(Disclaimer: I own or claim none of Tolkein's work or characters, the only character that I claim is Brenna.)
Author's Note: This story is still bouncing around in my head. I have no intention at this point in time for Brenna to fall for any character. As of now The Fellowship views her as family or friend only. Perhaps in time she will fall for someone, but it won't be a member of The Fellowship and it probably won't happen for a long time. I'm still working out all the characters and their interactions. She's not perfect, she has character flaws, strengths and weaknesses. And while she has joined the Fellowship, she has her own task she must face. I can't say much more without giving it away.
Gandalf lit the stone on his staff to light the darkness and lead the way through the mines. Brenna was fighting the tightness in her chest, she really didn't like the dark or being in closed in spaces. The more that she thought about it, her heritage certainly explained the discomfort that she felt. She preferred open spaces, where she could breathe. Legolas seeming to sense her discomfort squeezed her shoulder to let her know that he too knew the feeling. The group slowly made their way through what appeared to be a grand entrance Hall. Taking their steps carefully through the debris littering the seemingly deserted halls, they wound their way through mazes of columns.
Gandalf warned them all the keep as quiet as possible. Brenna's stomach knotted knowing what they would be facing in the deep dark caverns of Moria. Hearing a noise behind them, she spotted the beady eyes of Gollum following them at a distance, biding his time. She shivered as she thought of his fate. They made their way to a fork in their path, with Gandalf being unsure of which to choose, they decided to sit quietly and get as much rest as possible while they had the time.
Brenna sat off at a distance quietly watching her companions talking among themselves. She was slowly starting to feel like she was beginning to fit in, even if she knew that she wasn't supposed to be there. She vowed to do her very best to make sure that none of the others were harmed and to not change things, no matter how much it hurt. She noticed Legolas standing nearby and she motioned him over.
"Things are going to happen that I can do nothing to change. It's not that I don't want to, but I cannot because it could change what is supposed to happen." she stated quietly "I just want you to understand that this is not easy for me, and it's not that I don't care. I care too much to change anything, it would be the end of all of us if I change anything."
The last bit of her speech caught the attention of the others who sat in silence, her words ringing in their ears. Gandalf looked at her sternly as if to tell her not to say anymore. She nodded to him and looked down.
Legolas looked at her and wondered what it really was she was trying to tell them, to warn them of. He turned to Aragorn and nodded, both in silent agreement that they would watch over her as best they could. She needed to be watched and protected nearly as much as Frodo at this point. They turned to Gandalf who was lost in his own thoughts concentrating.
Brenna turned to get Legolas's attention once more, "I really, really don't like it in here." she stated. "It feels like I'm suffocating."
"I am not comfortable here myself, none of us are. You are not alone in this." Legolas replied.
He quietly moved back to where is pack and things were and sat keeping an eye on things. The others began to quietly talk among themselves once more. The quiet murmur of their voices lulled Brenna into an almost trance-like state. She focused her mind and energy on the Valar in Valinor, she greatly needed answers and advice. She felt herself fall away and found herself back in the Hall.
"Little one," began Elbereth, "what is troubling you child?"
"I'm confused and unsure of things right now. There were movies and books of what would happen in Middle Earth and while close, the two stories do differ. How will I know what is the right story line to follow?" she asked almost desperately.
"I see." The Vala stated. She seemingly pondered for a few moments before replying, "You are correct in this, but as both of these stories had the same outcome it could go either way. You must make sure it does not deviate from either of them. I can see you are coming into your powers and gifts. Your foresight will be getting stronger in the near future. And you must learn to control your Elements as soon as you can. Focus and try to control them. I cannot keep you much longer, go now young one with my blessing."
Brenna lapsed into a vision as soon as she returned. Images of Elrond's sons riding hard and fast for the North. She knew that they were racing to muster the Dunedain. She saw flashes of Rohan, and the constant battles against the Orcs invading their borders, and of the taint of Saruman on their King. Flash after flash images bombarded her mind and her breathing became labored. The others turned to her in concern. Gandalf reached for her and she opened her eyes to see the others carefully watching her.
"Oh, she could've warned me! Now I'm going to have headaches from this," she said holding her head.
Gandalf looked at her sharply and asked her what she meant by it. She explained what had happened and told him what she had seen. The others looked on curiously, not quite hearing their conversation. Legolas heard but he kept it to himself, knowing that Brenna's powers and secret must be kept safe.
"You're growing into your powers far more quickly that I had thought," Gandalf told her solemnly, "there is little time to teach you all that you must know. I will teach you all that I can when there's time."
Everyone went back to what they were doing and Brenna brought her things closer to the others. An overwhelming sense danger filled her, the visions giving her little comfort as to what they would be facing along the way. She shivered slightly and looked around her silently praying to keep her friends safe along the way.
Suddenly Gandalf exclaimed he knew the way and they were back off continuing their journey into the darkness. Everyone grabbed their packs and weapons and filed down the passage way following Gandalf's lead. They were going further into the dark and closer to danger with each step they took. Brenna's hands were shaking on her sword because she knew and there was nothing that she could do to change it or warn the others. She stumbled a bit as she lost her footing, cutting her palm as she reached out to steady herself along the jagged stones of the passage way. She hissed in pain, knowing the cut ran deep. Mumbling to herself about her clumsiness, she tore a piece of her tunic to quickly bandage her hand and keep moving.
