(Disclaimer: I own or claim none of Tolkein's work or characters, the only character that I claim is Brenna.)
The group made their way into the darkness, Brenna steeled herself for what was to come. She hummed softly to ease the fear rising up within. Even with the help of the Valar she could feel the dead and softly hear them. Though they could no longer cause her harm, she was still quite uneasy being so near. Her guard stayed close to her as they walked carefully through the dark caves.
Brenna held the reins of Ash tightly as the cave opened up into a vast space. The light of their torches couldn't penetrate the thick darkness of the void. Aragorn called forth the Oath Breakers, his army of the dead and summoned them. He called them to fulfill their oaths and summoned them to the Stone of Erech. The elves urged Aragorn to move and find the exit to the other side. They informed him that they dead were following.
Her voice seemed to echo off the walls of stone as she calmed her fears once more. Brenna added strength and speed to her tune, pushing it into the company as they moved swiftly and purposefully though the cave. The peace and calmness of her voice soothed them and eased their weariness. She also noticed that the whispers had ceased as she sang, so she continued
Brenna subconsciously stepped closer to her guard as she felt the army of the dead press in on her. They protectively arranged themselves around her as they followed Aragorn. In the distance a faint light could be seen signaling that they had found the exit. They had been walking for what seemed like hours in the dark and were relieved to finally leave this place.
Upon exiting the cave in the mountain, they regrouped and quickly mounted their horses. They set out at a flying pace, racing towards the Stone of Erech. They were determined to reach their destination, pushing their horses and themselves in their haste.
As they passed each village and town, the people fled and hid, crying out in fear at the ghost army of the dead approaching. On and on they pushed until finally, just as the afternoon was giving way to evening, they reach the Stone.
Aragorn called forth the army, getting their oaths to fight and promising to free them after they helped. Turing to the company of elves and men that had followed him, he told them to make camp for the night. Briefly he went off on his own, taking with him the palantir and revealed himself to the enemy,ultimately taking back control of it. He made his way to Brenna sitting quietly, looking around with fear in her eyes. He knew that this had not been an easy journey for the girl, that something about this army caused her harm.
Aragorn crouched down at her side and asked her if she was alright. She nodded to him wearily and set out her bedroll. Turning to him with her eyes sparkling with unshed tears, she drew a deep breath. Drawing her knees to her chest, her eyes went unfocused. He knew that whatever she was seeing distressed her because the elves drew near to check on her.
Legolas sat with her, putting his arm around her shoulders. He felt her trembling and the mixed emotions of fear, anguish and revulsion. He turned to the others who had come to her side. Whatever it is that she was seeing, was beginning to make the girl feel sick.
Brenna's breathing hitched as the visions became stronger. Flash! Women and children were fleeing as the armies of Mordor invaded the city. Flash! Denethor was trying to burn himself and Faramir alive. Flash! Lothiriel was assisting in the House of Healing, doing what she could to help. Flash! Frodo was stabbed and poisoned by Shelob and Sam came running to his aid.
Brenna wrenched herself from the visions and Legolas's arms shaking with fear and revulsion. She surprised the company as she let out a colorful stream of curse words, damning spiders and all "creepy crawlies" in general. She shivered and shook herself, twitching slightly.
Legolas and Telgalad upon hearing and seeing her reaction shared a look. The others looked slightly amused. They hadn't heard such words come from her before. The group looked to her, waiting for her to calm and let them know what had happened.
"Frodo just met a very large spider," she told them frowning. "Please tell me not all spiders at that big, otherwise I may not be able to handle staying here," she said only half kidding.
The news was met with varying reactions. By now the company had set up camp and had gotten a fire going. They had set up a watch and Elladan and Elrohir went ahead to scout. Each of them was unpacking their things and securing the horses.
Brenna sat on her bedroll thinking. She was not a naive little girl, she had begun to notice the reactions and interactions of the males around her. Two in particular stood out to her, but she didn't know what to do. She really wished that there was another female around to talk about these things. She felt a pang of sadness thinking about her adoptive mother and how close they had been. She missed being able to talk to her about things, especially now. She was so confused, and yet in her heart she already seemed to know the path before her.
Gazing vacantly into the fire she thought about the life she left behind and the world that she had grown up in. As much as she had come to love her new life, there were times she missed modern conveniences. Brenna wondered what would become of her world now that she had returned to her time in the past. Would things turn out better this time around? Would there be as much turmoil and war in the world? Would she have made any difference at all in the grand scheme of things?
Legolas sat with Gimli near the fire across from Brenna. The two had formed a tight bond and close friendship during their travels. He had come to enjoy the dwarf's humor and rough around the edges demeanor. They had watched Brenna from a distance, only intervening when they saw she needed help. They had agreed to allow her to find her way and to trust her after the incident on their way to Helm's Deep.
Aragorn sat talking quietly with his kin. He felt at ease with these men, honored that they rode to his aid in his time of need. While he valued and cared for his friends in the Fellowship, he had missed the familiarity and camaraderie of the Rangers and Dunedain people. Turning to Brenna, he noticed her puzzled and sad expression. He silently got Legolas's attention and the two approached the young woman.
"Brenna, is everything alright?" Aragorn asked her quietly.
Startled as his words, she looked at him with confusion in her green eyes. "I'm a bit confused at the moment," she said, the paused looking around. She stood and motioned for the two of them to follow. Once she felt they were far enough away for privacy she turned back to them.
"I'm not sure where to begin. It's nothing very important right now, but I'd normally talk to my mom about it," her voice cracked with emotion. "I consider you both family, so I'm not sure who else I should talk to about this."
Both males looked concerned yet slightly apprehensive about where this conversation could go. There were some things that males wanted no part of. They silently waited for her to continue, urging her on.
"I know that I have thirty years to wait until the elves will consider me at my majority," she paused letting her words trail off. "I've started to develop feelings for someone and right now I'm very confused. I know that there are some that are interested, but I don't know what this all means for me. I don't want to hurt anyone," she explained to them somewhat embarrassedly.
Aragorn and Legolas shared a look, making a mental note to address the issue with the males around Brenna. They smiled softly at the girl, waiting for her to finish before responding.
