of the passing servants to ask directions to the House of Healing. Thanking the young girl, she made her way quietly out the doors, waving to the guards posted there. Looking out on the horizon, she saw that the sun was just beginning to creep up.
Brenna knocked on the door and called out to the Master Healer as she entered the House of Healing. She was greeted warmly by the healers and their aids. Storing her bundle of food, having eaten an apple on the way, she exchanged her cloak for a smock and made her way through the rooms. Though some of the men had returned to their homes, many were here still recovering from their injuries.
Two young girls assisting the healers followed Brenna around, aiding her when they could. They watched in rapt attention as Brenna would sit and talk with each of the men, greeting some of them by name. Watching curiously as her hands glowed blue, they observed her healing the patients.
She was met with a joyful greeting from those that she had helped directly after the battles. While she was sitting with one of the Rohirrim, she discreetly asked if he or anyone he knew may have known a man named Fasthelm son of Guthwyn and Gárulf from the Eastfold. He shook his head, but indicated to some of his countrymen who might. She thanked him, while soothing the pain in his shattered led.
Closing her eyes, she let herself drop away and pushed her power to realign the broken bones, urging them to heal correctly and straight. Pulling back once she was satisfied, she noticed the man had beads of sweat on his brow and he had gone gray with the pain. She ran her hands over his leg and cooled the burning pain again. When he looked at her in question, she told him that his leg would heal and he would be fine.
Making her way through the room, helping as many as she could, she healed as much of the permanent damage that she was able to. Now that the urgency of fatalities had passed, she was able to help those left crippled and vowed to do so in the other realms when she had the chance. While she may not be able to fix it all, she could at least make it so they could lead productive and comfortable lives.
Finally, she had reached the far side of the room and greeted the men that the other Rider had indicated. She spoke quietly with them, while checking their wounds and setting bones to right. One of them told her that Fasthelm had indeed ridden with them. He asked why she wanted to know. Brenna paused and regarded him cautiously.
"His siblings are here in Minas Tirith. Their village was nearly wiped out and were just barely getting by when we arrived on our journey returning here." She told the young man quietly. There was a hush among the Riders now waiting for her to explain. "I invited Déorwyn and her younger siblings to travel with us. She is currently staying in the King's Hall as my guest and friend. I am trying to find her older brother or what happened to him so she and the children can have some sort of closure."
"What about their father's holdings?" one of them asked her.
"Wídfara, a close friend to Captain Eothain, agreed to stay and watch over their holdings. Riders from the neighboring villages arrived to help protect the village until the men return," she answered tiredly. She had been healing for over three hours.
"Milady, you should sit and rest some," one of the young men urged.
The young girls helping her brought over a chair for Brenna, which she smiled and thanked them for. She sat resting and talking with this particular group of men for a while, enjoying their company and listening to the stories of their families and youth. She exchanged stories with them, and told them of her exploits on horses before coming to Arda. She had the Horse-masters laughing hysterically with some of them.
"But milady," one of them gasped out, "you ride one of the Mearas. Surely you cannot be that bad of a rider?"
"Lady Eowyn and Eomer King took me under their wing and taught me themselves when they let me borrow Ash," she replied bashfully. "Besides, it is only by the will of the Valar that I haven't been thrown from a horse yet."
"Nay, Brenna," a deep voice behind her interjected in amusement. "You have become quite an experienced rider in your time with us." Eomer told her with a grin tugging at his mouth.
There were exclamations of joy and greetings for their king. He smiled and nodded in acknowledgement to his men. Taking up a chair with Brenna, he joined in the conversations. Her Guard discreetly fell in varying positions around the room. Some of them chatting with patients, others just watching.
A tall young man, laying in one of the beds nearby watched the exchange curiously. He watched the young girl distrustfully, not sure of her intentions when she began asking about him. He looked around at his comrades, all laughing and talking with her and their king. Realizing that she was sincere, he cleared his throat and brought her attention towards him.
Brenna carefully regarded the young man, he looked familiar somehow. His right shoulder was badly injured. She stood and walked around the side of his bed, checking the wound. Closing her eyes, she put her hands over the injury. Pouring her power into the joint, she healed as much of it as she could before she swayed in exhaustion. Eomer steadied her and Elladan stepped forward to help her sit back into her chair.
Eomer regarded the young man with a blank expression. "You've been quiet the whole time that she has been here. What is your name Rider?"
"I am Fasthelm, Eomer King," he told them in a pained voice.
Brenna pushed back to his side, and ran her hands over the shoulder, cooling and soothing the pain. He sighed in relief and thanked her. Two of his friends helped him to sit up in the bed.
"I did not identify myself because I was unsure of who she was and why she wanted to know where I was milord." He told them quietly. "I have no excuse and meant no offense by my actions. All I can say is that in the past we have had little reason to trust outsiders, though it is clear that I was wrong. I'm sorry milady," he said addressing Brenna directly.
She nodded tiredly as she sat in the chair. Her friends looked at her in concern. Catching Eothain's attention, she motioned for him to come over. Crouching next to her chair he regarded her quietly. "What is it Brenna?"
Nodding to the man sitting in the bed, "Meet Fasthelm, the long lost brother of our friend."