Legolas turned to look and see if she was alright and was surprised to see that she had hurt herself. She waved off the help, grumbling at her own stupidity. Aragorn also looked to check on her, but hearing her mutterings quietly chuckled to himself and left her alone.
Their slow and steady pace led them through passage after passage until they came upon a great hall. Off to the side there was a chamber, where Gimli rushed to, exclaiming in shock and disbelief. The others followed and bowed their heads at the sight before them. Balin's tomb was empty, save the few remains of dwarves in the room. Gandalf began reading the book of a fallen scribe telling the tale of what had happened in the Mines and the darkness within.
Pippin, the ever curious Hobbit, seemingly couldn't resist touching and knocked something down a hole, crashing loudly as it fell down, down into to the deep. The resounding drums and screeching of Orcs that were a result of this startled everyone into action. The men barricaded the door as best they could, but they knew that they were trapped and would have to fight their way out. The Hobbits were kept towards the back of the group, as everyone fell into a rough formation in front of them, preparing to fight and protect them.
Brenna's hands were shaking worse than they were when they had faced the wolves. She knew that now more than before they would be severely outnumbered and that they well and truly were trapped. With her bandaged hand stinging, she shifted the weight of her sword to get a better grip and prepared for the battle they would be facing.
Boom! Boom! Boom! The ramming on the door shook the room. Everyone braced themselves for what was on the other side. And then the wood gave way and the fighting began. Brenna froze at the horrifying sight in front of her, but quickly sprang into action parrying a blow aimed for her head. She fought with everything that she had, but they were clearly stronger than her. Her arms were tiring, but she kept going.
Brenna held her own as best she could and ran to defend the Hobbits when they were surrounded. She took a blow to the leg, it wasn't a deep cut, but it hurt none the less. She kept moving and fighting until finally the last one was dead. Frodo surprised them all when he, seemingly dead, began moving and revealed his Mitrhil chainmail armor under his shirt.
The group quickly ran from the room fleeing as quickly as they could, but they were soon quickly pursued by more Orcs and other dark creatures. And then, the Balrog revealed itself and gave chase. They ran as fast as they could fly to the only other exit that they knew of. Gandalf urged them to move forward quickly and Brenna could not stop the tears forming in her eyes for she knew what would be coming next.
Running further and further they came to the Bridge of Kazadum. Brenna seeing the small land bridge over the wide deep canyon froze on the spot looking around wildly for another way. Legolas stopped looking at her to see what was wrong, she shook her head in denial but there was no other way. Seeing the bravery of her friends crossing and Gandalf behind her urging her to move and go quickly she sprinted and moved as quickly as her wobbly legs could take her. Climbing trees was one thing, running across a small piece of stone over a deep dark pit was a whole other story.
Arrows rained down from all directions as the group stopped to see Gandalf standing guard on the bridge blocking the Balrog. His own battle began. Brenna sat behind a rock quietly sobbing, rocking herself. She couldn't bring herself to watch. The others called for him, Aragorn went to run out after him but Boromir stopped him. And then it happened, he fell.
They all looked on in disbelief. But soon they had no choice but to flee. Once they reached the exit and fresh air, many of them collapsed in grief. Some of them looked to Brenna in shock, why hadn't she said anything, why hadn't she warned them.
Boromir angrily stormed towards her, "You! You could have prevented this! You knew this would happen!" he shouted in her face.
Her legs gave out from exhaustion, from painful wounds, and from grief. She stared back at the exit of Moria shaking, sobbing, but not uttering a word.
The others looked on, Aragorn reprimanded Boromir for his outburst, reminding him that she could not change anything. Legolas went to comfort her, and exclaimed in shock when he saw the wound on her leg. He went to help her but she brushed his hands away, standing up and heading towards where she knew Lothlorien to be.
The others picked up their things and followed suit. They quickly caught up to her limping gait. With each step she took pain laced through her leg. The burning and throbbing continued making each step harder, reminding her of what had just happened. Legolas was lost in his thoughts, confused but the loss of Gandalf, hurting from it when he noticed that Brenna was stumbling a bit as she walked. He walked quickly to her side and caught her just before she fell. Holding her he turned to Aragorn in alarm. She was flushed with fever and the angry looking wound was still seeping blood.
Aragorn made his way over to her thinking about what Gandalf had told him, what he had asked of him before they got to the Mines. He took a deep breath and let the anger fall away from him as he inspected her wound. He told Legolas quietly that it was infected from an Orc blade cutting her.
The group quickly made their way to the safety of the forest of Lothlorien. They felt a humming wave pulsing from Brenna's ring before a breeze picked up and fanned out in all directions away from them. The forest went quiet as they slowly made their way deeper into the lush foliage. They were stopped at arrow point by the wardens and guardians of the forest. Aragorn argued with them, even pointing out Brenna but they would not be swayed.
The leader of the group was adament until he looked far off for a moment, telling them that the Lady of the Wood was awaiting their arrival. The wardens led the group up rope ladders, taking Brenna up so the others could climb, getting everyone off of the forest floor before nightfall. The Orcs from Moria were still hunting and pursuing them.