"No one has said or done anything inappropriate. Please don't think that. I just don't know what to do. I won't have time for myself, much less a romantic relationship while here in Arda. Though I do feel something of that nature for someone, I don't know that I can act on it while here. Perhaps once I reach Valinor my heart will be free to choose, but I cannot stray from what I must do. I will reach my majority while here and perhaps that will change things over time. I just don't know," she said with an ache in her voice. "I feel for him, probably more strongly than I should, and I know that thirty years isn't long in comparison with forever, but I will be here for much longer than thirty years," she told them almost regretfully.
The two males, her brothers in all but blood, went to her then. They told her it was alright and that her wishes would be respected. Legolas could feel her inner turmoil and the sadness in her. It hurt him to see her so conflicted. Not for the first time, he was seeing how young she was despite her wisdom and maturity.
"Little one, we'll be with you every step of the way. If you say that you cannot have a romantic relationship or suitors, then that's how it will be," he said stepping into the role of protective brother. "You have plenty of time to figure that out, now come. You should rest, we'll watch over you."
Aragorn watched as Legolas led their friend, their little sister for all intents and purposes, towards the campfire. He quickly caught up and fell into step with them at Brenna's other side. They escorted her back to the fire. Aragorn brought her bedroll and things between his and Legolas's, while Legolas went off in search of the other members of her guard. Elladan and Elrohir had returned and reported their findings before joining the other elves. They had gathered waiting for Brenna to return, not sure what was troubling her.
Legolas approached the group with his face carefully blank. They greeted him in Westron, but he returned the greeting in elvish, looking at them pointedly.
"I will not name names or warn anyone off completely, but I urge you to caution yourselves around Brenna. I'll remind you all she's three decades away from her official majority. Right now my little sister is confused and conflicted," he told them carefully. These elves were his friends and kin and he did not want to offend them.
They all looked at him in shock. Haldir frowned slightly hearing this, but said nothing. Elladan looked towards Brenna in concern. He knew that she was young and knew that he would remain her friend until she was ready for more. The others were lost in their thoughts. They cared for the girl, but for the time being it remained platonic, though they didn't see that changing.
Legolas continued, "She has a lot to deal with and to overcome. Her emotions and feelings right now are confusing her. I caution you to be patient and wait if you want a chance. But I warn you, she admitted that she may not be able to consider anyone until we reach Valinor, so keep that in mind."
The group nodded, and though Elladan agreed, he wished that things were different. As if sensing his thoughts, Elrohir looked at his brother seriously. Elladan just shook his head and the two walked away to take care of their horses. They moved in unison, mirror images in their actions.
"Are you well brother?" Elrohir asked quietly.
"I am worried about Brenna," Elladan admitted. "I know that I can hide nothing from you. I've started to develop feelings for her. I know that she is too young now and that I will wait for her, but brother I must admit I feel a connection to her. I feel drawn to her in a way I cannot explain and have never felt before. It scares me the power that she now has over me," he admitted quietly.
Elrohir looked at his brother in concern. They had been inseparable for thousands of years and had experienced many things in life together. Though he was happy for his brother, he feared for him in this.
Elladan absently unsaddled his horse, he was conflicted inside. Subconsciously he rubbed his left hand over his heart while thinking about Brenna. His brother watched this and decided that he would speak to Brenna soon. He didn't want to see his brother hurt.
Brenna observed her guard as they came back to the fire. She sat between Aragorn and Legolas quietly. Looking first to Haldir, then at Elladan she was unsure what to do. Observing the two elves, she watched their interaction with the others. Glancing around she noticed the surreptitious glances sent her way by her guard. Brenna turned to Elrohir, when she noticed him watching her with a serious expression. He looked pointedly at his brother, raising an eyebrow at her. She felt her face heat up with a blush in response. Quickly looking down, she missed the relieved expression on his face. He still wanted to speak to her, but now was not the time.
Brenna watched the sky darken and began feeling uneasy. She looked to the starry sky and began humming a song she had heard Elbereth sing. She let the peace of the song wash over her as she felt her forehead heat with the answer from the Vala. Drawing her knees to her chest, she wrapped her arms around them, resting her chin on her knees.
Her voice carried over the camp softly, a gently whisper in the wind as she began to sing the words of the song looking at the stars in the sky. The weariness drained away from the company and peace seeped into their souls, even the army of the dead had gone silent. Their unrelenting whispers had ceased as they seemed to soak up the sound and power of her voice.
Brenna finished her song with a sigh. Quietly she pulled her cloak tighter around herself. The whispering began again, beating at her mind. She closed her eyes against the onslaught, fighting back tears. Silently praying for the strength and protection, Brenna curled up on her bedroll.
Legolas sensed her distress and went to her. He grabbed his cloak and wrapped it around her, hoping to add some warmth. He noticed that she was shivering. He looked around and noticed Elladan coming over with a look of concern and fear on his face.
Elladan knelt next to her and turned to Legolas, "She can feel them. They're bothering her again and she's afraid," he told him.
Legolas looked at him in shock. Elladan touched his hand to her brow and murmured words of elvish healing. Brenna sighed in response, cracking open her eyes. Staring up at him, she smiled softly and thanked him. Legolas cleared his throat and the two broke eye contact, looking away. She looked at Legolas in question, but he quirked his eyebrow at her in response. She bit her lower lip and blushed, looking down. His eyebrows shot to his hairline as he looked back and forth between the two.
Elladan excused himself once he was sure that she was alright. Legolas watched him go, curious as to how he knew what was bothering her and then he froze. His eyes went wide at the implications. He turned to Brenna and stared at her. He made sure that she was settled and pulled Aragorn to the side to speak to him privately.
"Aragorn, something just happened with Brenna and it involves Elladan," he told him quietly.
The man looked from Brenna to Elladan with a curious expression. He had suspected a mutual attraction between them, but something was clearly upsetting Legolas. They both knew Elladan was an honorable and noble elf warrior, so he wasn't sure what the problem was.
"We will need to address this with Gandalf when we next see him my friend. The two appear to already share some sort of bond. To what extent I am not sure, but I don't know how it will affect them. I don't know how separating them or making them wait thirty years to become bonded will harm them," he told him seriously. "He was across the campsite and felt what was bothering her. He could sense it and came to her. I was right next to her and noticed she was upset about something, but I didn't know. He knew exactly what it was and he was able to ease her pain and fear."