Eothain stood and observed the man before him. "I am glad we were able to find you Fasthelm. Your sister and younger siblings had been worried for you."
"What of my sister?" Fasthelm asked quietly and somewhat coldly.
Brenna stood between the two and regarded the young man in the bed. "Why don't we have Déorwyn and the children brought here? She can tell you for herself," she said in an annoyed voice.
"Now see here!" he went to interject, but a look from Eomer and Eothain was enough to silence him and curb his tongue.
Brenna looked at him coolly, "For one so concerned for your sister and other siblings, you certainly have a way of showing it. Given the choice it would seem that you prefer a life of anonymity than to take responsibility of them. Here you are over six weeks after the battle and you didn't even bother to have word sent to them. They would have starved before the end of summer had they not accompanied us. She fought off unwanted advances from someone whom you trusted them with. Do you know that he would have used the children against her to make her do what he wanted? Of course not, you weren't there. So you'll forgive me if I don't give a damn what you have to say in anything regarding her or them."
With that Brenna stood and made to leave the room. Eomer, caught her hand and apologized quietly. He nodded to her Guard members who all had grim looks on their faces. Eothain in particular looked ill at her revelations, glaring heatedly at the young man now sitting shaken in his bed.
As she was leaving the room Brenna tore the smock off, handing it to one of the young girls. Her anger was palpable was her power seemed to crackling in the air around her. These men were seeing a glimpse of the warrior that had faced and put down two of the Nazgul. Fasthelm watched as she grabbed her things and left the House of Healing. The men around him rounded on him in varying looks of shock, horror, and anger.
Eomer leaned over him and told him in a deadly calm voice. "You have made a grave mistake here today. Déorwyn and the children are under Brenna's protect, thus making them under my protect as I claim her as my sister. King Aragorn and the various other members of the Fellowship do as well. Should your sister voice her opinion or desire to wed someone, rest assured it will be her choice. Seeing and hearing what she and those young children have been through partly due to your negligence is inexcusable. When you are well enough you will apologize, not only to Brenna, but your siblings and Eothain. Do I make myself clear?"
Fasthelm's mouth had gone dry. He nodded, unable to get his voice to work. He didn't know of Brenna as he had been moved here after she and the others had set out for Lothlorien after the wedding of Lady Eowyn. He and his group had been in one of the makeshift healing tents in the lower level of the city. When they were moved here they heard tales of the young elf maiden, both in her battle prowess and in regards to her healing abilities. At first some of them scoffed at the tales the others told them, but they soon quieted at the fierce defense of the girl. He knew now he had made a serious mistake, one he hoped to be able to rectify immediately.
His own friends looked at him in shock. Many of them had grown up together. They let the whole conversation sink in, thinking about what had been said. Looking at Fasthelm in question he nodded dejectedly.
"It would appear that I made the mistake of trusting Grimbold with my kin," he said looking around. "He is lucky that he has passed from this life to the next." His voice falters, choked with anger at the thought of the man trying to harm Déorwyn.
Thinking of his sister, he realized that he had failed her in many regards. Praying to the Valar, he hoped that she would forgive him and listen to him. He thought of Eothain and knew that he was an honorable man that would do right by her, that he apparently already had done so spoke volumes about the type of man that he was.
Brenna stormed through the streets, her fierce expression had people moving aside as the normally smiling and happy young woman looked ready to do battle. With her cloak flying behind her, and her hair floating in the breeze swirling around her, she walked quickly up the steps of the King's Hall. The guards quickly allowed her entry and her Guard raced to catch up to the girl.
Lothíriel looked at Brenna in shock as she walked quickly to her rooms, ignoring the calls of her Guard. Lothíriel waved them off and followed the angry young woman. Some of them continued to follow at a distance as others tore off in the opposite direction in search of Aragorn. The elves in the group could feel the rage rolling off of her. Elladan was extremely concerned for her.
Oriel met them in the hall, took one look at her friend and changed directions. They entered Brenna's room where she stripped off her cloak and dug in her chest of drawers looking for a tunic. Shedding her dress, uncaring of the fact that she had company in her room. Donning a muted green tunic, she turned and began strapping on her weapons.
At the startled cries of her friends, they began talking over one another asking her what was wrong. A quick knock at the door alerted them to the fact that they now had company. Arwen poked her head in and paled seeing her friend apparently ready to take on a mountain troll or perhaps another of the Nazgul. Aragorn stepped in the room and walked towards his little sister-friend. He stilled her hands and she secured vambraces on her forearms. Turning towards the door he saw that Eomer stood at the door stunned seeing her in her battle gear.
"Brenna, I know that he angered you but I cannot allow you to cause him harm," Eomer said cautiously.
"Allow me?" Brenna bit out. "What you have all failed to understand is that where I am from, there is no allowing or disallowing anyone to do anything. As a woman, I had the same rights and freedom that men did there." She told him with her voice shaking in emotion.
Lady Galadriel entered the room and turned towards Brenna in concern. "Brenna, you need to calm you anger. Take a deep calming breath and pull back your power," she coaxed the younger elleth.
"If someone would be so kind as to direct me to the training ground or saddle my horse for a ride, I need to get out of here before I take my anger out on the next male that tells me or any other female in my vicinity what to do." She managed to grit out while donning her cloak.