The elves of Lorien quickly went about preparing for the Orcs, but a small group was helping Aragorn and Legolas clean and tend Brenna's fever and wounds. Putting pultices and salves on the wound to draw the infection out as best they could. The Hobbits sat down next to her looking on with concern for their friend. Pippin looked at her quite guiltily, for she had taken the blow meant for him when he wasn't paying attention.
In Brenna's feverish dreams she sought out the Valar. They helped to heal her mind, body and soul while instructing her of her gifts and powers and how to use them. They soothed the ache of her loss and assured her that she had done the right thing by not interfering. Finally they lulled her into a deep healing sleep.
As daylight broke the next day, the forest was quiet and clear. Brenna rolled over on the mat they had laid her on high up in the platform above the ground. She sat up quickly but getting dizzy she laid back down. The guards watching exclaimed in surprise that she was well, waking those sleeping. Brenna was quickly asked questions from many people all at once. She tried to sit up but some of the wardens, whom she couldn't understand, pushed her back down to lay down.
Brenna stopped struggling but pushed their hands away as Aragorn explained that she didn't understand what they were saying to her. Soon they switched to Westron. Telling her that she must lay down and rest, that she was at death's door throughout the night.
Brenna chuckled and slowly sat up. She gingerly moved her leg, it was tender but not immobile. She moved the blanket and pulled the bandaging and poultices off, despite the protests of her companions. The wound had cleared up, and was showing healthy pink tissue that was healing. Those around her were shocked to see that she was healed so much already. She brushed her hair off of her face, causing the Lorien elves to notice her marks for the first time.
She looked to her companions with a sad smile most of them smiled back, but Boromir looked away. Her smile fell at this, she looked down in her lap, unsure of what to say or do. She couldn't and wouldn't change things. The Valar had helped her sort through so much of what she was dealing with. They had given her tasks to complete once the war was over. To use her powers to cleanse the evil taint where ever she found it, until she felt the calling and longing for Valinor.
Brenna shook herself from her thoughts and thanked those that had helped her. She explained to her friends what had happened in the Mines to her leg. She told Aragorn and Legolas about her dreams, the elves of Lorien overheard this conversation and were murmuring to themselves wondering who this unusual elleth was. She was unlike any they had seen, and yet something about her was familiar.
Haldir had noticed her ring, but kept it to himself until he could talk to the Lady and then this strange girl about it himself. He remembered a young elleth he had grown up with in Lorien who once wore that ring, but it disappeared with her daughter when she and her husband were tracked and killed by wolves.
Soon the group packed and made their way down the ladder. Brenna despite the protests of the males around her, shakily made her way down the ladder herself. Legolas helped her onto the ground at the bottom so as not to jostle the wound on her leg too much. They quickly made their way to the center of the forest, where the elves dwelled.
The group followed Haldir and they were escorted by a small group of the wardens from the border towards the heart of their realm. Brenna's ring was humming with energy the closer they got. The Lorien elves kept looking at her wondering who this girl really was. Haldir was curious and yet troubled by this girl who wore his friend's ring. Could this be the daughter of Eruraviel?
The group walked for quite some time before they reached the center of the forest, home of the Lord and lady of the Light. As they approached one particularly large and well lit tree, Brenna's ring was all but vibrating with power. Haldir stopped and turned back looking at the girl, who was looking around wide eyed at the Tree and talans above the ground. They reached the stairs and began the long ascent up to the main Talan. Brenna braced herself for the climb, her legs still wobbly. One of the Lorien elves near her, seeing this, helped her on her way up, steadying her on the long climb. She smiled in thanks to him and he nodded to her with a quick brief smile in return before returning to his stoic gaze.
Finally reaching the main platform of the Talan, the soft glow of the sun was fading with the day. The elf who had helped her took his leave bowing to his Lord and Lady and then to Brenna before going back to his duties. Brenna smiled in thanks and gave a nod of her head in return. Turning her gaze back to the rulers of the realm, she was struck by their timeless beauty and grace.
Tinkling laughter rang out in her head as the Lady greeted her warmly and kindly. With a brief mental brush of warmth she moved on to the next companion.
Brenna steeled herself for the accusations and blame, but it never came, not even Boromir spoke up against her, for he himself was struggling with the words of the Lady. As they were dismissed the Lady asked Brenna to stay behind, waving the rest of her companions off, she followed the Lady to an adjoining room. Once there the Lady asked her to take a seat and called for the healers to look at her wounds.
"Brenna, child do you know why I've asked you to stay here?" Galadriel asked softly.
"Well I was thinking that perhaps it was about my parents," Brenna replied.
"You, my dear are the child of a good friend of mine, she was so happy when she found out that she was having you." Galadriel stated. "There is so much to tell you Brenna, so much that you need to know but your time here in Lorien will be short, though I hope that you will call it home for a time after your part is done."
"I was visited by the Valar in my dream when we were at the borders, they taught me everything that they could and explained everything that they could to prepare me for what I will have to do and face." Brenna explained.
