(Disclaimer: I own or claim none of Tolkien's work or characters, the only character that I claim is Brenna.)
On the morning of the fifth day since they left Minas Tirith, the Army of the West arrived at the Gates of Mordor. Brenna shivered at the imposing sight of the enemy fortress, knowing what they would soon be facing. She looked to each of her friends, many of them looking scared and rightly so. Looking around her she saw the fear filling the men, a fear that she herself felt, but refused to bow to.
Touching her weapons subconsciously, she turned to Aragorn, motioning him over. "Aragorn please try to avoid trolls today," she told him seriously. "Please remember that I have a task that I must complete. No one can interfere, this is mine to do."
Legolas and the other elves having heard this knew that something was going to happen. They watched her tense body language and were concerned for their charge. Legolas moved himself in position near Aragorn, and planned to stick near the man to make sure nothing happened to him, but also planned to stay near Brenna to help if the need arose.
Aragorn followed by the members of the Fellowship, the elves, Eomer and the princes of Dol Amroth rode forward toward the Gate. Brenna was situated between Gandalf and Aragorn with her guard fanned out behind her. She kept her hood up and her head down for the time being, drawing questioning looks from those around her. Aragorn called forth to the enemy, announcing himself and the Army of the West.
A groaning sound broke the silence and the Gates crept open slightly, letting a single rider through. Brenna knew what lay behind the Gates and prayed for the protection of the Valar for those of the light. Soon the single rider was upon them, with his grotesque appearance and jagged teeth showing as he leered and mocked the group. He showed them Frodo's mithril chainmail shirt, causing the others to cry out in denial. Gandalf took the shirt and Aragorn beheaded the Mouth of Sauron at this the Gates of Mordor were opened and the Army of Sauron was unleashed.
Aragorn and the others fell back to the frontlines of the Army of the West. They dismounted and their horses were sent back out of the way to safety. Aragorn rallied the men, urging them to stand their ground and fight with him. His speech was so powerful and moving that the lines held and they stood tall and proud despite the overwhelming numbers of the enemy now surrounding them. The situation seemed hopeless, and yet still they stood ready to fight and die for the light.
With the light behind the Army of the West shining on the darkness of the Army of Mordor both sides regarded one another. Aragorn paused, looking towards the Eye, Brenna knew that Sauron was speaking to him. His sword lowered and tears filled his eyes. Turning towards his brothers at arms he simply said, "for Frodo," and charged the enemy sword in hand against hopeless odds.
The resounding war cry from the Army of the West rumbled the ground. Weapons were drawn and it was the beginning of a desperate fight. Brenna stayed close to Aragorn as best she could, with Gandalf and Eomer on her right side and her guard falling in around them. Prince Imrahil and his sons fought near Eomer, strengthening their bonds of friendship. Brenna smiled knowing what would come of that friendship, but turned back focusing on the task at hand.
She fought with a vengeance, taking out as many of the filthy orcs as she could. In the distance she heard the shrill screech of Nazgul's winged steads. She whipped the hood of her cloak off and called on the Valar's protection and prayed for strength. The answering warmth on her brow shined brightly in the darkness, giving away her location to her enemy.
She noticed the Nazgul coming towards Eomer before the others, hurtling towards him and knocking him down and out of the way. Taking her sword she hacked at the winged beast that was trying to pray upon them. It reared back in agony as her sword connected, unseating its rider before it turned and fled.
Brenna stood on shaky legs to face her foe. Observing the shrouded being, she noticed that it was missing its right hand. In the place of the right hand was a vicious looking metal claw attached to a boney stump. Gulping, she braced herself for the fight that would come.
Brenna swung her sword, blocking the blow coming for her neck and twisted out of the way. The metal claw swished by her face with enough force that she felt the displaced air by her ear. Brenna fought with all that she had, relying on the strength of the Valar to aid her in this battle. Her enemy was relentless and brutal, pressing his advantage wherever he could. It was by sheer will and luck that she was able to land the fatal blow, cleanly beheading the wraith.
Dropping to her knees in exhaustion she didn't see her guard fall in around her protecting her back. Praying for strength, Brenna took a deep breath, but was brought out of her thoughts by a cry from behind her. She stumbled to her feet and brought her sword up in time to meet that of the other Wraith. She smelled the burnt flesh before she saw it. The gruesome appearance of the Wraith turned her stomach. Sunken skin was now charred and hanging in bits off of the bone. Parts of the black shroud were burnt away revealing the once human's evil and badly burned body.
This Wraith fought with a strength and fury that Brenna had never witnessed before. He taunted her, maliciously telling her that they would never win. He told her that she would fail and they would all die. His poisonous words seemed to go one forever as he fought her to her knees. She prayed to the Valar, to Elbereth and Manwe to be with her now, in what she thought was her last hour. Within her there seemed to form a vacuum of power building, waiting to be unleashed.
Her sword was disarmed from her hand as her guards cried out in horror. There was nothing that they could do to aid her as they each had their own opponents and were fighting to keep the army beyond at bay. She drew her twin elvish daggers and began fighting with a second wind of strength and determination sent from the Valar. She thought of Elladan, the children they were supposed to have, and the life they were supposed to live together. She used these thoughts to fuel and to aid her actions.
Increasing her speed and movement, she pushed the Wraith back taking his sword hand off in a flurry of movements. Ducking as her swung his armored fist at her head she spun away. Turning back around she failed to see the blade from another coming at her and it sliced clean through her quiver of arrows and into her back. She staggered briefly and brought up her daggers to kill the Wraith, who was distracted momentarily by her injury, beheading hit.
