(Disclaimer: I own or claim none of Tolkien's work or characters, the only character that I claim is Brenna.)
As the night wore on the groups slowly dispersed and settled down. Elladan sat leaning against a tree looking up at the stars. Some of the things that Brenna had told them left him shaken. He had nearly lost her and he had just found her. Looking up at the stars he prayed to the Valar, asking them to keep her safe and to give the strength and guidance to be there for her. He now knew of her task and vowed to not only guard her, but to help her in any way that he could.
Elrohir watched his brother quietly from a distance, knowing that he needed some space to collect his thoughts and to compose himself. He knew his brother was upset by what Brenna had told them earlier. Each of them was greatly affected by her words. She had come to mean so much to all of them in the short time that she had been with them.
Meanwhile near the fire, the men of Brenna's Rohirric guard were talking quietly. They beckoned Eomer over and drew him into their conversation. Though it may have been perceived as rude, they spoke in Rohirric.
"Lady Brenna, my lord, must be guarded and kept safe," Eothain said to Eomer seriously. "We feel a responsibility to the girl and would watch over her during her stay in our lands with your leave sire."
Eomer pondered this for a bit. When he asked them to guard her in Rohan all those weeks ago, it was supposed to be a temporary solution. He now found himself agreeing with his friend and seeing the wisdom in his words. Brenna was a good friend to all those present. She had done much for his people and his home already. She had saved his life, nearly paying with her own in the process. Having a guard for her in his lands was the least that he could do for her. He was lost in his thoughts, briefly thinking of his uncle's declaration that she would always have a home at Meduseld. Nodding in agreement both to his uncle's previous words and the words of Eothain now, he turned back to them.
Though these men would be members of the King's personal Guard, they would be charged with Brenna's protection while she was in their lands. He turned to his men telling them just that and they all nodded in agreement. During her time within their home, others would fill in as needed both in the King's Guard as well as Brenna's Guard.
Eomer and his men turned to the others explaining their decision and conclusion. Each of the leaders agreed to form similar guards of men they trusted personally for Brenna when she was in each of their realms. Halabard stepped forward volunteering as a member of her guard, as did a number of the Dunedain. Lothiriel's brothers and father said that they would personally accompany the girl while their duties allowed it and would hand select their most trusted men for her guard.
Gandalf sat back listening and smiled sadly knowing that she would be well cared for while he was gone. He sat and watched these noble men and knew that all would be well in the world with their rule. He knew it was right for him to leave, but he still regretted that he didn't have more time here with Brenna.
The elves returned to the group having heard their discussion. They were in agreement with the men and their plans. They explained that while they had sworn to and would guard her, they had things to do and obligations to fulfill before they would be able to remain with her as her full-time guard. They would escort her from realm to realm and remain with her when she was away from the inhabited areas of the land. Until they finished their tasks and obligations to their own realms within the next decade or so, they would only remain with her long enough to see her safely to the next set of guards.
The group planned a line of communication for when Brenna planned or needed to travel and visit the different realms. The elves and her host guard would remain with her until she reached the safety of the city limits of the next place she was going to. Then there would be a changing of the guard at her next destination. Only then would the guards from the previous realm leave her.
Lothíriel listened quietly as the males planned and talked. She thought of her friend who was sleeping and recovering. It was good to hear that Brenna would be taken care of and looked after. Turning to her father, she got his attention across the fire.
"Ada, Brenna and I had a discussion in Minas Tirith," she began quietly. "I invited her to come visit and stay with us for a time. She still has a lot to learn of her new home. Plus, she told me that she and her family would often spend time at the beach when she was a child. She says that she misses the waves," Lothíriel told her father with a grin.
"Of course she is welcome to our home!" He chuckled, "So the little elf maiden likes the Sea? Then the Sea she shall have," he declared.
The elves of the company looked weary at the idea of her going. For the longing for Valinor was already great in her. They did not want her needlessly suffering if it could be avoided.