Aragorn turned towards Elladan, who was silently watching the fire. He then turned to Brenna, who was sleeping fitfully. Aragorn watched as Elladan once again went to her and sat next to her. He observed how she relaxed and stilled at his touch. They would indeed need to speak to Gandalf, if not he feared for his friends.
Meanwhile, the rest of Brenna's guard had seen the whole exchange. Haldir had watched and though he was saddened and wanted to compete for her, he realized that if the two were already forming a bond, that he never stood a chance. He knew that he admired her and cared for her. He was attracted to her because she was so different and grateful that she had saved him, but beyond that he didn't know. She was the daughter of his own childhood friend and he could not begrudge her finding happiness with another. He vowed to watch over her and protect her and to remain her friend regardless of the outcome.
The others were concerned not only for their charge, but their friend and fellow elf as well. They knew that the bond that had begun to form was rare and something that many of them spent centuries if not thousands of years hoping for. If they did not find the right partner, their other half, they often sailed to the West, seeking comfort and solace. Once there they hoped and prayed that their other half was either born or would find them. They group realized that they now essentially had two elves to guard, because neither of them would survive without the other.
Brenna drifted off into a troubled sleep. She found herself in some sort of tower, and she quickly realized Frodo needed her and sought her in his dreams. He stood looking out over the barren lands before him, looking defeated and morose. She quietly walked to him, putting her hand on his shoulder.
"Frodo, you mustn't lose hope," she told him. "All will be well. I know that you're tired and your burden is so very heavy, but trust in Sam. "
He turned to her and gave her such a heartbreaking look. Kneeling in front of him she embraced him, kissing his brow and telling him to rest. She told him that the Valar were with him and all would be well, he just had to have faith.
Her dreams changed and she found herself in the grove under the trees with Elbereth and Manwe. They stood near the trees waiting for her. Coming forward they each took one of her hands and led her towards the trees. Elbereth and Manwe began explaining to her about the bonds of elves. They told her that each elf had a soul mate, one that they were fated to be with. They explained that sometimes, elves waited thousands of years to find their other half. Elbereth explained to her that sometimes soul mates would meet and begin to form a close bond with one another well before they were bonded or joined. She told her that this was rare, but a gift because the two elves would have such a close and fulfilling bond. Elbereth told her that such a bond had already begun to form for her.
Brenna looked startled at this, but deep in her heart she already knew. She felt drawn to Elladan, such a deep connection that made her feel like she had found a missing piece of herself. She felt safe with him. Then she thought of Haldir, and she ached knowing that he would be hurt by this.
As if sensing her turmoil, the Valar assured her that her friend would be well. In fact, all of her guard would be well, for in reward for protecting and guiding her, upon reaching Valinor their soul mates would be found and they would all find peace. Brenna smiled and relaxed hearing this, but something else was troubling her.
"I have thirty years until I reach my majority, will this bond harm us at all? Will we be able to withstand the wait? Am I allowed to bond with him while in Arda?" her questions seemed to come in rapid fire.
"Peace little one," Manwe chuckled. "He was sent to you and you to him in order to help each other through what you will face. You will face these trials together. You will wait the thirty years as is required and necessary per the customs of your people, despite the fact that you are already full grown now. At the end of those thirty years, if you wish to find happiness and peace with him while on Arda, if you wish to bond with him, you have our blessing to do so child."
Brenna let out a breath that she didn't realize that she was holding. She smiled at them and thanked them. The three sat quietly under the peaceful light of the trees. The two Valar turned to her and told her it was time for her to go. Her mate was calling her because she had been gone for a long time.
Brenna awoke being cradled in Elladan's arms as he kept murmuring for her to come back to him. Looking around she noticed that a faint light was breaking on the horizon. She sighed and snuggled into his chest, causing him to exclaim in shock. Without thinking he kissed her forehead, pulling her close against him. Releasing her, he stammered an apology looking around wide eyed at the looks of shock on the faces of the company around them.
Brenna grinned at him saying good morning. She looked around the others and noticed their concerned looks. She just smiled reassuringly as she snuggled into Elladan's arms, much to his chagrin. He looked around not sure what to do at this point. He didn't want to release her, but he knew it wasn't proper to continue holding her. He looked down at her to find her looking up at him with a look of something that he dared not name. His breath caught in his throat. He reluctantly loosened his grip and urged her to sit on her own.
"I know that we need to leave soon," she said turning to address the encampment, "but I need to speak to Aragorn and my guard. I have nothing against everyone else, but this is something personal."
The Dunedain nodded in understanding and began packing up their things and getting ready to depart. Gimli went to leave, but she told him he may as well stay. Turning to the elves sitting waiting patiently, she still sat in close proximity to Elladan, who seemed to be trying to concentrate.
"Last night I dreamed of Frodo, he must have called to me in his dreams. I cannot give you exact details, but he will find the courage and strength to do what he must." She told them surely. Turning to the elves with a grin, "I bear you news from Manwe and Elbereth," she told them happily. "They recognize your sacrifice and the task that you have under taken. As a reward for this and all the good that you have done, upon arriving in Valinor you shall find your soul mates and other halves." She stated with sparkling eyes before turning to Elladan. "You and I need to have a serious talk at some point, but without the audience," she said looking at the others pointedly.
The group slowly dispersed, hopeful by the news that she had brought them. Their hearts were lightened knowing that they would find what they had each yearned for soon. Though they could not go right away, they would find their other halves soon and that was enough. Even Haldir was gladdened, especially now that he knew what his heart was already telling him about Brenna. He turned watching her smile at Elladan and was happy for them and couldn't wait to find his own mate.
Elladan looked down at the young woman watching him with sparkling green eyes. His breath caught in his throat again. He led her to a log to sit on and waited for her to tell him whatever it is she had to say.