Brenna fell to her knees as she faintly heard someone cry out that the Eagles were coming. The orc that had attacked her from behind was dispatched by Eomer who watch in horror as she slumped forward. Her world seemed to fade to bright white light and there was no pain. The world around her was fading away, falling away from around her. Elbereth was calling her, telling her to go back and be well. She told her to take her time to heal and get well, to rest, but she needed to go back.
In the distance she heard the anguished cry of Elladan and felt him take her into his arms as she returned to herself. Around him the rest of her guard and her friends gave him cover as he cradled her limp body to his chest. Brenna took a pained breath and groaned in agony. She knew that her quiver that had been full of arrows, had saved her life and was the only reason that she wasn't paralyzed or dead at the moment, though it did still hurt a great deal.
Eomer dropped down by her side taking her hand in his own as tears filled his eyes. He knew that she had saved his life, even after the way he had treated her in the past. A loud explosion was heard in the distance as Mount Doom erupted. The ground rumbled with the force of the explosions taking place and Sauron's tower began collapsing. With one last enormous explosion from Mount Doom the Eye went out. The force of this sent a shockwave out, knocking the Men of the West from their feet. The armies of Mordor fled, scattering away from both the destruction of Mordor and their master and the Men of the West.
Gandalf quickly made his way to Brenna's side. Elrohir was kneeling by his brother and the two began working in tandem to heal her and staunch the bleeding from the wound on her back. Aragorn made his way to the group, watching on in disbelief to see Brenna so grievously wounded. He went forward and began aiding the Sons of Elrond.
Gandalf went to Brenna, calling her to him. She moaned in pain and cracked her eyes open looking up at him. "You must go to Frodo and Sam. Grandfather you must find them, they're now surrounded by lava on an outcropping of rock on the side of Mount Doom. Gwaihir will bear you to find the Ringbearers," she rasped out softly. "You must hurry, Frodo is injured and they will not survive without aid or rescue."
He looked ready to protest, but Brenna waved him off. Gandalf nodded reluctantly and turned to find Gwaihir. He knew that she was in good hands and being cared for, but he feared for his only remaining kin. He climbed onto Gwaihir's back and took to the air with the mighty Eagle and his brethren. With one last glance back towards Brenna, he made his way towards Mount Doom in search of Frodo.
Brenna lay in the arms of Elladan as he and the others set about removing her quiver. Though it and the arrows saved her, there were splinters from the wood in her wound and they needed to be removed. The group stood around her to shield her from the view of others. The five men of her Rohirric Guard bit out orders to their men and kin to fall back and to shield Brenna from the eyes of others. The princes of Dol Amroth were issuing similar orders to their own men and the men from Gondor.
The group was given space as the removed her weapons and the outer tunic, leaving her in a linen shirt to protect her modesty. They gently rolled her onto her stomach, exposing her back for treatment. They gently cleaned the wound, though their touch was gentle, Brenna whimpered in pain.
Each cry was like a sound piercing their hearts, particularly Elladan. Only through the practice and experience of his many long centuries was he able to focus on his task and keep his hands steady. The wound on her back went diagonally from her left shoulder blade down to her right hip. In some places it went deep, but luckily near her spine it was nothing more than a scratch. They worked quickly and diligently to treat it, trying to cause her as little pain as possible.
Water was brought forth to clean it and Pippin had gone to get her pack from Ash. Aragorn dug out a fresh tunic for her. The group tried to think of the best way to go about getting her into the clean clothing. Brenna herself gave them the best solution.
"We are wasting too much time staying here. We must leave and make our way away from the Gates." She told them weakly. "We need to regroup and march toward Ithilien, though Sauron is defeated, his armies and forces are still at large. When we are closer to there and further from these black lands, we can set up camp. There I will change into something different and clean. Help me back into my other tunic, and then we must make way."
They carefully helped her back into the battle worn garment. Elladan and Elrohir gently helped her to her feet. Brenna was pale and weak from blood loss. Her friends and the other members of her guard watched as she made her way to the shriveled corpses of the Nazgul that she had slain in battle. Watching her Battle the Nazgul was something they would never forget. She stared down at the corpses with unseeing eyes.
Turning quickly to the Northeast, Brenna's breath left her as visions set upon her mind. Dol Guldur was waging battle on the two neighboring elf realms. The destruction of the forests and blood spilled assaulted Brenna's senses in such strong way that her legs trembled with the force and strength of it. Elladan and Elrohir steadied her, keeping her upright as here glazed eye blinked rapidly.
She turned to the other elves of her guards and her eyes focused on them. A cold fear crept over them at the look upon her face. The grief upon her face struck them and caused them to step forward. Somehow they knew already what she was going to say and though they had no regrets in their oaths to follow and protect her, they felt the urge to protect their own homes.
"War has reached your homelands," she told them shakily. "Dol Guldur has launched forces on two fronts, engaging both Lothlorien and Mirkwood. There will be destruction and taint felt by the evil there, but have faith. Though the enemy forces are still at large they will not prevail. I will visit your homes and do what I can to heal them before your leaders leave these shore," she told them weakly.
Hissing in pain with each step she took, she was led to Ash. Brenna looked at her horse as he came forward, dropping down on his front legs, as if knowing his lady was injured, to aid her in mounting. With the help of the others she climbed into the saddle. They steadied her as Ash stood. She winced with the movements of the horse and prayed for strength and relief.
Eomer, and the five members of the Rohirrim that would guard her when she resided in their lands, came forward on their horses. Eomer came next to her and looked at her in question. She nodded to him stiffly. Every move she made caused her body to wrench in pain.