Lady Eowyn heard what Brenna had said and snorted with laughter. "Let me get changed and I'll accompany you my friend."
Déorwyn and the children agreed to go as well. Lothíriel took one look at the rage shivering through her friend and told her father that she would accompany her friend. Waving off the protest of her father and brother she kept her eyes on her friend and simply told them, that if someone had Brenna that mad an upset, it would be a good idea for her to have her female companions with her to help her work through it.
Oriel re-entered the room dressed in a tunic, donning her own weapons. Lady Galadriel nodded to her and let the others know that she would join them a bit later, causing the males of her family to look at her in shock. Arwen agreed to the same, saying that she would join them with her grandmother after she met with some of the planners for the feast and wedding.
Brenna had her boots laced on tightly and she turned to look at the male members of her Guard. Elladan looked at her in concern, not really sure what to do or say. The others weren't much better. It was clear to them that the vast cultural differences between Brenna's upbringing and those of the people in Arda would be coming to a head in the near future.
Drawing a deep cleansing breath, she let it out and drew another, trying to tamp down the surge of her power. She trembled with anger still coursing through her. The things that she saw made her stomach churn and she felt sick.
With her eyes still closed she addressed them, "Do you have any idea what that sick disgusting excuse for a human being would have done to her? He would have used those children against her and blackmailed her to submit to him. That depraved, pig of a man is lucky he is no longer here for me to deal with, " she told them coldly.
"In my world men like him sometimes got away with what they did to their victims, I certainly hope that is not the case here. The things that he did, I can't," her voice shook as she looked like she was going to be sick.
Opening her eyes she saw them all looking a bit pale and upset. Brenna kept her face carefully blank when Déorwyn and the children returned. Once Eowyn was ready they set out. Brenna nodded grimly to the members of her Guard who followed her a bit cautiously. None of them had seen her so upset before.
Eowyn led them down to the practice and training yard. The knights that had been training there cleared out, allowing Brenna and the others to pass. Many of them stood by and watched curiously. None of them were willing to approach the young woman as they could physically feel the rage swirling around her.
Seeing a large post Brenna walked forward unsheathing her sword and let her anger and power bubble over. Putting everything she had behind the swing, she cleaved a good six inches off of the top. Dropping to her knees still trembling, she let her anger drain away and she wept.
Her Guard and the men around the training ground stood in place shocked. The petite little woman had just hacked a four-by-four post up like it was nothing. Those that didn't know her, regarded her quietly and vowed not to anger the little elf any time soon. They quietly spread word of what they had seen the girl do. It was clear to them that someone had upset her a great deal, and that they were lucky that she hadn't turned her blade on them instead.
Aragorn and Eomer entered the yard quickly, they had received a startled message from one of the captains training there and set off to check on Brenna. They were not expecting to see her on her knees weeping by the post. Both stopped short seeing the damage she had done.
"Little sister, breathe," Aragorn said as he knelt, taking her hand in his own. "It's alright Brenna, it'll be alright."
Eomer crouched on her other side surveying her blade and then the post. He picked up the piece that she had cut off and stood. Nodding to the others he stood, taking the piece with him. He called to them that he would return it to Brenna when he came back.
Entering the House of Healing he walked grimly towards where Fasthelm sat. Upon seeing his expression his countrymen grew silent. The whole room now watched and listened. He dropped the piece of post on his bed. They all recognized it for what it was and looked back at Eomer in question.
"Be grateful Brenna did not take out her anger on you," he told the younger man sternly. "Rather than take it out on your hide, she did that," he said pointing to the piece of wood.
Fasthelm looked at the block, eyes wide and pale. The others in the room were just as shocked. They could hardly picture the little woman who had so gently healed them taking off a piece of practice post. Yet here was the evidence and word of their king that she had done just that.
"I'll be taking that back to her, as it is hers. Let it be a warning to you and any that would be foolish enough to anger her. She is very protective of those that she considers to be friend and family. That little elf killed not one, but two of the Nazgul that would have struck me down at the Black Gates." He told them firmly. "That young woman has more courage than any I know, save perhaps my sister and the Ringbearers. Think long and hard before you or anyone that you know upsets her in such a way again."
Turning and looking Fasthelm directly in the eye, "What that knave would have done to your siblings is unspeakable. This is why Brenna went into such a rage. She saw what would have happened had he not answered the call of Théoden King."
Fasthelm felt sick thinking about what Eomer told him. His vision blurred thinking about what could have happened to his sister and other siblings. He couldn't fathom someone being so sick and depraved.
"I know that you are a good man Fasthelm." Eomer assured him. "You're a Rider and fought bravely, but now you need to do right by your kin. Before journeying here, Brenna healed the land and helped the crops surrounding your village. Leagues surrounding your home crops now grow and flourish. The like of which hasn't been seen in Rohan in decades. Our country owes her much."
There was a murmur in agreement around the room. Many looked hopeful hearing that their lands were recovering. That she stood up for and came to the defense of one of their own, someone she barely knew, was something they admired greatly. She had spent so much time here and elsewhere healing their wounded and talking with them. Their king was alive because of her. It was sinking in just how valuable and how much of an asset Brenna was.