Sitting facing him she struggled to find the right words. "Elladan, I'm not sure how to tell you all the things that I need to say," she said unsurely. He took her hands in his and urged her to continue with a slight smile. "Manwe and Elbereth told me that we've already started forming a bond. That we are meant for each other and are soul mates. Manwe told me that though we do have to wait until my majority, we will be happy and well. He said that once I reach my majority, we can either choose to bond here in Arda or wait until we are in Valinor, but the choice is ours and we have their blessing."
Holding her hands, he gently brought them up to his lips. He kissed her finger tips and gave her hands a gentle, encouraging squeeze. His eyes shown with such light and happiness, that she returned the look with a beaming smile and a soft giggle.
"We will wait until your majority melamin. We have time, come we need to get ready to leave," he said pausing looking unsure and very frightened at the same time. He searched her eyes as if realizing for the first time that they were now leaving to ride to war.
"Elladan, breathe all will be well. I'm fine, I'm going to be fine," she reassured him. Taking his hand, she led him back to the main part of the camp where the others were assembling. Giving his hand a squeeze, she let it go to go get her things ready. Elrohir already had their horses waiting for them, now all they needed to do was get their packs situated.
Brenna quickly gathered her things, strapping on her weapons. She felt the whispers of the ghostly army surrounding them. Shaking it off, she brought her things to her horse, packing them in saddle bags. Elladan had his belongings ready as well. He came to her side to help her mount Ash. He took her hand and held it.
"Are you well Brenna, what is bothering you?" he asked concerned.
"I can feel them pressing in on me. The Valar have blocked it so they cannot harm me. I don't think they meant to intentionally harm me anyways. They showed me their choice and the results of it. I know their regret and sorrows. The forced visions however cause so much pain. I know now that they just wanted someone to see, to understand," she told him softly.
He looked conflicted. Elladan knew that he could not smother her. He knew that he still had to wait and in the scheme of things thirty years was a blink of time, but now that he found her, he had no intention of ever letting her out of his sight.
Bringing himself back to their conversation, he nodded to her. Looking around silently, he took the reins of his horse as his brother came to his side. Elrohir grinned at the two and mounted his horse, staying near Brenna. Elladan mounted his horse taking position on the other side of her. The rest of her guard fell in line behind her. With Legolas, Gimli and Aragorn directly in front of her she was safely encircled. Aragorn called out to Halabard, who unfurled the banner embroidered by Arwen. His standard curled in the wind. Taking one last glance at it, he called for the company to move out.
They set a quick pace, racing towards Minas Tirith in haste. The Army of the Dead followed behind, once again causing people to flee in fear. Finally they reached the river leading towards Minas Tirith, and they saw Corsair ships coming along, burning and pillaging as they went. The Aragorn called for their surrender, to which they mocked and laughed at. Taunting him they asked what army is going to make them and the Army of the Dead revealed themselves, charging.
The Army of the Dead defeated the armies on the black ships of the Corairs. They also got rid of all of the enemy army that had over taken the nearby port. The people that had been under siege thanked Aragorn for their help. He turned, releasing the Army of the Dead, holding their oathes fulfilled. They began to fade, whispering goodbye and passing on. Aragorn turned to the men who were defending the port and told them of his intention to make way to Minas Tirith and they rallied with him. They used the enemy boats and set out for Minas Tirith without delay.
Brenna and the elves heard the gulls and felt the call to return to Valinor. She turned to them sadly apologizing because they must stay with her until her time in Arda is done. She explained that for her the pull is now much stronger, because she had seen and sat under the light of the Two Trees. The elves looked at her in shock and asked her to describe them, which she gladly did.
To pass the time she told them of her childhood and her summers spent at the beach with her family. She told to them of falling asleep to the sound of the waves lulling her. She described swimming in the waves and searching for shells and small critters along the shore. Her stories caused curious glances among the men that had joined them at the port.
Brenna found out that they were men from Dol Amroth, who had been making their way towards Minas Tirith, but stopped to defend the port. Soon they were waylaid and overcome. Once they had fought back the first wave of the enemy, the winds had died, leaving their ships still in the waters. She was introduced to Prince Elphir and his brothers Amrothos and Erchirion, as well as the leaders of neighboring provinces who had come when they heard of the fall of Osgiliath. They intended to ride to that aid of Prince Imrahil who had gone to Minas Tirith to aid Denethor in its defenses.
Brenna sat at the bow of the ship, pulling her hair back in tight braids, securing it out of the way. It was then that the men had seen the markings on her forehead for the first time. Whispering and murmuring grew among the company as they saw the faint glow of the silver stars on her forehead. Many of these men were descendants of Numenoreans, as such they knew of the significance of the markings.
The princes asked who she was, seeing that she was a young elf maiden. Aragorn looked to her in question, seeking her permission to tell them. She looked at them, before hesitantly nodding in agreement. And so her tale was told to the leaders, though most of the men present overheard and looked to her with varying degrees of awe, hope, reverence, and fear.
Walking towards one of the masts, she sat quietly at the base of it, searching the dark sky for any sign of the stars. She sang quietly, more to herself than anyone else. Leaning back against the mast, she brought her knees up and rested. Her guard kept close, keeping a watchful eye on her, but also the men giving her curious glances.
Aragorn told them of her tasks and deeds while with the Fellowship. He explained that she was like a sister to him, which was echoed by Legolas and Gimli. Pointing to her guard he explained their purpose as well. Finally stopping on Elladan with a grin, he explained who he was to her and that when she was considered of age, by elvish standards, they would be bonded. This last declaration had many of them averting their eyes respectfully, now understanding that the girl was all but betrothed.
Elladan stepped towards her, noticing her shiver slightly. He knelt next to her as his brother too came forward. They noticed that her eyes had gone unfocused. They watched with concerned as she went pale from whatever it is that she was seeing. Aragorn crouched near her, waiting for her to come out of it.
Flash! The city burned, the black masses laid siege in waves. Flash! The Witch King stood before her laughing, mocking as he raised his mace. Flash! The Riders of Rohan were closing in on the city. A scout had ridden ahead and was now reporting the hold the enemy had. Flash! Merry and Eowyn rode together. Flash! Frodo and Sam were in the vast barren lands of Mordor.
Brenna's breath hitched as she came out of it. The smell of death and blood was still fresh on her mind and senses, causing her stomach to roll. She closed her eyes fighting off the bile that had risen in her throat, forcing herself to steady. She trembled with the force of the visions.