The Lady gazed at her for a few moments, but before she could answer the healers bustled into the room, immediately going to Brenna's side. They checked her leg and were surprised that it had already healed so well. It was decided that Brenna should change from her dirty travel clothes into fresh garments. She was led to another adjoining room with a steaming bath. Her breath hissed out as she stepped into the water. Her weariness drained away in the soothing waters.
When she was finished she toweled herself off and put on a robe. The healers went in the room to dress her wound and an elleth much like Caldawen entered the room to help her dress. Brenna was a little uncomfortable with the dress that had been left for her to wear, but said nothing, fearing that she'd insult the Lady. The laughter she heard in her mind in response let her know that the Lady wasn't offended in the least.
Once dressed, she was led back to the main platform of the Talan. She was greeted by the Lord and Lady, but noticed Haldir standing quietly to the side observing. He bowed his head slightly to her, which she returned. She turned to speak to the Lady but could feel his gaze on her still. She turned back noticing him staring at her, his gaze unreadable. The Lady drew her back into their conversation, asking her about herself and where she was from. And so Brenna began her story, telling them everything that she knew. Moving her hair aside on her forehead to show them the markings, she continued her tale, missing the startled looks on the faces of her audience. She poured everything out of her and finally she told them of Moria and her journey to their lands. Drained and her voice hoarse from the emotional toll, she trailed off looking down at her feet.
Galadriel moved forward, lifting her chin to look at her and smiled kindly.
"You have done well for one so young, do not feel shame or guilt." She stated.
Haldir looked on with his mind racing, this was his friend's child, she had been found after all these years. He shifted his weight on his feet unsure of what to do or say. He really needed to get back to his outpost on the border, times were dark and he had a duty to protect his people and home. Sensing his turmoil the Lady gave him leave, whispering in his mind that when the time was ready he would be able to know Brenna.
Brenna watched as Haldir left, she was silently praying that the storyline of the movies wasn't the right one. She was torn, not knowing if she'd be able to save him or stop them from going to the Deep. Mentally making note to ask the Valar next time if she would be able to save anyone without it affecting things too drastically, specifically if it were a difference between the movie or book.
An elf came to lead Brenna to her companions. She thanked the Lord and Lady for their help and hospitality. Slowly she made her way down the steps. The soft slippers on her feet more comfortable than the travel boots and attire she had changed from. She wondered what would happen to her clothing, it was torn and bloody, but it was basically all she had with her. Following the elf silently, she looked around taking in her surroundings. She was so lost in her musings that she didn't noticed right away that they had arrived at the location of where the Fellowship was to camp.
"Well there's a sight for sore eyes," Sam bashfully stated causing the others to turn.
Brenna smiled shyly at them and turned to thank the elf for bringing her there. He respectfully bowed and turned back down the path that they had followed. She watched him go quietly before turning back to her friends. She quietly explained that the Lady was telling her more about her parents, who had lived here before they were killed. She sat down awkwardly in her dress on the ground. Leaning against the trunk of a large Melorn tree, she softly began to hum the song from Este. Her leg had a dull ache from the excursion of her walk and she was once again tired from their journey and her own personal journey.
The young raven haired, green eyed elleth began lull herself once more. Not quite awake and not quite asleep, in more of a trance-like state. The others watched as her eyes moved rapidly with whatever she was seeing, her breathing quickened, but other than that she made no sound or movement. The Lady walked quickly but silently towards Brenna, a distressed look on her face. Kneeling before the young girl, she gently reached out and touched her brow. The Lady knew that there was nothing that she could do, but wait for her to awaken and hopefully help her through whatever it is that she was seeing.
Slowly her breathing evened out and she slept. Slipping away from herself and consciousness, she once again made her way to the Halls and the Valar. Only this time it was slightly different. It still had the soothing, calming and welcoming feel, but there was something else happening. Brenna was walking through the Halls until she came upon what appeared to be a grand throne room. Seated were each of the Valar. They smiled kindly at her and beckoned her to the center of the room. Brenna stepped forward and looked around in question as to what was happening.
"Brenna, we have summoned you hear because we knew that there were still answers that you needed. We know that you are struggling with your gifts and the burden laid upon you. We have brought you hear to reveal to you some more of what you must do," began Manwe.
"You must keep the "story lines" true to what you know. However, in regards to some of the significant differences between the two, we feel that it will be left up to you if you should or could save some of the people, should things happen that way."
"You mean if the elves go to Helm's Deep?" she asked unsure.
"Yes among other things, we discussed this among ourselves at length what would be the right thing. We feel that should this happen, we will leave it up to you. The original line of things did not include this, nor did it intend for them to be there. But as there is an alternate version of things where you are from we will leave it to you to make things right the best that you can."
"How much am I allowed to change? Wouldn't it cause a ripple effect if I do change something? This is so confusing to me, how will I know what's the right thing to do? Do I let the Urukai breach the keep and kill the elves like in the movie? Or will it follow the book in which it is the Dunedain led by the Sons of Elrond saving the day? This is all too much." she stated emotionally. "I don't want to let anyone die. I don't want that kind of responsibility."
"We know, which is why we chose you. You won't abuse the power or gifts given to you." Elbereth kindly told her. "You must go back now young one. We are here if you need us, have faith."