"Wait, you mean she misses the sound of the waves, correct?" Haldir asked apprehensively.
Laughing loudly and mischievously, "Well she does miss the sound of the waves, I'm sure. But Brenna is a girl after my own heart. She misses swimming in the Sea," Lothíriel told him and the others humorously.
"Swimming in the Sea?" Eomer asked somewhat incredulously.
"Yes my lord. My friend likes to swim in the Sea. She's got some amusing stories of doing so when she was younger before war broke out in her homeland."
"Surely she cannot swim in a dress," Pippin stated somewhat naively.
Lothíriel giggled, but blushed. "She has some interesting thoughts of what one is supposed to swim in."
The others having seen Brenna grow up in the images on the stream stopped and realized what Lothíriel was referring to. They had seen what Brenna and the others swam in through various stages of her life. Elladan swallowed thickly realizing what Lothíriel meant. Gandalf choked on the pipe smoke at the thought. The others stammered at the thought and couldn't believe that she could possibly be thinking of swimming in something similar. The barely clad garments left little to the imagination, covering very little. To them it was scandalous and indecent to be so exposed in public, but according to what they saw it was commonplace where Brenna grew up.
Lothíriel blushed even brighter, causing them to look at her curiously.
"What is it Lothíriel?" Imrahil asked his daughter.
"When I explained to Brenna what is acceptable to wear swimming, she balked and said she'd go without before wearing such a thing." Grinning a bit mischievously, yet embarrassedly, "She said that she and some of her friends had gone swimming thusly before and suggested that we try it."
"Lothíriel!" Imrahil and her brothers exclaimed in scolding. "That is not proper talk for a lady much less a princess!"
Lothíriel blushed brightly, remembering that she was in mixed company and not at home. She apologized, but it was waved off with chuckles. Eomer observed her carefully and casually. He could not get this girl off of his mind. He knew Brenna had said that this would be his wife, his Queen. He could tell that she would fit well with his people. Now however, it was a matter of getting to know her and wooing her properly.
All of this was lost on Brenna who was sleeping deeply. The Valar brought her to them in Valinor to heal and watch over her. She slept deeply undisturbed in their care. Each of the Valar spent time at her side as she slept peacefully in the Meadow in Valinor. Vana wove flowers in her hair as Elbereth and Este sang to her and healed her. Irmo made sure that her mind and dreams were peaceful. Manwe sat next to the young elleth. He regarded her with the love and affection of a father watching his child.
Soon dawn was approaching and they sent her back, still sleeping deeply. The handmaiden awoke and looked around their tent. She exclaimed in shock seeing every surface within the tent covered with the blossoms from Valinor. Her shout woke Lothíriel, who gasped in shock at the sight. She turned to Brenna and saw that her friend was the center of the explosion of flowers within their tent. Within Brenna's hair the blossoms were woven in an intricate design she had never seen before.
Picking her steps carefully, Lothíriel went to her friend's side. She gently shook her awake. By now she could hear the males outside the tent. They woke hearing her and the handmaiden. Brenna stirred quietly and blinked up at her friend's frazzled look. Breathing deeply, she recognized the smell of the blossoms from the Meadow. Smiling softly she reached up, touching her hair. Opening her eyes, wide awake now, she looked around the tent.
Brenna sat up, careful of the blossoms. Turning to the handmaiden she asked her if she would carefully collect the flowers and to store them safely for her. Brenna sat up, stretching. Her back only pulled slightly, and she breathed a sigh of relief. Getting up she picked up the a tunic, but Lothíriel stopped her. She handed her friend a package containing clothing. She told her that they were made for her in Minas Tirith and hers to keep. Lothíriel assured her friend that there would be a wardrobe provided for her in Minas Tirith as well as Dol Amroth. Brenna tried to protest, but Lothíriel would hear none of it. Waving off her objections saying that it was the least they could do for all that she had done for them.