Elladan was quiet as he watched her struggle. He wanted nothing more than to take her far away from all of this to some place safe, but he knew he couldn't, they both had duties and obligations to fulfill. His brother watched them, keeping quiet with his normally humor filled face quite serious. Elrohir laid a comforting hand on each of their shoulders.
Elladan pulled her into his arms and held her. She clung to him, using him to anchor herself and center herself on the here and now. Inhaling deeply, she closed her eyes and relaxed taking in the scent that was uniquely him. She opened her eyes, seeing the anxious glances she was receiving she sighed.
"The gates have been breached and the enemy presses on leaving none unscathed in their path. Theoden will reach the border of the city in a few hours and charge the field. The Nazgul are present, even the ones that I faced near Isengard," she told them. "We need to make haste."
"My lady, we cannot control the winds," one of the men called out.
Brenna grinned as she stood and turned to him. "No, but I can."
An answering gust snapped the sails taunt and their speed picked up. A faint blue glow surrounded her as she pushed her power, lending her aid. Elladan called out to her and told her not to use too much. She let the wind carry them and pulled back her powers. They had enough momentum to arrive not long after Theoden and the Riders of Rohan now.
She looked to Elladan, touching his face gently and thanked him. He took her hand in his and brought it up, kiss her knuckles. He stepped back and smiled at her. Her guards were looking away respectfully, though she could see smiles tugging at the corners of their mouths.
She turned looking at the Gray Company and carefully regarded them for a moment. She knew that the movie story line was vastly different from the book. The army of the d had been released and now it was up to those present on these ships to aid Minas Tirith now. She wondered if she could or should save some of those that would fall. Carefully regarding them she turned to Halabard. She knew that he would fall defending his chieftain and king's banner.
Silently praying for guidance, she felt the answering warmth on her brow and the whispered blessing and approval in her mind. Nodding to herself, she made up her mind. Brenna decided to save all of those that she could. Looking to Elladan with a determined expression, she nodded to Halabard, Prince Elphir and some of the others with a tight look, trying to convey her message to him with her eyes.
A startled expression crossed his face before he schooled his features and nodded. He turned to the rest of her guard and whispered softly to them her intentions. There was a quiet, heated conversation going on behind her. Sighing wearily, she turned to the group in annoyance.
"This isn't for you to decide. Either you follow me or you do not, but as I've stated before there are things that I'm meant to do while I'm here. They aren't the only ones that I'm meant to help while on this battle field, so keep that in mind while you try to tell me to be a good little girl and stay behind. There are those that are at risk of dying that aren't meant to, some of them are on this very ship." She scolded them, her voice rising in her anger. Her hands had begun to glow blue and the silver on her forehead shined brightly in the dark.
Silence met the end of her speech. She glared at them and went to go get her things ready, calling over her shoulder, for them to make ready, they'd be at their destination within the hour. Each of the males looked back and forth between each other, unsure of what to do. Sighing, Elladan went after her to make sure that she was alright, his brother falling into step beside him.
They found her tightening her pack and stowing it away in her saddle bags. She was strapping her weapons to her, checking that her dagger from the Rohirrim was secure in her boot. She knew that Elladan and Elrohir had come to check on her and she appreciated it, but she was still fuming. She knew that the rest of the guard only meant to protect her and keep her safe, that theirs was not an easy job, but they could not hinder or try to stop her.
"I wish this wasn't so hard on all of you," she told them sadly. "Your job won't be an easy one. I have many things to do before I can go, but I'll let you know now, we will leave here in roughly one hundred and twenty years. Much of that time I will have to travel from place to place healing what I can. I will also be needed in Rohan and Gondor from time to time." She paused, her hands stilled in her movements. "Some of the things that are set in motion now are things that weren't meant to pass. I have to stop them and I know it will cause logistic issues of guarding me during the battle. But there are lives at stake and looking at the bigger picture, who knows what their deaths may bring later."
Looking at Elladan and Elrohir, she noticed that the rest of her guard had followed and heard her. They apologized, she nodded to them stiffly. She knew that they were only trying to do what they had sworn to, but she also knew that they would often disagree with some of the things that would happen in the future.
Brenna's mouth tightened and she trembled, knowing what she must do and what she was risking to do so. She turned and looked at Elladan with such a look of fear and remorse that it scared those present. Tears welled in her eyes, but she blinked them away.
From the lookout above they heard them call out that they would be reaching port soon and to make ready. The horses were saddled, and the men assembled. They could hear the sounds of the battle from their location already and Brenna could smell the fear and blood.
Her breathing became uneven as visions buckled her knees. Elladan held her, pushing her head into his chest, shielding her from the curious eyes of others. The rest of her guard fell in around her. Aragorn made his way over to her, followed by Legolas and Gimli.
She clung to Elladan, pressing closer to him, not caring who was watching. Her breaths came in great gasps as she tried to push down the fear in her. She closed her eyes, and readied herself for what she would have to do very soon. Praying silently for strength and courage, she slowly pulled back from the concerned elf. He looked at her, searching her eyes for some sort of answer or reassurance, finding none he felt sick. With trembling hands he smoothed her hair and kissing her brow gently.
Brenna stepped back to stand on her own, Prince Elphir looked towards the city with worry and terror in his eyes. As if reading his mind she softly told him that his sister was fine and helping in the House of Healing. He and his brothers let out shaky breaths and nodded to her in thanks at the news.
The ships gently bumped into the docks, planks were thrown down and the company raced from the ships. They heard the horns of the Rohirrim sound in the distance. Halabard, unfurled his chieftain and king's banner once more and a rallying cry rang out. They raced forward to join the fray.
Though the Rohirrim had thinned the numbers of the enemy significantly, there were still many to fight. Brenna stayed close to Aragorn and Halabard as they fiercely launched into the fight. The group fought their way through the enemy lines.
Out of the corner of her eye the scene before her played out much like it had as she had seen it. One of the Haradrim took aim at Halabard and Brenna ran towards him, fitting her own arrow she took aim and released before he could, thus drawing attention to herself. She had somehow been separated from her guard.