Brenna slowly awoke leaning against the tree with the Lady looking at her with sadness and knowledge in her eyes. She gently brushed her hair from her forehead caressing the marks found there. "Child, there is much to discuss once you have rested. I will send for you when you are ready. I will teach you what I can and help you." With that the Lady took her leave of them and wished them peaceful sleep and rest.
Brenna sat there even more confused that before and silently prayed for the guidance to do the right thing. Prayed that the elves wouldn't be there, but knew that if they were she'd do everything that she could to save as many of them as possible. She gently rocked herself and she hummed a tune from long ago, one she didn't quite remember.
The others watched her curiously. Aragorn approached her asking her if she was alright. She told them that she was fine, just a little confused about what she would have to do. She didn't explain any further and he understood. Legolas watched from across their camp, unsure of what to say or do to help his friend. He realized that she had changed them all subtly along the way. She drew Gimli out of his aloof ways and laughed with him. She brought out the protective nature in all of them, but in the Hobbits she helped them find bravery. She made Boromir think about all he had known about the fairer gender and question how they were treated. With himself she helped remind him of the fragility of nature and the wonder of the world in which they lived. Finally with Aragorn, she helped him to understand his role in her own way. She didn't give him the answers but silently told him and reminded him of who and what he needed to be.
For an elleth, and for all her strength and beauty she still had some traits of humans and the way that she was raised. She wasn't a docile submissive female, nor was she as poised and graceful as the women of his kind. She tripped and stumbled, made mistakes and was seemingly terrified of heights and wolves. And yet despite it all she carried herself unlike anyone he had ever known. She was kind and giving. She carried a burden that not many could handle, and yet she still held true to herself and what she believed. She truly was a good friend.
Drawn out of his thoughts by the Hobbits, he smiled at his other friends. He still mourned and hurt over the loss of Gandalf, but he was grateful that he still had the others by his side. He looked around his surroundings, taking in the beauty of the home of his kin. His home once held such beauty long ago, before the darkness spread across the lands. Now it was too dangerous to stray too far off the paths of the woods of his home.
Aragorn sat with Brenna talking quietly with her. He knew that he couldn't and wouldn't ask her to tell him what he knew. He longed for comforting words about their quest, but dare not pry it out of her. She was a gentle soul, who had been through so much in such a short time. As they chatted quietly he observed the young girl he had come to regard as a younger sister. He knew that he would protect her should the need arise, as any of them would, not that she was helpless. She just drew out the need to help her in each of them whether she knew it or not.
Brenna knew what was troubling Aragorn, and knew there wasn't much that she could tell him about any of it. But she could see that the man was struggling with the burden of leadership now on his shoulders. She took his hand and closed her eyes, willing her gift of sight to lend some help. Images washed over her, flash after flash of the past, present and future. She tore herself away from them in confusion and looked to him. She smiled and quietly told him, "There is and always will be hope if you just believe and have faith. I cannot give you all of the answers that you seek, but I can give you a little hope where you have none. The days before us will be long and full of danger, but if we stand together to fight the coming darkness there is hope. I cannot say more than that but trust in hope." She smiled reassuringly at him.
Boromir from across the camp looked on with a scowl. She watched him quietly, knowing the ring was already taking its hold on him. "Boromir, tell me more of your home and people," she asked, trying to draw him away from the negative thoughts in his mind. His scowl didn't leave his face as he turned to leave their camp down one of the paths. She knew that there would be no helping him, and sadly dropped her head.
Aragorn watched the exchange wondering what was going on, not sure what to make of Boromir leaving so suddenly and angrily. He knew the man was struggling, they all were but something wasn't quite right. Aragorn looked to Legolas who nodded in understanding. Both turned back to see Brenna sitting with silent tears pouring down her cheeks. Her sorrow was visible on her face. She said nothing but sat there, willing him to come back, to fight harder against the pull of the ring.
They left her to herself, knowing that she wouldn't want the fuss. Each of them laid down on their bedding and drifted off to sleep, lulled by the singing voices of the elves. Days slipped by before the Lady summoned Brenna to her. She beckoned her to a clearing where there were fountains and statues surrounded by lush blooming flowers. The tranquil clearing was soothing and peaceful. They walked across the clearing near a bubbling fountain sitting on a bench near its edge.
"It's beautiful here!" Brenna told Galadriel. "So calming and peaceful," she said while fidgeting with her ring.
Galadriel took her hand and held it up inspecting the ring. "Your mother carried that ring for many years, after it was passed to her from her parents when they sailed to the Undying Lands. It has been in your family for a very long time, and is very special and important."
"Can you tell me more about them, my parents and family I mean?" Brenna asked.
"Your mother is much younger than I am, closer to my daughter Celebrain's age. She comes from a very old and noble family. Many of your kin fought during the First War, later choosing to sail to the West. Your mother was such a vibrant and caring person and a valued member of Lorien, during her time here. She met your father many years before you were born. They were soon wed and lived here in Lorien. You father's mother was an elleth from Mirkwood from what I know, she died long ago."
"You don't know more about her?" she asked.