"Lady Brenna, how…" Eomer's voice trailed off clogged by emotion.
"Eomer my friend, you are why I needed to be here today." She announced loud enough for all those nearby to hear her. The crowd around them had gone quiet. "I had seen that the Nazgul still were bent on the ruin of the world of men. They sought to inflict fear and terror much like they did they night the pursued us near Isengard. I saw that you would be a target and knew that I could not let that happen."
"The cost my lady, it is too high," he cried out.
"Eomer, had you fallen your kingdom and people would be left to chaos. There would be infighting among them, making them weak to attack and the Dunlendings would have pressed their advantage, slaughtering all and usurping the throne." Brenna told him vehemently. "Your life is important to the fate of the world. Your future wife would have spent her days alone, and I could not leave her to that fate."
Eomer sat quietly pondering her words. The future she described for his people and home weighed heavily upon him. He knew now the truth in what she was saying, but he still felt guilt at her injuries.
"Peace Eomer," she said to him softly. "Your people need you. They will look to you now to lead them. There is much to do in your home, but you my lord will find a way. You will lead them fairly and honorably. Take courage and have faith."
Ash seemed to be taking careful steps for his lady rider. The ground was rough, but being a Rohirric horse the noble stead tread carefully and gently. Brenna sat with her back ramrod straight, gritting her teeth at the gentle swaying of their progress. She bit back whimpers and groans of pain as the army made their way from the parched, blackened lands of Mordor.
The injured were helped and tended to. The dead were taken away from the barren lands to give them a proper burial away from the cursed lands. The company and army travelled until the sun began sinking in the sky and then they began to make camp.
Tents were brought forth and set up for the leaders of the lands. Brenna being the only lady had her own tent set up near Aragorn's. She made her way wincing with each step into the privacy of the tent. She shrugged out of the soiled tunic and peeled the bloody linen shirt off. Sitting gently on the cot provided she stripped off the filthy leggings, tossing her boots to the side. Sighing she took a breath and reached for her pack.
Whimpering as she stretched to grasp it, she set it on the cot next to her. Digging she took out the fresh set of clothes that she had with her. Looking around she noticed that a large bowl with water was provided with a cloth. She gingerly made her way to them and began washing away the grime of battle from her body. Once this task was finished she put on a fresh set of leggings. She checked the bandages and when she saw that they were holding up just fine, she put on a fresh linen undershirt. Grasping the fresh tunic, she shrugged it on, tying it more loosely than she normally would have.
Aragorn called from the outside of her tent asking if he and the others could enter. She answered him sitting on her cot wearily. Upon seeing her dressed and cleaned up the group made their way towards her. Aragorn grinned seeing her bare feet, noticing her boots were next to the cot on the ground.
"No shoes little sister?" he asked with humor sparkling in his gray eyes.
"I'm afraid that I hadn't gotten that far. Moving is difficult enough at the moment. I feared that had I bent to get them I would have done more harm than good."
He sobered hearing her response, bending to get her boots himself. Crouching, he put them on her before stepping back observing her. He gently touched her brow and smoothed her hair away from her face.
"You have had a hard journey Brenna. One so young should not have had to see the things you have. Before you mentioned that this was your last battle, I hope that remains true," he said to her.
Smiling gently she nodded, "This will be the last time that I will ride into battle. I will keep my weapons with me at all times though, there is still much evil in this world and I would defend myself should the need ever arise."
"My lady, ever shall we be watchful so that you will not have a need to defend yourself," Eomer stated firmly.
"Come, let us join the men and celebrate, for today we are free of Sauron," Aragorn declared.
Brenna stood gingerly and was escorted to fire near the center of their tents. There Aragorn seated her on a log that had been dragged forth, taking a seat next to her. The army was celebrating their freedom and the victory of not only the battle but of the Great War. Messengers had been dispatched with the news of their victory. The swiftest riders now rode towards all of the lands of the Men of the West.
Staring at the flames Brenna began to sing softly in the growing darkness of the night. Her brow glowed brightly in the night. A hush fell upon the surrounding army, for they had heard and seen the brave elf maiden among them. Her voice carried on a gentle breeze, easing their weariness and filling their souls with peace and happiness. She sang the songs of the Valar, singing of Valinor, in all of its splendor. She sang of the Two Trees, and the white shores of the West. Her thoughts and mind wandered as she lifted her voice singing of the stars in the clear night sky.
Her guard watched her, knowing that she was still in pain. The members of the Fellowship present regarded their little sister quietly as they felt the power of her voice wash over them. The men of Rohan gazed upon one whom they would claim as their own, for she was every bit a Shieldmaiden as any of the women they knew. Prince Imrahil and his sons looked upon this young elf maiden, the same age as their own Lothíriel, and felt an ache at the fact that she had seen so much. Their fellow men let her words cleanse their very souls and lift them up in hope.
She began shivering as the sun set in the sky. Eothain brought forth a thick Rohirric blanket for her. She nodded to him in thanks. He saw that she was still very pale and that she had dark circles under her eyes. Nodding to Haleth whom had come forward with a bowl of stew for her, he stepped away. He decided that he and the others would be speaking to her elvish guard and the others to make sure that she was taken care of. Rohan indeed owed her much and they would see that she wanted for nothing. Eomer as if reading his friend's thought, nodded to him.
Brenna ate quietly as the camp came to life with songs and tales from the men. Her fatigue and weariness began to show. Her eyes drooped and Aragorn asked if she wanted to return to her tent. She wanted to protest, but knew that she needed rest. Calling out goodnight to her companions, she stood shakily. Eothain told her to keep the blanket because it would be cold this night and the blood loss would make her even colder.