Looking around her she tucked away her bow and drew her sword. She blocked blow after blow, and heard the frantic calls from her guard in the distance. An arrow grazed her right arm, stinging as it cut her skin. Hearing someone coming up behind her she ducked and spun to parry the blow aimed at her head. She was now fighting two against one, pushing her to her limit.
Her guards were frantically fighting their way towards her. One of the Rohirrim heard the commotion nearby and turned his horse and took off towards Brenna. He took out one of the men fighting her, just as the other disarmed her and knocked her down. He stood leering over her raising his sword. Brenna moved quickly, taking the dagger from her boot and shoving it at hard as she could first in the man's thigh and then his stomach.
She rolled away in revulsion, picking up her sword and stood up on shaky legs. The men of Rohirrim that had come to her aid nodded to her taking up positions to keep her safe while fighting. Brenna looked around searching for Ash, but not seeing him. By now Elladan and the rest of her guard had come to her side. They regrouped and turned back to the fighting. They spread out and began fighting their way towards the city.
Brenna sang softly, as she fought and prayed for the strength to keep going. Her feet slipped in the mud forming on the fields, and she knew that it hadn't rain for some time. The smell of blood reached her nose, making her gag and her eyes water. There was so much blood, so much death that she ached and still on she pressed and fought with everything that she had.
Once again a feeling of déjà vu overtook her and she suddenly ran to her right, heading towards Prince Elphir. Knocking him down last minute, she took an arrow to her thigh and gritted her teeth. He looked down at her in shock, and exclaimed in horror seeing the arrow in her leg. She decided that for now it would be best if the left it in, but she snapped the shaft so it wouldn't catch on anything or hinder her progress more than it already was. He helped her up and his brothers and Swan Knights fell in around her, shielding her as best that they could.
Elladan and Elrohir looked around for her, noticing that she wasn't at their side. They found her surrounded by the company of men they arrived with and slowly made their way over. Elrohir first noticed the wounds she had sustained, but she shook her head and glared at him just as she turned to take on one of the enemy approaching. The rest of her guard had caught up with them and continued on fighting, doing the best they could keeping Brenna in their center.
The group continued fighting until they had either killed or driven back the enemy and after hours of battle they reached the gates. As the fighting ended those still standing began looking for survivors among the wounded. Brenna heard the anguished cry of Eomer somewhere relatively nearby and rushed over as best she could. She crouched by him and felt for a pulse, finding one she turned to him and told him that she was still alive but needed to be brought to the House of Healing immediately. Turning she looked around for Merry, finding him she asked one of the Riders with a horse to bring him as well quickly. Eomer thanked her in a daze and left in search of his uncle.
It was at that time that the others noticed that Brenna was limping and bleeding. Elladan immediately went to her side and swept her up. He carried her over to one of the Riders heading to the city. Brenna recognized Eothain, and saw that he too had an arrow wound, though his seemed far worse. Sighing she let Elladan put her up in the saddle with the man. Before they left, he told her that he would meet her there later and to stay put.
Eothain set off swiftly through the gates and up to the House of Healing. One of the other Rohirrim came forward at a few words in Rohirric from Eothain and helped them both from the saddle. The man went to pick her up, but she said that she was fine and thanked him. Eothain and Brenna helped each other into the hall and were immediately set upon by healers bustling around. Eothain insisted that she was to be seen first but Brenna insisted that she was well and would take care of it herself if they would show her a room. Eothain tried to protest but Brenna poked the man in the side causing him to yelp and glare at her.
Brenna followed the young woman into a side room for privacy. There she began removed her leggings to see the arrow. Turning she noticed the girl was still there. Learning that she was Lothiriel, she smiled softly. Bracing herself she yanked the arrow out with a shriek. Lothiriel rushed forward to put pressure on the wound and clean it. Once it was cleaned and bandaged, Brenna pulled the leggings back on. Next was the cut on her arm, which was much easier than the leg wound. She assured the other young woman that she was well and that she could help.
Brenna thanked Lothiriel smiling at the young woman. Lothiriel and returned her smile wearily and turned to the door. The two women exited the room and made their way towards the wounded. Brenna insisted they check on Eowyn and Merry first, telling them both to hold on and to stay with them. She knew that they needed Aragorn, but did what she could to sooth them.
Working in tandem they began treating man after man. The stream of wounded seemed to be endless. Brenna told Lothiriel to get something to eat and to rest, assuring the other girl that she would be fine on her own for a while.
She moved to the next room, and stepped forward to assist the other healers, who looked relieved to have someone with the healing power of the elves present. For hours Brenna had been healing and soon night had fallen. Fatigue began to set in, but humming to herself she pressed on moving to the next man. Looking around she realized that she was surrounded by the men of Rohan. Brenna went in search of Eothain and lent her healing to him, easing his hurt and weariness. She made sure she checked with each of the men before moving to the next room.
There she was met by Lothiriel who began to scold her for not resting and eating. Her rant was cut off by the thunderous face of Eomer looming over them. He turned to Brenna with such and expression of anger that she took a step back.
"You knew, this is what you saw!" his voice thundered through the otherwise quiet halls. "You saw that she would ride and face the darkness and you did nothing."
Brenna didn't deny his words. Her chin trembled as she fought back tears. By now a crowd had drawn coming to see who Eomer was yelling at. Her guard, Aragorn, the Princes of Dol Amroth, Gandalf, some of the Rohirrim that were able to stand and healers all looked on in shock. Brenna blinked back tears, but they still spilled over as his words washed over her. The toll from her journey was finally beginning to break her spirit. She took each death of a patient personally; each person that she couldn't save caused another cut to her weary soul. The look of absolute heartbreak in her eyes made him pause and his anger seemed to melt away in that instance.
When he would have reached out to her, she turned and left the room, finally letting the tears fall. Prince Imrahil stopped her on her way out, leading her towards the entrance where he called someone over to take Brenna elsewhere. When he returned the entire room of people turned on him, but it was Lothiriel who rounded on Eomer.
The small woman turned on him with such a look it caused her family members to take a step back. It was then that she unleashed her wrath on him, giving him such a tongue lashing that he flushed in embarrassment.