Eomer stood, taking the wood block with him leaving his men to think about what he had told them. Fasthelm was not much younger than himself, but he was still not as mature as some of his peers. The young man hadn't had to deal with many of the hardships that so many other Riders had faced. Of course the loss of his parents and older brothers was a terrible tragedy, but prior to that he had seemingly led a sheltered life compared to many of his countrymen. The man would have to grow up a bit and take up his father's stead and household.
Meanwhile back in the training yard Brenna was being calmed by Aragorn and Elladan. Legolas and the other members of the Fellowship had been filled into their friend's journey and watched helplessly as she struggled with her emotions. Legolas stepped forward and held his hand out to the young elleth.
He handed her the sword that she had dropped and indicated to her twin blades. She nodded with a slight grin and the others stepped away giving them room. There was a collective sigh of relief as she seemed to calm and rein in her emotions better.
The two faced off and Brenna twirled her blades in her hands, loosening up her wrists. Legolas bowed to her and Brenna returned the gesture with a small smile. With a clang, their blades met in rapid succession. Their hands blurred with the speed in which they moved. Brenna ducked then, spun around, tapping Legolas on the back with one of her blades, shocking the Woodland elf. Spinning to face him, she used his surprise to press her advantage and backed him up a few steps before he regained his focus. He had the advantage of years and experience on his side and Brenna soon was tiring. Their blades locked as Brenna read his move. Shoving back, he knocked on of the blades from her hand and then the second.
With a whoop and a laugh he picked her up and spun her around. He congratulated her for a good fight and praised her improvement. Elladan and Elrohir laughed at his antics, knowing that he was doing so to bring up her spirits, though even they recognized that with enough practice Brenna would be able to best most of them. She was fast, agile, and small enough to duck under the reach of most of her opponents.
Elrohir picked up her blades and handed them to her, indicating to her sword. He grinned at her and winked as the men around the yard called out to warn him. Brenna chuckled under her breath. Nodding to him, she took out her sword and faced him. Her cheeks were flush with the effort she exerted and her eyes showed her excitement.
Bowing towards one another, they circled each other for a bit. Brenna stepped forward, and dodged the blow Elrohir swung. Swinging her own sword, she met his blade. The two seemed to be performing a well-choreographed dance. She knew that he was holding back and glared at him in challenge. His eyes sparked and he pressed on. His pace increased and she met him strike for strike. He looked a little surprised, but grinned at her.
She was soon tiring and fought to maintain the speed and intensity, but soon found her blade sailing out of her hand. She sagged in exhaustion when he too picked her up and spun her around. Laughing tiredly she turned to where the rest of her friends stood watching. Nodding to the other women, the group began sparring under the watchful eye of Brenna's Guard.
Stowing her blades back in their sheathes, she went to the archery targets. The elvish members of her Guard had joined her with their own bows and soon there was a friendly contest among them going. They were doing their best to get Brenna to relax and it seemed to be working.
Elladan met Legolas's eye above her head when she was taking a shot and nodded to his fellow elf. Legolas smiled in response and nodded towards the target. Thwack! Brenna had hit the inner ring her first shot. She was still a little ways from a bull's eye but she had vastly improved.
Taking a calming breath and focusing, she let another arrow fly. Thwack! This one hit closer, but not quite there. Letting out her breath she notched the next arrow as everything else around her fall away. All of the noise and laughter on the practice field was a dull roar in her ears. Pulling back and steadying her hand, she took another deep breath. Adjusting for the wind she let the arrow fly. Thwack! There it was, dead center.
Brenna whooped and did a little dance that had her friends laughing. She turned to Elladan with her eyes sparkling. He returned the grin, brushing the hair from her brow as she stepped closer.
"Are you alright now melamin?" he asked her quietly.
"Yes, I know that I shouldn't have lost control like that. I was so worked up by what I saw would have happened to them, that I could focus on little else. I like maybe owe her brother an apology. I may have judged him too harshly," she replied looking worried.
"None of us think ill of you for how you reacted. After all that you have seen and done, I dare not try to imagine how bad it must have been to set you off in such a way." He told her solemnly. "I'll support you in whatever it is that you decide to do. Should you choose to formally offer them your protection, I will be there with you every step of the way."
"I'm not sure what to do, but I appreciate your support Elladan. I think for now I should wait and see. I have a feeling that I won't need to intervene any further, especially if Eothain has anything to say about the situation." She said with a smile.
The two turned and made their way back to the sparring area and watched as the others took turns. Brenna watched as Eothain stood talking with young Edmund, showing him the proper way to hold his little practice sword. Off to the side she saw Déorwyn observe the man spending time with her younger brother with a soft smile on her face.
Brenna snorted, causing Elladan to look at her in question. She nodded at her friend and he grinned at her. With her arm looped through his, he led her to a nearby bench to rest for a while. She snuggled into his side, taking comfort in his presence. Glancing around she noticed that Arwen and Galadriel had joined the group and were talking quietly watching them practice. It ended up being a very good day, despite its shaky start. The group broke up to go get cleaned up for lunch.