Turning to Aragorn she whispered quietly, "I will retire Aragorn, but I must warn you. I am going to need much healing beyond anything that can be done here." She told him looking at him pointedly. He nodded in understanding and helped her into her tent. They slowly made their way to her cot and he helped her into it. Aragorn removed her boots and turned as she removed the outer tunic and pulled the blankets up. He tucked her in and bade her good night. Upon exiting the tent, he turned and called out, "Goodnight little sister, sleep well."
As soon as Brenna closed her eyes she drifted into a deep healing sleep. The world around her fell away as she was brought to Valinor. The Valar were waiting for her appearance. Este, Elbereth, and Manwe all moved forward to help the injured elf maiden forward to the dais. They laid her down gently on her stomach and set about healing her and soothing her soul. Their little warrior had fought well, but was gravely injured. They spent most of the night healing her, making sure that there would be no permanent damage from her battle.
The other part of the night they encouraged and praised her for her work. They told her that she had passed the first phase of her journey and would now begin the next leg of it. She was destined to Heal, as her mother and mother's mother before her had. They explained the power of her family's ring to her. Letting her know that the women of her family were True Healers, fated to heal the hurts of land, man, elf, or beast should the need arise. They explained to her that as Wielder of the Wind and Water, she would be able to control these elements, more so than any other before her. Brenna had inherited her gifts from her father and grandfather.
As the night wore on they explained that she would travel from land to land healing the taint of evil. She would give counsel to the leaders if they needed or asked for it, but cautioned her not to tell them everything. They warned her that the time of the elves was ending and that the leaders of Man could not rely too heavily on her. Her task was to aid and prepare the transition of Arda to the rule and fate of men as best she could.
They acknowledged that she would need to leave after the passing of Arwen. Manwe told her that word had been sent to Lord Cirdan, and a large ship was being constructed for her and her guard. She was to lead the last of the remaining elves to Valinor when the time came. She knew that it would be roughly one hundred twenty years before she needed to make preparations to leave.
As the night wore on each of the Valar spent time with her, helping her in whatever ways they could. Her body was healing and even with their aid and help she would need to rest for a while before she would be at full strength, it was only by the will of the Valar that she was even alive. Slowly she started to return, each of the Valar stepped forward to kiss her forehead much as they had when she first met them.
Brenna stirred in her cot, shivering. She felt a warm hand on her brow and distinct male voices talking in the background. Outside her tent she heard the army of men stirring with the breaking of dawn. She tried opening her eyes, but it was a struggle to do so. Though the Valar had healed her, her entire body ached. While there wasn't the searing pain from before, there were aches and soreness.
Gandalf called his granddaughter to him. He had gone to check on her when he had returned to the encampment of men. Finding her so still, so cold and quiet set fear in his heart and had him calling to Aragorn and the Sons of Elrond. He had feared the worst seeing her so pale. The four of them watched as her brow glowed in the early morning light. He knew that it was the work of the Valar.
Watching her eyelids move and her breathing even out, he knew that she was trying to awaken. He called to her again, gently touching her brow and holding her cheek. Her eyes cracked open looking up at him, she groaned quietly.
Elladan brought her water and quietly watched her. Looking to his brother he wasn't sure what to do. He felt so useless seeing her so hurt. They were meant to protect her and yet here she was, so seriously injured that they had feared she wouldn't last the night. Each of them checked on her throughout the night. They stood guard at her tent, listening for any sign of trouble or pain on her part, but it was so quiet in her tent, too quiet.
Elladan looked down at the girl who was meant for him, his other half and his knees nearly gave out knowing how close he had been to losing her. His heart ached at the mere thought of losing her. Kneeling down next to her cot, he took her hand to his and brought it to his lips. He closed his eyes fighting back the tears. He could still see her getting cut down in his mind. It was a sight he would carry with him for all eternity, the memory that he was close but could not get to her side in time.
His brother came to his side and stood next to him, putting his hand on his shoulder in comfort and support. Elrohir looked down upon the girl that would be his little sister in a few decades. She had grown on him not only because she was his twin's other half, but because of her spirit and who she was. The Sons of Elrond looked down at the girl, each murmuring their thanks to the Valar for sparing her.
Aragorn sat quietly at her bedside. Brenna had become dear to him in the months that they had spent together. She had endured and stood with them through all of the trials and challenges that they had faced since setting out from Rivendell. She had done all that she could to keep them as safe as possible. Knowing the outcome, and knowing now what she knew, he could see the burden that had been placed upon her. Sighing heavily, he looked to the young elf maiden, his little sister and his heart was heavy knowing the struggle that she must have been going through the entire time.
Gandalf was having similar thoughts. He was sitting on the edge of her cot with his hand on her brow. He himself was weary from the journey that they had undertaken. He couldn't even begin to imagine the toll it had taken on his young granddaughter. Despite the fact that she was essentially a full grown adult, she was still young yet, especially in their world. Everything that she knew was different from what she had known.
Brenna cracked her eyes open watching the males hover. She sighed, alerting them that she was awake. She breathed deep, pulling the blankets up and burrowing deeper. Gandalf chuckled quietly watching her, smiling softly down at the girl. She returned the smile tiredly, showing just how much her ordeal had taken from her.
"It's good to see you awake child," Gandalf said.
"Awake, but not very alert," Brenna rasped back.
Eomer brought forward a cup of water for her, handing it to Elladan. He looked down at Brenna with a troubled look upon his face. His guilt was still eating away at him. She had taken on the first Nazgul to save him. He just couldn't get his mind around it. He felt horrible knowing that she was here laying recovering from what should have been a mortal injury because of him.