"I'm afraid not, we haven't had close contact with Mirkwood in quite some time. Her name was Alya. You could ask Legolas more about her, perhaps he knew of her. Your parents only had a few months with you here before their deaths. From what we could gather, they were being tracked by a pack of wolves, Wargs from Isengard. The search party found that their guards and traveling companions were killed first leaving your parents surrounded and alone to fend off the fiends. Your mother and father used their magic to send you away to somewhere safe, with your mother's ring to prove your birthright."
"My birthright?" she asked uncertainly.
"You, dear child have noticed that you have some powers. With power comes great responsibility. You are to use your powers for good, to heal and help. You have the gift of sight, and knowledge of what will and should happen here during the War, something that I do not even possess. You must guard it well and keep it safe. Your ring is your birthright of your mother's family. It holds some power of its own and though not a ring of power it is extremely special and important."
"I see. Is there more you can tell me about it?" she asked curiously. "Is there more that you know about what this ring does and means?"
"I'm afraid I do not have all of the answers that you seek. It was a family secret to be kept by your kin. Come, we must get you back to your companions, the day is drawing to a close. Your time here is near its end."
"Will I see you again? Can you explain to me more when there's more time?" Brenna asked cautiously. "I know that there is much that you will have to do," she paused before revealing anything else, "but when everything is finished will we be able to talk again, if you have time?"
"Of course young one," Galadriel replied with a smile.
The two left the clearing and made their way back to the Fellowship. Chatting quietly and laughing about stories about her mother during her youth. Brenna smiled and was comforted by knowing someone who knew her mother and was glad she now knew some things about her family, even if they were gone.
The days quickly passed during their time in the sheltered woods of Lorien, but soon it was time to leave and continue on their journey. Often times Aragorn was seeking council of the Lord and Lady of the forest or training with the others preparing for the inevitable battles to come. They soon gathered their things making their way to the river which would bring them on the next leg of their journey.
The hospitality of the elves was far exceeding what they had hoped, but soon they found themselves with parting gifts including cloaks, and individual gifts. They were given provisions and blessings, but they were also given the choice to stay, which none of them took. Soon it was time to depart, for there was an urgency in their task. Brenna felt ill thinking of what would be coming in the near future; for him there would be no coming back. She cast a subtle glance towards Boromir's boat watching the strong man paddle and chat with the Hobbits. There was nothing that she could do to change the course of his path.
She sat in the boat with Legolas and Gimli in the middle. They refused to let her paddle, claiming she was still healing from their previous battle and she knew it was no use to argue. She pondered her parting gifts from the Lord and Lady. The first was a pendant, with an intricate, yet delicate design, which she had tucked under her tunic. The next gift, whispered to her in her mind, was that her parents Talan was now hers to do with what she wished. She had a home in this land and with these people, though she did not know if she would ever return, it comforted her that she truly belonged somewhere. Smiling softly to herself she hummed and was lulled by the sounds of the water, falling into a peaceful quiet sleep.
Brenna woke to water being splashed on her and the laughter of Hobbits. She sat straight up sputtering and looking around to see who had gotten her only to see Pippin and Merry laughing uproariously with Boromir chuckling along with them. He seemed almost himself in that instance, the strong kind man and it pained her to know what would befall him in the coming days.
The group paddles swiftly putting as many miles behind them as they could with the aid of the river flow. The group follows the river for days, making camp at the river's edge at night. They are ill at ease of the east side of the river, the side that will bring them to Mordor, so they keep to the western banks. Sam pointed out Gollum following them skulking in the night, watching them ever closely, but there was nothing to be done about it. They constantly discuss back and forth as to whether they should go east or west with the Ring.
Boromir was emphatic that the Ring go to his City and that men would protect it, while the others argued that it must go to Mordon to be destroyed. Brenna sat back closing her eyes to rest her head. The visions she was having were plaguing her more and more. She knew that Gandalf had been saved by an Eagle and was brought to Lorien the day that they left, only he was White now. She knew that there was darkness stirring at the edge of Lorien poising to attack. Other realms were facing their own darkness and they slowly made their journey down the river. She knew that in two days time, everything would come to a head with the Fellowship. In two days time Boromir, would be lost to them and Frodo would make the decision to break the Fellowship, taking Sam with him to Mordor with the Ring.
The arguing had ceased as the group looked to her noticing the drawn look on her face and that she was rubbing her temples. She wished that there was something that she could do to help them, to prevent what they would have to face, but she couldn't let the "story" stray. Quietly she rolled out her bedding and pack and curled up on the cold hard ground, imagining herself in her warm soft bed at home.
"Wake me for my turn on the watch please," she called out softly to the others.
Legolas shook her awake some time later, "Brenna, please wake up," he whispered to her.
"I'm up, is it my turn to take the watch now?" she asked tiredly.
"No, Boromir took your watch for you. You've slept soundly through most of the night. I wanted to talk to you though," he explained.
"Why didn't anyone wake me?" she exclaimed. "If I'm to pull my weight among the group then you all need to let me take my turn in doing the work." she told him angrily.
"We know that you can pull your weight, Brenna," he began, "but we've all noticed how tired and drawn you've become. You're not sleeping well and the few hours that you do get it's not very soundly."