Brenna went to her rooms to wash up and put her dress back on. She came out of her bathroom dressed and toweling her hair only to find Oriel, Déorwyn, Lothíriel, Arwen and Lady Galadriel waiting for her. Taking a breath, she explained to them what had happened this morning. Déorwyn looked thrilled and relieved that her brother had survived the war, but scowled as she listened to Brenna describe her morning.
When urged to explain what she meant about Grimbold, she relented and told them honestly and plainly what she had seen. Déorwyn sat down pale and shaking as the women closed rank around her trying to comfort the young woman. She had known that Grimbold was not as trustworthy as her brother had thought. She had brushed off his advances and rejected him, but he did do the honorable thing and rode to battle with his king. Hearing everything Brenna was saying, she was not sorry that he had not survive. She shuddered to think what would have happened had he returned.
Brenna soothed her friend, while Oriel brushed out her damp hair. Brenna asked her to leave her hair down for lunch and requested that she use the hair combs for the feast tonight. Oriel grinned in response and acquiesced to her friend. Soon the women left to join the men for lunch. The children were in the dining hall laughing and sitting with Eothain. Eomer watched his friend with mirth evident in his eyes. It amused him and lightened his heart to see his friend settle in his role as a family man.
Brenna approached Aragorn who placed the block of wood on the table in front of her with an amused look on his face. The action had stilled the crowd and silenced many of the visiting dignitaries. She flushed and gave him a rueful smile, shrugging and taking the block. He chuckled and led her further up the table near where he would be sitting. Eomer and the others followed. Sitting her first and then seating himself he turned to her.
"Aragorn, did the message about the North reach you?" she asked him quietly.
He nodded grimly looking at her. "Aye, it is disturbing news and I thank you for the warning. After the wedding I will be sending Halabard and the others North with instructions and whatever reinforcements I can spare. They will travel with us to the funeral of King Théoden and then continue North to the Old Kingdom. Your news and warning about the East is also troubling."
Eomer nodded as did the others nearby. Imrahil sat pensively sipping from his goblet. Faramir seemed to be going over numbers in his head. There was murmuring of what could be done and strategy.
Arwen and the other ladies listened quietly. Lothíriel looked like she had something to had but bit back her comments. Eomer observed this and looked at her in question. She flushed and shook her head negatively.
"Aragorn, I'm not familiar with the different lands and peoples. Perhaps discussing possible trade or some sort of Treaty with the East would assuage some of the problems from them?" Brenna suggested.
There was discussion back and forth between the men. They were keeping their voices down so the other guests didn't hear what was being said. Brenna lost herself to her thoughts. She reached out and grabbed the table as she felt the visions swamp her. Whimpering slightly from the force behind them she lost herself to what she was seeing.
Flash! She saw the Dunedain arriving back in their homeland. Flash! Rogue Corsairs attacked Belfalas, burning the ports. Flash! Orcs and Wargs we regrouping and attacking travelers, ambushing them in the night. She briefly saw a couple of the caverns in which they had found refuge. Flash! She saw a delegation of dwarves on the move, heading for both Gondor and Rohan. Flash! She saw Thranduil preparing his people to leave. Flash! She saw the Hobbits returning to the Shire. Flash! Flash! Flash!
Aragorn called Elladan over when he notice Brenna trembling. Elrohir and his father followed closely Aragorn pried her hands from the table as the elves called to her, drawing her back to them. Lady Galadriel approached, taking Brenna's hand. She murmured quietly to the young woman. Elladan was on her right side, seeking her out and trying to soothe the throbbing of her temples.
Brenna took a shuddering breath and clung to Elladan. He crouched next to her spot on the bench rubbing soothing circles on her back. He reached for a cup of water for her, which she gladly accepted. Taking a few calming breaths, she shakily explain to Aragorn and the other leaders what she saw. The other guests present that didn't know of Brenna or her powers, now knew that she was a Seer.
Brenna buried her face in Elladan's chest as he took the seat next to her on the bench. Lady Galadriel ran a hand gently through her hair and told Brenna that she would begin training her to help her control her gift. The young elleth gratefully agreed and thanked her. Elladan nodded to his grandmother in thanks, holding Brenna gently to his chest trying to calm her. She still trembled in fear, which caused him to worry. He shared a look with Aragorn, Eomer and that other members of her Guard and family.
Lunch was concluded and Brenna was ushered into the King's private meeting room. Her Guard and family and friends accompanied them. Déorwyn looked like she felt out of place, but Eothain ushered her into the room, bringing the children along. Brenna smiled at her friend and waved her over to her side.
"How are you doing?" Brenna asked her.
"I'm doing better now, it was difficult to hear, but thank you." Déorwyn told her.
"There are a few options available to you now that your brother has been found," Brenna began cautiously. "Typically, from what I understand, your brother would have responsibility over you and your siblings. He would be able to choose your husband. However, in light of the situation that you found yourself in I'm offering you a different option, though there may be another available to you," she told her friend with a sly look to Eothain. "I can use my position and offer you my protection. I would take you on as a member of my household, though I will be traveling most of my time here in Arda. In title you could be one of my attendants if you felt the need for such a thing and I would offer similar to your younger siblings. I don't expect or want servants. I'd rather surround myself with friends and people that I can trust, but it is entirely up to you. Even if you choose just to travel and offer companionship I would gladly accept that."