At Gandalf's urging Brenna rolled onto her stomach with a wince. He wanted to look at her wound and have the bandages replaced. Lifting the back of her linen shirt he removed her bandages. Though the wounds were well on their way in healing, the flesh was still raw and new around the deeper areas of the gash. Seeing the mark he understood that she would have died had the Valar not intervened, not even the healing abilities of the Sons of Elrond would have saved her.
"Bema!" Eomer exclaimed seeing the full extent of her injury. The air left his lungs and his stomach lurched seeing what had been done to this petite, small woman. Eothain, Haleth, Fram, Dernhelm, and Wulf all agreed with him, and clenched their jaws in rage at the sight of her back. They were ready to ride out and unleashed their fury on any orc they found, something the rest of the males around her small tent would have gladly agreed to and participated in.
Brenna was a kind, generous, caring young woman that earned and gained the respect and admiration of each of them. The girl had healed and saved many of the injured from Pelennor Fields. She sang to them soothing their fears and giving them courage and strength when they thought that they had none. She healed the lands, bringing forth the life that had lain dormant or had been smothered. But most of all she had been a good friend and a joy to know.
Aragorn and the Sons of Elrond worked with Gandalf to clean and redress her wounds. Once her wound was covered with fresh bandages, Gandalf turned to the others and bade them leave the tent. Turning to his granddaughter he took her hand in his.
"How are you really doing?" he asked seriously.
"I am well grandfather. Weary and sore, but I am well. The Valar have helped to heal me, though I've been told I need rest and to take it easy for a time until I am fully healed." Brenna told him quietly.
She sat up and let the blankets fall away. She was dressing in the linen undershirt and leggings she had changed into the night before. Gandalf handed her a package he had brought with him. In it she found three more tunics with matching leggings as well as three more dresses with the necessary under clothes. There were also dressing gowns and night clothes for her as well. There was one from each of the elvish realms in their varying fashion and color. He told her that there was more being made and being prepared for her, and these had been sent along for her. Each of the elvish realms were preparing her and furnishing her with a wardrobe for her use during her time in Arda, it was their gift to her for all that she had done and would do.
Brenna reached out her hand and touched the soft material. She observed the delicate designs and embellishments adorning the clothing. Turning to her grandfather she smiled softly and nodded. He stood after making sure that she would be alright and took his leave of her, pointing out the large basin filled with water for her use. He also told her that the Army would be camping here, near Ithilien for a time to celebrate and rest from their trials. She knew that Frodo and Sam had been taken there for healing as it was the closest and relatively safest place for them.
Brenna made her way to the water and quickly washed herself. She awkwardly washed her hair as well, making her feel clean on a whole different level. She turned back to her cot and put on one of the soft shifts. Its silky material caressed her skin and floated around her. She found the matching dress, a rich blue in color with embroidered silver stars. She fastened the gown and cinched the matching belt on her tiny waist. She looked every bit the Lady that she was.
Turning back to the other clothes, she noticed one thing in common. The silver stars embroidered on them matched the markings on her forehead. Touching the threads softly, she hummed thinking of the Valar and all that they had done for her. Silently thanking them, she gently laid out the clothes so they wouldn't wrinkle or get ruined. She braided her hair, pulling just the hair around her face back and away, leaving most of her hair down. Putting on a soft leather pair of flats, she made her way from her tent.
The company had fallen silent upon her appearance. For many of the men this was the first time they were seeing her as a true elf maiden. The deep rich color of her dress emphasized the milky white color of her skin. Her long dark hair flowed down her back in soft waves. As she approached her friends bowed to her, something that startled her. Looking to her grandfather in question, he went to her side taking her arm and leading her to a log situated by the fire. A blanket was placed down so she wouldn't ruin the fine gown. Once she was seated Gandalf explained to her the change in the company's regard for her.
The conversation was eerily similar to the one Lothíriel had with her in their brief talks about her now being a high lady of the realms. Not only through her connections with the high ranking leaders within the lands, but also through her deeds. He explained that because of who and what she was, she would be treated in a higher regard, especially now that she was dressed in a way that was fitting for her station. She was a Valar Blessed seer, a true Healer, and Wielder of the Wind and Water, she had earned their respect and acknowledgement.
Sighing she shook her head ruefully and looked at the assembled group surrounding the fire. Aragorn sat between Eomer and Imrahil with their respective friends and military leaders close by. Gandalf sat next to her, with Pippin at his side. On her other side was Legolas and Gimli. Her guard of elves were also close at hand, taking up positions sitting behind or near her.
Prince Imrahil's sons came forward to speak quietly to their father, a messenger had returned and apparently their sister wanted to come, especially after hearing that Brenna had been hurt. Other messengers had returned bearing news from the realm. Brenna grinned when she saw the messenger approach Eomer, but looked away at the questioning looks of the Rohirrim present. As he read his missive, his eyebrows reached his hairline and he cried out in joy. Looking to Brenna with happiness in his eyes, she nodded to him. Eowyn was healed and fine, but also in love.
She giggled softly, gaining the attending of those present, but she just shook her head. At Aragorn's bemused look she just grinned. Gandalf quirked his eyebrow at her and she continued laughing tinkling peels of feminine giggles that lightened all of their hearts.
Sighing, she relented and let them in on what made her laugh so much. "You will find gentlemen, that most of you present here will find yourselves married within five years from now." She told them with a grin. "I know your wedding dates, your spouses, the number of your children, and that you will lead long fulfilled and truly blessed lives." She told them softly. "That however, does not give you leave to be reckless and careless. There is much that each of you will have to do."