Sighing Brenna relented and put the package on her cot, hugging her friend in thanks. She knew that they would be leaving in two days' time to head back towards Minas Tirith. She bustled around the tent gathering her things. She now had three packs, two of them held just clothing! Something Brenna did not have the luxury of owning so much in a very long time.
Taking out a simple dress in the pack from Lothíriel, it was a soft material that she didn't recognize. The dusky rose colored material accentuated her complexion. Turning to Lothíriel, her friend had come forward to aid her. She was soon dressed in a soft ivory colored shift, so soft and delicate with embroidered rose colored scrolls along the edges. The dress was pulled over and laced up snugly. Lothíriel stepped forward with an intricate belt that matched the dress, cinching it around her friend's waist, she smiled at her affectionately.
The handmaiden had made quick work of the tent, gathering the flowers in a basket. She hurried to help Lothíriel dress, before turning to get herself ready. Lothíriel and Brenna walked towards the entrance of the tent. Brenna stopped to grab the basket and walked out of their tent to the awaiting group of males sitting once more near the fire.
Elladan's breath left him as he saw her emerge from the tent. She looked beautiful in the soft rose colored dress with flowers woven in her hair. He recognized them from before and knew that she had been visited by the Valar the previous night. He watched as she stepped forward carrying a basket filled with more of the blossoms.
The males cleared way for the two young women to join them by the fire. They sat on the blanket covered log and Brenna gently set down the basket. She smiled brightly to her friends, feeling much more rested and like herself this morning. She knew that she still had to take it easy, but there was something that she wanted to try. Turning to Aragorn she caught his eye.
"Aragorn, we are in your realm are we not?" she asked softly.
"Yes Brenna, this is part of Gondor," he stated.
Nodding, she turned to Legolas, who looked at her enquiringly. She grinned and shrugged, picking up the basket and a blanket, she made her way through the camp with the others following her curiously. She made her way between the tents and fires, nodding in acknowledgement to the friendly calls of the men. A breeze swirled around her, leading her forward. Near the edge of a wooded area, she walked softly towards a meadow through the trees. Looking around her she could see the stone ruins of a previous dwelling. In the distance she saw the outskirts of Ithilien and smiled to herself.
Setting down the blanket and basket, she carefully kneeled. Taking a handful of the blossoms, she buried her hands deep in the rich soil. Ignoring the startled cries of her friends, she closed her eyes and pushed her power into her hand and the flowers. Reaching for another handful of the flowers, she buried them as well, calling forth moisture to the ground and spreading her power throughout the meadow. She began to sing softly the song that she had heard Vana use when she was walking through the Meadow in Valinor.
Startled gasps brought her back to herself. Slowly opening her eyes, she looked around the meadow. Brenna grinned seeing that the meadow was now in full bloom with the flowers she had been gifted from the Valar. She stayed kneeling, as the members of her elvish guard went to her side and gently cleaned her hands of the dirty. Elladan helped her to stand and Legolas picked up the basket, looking down at the flowers in awe. Beleg picked up and folded her blanket.
Brenna turned to Aragorn and grinned, "I have begun healing your lands my friend. Long shall the people in Ithilien prosper and flourish here. Should you be wondering, this is the future home of Prince Faramir, Lord of Ithilien. The men that shall settle here will live side by side with woodland elves for a time," she said looking directly at Legolas. "I will plant and grow a meadow of these flowers in each of the realms of my friends, so that they may cherish the blossoms of Vana as much as I."
Legolas's eyes went wide as he stared down reverently at the flowers in his arms. The other elves looked closely to the blossoms, in awe of what was within their reach.
"Though we may not go to Valinor for a time, I thought I'd give you a little piece of it until we can go there to bring you comfort," she told them softly.
Elladan squeezed her hand in thanks, at a loss for words. The others wore similar expressions. The men in the company were just as stunned. Lothíriel reached out and gently caressed the petals of a nearby flower. Her hand trembled with excitement as she realized the gift within her grasp. Turning to Brenna, she missed the look that Eomer was giving her, but her brothers and father did not.