Déorwyn looked at her stunned at the offer. Brenna saw Eomer nudge Eothain out of the corner of her eye and grinned. She leaned into Elladan who was seated next to her. In response he held her to his side.
Eothain shakily sat next to Déorwyn, taking her hand in his own. "Déorwyn, I believe that I could offer you the other option Brenna hinted at. With permission and leave of our King, I would like to become betrothed and eventually take you to be my wife."
Déorwyn looked around the room at the smiles on the faces of those assembled. She turned toward Eomer, who nodded his head with a pleased smile. "Well who am I at argue with the will of the king," she said jokingly, before sobering. Looking at Eothain she smiled and nodded. "If this is what you want then, I'm saying yes."
Cheers sounded around the room. Eomer walked over to the two and offered his congratulations and blessings. Brenna sat beaming next to the happy couple. She sighed wistfully. Elladan gently squeeze her side in response. She turned to look up at him and found that he was watching her with a mischievous grin.
Brenna turned back to her newly betrothed friend, not sure how to approach the subject. Suddenly she had a spark of inspiration, "I'd like to speak with you Déorwyn, if I could borrow your love for a moment Eothain."
Déorwyn looked at her curiously, but followed her friend off to the side. Lothíriel and the other ladies present had followed. Brenna caught Eothain's eye and nodded reassuringly. She smile and turned back to her beaming friend.
"Déorwyn," she began gently. "I noticed that last night you looked like you felt a little out of place. I think you know that I can relate to you more than most, so please don't take this the wrong way or become offended. You have no reason to be self-conscious with us, ever."
"Brenna," the poor girl stammered out blushing. "I, it's not," she couldn't form a complete sentence, looking at the ground very unsure.
"Déorwyn, listen to me. I came here with nothing but the clothing on my back. I have no home, the only blood kin I have is my grandfather Gandalf and he's leaving in a couple of years. I have no skills, so to speak, that would allow me to earn a living here. What possessions I do have are from my loved ones. So I know what you're feeling," Brenna told her, causing the other women so listen quietly. "I know for a fact that Eothain would move heaven and earth if it meant that you were happy. I know that he noticed you were uncomfortable, which is why I'm talking to you now. If he offers to provide for you, please accept it. If there are others of us who offer to have gifts made or commissioned for you and the children, please accept them as tokens of friendship."
Déorwyn looked at her friend carefully and drew her into a hug. Brenna sagged in relief and hugged the other young woman back. Déorwyn, met Eothain's gaze across the room and smiled at him. He breathed a sigh of relief knowing that whatever Brenna had said, she felt better about things.
Brenna stepped away from the ladies and made her way over to him and whispered to him what she said to Déorwyn. Nodding in agreement with what Brenna had said, he thanked her quietly and beckoned Déorwyn over. Brenna went back to where Lothíriel was standing with the others and let the two speak together privately.
The group conversed and enjoyed the company of each other for a while before Aragorn called Brenna over to sit by him and explain what she had seen. She told them all about the upcoming attacks and the cause and effect of things. The group sat quietly for a few moments thinking.
Eomer turned towards Lothíriel, "You looked like you had something you wanted to say earlier regarding the situation."
Lothíriel blushed hotly, not meeting her father's eye. "I don't know what you're talking about milord."
Eomer looked at her incredulously, but pressed on. "Oh no milady, you most definitely had something to say. I'm curious to see what you think."
She looked up and had a spark in her eyes. "It would seem that in the next few years there will be multiple attacks around all of our borders, perhaps simultaneously. If we are not careful we will be stretched too thin. We cannot risk sending too many of our reserves to other locations for fear of being overwhelmed within our own borders."
He grinned at her and nodded. "Well thought and well put. It was a thought I myself concluded as well."
Eowyn watched the exchange and turned to Brenna with a raised eyebrow. In return Brenna nodded and grinned mischievously. Eowyn snorted, alerting the others to their silent communication. Looking at Eothain as well, Eowyn raised an eyebrow. Once again Brenna nodded with a widening smile. Eowyn laughed outright now.
"Oh how the mighty have fallen," she murmured laughing.
Brenna looked right at her grinning, "You have no idea."
Eowyn looked at her curiously, but it was Déorwyn who chimed in. "Lady Brenna knows who, how, and when the members of her Guard and family will meet their matches. I think that she's having a bit of fun leading them all on a merry adventure to find them. I wonder who will be next," she said with a laugh.
All eyes turned to Brenna who grinned and shrugged. "Over the next three or four years all of my Guard, with the exception of the elves, will find their match. The elvish members of my Guard will meet their mates when we finally reach Valinor. I'm not going to do much more than give them the opportunity to find each other and help the situations along if I can, otherwise it's all them."
Eothain grinned, "Well, you have my thanks."
Lothíriel looked from Brenna to the men present around the room. When she found the King of Rohan watching her with a guarded expression, she noticed there was something else in his gaze. Turning to Brenna she found her friend grinning at her. Prince Imrahil caught on and looked back and forth between the two. He nodded to the King of Rohan in acknowledgement but said, "the choice is hers."
Lothíriel looked at her father and brother and then back to Eomer. "I won't be making any decisions right now. If that were to happen," Brenna snorted interrupting her. "As I was saying, if that were to occur it would not be for a while. I would like to take the time to get to know my future spouse better and not have it seem like some impersonal business arrangement."