Looking into the fire, her mind wandered for a bit as she was lost in her own thoughts. Her declaration had shocked most of them, but had given them hope for better days and a bright future. Some of them also lost their thoughts staring into the flickering flames of the fire.
"My lord," she addressed Imrahil, "Your daughter is a dear friend to me, I would be more than happy to share my accommodations with her. Though I value and cherish the company of each of you, I find that I would greatly appreciate the company of a female friend."
He pondered her words and nodded, knowing that Lothíriel had already set her mind to come, and she would travel regardless. He turned to his sons, and asked that Erchirion and Amrothos to ride out to meet and escort their sister safely. He told them to take company of men with them and set out immediately.
Brenna watched as Eomer listened in interest. She had a grin tugging at the corner of her mouth seeing his reaction to the news that Lothíriel would be coming here for the celebrations that were planned. Eothain looked to her in question and she just nodded grinning. He chuckled quietly, drawing curious glances.
The company around the Kings' section of the encampment fell into friendly banter and laughter. Brenna watched with a quiet smile on her face. She looked worn and weary. Aragorn asked her how she was feeling and for once she answered honestly.
"I'm tired Aragorn," she stated. "I'm sore and weary from everything. It will be a week or so before I am at my full strength again. I cannot afford to take longer than that to heal, so I must not overtax myself in the meantime. There is much I need to get done in a short span of time."
"But my lady, you're an elf. You have an eternity," Pippin stated in confusion.
Brenna smiled sadly at his innocent declaration. "Pippin, time will not stand still and wait for some things. I have roughly two and half years to do some of my tasks." She told him vaguely. Gandalf had stilled next to her, for he knew that she was referring to the departure of the holders of the elvish rings of power. He subconsciously touched his hand in his cloak. He looked at his granddaughter, who was watching him with a sad smile upon her face.
She turned away blinking back tears humming to herself quietly. The elves could feel her sadness and grief wash over them and stepped forward to her. She didn't notice their approach until Legolas laid a hand on her uninjured shoulder. She turned to him with pained eyes, but looked away. Sighing, she looked back at him and reassured him as well as the others that she was well and fine. Gandalf, careful of her injuries, gently wrapped his arm around her in comfort. It hurt him to know that he would be leaving her alone to face this world with none of her family. But he knew that the elves and the men present here would watch over her and guard her with their very lives in his stead.
Gandalf stood and got Elladan's attention. The two stepped away from the group to speak quietly and privately. Reaching the other side of Brenna's tent they faced each other.
"Elladan, I will be leaving in two years' time with your father, grandmother and the Ringbearers," Gandalf told him quietly. "I will ask that you and the others look after Brenna in my stead. She will need all of you to get her through what she must do in her time left in Arda. I also want you to know that you will have my blessing to bond with her when she has reached her fiftieth year."
"Two years?" Elladan asked. "That's what Brenna was referring to! That is what made her so upset and sad. You know that she feels that she will be alone in this world don't you?"
"I had feared as much," Gandalf said in a pained and guilty voice.
"She knows that you must go, but you need to talk with her and spend time with her before you leave. She has barely gotten the chance to get to know you and she will have to par with you so soon," Elladan cautioned him.
Gandalf nodded in agreement and the two went back to the group sitting by the fire. Brenna sat looking every inch the delicate elf maiden that she was, but they knew that beneath the soft façade was the heart and spirit of a warrior. Sighing they went back to their places rejoining the talks and laughter.
Haldir, Telgalad, and Beleg approached Brenna to ask of their homes and kin. Legolas and the Sons of Elrond turned to listen to her response as they too wanted to know of their homes and family. She closed her eyes and searched for each of their homes and families.
In Lothlorien she saw the Wardens pushing back the forces of Dol Guldur with Lord Celeborn leading them. She saw them battling and pushing them back to Dol Guldur. Lady Galadriel came and leveled the fortress there, laying ruin to everything evil in her path. She caught glimpses of Rumil and Orophin fighting on the front lines of the elvish forces. Though they had sustained minor injuries, but were otherwise alive and well for their efforts.
In Mirkwood she saw a similar scene of battles taking place. King Thranduil was leading his forces, pushing back the veil within their realm. They fought and drove back the darkness from their land, taking back their home. As drove away their foe, light started filtering into the forest where it had not shown in quite some time.
In Rivendell, she saw many of the elves departing for the Gray Havens. Lord Elrond, Lord Erestor, Lord Glorfindel and Lady Arwen remained with only a few hundred elves. Caladwen remained to look after her lord and lady. Many of those left would leave when the Ringbearers would depart to the West in two years.
She told her friends of what she had seen in a quiet voice, resting her eyes. Describing the battles and outcome to them quietly and tiredly, Brenna felt her weariness growing the more she tried to use her powers. Turning to Haldir she told him that his brothers were well and safe. She assured him that other than minor scratched and wounds, they were fine. He breathed a sigh of relief knowing that his younger brothers were well. Though they were seasoned warriors, he worried when he wasn't there to watch their backs.
Beleg sat quietly listening. He felt more at ease knowing his home and lord were safe. His family had sailed to Valinor years ago, so he knew that they were well and safe. Elladan and Elrohir were lost in their thoughts, but extremely relieved hearing news of their home and kin.
Telgalad was anxious for his home, as was Legolas. Mirkwood had been plagued by the growing darkness for so long. To hear that they would now be free of it brought joy to their hearts. It was bittersweet for them to know the woods would flourish once more, but it was now at a time when their people would be leaving.