"Do you have any idea what you've just done? That girl has been here for hours healing, not taking food or rest, when she dismissed the others to do so. She herself was injured, not that you noticed you overgrown bully! She treated every single person that she could get to, including some of your own men," she shouted at him pointing towards Eothain, who looked at him with a tight jaw. Poking him in the chest, her hair spilling from its cover and braid, she continued. "Your sister was the first person that she went to, even though she knew that there was nothing she could do for her, she still tried. Why would you do that? Do you have any idea what this whole ordeal has done to her? Do you know how each death hurt her?" Lothiriel gave him one last look of contempt before leaving to find the girl.
The crowd watched wide eyed as the shorter, petite woman essentially put the King of Rohan in his place. Her father and brothers stood in shock, only they had ever seen her angry, but never quite this angry. Eothain went to Eomer with a grave look on his face and he too scolded him harshly in Rohirric, causing him to flinch at the words. Brenna's guard glared but kept silent as they turned to leave and find her. Aragorn, the Sons of Elrond and Gandalf stayed, but asked the others to let her know they would be there as soon as they could. They were needed to help heal, though Brenna had done well in the time that she had spent there.
"Well my friend, you've certainly put your foot in your mouth again," Eothain said dryly. "Lady Brenna did no wrong and you owe her another apology. After all that she has done for us, for our people she did not deserve such treatment, especially from you." He told him before taking his leave.
Prince Imrahil had a servant lead Brenna to his family's holding in the City. When his daughter passed to leave he told her where she could find Brenna and asked her to watch over the other girl. He also told her that she had saved Elphir's life. He informed his daughter that the arrow wound on her leg was aimed to mortally wound her brother. Lothiriel rushed out of the House of Healing upon hearing this.
She quickly caught up to Brenna and the servant heading towards her family's holdings. Lothiriel took Brenna's hand in her own and led her towards the suite of rooms next to her own and called for a bath to be drawn. Brenna stood in the middle of the room seemingly in a daze. Lothiriel led her into the adjoining room containing the bath. She and a maid helped Brenna to undress and get into the bath. Lothiriel added healing herbs into the water and unbraided her hair.
Leaving her to soak, she went to her own rooms to change into a fresh gown. Coming down the hall a servant informed her that Brenna's guard had come to check on the girl and brought her things. They had gotten directions to the Prince's dwelling in the city. A servant had showed them to a parlor and took her pack to where the girl was staying.
Lothiriel helped clean Brenna with the help of a maid. They gently washed her wounds and helped her from the bath. Drying her body carefully, they wrapped her in a fluffy towel and put her in a soft robe. Lothiriel set her on a chair and redressed her wounds with fresh bandages. Quietly she began to brush Brenna's hair, gently untangling the long dark locks.
Brenna sat in the chair lost in her thoughts. She felt so very tired, so very drained and weary. Softly she hummed to herself, silently praying for strength and aid from the Valar. She ached for the loss of life and felt guilt for the things that she could not change. She trembled with the full weight of her emotions swamping her.
Lothiriel walked around to face her, approaching the young woman cautiously. She was saddened to see this young elf maiden so distraught. Taking Brenna's hands and squeezing them she tried to draw her back to the present. Brenna looked up at her with such a heartbreaking look in her eyes.
Being similar in size and build, Lothiriel insisted that Brenna take one of her plain dresses to wear. Brenna refused anything more extravagant or fancy as it wouldn't be practical for her needs. Lothiriel made note to have some more things made for Brenna as repayment for her brother's life. It was the least her family could do.
Brenna reluctantly put the dress on, not used to wearing anything other than tunics and leggings for so long. She asked Lothiriel if her clothes could be washed and salvaged, explaining to her new friend that she only had one more set with her. Lothiriel waved her off, leaving the room to her own. In a set of drawers she pulled out a tunic and leggings and brought them back to her. Lothiriel passed her the clothes and Brenna thanked her with a sad smile.
The two went out to the parlor and found her guard waiting there. The others had joined them by now as well as her friends from the Fellowship and the Prince's family. The males stood as they entered the room, Brenna just shook her head with a small grin.
They observed the two dark haired women side by side, one with green eyes, the one other with light gray. Lothiriel and Brenna could have passed for cousins if not sisters, which shocked those present. Brenna turned to the other young woman and smiled when she heard that she had come to her defense. She out right grinned at the girl and said, "A merry chase indeed," puzzling most. Those that understood just chuckled quietly, remembering a conversation they had back in Edoras with a certain new King of the Riddermark.
Eomer had come in search of Brenna. He was led into the room by a servant and was followed by her as yet unofficial guard of Rohan. He stammered out an awkward apology to her, begging her forgiveness for his harsh words. She stood her ground and stared him down. He looked from Brenna to Lothiriel, causing Brenna's face to break out in a grin. Letting go of her hurt and anger she stepped towards him, pulling him into a hug.
"A merry chase my friend," she whispered to him softly as she hugged him in forgiveness.
He froze and his eyes got huge as he looked to the other small woman. He observed that she was exotic looking with some elvish qualities, her dark hair and light gray eyes denoting her heritage. Her long dark hair was just a shade lighter than Brenna's. Her big gray eyes now seemed to spark at him in anger on behalf of the young elf maiden.
Eothain laughed outright, doubled over laughing long and hard watching his thoroughly tongue tied friend. However, he sobered quickly when Brenna turned to him with a glint in her eye and a smile tugging at her lips.
"Eothain my friend, do you think yourself safe from the same fate?" she chuckled as her eyes went unfocused.
She saw a deep golden haired young woman herding a group of children to safety before turning to face her foe like an angry lioness. The vision shifted to Eothain talking to her, and then him suddenly finding himself in a water troth, having been hit by her bucket. Brenna pulled back, laughing as tears of mirth streaming from her eyes.
"Oh yes my friend, you too shall be led on a merry chase. Your little lioness will certainly keep you on your toes, but you will be happy," she told him with a soft smile.
When it finally dawned on the Prince and his sons what she was alluding to they stopped in shock. They turned and observed the King of Rohan. The young king kept stealing glances at Lothiriel with a confused expression on his face. They decided to keep an eye on the two. They weren't altogether against such a match; he was a good man, even if he had a bit of a temper. He was honorable and noble enough to admit when he was wrong and apologize.