She smiled shyly at Eomer, seeing him nod in agreement with a hopeful look. "If I were to agree to such a thing, one must understand there is the standard betrothal of a year. Much like Brenna has spoken of, I think that marriage should be a partnership."
Eomer's face bloomed into a grin, and he knew then without a doubt that this woman would make a good Queen for his people and a wife for himself. "Aye, milady. My parents had such a union. They had a very happy and loving relationship, one that I hope to have someday myself."
Lothíriel blushed under his intense gaze and nodded, looking to her father. Then she whipped her head around to Brenna, "I can see now what you meant that it wouldn't be some fat toad of a man three times my age."
Brenna erupted into giggles causing Lothíriel to join in, followed shortly by Déorwyn and Eowyn. Arwen, though seemingly more reserved, had laughter showing in her eyes. Prince Imrahil and Amrothos scolded Lothíriel, scandalized that she would say such a thing. The members of the Rohirrim grinned, loving the petite girl all the more for it. Eomer's deep chuckle in response had Lothíriel shivering with tingles down her spine and nearly fanning herself with the heated look he sent her way. She couldn't help think to herself that the man certainly wasn't an old man three times her age and she would be fortunate to have such a man as a husband.
Brenna smothered her laughter and looked around the room at her family. Each and every one of them had come to mean a great deal to her. From the members of the Fellowship, to her Guard, to her future family, she loved them all dearly.
She glanced at Legolas and smiled at him. "Your father sends his regards. I have a bundle in my pack from your mother to pass along to you," she told him with a grin.
He smiled joyfully at the mention of his family. "Thank you Brenna. It is good to hear that they are well. I thank you for healing my homeland."
She smiled at the other members of the Fellowship and turned to Gimli. "A party of our kin now make their way here and will go to Rohan as well my friend."
"Aye, lass. I sent for them, but it is good to hear they are on the move," he told her in his thick brogue.
She watched as the children looked curiously at the Hobbits and Gimli. They had become accustomed to the elves in their journey from home to Gondor. Everyone was patient with them and answered their questions. Telling them stories about their homes and families. To say that they were fascinated, was an understatement.
Soon a servant came announcing that the Feast would be ready shortly and everyone left to get changed. Brenna walked with Oriel and Déorwyn towards their rooms. Lothíriel came behind them carrying a number of dresses. She nudged Brenna into her room handing her the newly made gowns, ignoring her protests as she turned toward an amused Déorwyn standing at the doorway.
She walked forward and handed the young woman two other gowns as well as various articles of clothing for the children. Déorwyn tried to refuse, but Lothíriel said that they were a gift and it was rude to refuse a gift. Déorwyn scowled at her for a moment, but it softened into a smile and she thanked her, giving her a hug before going to her rooms.
Oriel assisted Brenna change in to a deep burgundy gown, with softer shades of layers beneath it. Along the edging had silver stars and Celtic knots. Oriel slightly curled her hair, pinning it away from her face with the hair combs from Elladan. When they were done, they went to assist Déorwyn and the children.
A knock sounded at the door and Eothain was there to escort Déorwyn and the children. Elladan poked his head in and smiled at Brenna. Oriel accepted Elrohir's gallant gesture and the group set off for the larger hall for the Feast. They were announced as they arrived and found their seating places around the King's table.
There were speculative murmurs and some people present gawked and pointed at Brenna and some of the other elves. Elladan shot them glares, as did many of the other people sitting at the King's table. Arwen, Eowyn, Lothíriel, and Lady Galadriel greeted Brenna, Oriel and Déorwyn warmly. Making a public showing of their support and solidarity. It was clear to the other ladies present that these women were allies and in positions of power. Any schemes or speculation about them was short lived.
Speeches greeting their guests were made and soon the food was brought out. There was music in the background and bards had come to sing of the deeds of those who had fought. Brenna flushed brightly and ducked her head when one of them sung of her deeds. Elladan and the others chuckled at her wide -eyed expression. Eowyn's laughter was short lived as another bard started a song about her.
The tables and food were cleared away and the dancing had begun. Brenna spent the night close to Elladan only dancing with her friends and family. When Elladan asked her if she was alright and asked her why she explained that she was having a difficult time controlling her gift of Sight and sometimes touching things or people triggered the visions. He looked at her in concern, but she just smiled reassuringly.
The night wore on and everyone was enjoying themselves. Eomer beckoned Eothain and Déorwyn forward, making the announcement of their betrothal. There were loud cheers and congratulations from the Rohirrim present. Many of their dignitaries had travelled for the wedding of their ally and to be part of the funerary procession of their fallen king. They were happy for their fellow countryman.
The night wound down and Elladan escorted Brenna towards her rooms. Stopping in the hallway by her door he turned to her and looked down at the dark haired elleth. Gently touching the hair combs he had given her, he smiled down at her.
"We will have our time and our turn melamin. We can announce our betrothal at any time you wish, but we would still have to wait until your majority," he told her quietly.
"I know, there doesn't really seem to be any reason not to announce it. Whether we become formally betrothed or just have our wedding and bonding ceremony without it, it won't matter. Though it may make things easier if it were public knowledge that we are pledged to one another. It would certainly stop advances other men," she replied.