"My dreams haunt me," she whispered. "The things that I see, they're awful and I do not know how I'm supposed to face them. I cannot tell you too much about what it is that I do see, but the things we will face. The awful things we will see, I'm not sure that I have the strength or heart to cope." she told him sadly.
"We are all going through this together, we must rely on each other to see this through." he told her wisely.
"I have a question for you, and I haven't had the chance to ask you until now," she began unevenly. "My father's mother was an elleth from Mirkwood, your home. Her name was Alya, did you know her?" she asked hopefully.
Legolas paused before answering, choosing his words careful, as his mind raced. "I knew of an elleth named Alya, but she died many centuries ago, I believe she sent her son to Lorien to live with some of her kin there so that he would not be alone." he told her quietly.
"What happened to her," she asked.
"She had a falling out with many of the nobles from my home. They did not agree with her choice to bond with and marry Mithrandir," he explained gently.
"I don't understand. How would a falling out kill someone?" she asked.
"It is with a heavy heart that I tell you that she was made to feel unwelcome. No one told her that she should go, but she must have felt the need to leave. Mithrandir was away, leaving Calanon with Alya, but one day she decided to take her son and prepared to leave. She left one day but her pack horse came racing back to our dwelling. A search party was sent and we found that she and Calanon had been attacked by the spiders and other dark creatures. The guards and watch of our borders went to help as soon as they saw that they were in trouble, but they were too late. Alya was struck down and poisoned by a spider, but they were able to save Calanon. Your mother told the guards that Calanon was to be sent to Lothlorien to live with distant kin there. A party was sent out to escort the young ellon and soon returned. I am so sorry Brenna." he told her.
"Why wouldn't they accept her or her choice, I don't understand. The Istiri are immortal as well! What did she do that was so wrong?" She exclaimed angry and hurt.
"Many years ago Mirkwood was known as Greenwood and prospered. It was green and beautiful and peaceful. Years later when the darkness overtook the land, our people became suspicious of outsiders and mainly kept to themselves. Over the years contact with the other realms dwindled. When Mithrandir came for a visit and met Alya, she had a number of ellon trying to pursue and court her. She was not interested in them and told them as much on numerous occasions. Then she left with Mithrandir, and came back married and bonded to him, expecting your father. There were many that were happy for her, overjoyed with the news of new life, but unfortunately there were those, mainly the ellon she had turned down that began making her life difficult."
"We weren't always so distrustful of outsiders, but being so isolated from others, over time the distrust grew. Mithrandir would make frequent stops to see her and await the birth of their son. He was there for his birth and spent years alternating staying with them and wandering through the lands. Your father was still a young ellon, still considered a youth at the age of 30. For us we don't reach majority until we're 50, which is why you are referred to as "young one, or child." Perhaps you living somewhere else helped mature you much more quickly, but to elves your age puts you still not an adult yet."
"But where I'm from you reach majority at eighteen," she exclaimed. "Fifty seems so old, but I know that for elves it is a blink in time."
Legolas chuckled softly, understanding what she meant and not being offended by it. She truly was refreshing to be around. There weren't very many elf children anymore. Most decided to wait until they pass to Valinor before having a family. With such dark and troubling times, they didn't feel that it would be right to bring a life into such a turbulent place.
"Did you know my grandmother?" she asked him, looking at him directly waiting for an answer.
"Your grandmother, Alya was one of the ladies of the court and a friend to my mother." he replied softly. "She was always welcome in our home, but what happened to her was inexcusable. There has been much shame and guilt felt by those who treated her unkindly. I remember her from when I was younger. Your father and I were considered close in age. I was but a few decades older than he. We often spent time together as children."
Brenna looked at him and knew that he was sincere. She was a bit angry that her grandmother was treated unfairly for following her heart. She sighed softly and looked up searching for the stars. She felt a peaceful calmness settle over her as she gazed up at the stars. The gentle sound of the river waters was soothing. Brenna felt well rested and well enough to remain up on the watch with Legolas. She heard a rustling on the distant shore and could just make out the large beady eyes of Gollum.
She turned to Legolas to let him know, but saw that he too had in fact heard and saw him. The grip on his bow tightened, but other than that he made no move. She knew that his escape still troubled him. She sat leaning against a tree watching the water and the night around her. She looked over to her companions fast asleep and hoped that they would be ready for what was to come.
Turning back to Legolas, she wasn't sure how to tell him or warn him. She knew that she couldn't outright tell him what was going to happen. Seemingly knowing that she was looking at him, Legolas turned back to her.
"What is it Brenna, what has you so distressed?" he asked concerned.
"I wish that I could tell you all, but you know that I cannot," she began sadly, "things will be happening soon. Things that I can do nothing to change. If I were to change things it would be the end of us all and ruin..." she paused, stopping herself from revealing too much.
"Brenna, no one is asking you to tell us," he told her soothingly, " we don't expect you to change things. It's not our place to question or judge things. If there is more danger ahead, which we all know that there is, if you can somehow remind us to be on guard, it will be enough." he stated.
She looked him straight in the eye and said, "Be on guard, for danger is near."