Elladan went to Brenna, searching her eyes and checking her over to make sure that she was well. He led her to a chair and had her sit down. He knelt down in front of her taking her hand in his own he inquired about her health.
"I'm well Elladan, don't fret. I'm fine, just tired at the moment. The Valar will aid my healing during my sleep and I will be fine." She told him reassuringly.
Turning to the others, she sighed wearily. Feeling the onslaught of visions, she braced herself in the chair. Flash! Gollum was stalking Frodo and Sam. Flash! The elves were battling the forces of evil in their lands. Flash! They were marching on the Black Gate. Groaning softly holding her head, Brenna returned to the present. Aragorn and the Sons of Elrond eased the pain and ache in her head.
They noticed that she was pale and shaky. Lothiriel left the room briefly and came back announcing that the servants were preparing a meal for everyone. Walking towards Brenna she cautiously came forward to the girl. She asked her if she would stay here tonight, while Brenna went to protest the others urged her to take them up on the offer. Elladan whispered to her that she would not only offend the Prince's family, but also the people of Gondor. He also reminded her that her only other option would have been tents out on the fields, which made her stomach roll at the thought of all of the blood.
All of the company was then invited to stay the night, easing Brenna's concern of being separated and possibly left behind. They each thanked the Prince for his hospitality and were shown to rooms. The others went to get changed and cleaned up. Brenna stayed seated in the parlor and began to sing softly to herself.
Prince Elphir and his brothers had returned to the parlor and observed the young elf maiden. Lothiriel was sitting near the fire with her needlepoint, keeping the girl company. They sat down in the other chairs, listening to her soft voice sooth them.
"Lady Brenna," Prince Elphir began cautiously, "You were a good thirty feet away from me in the battle. How did you know to come to me at that moment? Why would you let yourself be injured, risking yourself to save me?" he asked.
"Prince Elphir, your time here is not yet done. One day you will be the ruling Prince of Dol Amroth, today simply was simply not your time, though you came very close to death," she told him wearily. "I saw the attack in a vision on the ship and knew that it was something that I must not let happen."
"And for that our family with ever be in your debt," Prince Imrahil stated as he came further into the room. "Come the evening meal, though late, is ready."
The group stood and made their way. Elladan met her in the hallway, coming to her side to help her along. Though she was healing, she still favored her leg. He walked her to the appointed chair, helped her sit and pushed her seat in before taking the seat next to her. His brother sat on her other side.
It was a quiet but relaxed meal. The men talked of the battle and planned to meet first thing the next day in the Great hall. Imrahil was acting as Steward in his nephew's stead and would remain behind to rule until he was healed. Brenna stayed quiet throughout the meal lost in her thoughts. She noticed that the table had gone quiet and they were all looking towards her. Elladan prompted her, telling her they were curious about her actions on the battle field.
Brenna looked down, biting her lower lip thinking. Nodding to herself, she turned to the others with solemn eyes.
"On the ships here there were things that I saw. Many that should not have happened and some that I was given the Valars' blessings to change." She told them softly. "Halabard, would have fallen defending and protecting your banner Aragorn, but the fatal blow would have been a poisoned arrow from one of the Haradrim."
Aragorn swallowed thickly hearing this news. Halabard was a good friend and his kin. It would have been a grievous loss for him had his friend perished. Nodding her urged her to continue.
"I also saw Prince Elphir fall to a fatal arrow wound. I almost didn't get there in time to stop it. I was injured because I wasn't paying attention and because I wasn't fast enough."
The aforementioned prince's family looked at each other. They worked as a unit, and had for a long time since the loss of their mother and wife. Elphir's wife and son had remained in Dol Amroth on the Bay of Belfalas, but would reunite with them when it was safe to do so. The thought of almost losing another of their family had shaken the close family.
"Eowyn," she paused, he voice thick with emotion. "Eowyn needed to come. Many of you probably don't understand that, but let me explain. She stood and guarded King Theoden against the Witch King when his horse fell and crushed him. She and Merry took on the winged beast and then the rider. She had to come because she was destined to do what no man could do and that was to slay the Witch King." She told them gently. "Had she not been here, had she not done it, I don't know what the outcome would have been. I'm sorry that she had to do it, having face a couple of Nazgul myself I can fully sympathized with her. She will recover and be well and yes Eomer, she will retire her sword now. " Turning to him with a slight smile, "but you might like to know that your future brother in-law would deny her nothing so long as it made her smile."
His fork fell from his hand and he looked gobsmacked. Eothain too looked a bit shocked. Brenna grinned and turned towards Gandalf who looked at her shrewdly. He quirked an eyebrow at his granddaughter, but she just shrugged. He looked pointedly at Elladan and she blushed looking down.
"Lord Elladan," Gandalf began, "Perhaps you can explain to me what is between you and my granddaughter."
"Grandfather," Brenna addressed him shocking those from Dol Amroth, "I was informed by the Valar that we have already begun a very rare bond with one another and that we are soul mates."
His eyebrows shot up at this. He looked between the two and smiled softly, nodding at them. He congratulated them, but reminded them that they would in fact have to wait for her official majority as was the way of the elves. He went on echoing and recognizing that she was already full grown as Manwe had pointed out. This led to another discussion and explanation of things to their hosts.
Brenna, being raised in a different time and place had aged as any typical twenty year old woman, rather than the slower aging of the elves. She had grown up in a place and time where there were no elves, and the world did not hold the same powers or magic to nurture and surround her. It was because of this that she essentially was a fully grown adult, but because of her actual age, the number that she wouldn't be recognized as one. It was frustrating and confusing, but she was beginning to understand that she had a lot to learn.
Soon dinner was concluded. The group parted and set off for bed. They planned to meet in the morning to discuss their next course of action. Brenna and Lothiriel walked together, their arms linked towards their rooms, leaving the men watching after them shaking their heads as they heard the two girls laughing down the hallway. Many sighed in relief that the battle was won. They had lost many lives that day, but they had also saved many more. Though they had won they knew in their hearts that it was not over yet, they still have to face the spreading darkness on the East.