Gimli looked to Brenna and gruffly cleared his throat. She smiled softly at him and told him that his kin were well and their home secure. Turning to Pippin, she assured him that the Shire was still standing and going about life at its own pace, untouched by evil.
Looking to Gandalf, she got his attention nodding to him. "When Saruman and Grima were killed, it changed something," she stated causing the others to look to her sharply. "Their deaths were sooner than the original timeline, though they occurred following an alternate one. Had they lived, you would have released them and showed them mercy. They would have fled and directed their hate and revenge at the Shire. They would have ruled over the Shire viciously and cruelly until it was freed by our very own hobbit friends of the Fellowship."
Gandalf looked at her and nodded grimly. "So that is why you warned him," he stated.
Brenna nodded and closed her eyes resting them. She felt drained. Though she was physically almost completely healed, their journey was finally catching up to her. She sighed opening her eyes, finding Elladan looking at her in concern. She smiled softly in response.
Whether she knew it or not, her brow had been glowing faintly since they were in Minas Tirith, even more so since the battle. Even now as she was sitting and resting, the stars upon her forehead, marking her as Valar blessed, glowed softly. The silver stars seemed to glint in the light of the sun. Gandalf knew this was a sign that her powers were growing stronger.
There were celebrations and contests being held by the men throughout the encampment. The men from all of the different realms had bonded with one another. Fighting side by side as brothers in arms they had forged friendships that would last for generations to come. Brenna leaned into her grandfather, as her weariness settled in. Gandalf gently wrapped his arm around her, letting her rest.
The group continued talking quietly as the day wore on. A party was sent out to hunt and see what game they could bring back to feed the army. Their horses were resting from the long and hard journey they had been on. All of them were using this time to celebrate their hard won freedom. Gandalf gently woke Brenna for the midday meal. The hunting party was still out, so it was a humble meal of whatever rations they had with them.
The sun was shining brightly around them and the land in which they camped was slowly waking and coming back to life. There were birds and small animals returning, where there had been none on their journey to the Black Gates. A messenger arrived in early afternoon telling Prince Imrahil what he had suspected, Lothíriel was on her way. She was traveling with a mixed group of soldiers and one handmaiden.
Brenna sat quietly observing the land around her and she could feel it calling her to heal it. But she knew that she was far too drained to be of much help this day. Her task in the battle the day before had nearly claimed her life. Her powers were slowly coming back to her. Nearby she heard a stream, the pull of the water tugged at something in her. She stood quietly, drawing the attention of the others. In a daze like state she walked towards the sound of the running water.
Her guard quickly followed her, taking their weapons with them. Though Sauron was gone the lands were still not safe enough yet. She walked quietly humming as she went until she came to a clearing. The sounds of the animals in the nearby forest greeted her. Slowly moving forward, she breeze picked up and swirled around her. Brenna crept forward and crouched cautiously at the edge of the small stream.
Upon the surface of the stream, images of her life flashed, starting with the fall of her parents. She and the others watched as she grew up. They saw images of the war that had raged in her home. They watched her adoptive parent's funeral. Then the final image was of Brenna the day she came to this world. The water swirled away and showed their journey, the Fellowship. On and on the images went leading up to the Battle of the Black Gates.
Brenna saw herself in a different light watching the images in the waters. For the first time she was an outsider observing. There were times that she cringed, and others that she smiled softly. She watched in fascination, seeing the events in the eyes of an outsider. She was able to see the actions and reactions of others in time with her own.
The images slowed and the water went blank and clear. The breeze blew away further downstream and there was nothing but a small stream in a clearing. Moving to stand, Aragorn and Eomer helped her up. She brushed herself off careful of the delicate material of the gown she wore. Looking around she saw the varying expressions of her friends.
"I'm not sure what drew me here, but I think it was to give you a chance to see and fully understand me and where I came from." She told them quietly. "It was also one last glimpse at what was, for now it will be different for them."
Brenna explained to them her conversation with the Valar and what would now happen in her world and time. They listened quietly trying to wrap their minds around what she was saying to them. Though they knew what she said was true, it was difficult to believe that one person could be sent back to help change the course of the world.
They made their way back to camp and noticed that it had gone quiet. The group had their hands on their weapons as a cry rang out on the far side of camp. Lothíriel raced through the tents and fires and launched herself at her father. Her picked her up and spun her around laughing. Turning her saw her haggard looked escort and brothers coming towards them.
Lothíriel turned to Brenna, startled seeing her dressed so finely. She bowed her head towards her friend, which Brenna returned and smiled softly. Lothíriel came forward, unsure of if it was safe to hug her friend. Brenna nodded and stepped forward embracing her friend.
"I was so afraid when I read that you had been injured, yet here I find you well," Lothíriel said to her, her voice thick with emotion. "Amrothos and Erchirion told me how badly you were hurt when they met us along the way. Thank the Valar you're alright!"
"Thank the Valar is right, for without their aid I would not be here now. I was passing on the battlefield, but Elbereth came to me and told me to go back because my time wasn't done yet."
Elladan froze hearing this. He looked wide eyed at Brenna, almost afraid she'd disappear. The others weren't much better off, as she hadn't told them this before. They all looked at the young elf maiden in horror, now realizing that they really did almost lose her. Eomer looked particularly pained at her admission.
"Peace my friends," she soothed. "I am right here. I am well and healing. Eomer please do not feel guilt, this was my task. The people of Rohan need you."
Lothíriel looked sharply at Brenna hearing this and then turned to look at Eomer with a searching gaze. He nodded regretfully at her and looked pointedly at Brenna. Turning back to her friend, "you had better tell me everything Brenna."