With that she got up and walked to the water's edge plunging her hand in to the cold waters. She instantly felt a calm and a pull. A light wind picked up around her swirling around her cloak. She closed her eyes and took a breath. Turning back to the camp she noticed that Aragorn had joined Legolas, he had heard her warning.
"Brenna, how soon?" he asked.
"I don't know exact dates, nor can I give them, but very soon." She paused looking towards the sleeping Hobbits. "We all need to be on our guard and stand together."
"Is there nothing more, you can tell us?" he asked almost desperate for answers.
"Aragorn, you know that she cannot tell us, remember what Gandalf warned us of!" Legolas exclaimed. "We must not ask it of her, we cannot push or burden her more. If it got out that she knew, there would be no hope." he told him sternly.
Brenna looked down, tears streaming down her face. She knew that it would be difficult on this journey, but she didn't know that it would be quite this hard. If she survived it, she was sure that she would be broke from the things that they would have to do, see and let happen along the way. Turning back towards the water, she wasn't sure what to say. She lost herself in her thought and inner struggle. She strengthened her resolve and hardened herself, she knew what she had to do. Brenna promised herself that she would be stronger, tougher about things. She would do all that she could to help these people and this land.
Turning towards Aragorn, she looked at him and calmly stated, "I know that you're doing the best that you can, and that's all anyone really can ask of you. But don't you think for one moment that I wouldn't do something if I actually could without it killing this entire world. There are things that I know from before about what would happen here. It's one thing to read it in a book, but it's entirely different being plagued but visions of it happening. I'm constantly battling to focus on the present, to fight off the things that I'm seeing happening elsewhere. There are things that must happen, things that I cannot change. Places and people will fall and there is nothing that I can do about it. Do you know what that kind of knowledge does to a person?" she asked him calmly, the winds around them picking up into a brief but forceful breeze.
"Brenna, I am sorry. I promised that I would look after you and help you. That I would not ask for answers that I know you cannot give, forgive me," Aragorn solemnly asked her.
She looked him in the eye and nodded. A lump formed in her throat causing her to not be able to find or form the words in her mind. She gave him a shaky smile and walked back to where the others were camped. Sitting next to the fire she idly stoked the flames to throw off more heat. She couldn't shake the cold feeling, something was off and danger was near. Brenna could feel it in her bones that trouble was closer than she had first thought.
She stood slowly scanning their surroundings cautiously. It would be the coming day that they would face the Urukai. It would be this coming day that the Fellowship would never be the same. Her breathing came in big gulping gasps. Aragorn and Legolas went to her side, she scanned the western shore and then turned looking to the forest behind them. They were once again prey to a yet unseen foe. She didn't particularly care for the feeling.
The dawn brought forth cheerful sunlight, a stark contrast to the dread that Brenna was feeling. She knew that this day would bring changes in each of them that would last forever. The Hobbits would lose much of what was left of their innocence. They would all lose a valued friend and companion. He was a noble man, who would remember himself and fight for good at his end. She ached for the loss that she couldn't change. He was such a good man, a good person. He took the time to help her and took the Hobbits under his wing teaching them to use the sword. He often talked and bantered with the rest of the Fellowship, telling of his land and people.
Drawing a deep cleansing breath, Brenna rested her head on her knees and left herself drift away. She followed the "path" she had taken many times now, bringing herself to the Valar, seeking their council and comfort. Opening her eyes she found herself in their Hall. Este, Vanwe, and Elbereth greeted her with open arms as if they would a child. She fell into their arms crying, not sure what she should do.
"Child, all will be well. It will be a difficult task ahead of you and this day will take a significant toll, but you must not change things. It is his destiny to pass to the Halls of Mandos." Elbereth told her gently.
Este was singing a lilting tune, soft and soothing. Each of the Valar were present in intervals, giving her the courage and comfort that she would need to see this day through the end.
"There's nothing that I can do? Nothing I can change? He's such a good person." she cried.
"Young one, his path was chosen long ago. He will do what he must, just as you will." Este told her.
"You must return now, young one, your companions are calling you" as voice told her as everything began to fade away. She woke to find herself being shaken urgently. Aragorn was calling her name repeatedly telling her to wake up and return to them. Legolas looked on with great concern, trying to comfort the Hobbits. Gimli had drawn closer to see if she was alright. Boromir knelt down next to her with Aragorn, looking as though he didn't know what to do. Everyone let out a sigh of relief when she opened her eyes.
"Lass, I don't think I'll ever get used to that." Gimli stated. "Gave us quite a scare, you did." The gruff dwarf looked at her with concern.
"I'm sorry to have startled everyone," she began, "I needed answers to many things. I went to Valinor for a brief time to seek the council of the Valar." she explained.
And so they returned one last time to the boats and began paddling towards their next battle. Brenna's heart ached with the knowledge that she had, but she was also comforted to know that Boromir would be at peace before it was all done. Brenna clung to the fact that the Valar assured her that he would be well and at peace. Her mind wandered, and then it struck her, the movie storyline and that of the books was already blurring, for they hadn't heard the Nazgul at night on the river. A chill swept down her spine, and she now knew that the storylines were blending and blurring. She feared the elves would be at Helm's Deep, and silently vowed that if this were the case, she would do all in her power to save as many of them as she could.