He tensed and looked at her. "What advances?"
"Some men see what they think is an unattached female and try to receive her favor. There wasn't any particular man or advances, but there may be in the future especially with Aragorn and Eomer publically acknowledging and claiming me as their sister." She said, thinking out loud.
Taking her hand he led her back down the hallway towards the King's rooms. Elladan was supposed to meet with the others for a meeting after Brenna was safely in her rooms, but this was something he wanted to take care of now. Knocking on the door they were beckoned in. The other men looked a bit startled to see Brenna with Elladan and thought that something may be wrong.
"I need to go get something from my rooms and I will be right back," he told them. "I'll explain when I get back."
Brenna stood there and watched him leave with a bright smile and slight flush on her face. Aragorn and Eomer came forward asking her what was going on. Gandalf observed his granddaughter and nodded to her. Elrohir and both his father and grandfather her curiously as Elladan came back in the room.
Taking her hand he led her towards the group that contained the male members of their family and friends. Brenna's Guard were also present, hanging back watching the scene unfold in front of them. A dawning look appeared on some of their faces and broad smiles spread across their faces.
"Mithrandir, we wish to formally become betrothed. As her grandfather, we seek your permission to do so with your blessing." Elladan told him steadily.
Aragorn and Eomer shared a grin, and looked at the two elves waiting for Gandalf to say something. The silence in the room rang out and stretched.
"Of course you have my permission and blessing dear boy!" Gandalf exclaimed. "But you must remember you cannot be bonded until she turns fifty."
"We know and understand grandfather. Thank you!" Brenna hugged him happily.
Elladan drew her to him and presented her with a mithril band with star burst engraved all around it. He held her hand and slid the delicate ring onto index finger of her right hand. Once in place he brought the hand to his mouth, kissing it gently while smiling down at her.
There were cheers and shouts of congratulations. Elrohir picked Brenna up and spun her around, setting her down he hugged his future sister. He hugged his brother, clapping him on the back. Others came forward and congratulated the two and wished them luck.
Gandalf drew Brenna into a hug. He whispered her congratulations to her and told her that he was very happy for them. Pulling back he beamed at her and clapped Elladan on the back and welcomed him to the family.
Once the excitement died down, Brenna bid them goodnight and Elladan escorted her back down the halls to her. Her arm was looped through his as they walked towards her room talking quietly among themselves. They soon reached her door and stood outside it in the hallway.
Looking down at the ring now on her hand she asked, "When did you get this?"
"I made arrangements for it before we left for Lothlorien," he told her quietly holding her hand up to see it in the torchlight before bringing her fingertips to his lips. "You should get some rest love."
She huffed playfully, "If I must."
He grinned down at her, "Go and get some sleep. I will see you tomorrow. Beware though that there will most likely be some sort of announcement made tomorrow."
Brenna's eyes got large at the news and she felt his chuckle rumble through his chest and he pulled her in hugging her and kissing her on her forehead. He pulled back and looked down at her.
She smiled at him and pulled back. "Goodnight Elladan."
Brenna stepped into her room and shut the door behind her. Elladan waited until he was sure that she was in for the night before he turned and went back to the meeting. Brenna entered her room and sat at her vanity, staring down at her hand. There was a knock on her door and Oriel entered. She went to Brenna and helped to take her hair out. She untied the back of her dress before the glint of Brenna's ring caught her eye. Taking Brenna's hand in for closer inspection, a beautiful smile bloomed on her face.
"Congratulations Brenna, I'm happy for you both!" Oriel said hugging her friend.
Brenna stepped out of her dress, pulling on one of her night shirts and donning a robe. She had so much nervous excited energy she couldn't sleep. Oriel quietly let herself out of the room and Brenna climbed sat on the window sill looking up at the stars. Humming softly to herself, she thanked the Valar for the blessings bestowed upon her. Finally her fatigue became evident and she climbed into bed for the night.
Morning brought with it the beginning of a busy and excited group of women. Brenna and Elladan's betrothal was announced at breakfast to the cheers of those present. Both Brenna and Déorwyn were accompanied to the House of Healing with their future spouses to see Fasthelm. News of their betrothals had reached the patients. They were greeted with cheers of congratulations and well wishes as they made their way towards Fasthelm.
Fasthelm was sitting up in his bed, feeling much better today. When he heard the news of the betrothal of his sister and Lady Brenna, he was happy for them. He smiled crookedly at his sister, who came forward to hug him tightly. They spoke quietly to one another, he apologized to her quietly, fighting back tears thinking of what might have happened to her had things been differently.
Brenna watched the reunion smiling. When the siblings pulled back Brenna stepped forward. Fasthelm beat her to it and apologized to her for his behavior and tone the day before. He also apologized to his future brother-in-law, who waved it off and shook his hand. Brenna apologized for her harsh judgment and behavior as well, and just like that all was well.
They made their way back to the King's Hall and helped with the preparations to the upcoming nuptials of Aragorn. The next few days passed with a blur and soon enough it was the night before the wedding. Aragorn was swept away by the men and Arwen was whisked off to spend the night with the ladies. Their celebrations lasted well into the night before they eventually went to bed.