Sighing Brenna took her friend's hand and led her towards her tent. The males stayed behind sitting around the fire, leaving the girls to their privacy. Moving inside the tent they saw that the handmaiden had already gone inside setting up Lothíriel and her own things within the space. The woman had a dress laid out for Lothíriel and fresh water had been brought for the basin so that she could wash. Brenna sat heavily on her cot. Careful so as not to wrinkle her dress she lounged back, relaxing and feeling the tension in her shoulders drain away.
The handmaiden asked her if she'd like to step out of her gown for a bit and if she'd like to have her bandages checked. Brenna nodded gratefully and allowed the woman to help her. Lothíriel quickly changed from her riding clothes and was rinsing away the sweat and dust from her journey. She tugged on her shift and turned to aid her friend.
Both Lothíriel and the maid gasped in horror as the sight of Brenna's back. Brenna flushed in response, putting her head down. Lothíriel reached out to gently touch the mark. It had almost healed but the deeper areas where she had been cut were still mending and raw. The two cleaned the wound and wrapped fresh bandages around her. This was easier for them to do because they were all women here and they were able to maneuver the bandages without the fear of compromising her virtue.
Once new bandages were neatly applied, they helped her back into the shift and gown. Lothíriel went back to her own cot and picked up her gown. Her handmaiden assisted her in putting it on, fastening it deftly. Lothíriel combed out her hair and braided her hair back in a similar fashion to Brenna's.
Grinning at each other, the two dark haired young women sat down on their cots and talked quietly. Brenna told her everything, from her parents to her journey with the Fellowship. She explained her meetings with the Valar, their blessings and gifts, but also their tasks for her.
Brenna told Lothíriel of her first job, to keep the timelines true to the outcome, which led to further explanations of the books and movies of her world. She told her of her gift of sight, and some of the things that she knew. She told her of facing the Nazgul twice. Explaining her next task, her need to Heal, Brenna became emotional because she felt the hurt of this world. She also explained that part of her job would be to help to transition this world for the rule of Men taking over Arda. Lastly, she told her that she was charged with leading the last of the Elves from Arda to the West and the Shores of Valinor.
Lothíriel held her friend's hand, stunned by her friend's destiny. She could not imagine that sort of pressure on her. She gently rubbed her back, soothing the scared and overwhelmed girl. She noticed that outside of the tent had gone silent as well. Shaking her head in exasperation, she knew that the males had listened and heard Brenna's explanation of things as well.
Sighing and wiping away her tears in frustration Brenna sat up. Closing her eyes she prayed for the strength and guidance of the Valar. Breathing deeply and calmly, she let out the tension and felt it melt away from her body. A calming peace settled within her being and heart and she felt a warm gentle touch on her brow. The smell of the flowers from the meadow in Valinor was carried on a breeze that swirled around their area of the camp.
Standing she turned to her friend with a gentle smile. Lothíriel looked at her friend's forehead wide eyed. She gently reached out and touched the silver stars there and felt a warm tingle jolt through her arm. Crying out in shock she pulled her hand away quickly.
Brenna grinned at her friend shaking her head with a laugh. The two stood and exited the tent. The sight that greeted them was surely something to behold. In various states of ease these men and warriors lounged around their campfire, talking and laughing with one another. Brenna smiled softly at the sight, looping her arm through Lothiriel's.
Prince Imrahil, seeing the two women, stood as a sign of respect causing the others to turn. The two women, so close in appearance stood at the entrance of Brenna's tent. One dressed in a rich deep blue of elvish fashion, and the other in the proud colors and fashion of Dol Amroth. They made their way towards the fire and found that one of the logs had been left open for them to sit upon with a thick blanket to protect their clothes.
The girls smiled and sat down, nodding for the males to do so as well. The sun by now was dipping in the sky. Fires were stoked and kept going, not only to keep away the chill, but also to light up the large camp. The hunting party had returned and large game was prepared for cooking. The group that had arrived from Minas Tirith brought with them supplies. Among the supplies were bandages, spare clothing for those that needed it, food and casks of ale courtesy of Faramir. The stores of the citadel had been dipped into to send nourishment to the army that had so bravely defended them.
The celebrations were full of laughter and tales of deeds in battle that seemed to grow with very cup of ale consumed. Brenna and Lothíriel grinned, keeping each other company. At one point Brenna inquired about the friendly count of slain foes to Legolas and Gimli setting off an argument between the two that was quite comical for all to see and hear. Minstrels and bards had traveled to record the tales of battle. Songs of bravery and honor were formed and sung.
With the music came dancing, and though Brenna tried to beg off Lothíriel would hear none of it. The two participated in a number of dances and reels with various members of their company. But soon Brenna tired and pleaded to Lothíriel for a reprieve. Seeing her friend so pale she crossed the clearing to her side, gently helping her sit. Sighing she sat down stiffly as her back ached with the exertion of her movement. Lothíriel tried apologizing but Brenna waved it off laughing. She told her that it was alright and that she needed to keep moving or it would tense up too much.
Soon Brenna was too tired to continue with the celebrations. Lothíriel stepped forward to help but Brenna told her to stay and enjoy the evening. The handmaiden assisted her from her gown and shift and into a night shirt. She stowed the gown away, carefully folding it so as not to crease it too much. After briefly checking Brenna's bandages, she took her leave and rejoined the celebration.
Brenna drifted off to sleep to the happy sounds of laughter and music. The sounds filled her heart with hope and joy. Tattooing the sights and sounds of today, this happiness, to her memory, she let sleep overtake her. In her mind she softly heard the Valar tell her to rest and heal, for they would watch over her and the others this night. Brenna slept deep and peacefully as the celebrations went late into the night.