"So my friend," Brenna said addressing Lothíriel, "can you think of a place in your homeland that these flowers would flourish?"
Lothíriel nodded excitedly, there was a perfect spot for them. There was a meadow near the sea, by the cliffs where their home was built. Their castle was built right atop the cliffs overlooking the bay, but nearby there was a grassy meadow overlooking the sea. The flowers would be perfect there.
Each of the others were thinking of where the meadows in their own lands would be. Brenna turned to Eomer. "Would it be alright if I waited two or three years before starting the meadow in your lands?" she asked. "By that time there might be the opinion of another that you might want to consider," she told him with a sly grin.
His eyes went huge at her statement, and his complexion had a slight flush to it. She chuckled softly, as did the others who heard. She promised each of them that she would go to their homes and plant such meadows when she could, even the Dunedain. Smiling softly, she turned facing Ithilien. A contemplative look crossed her face.
"We need to leave here soon," she told them. "We need to make way for Minas Tirith within two days. Send scouts ahead, send messengers ahead, but we need to make way to the White City. There is much work to do."
The group nodded and sent word to the necessary men to carry out her suggestions. Preparations were made and things were being packed up slowly as they went. There were still celebrations and contests among the men. Brenna laughed right along with them. It was a good day, the sun was shining bright and the breeze was blowing clean and true.
Elladan escorted her back to their section of the encampment. Gandalf fell into step on her other side as the others followed talking quietly among themselves. None of them could believe what they had seen. The still healing elleth had given Arda a priceless gift. Though she was smiling and glowed, quite literally in the case of her forehead, she had used a bit of her energy and looked a little tired now.
He assisted her in seating, before stepping back and taking a seat nearby, leaving the seats next to her open for Lothíriel and Gandalf. Elladan smiled at her before turning to speak quietly with his brother. The other elves sat nearby and joined their conversation. They were in awe of what they had seen and knew that there would be many more amazing things that they would see her do over the years.
Brenna turned to Gandalf when he sat down and leaned in. "You must help him to find the sapling of the White Tree. On the day of his coronation, you must assist him to find it," she whispered to him. Her eyes went unfocused for a moment. "Look to the cliffs near the White City, towards the North side." She breathed deeply.
Gandalf nodded and told her that he would. He told her that she should rest, and not push herself too much during her recovery. She nodded with a slight smile and turned to speak Lothíriel quietly.
Word quickly got out of the flowering meadow and what Brenna had done. Men could be seen going to look and see for themselves, but they were careful not to disturb or damage any of the rare flowers. Across the meadow there were a rainbow of colored blooms seemingly dancing in the breeze.
The relaxation in the sunny peaceful quiet, eased their weary bodies and souls. They explored the surrounding area, finding old ruins and abandoned settlement. Some cleared away the destruction of the enemy in the area, unearthing toppled statues and remnants of the previous inhabitants. Aragorn pondered Brenna's earlier statement, and seeing the area thought that it would be perfect. Faramir was part of the Rangers that defended the area, so it only seemed right to have him rule over this domain, continuing to do so. Legolas too thought about Brenna's words. Seeing her gift in the meadow he could see his people dwelling in the nearby wood. He wanted to be near his friends during their time here in Arda and this seemed the perfect solution.
Brenna stopped midsentence in a conversation with Lothíriel. Her eyes went wide and her whole body trembled with the force of the visions assaulting her mind. Her breathing came in big uneven gasps and her temple pounded.
Flash! She saw Faramir and Eowyn getting married. Flash! Gandalf help Aragorn to find the sapling in the rocky mountain side. Flash! She saw herself and the elves traveling to meet Arwen's escort to her wedding. Flash! She saw the wedding of Aragorn and Arwen. Flash! She saw the funeral of Théoden in Edoras. Flash! She saw herself in Lothlorien kneeling side by side with Lady Galadriel, healing the scared and scorched forest.
Groaning she wrenched herself from the visions, finding herself laid out on the log with Gandalf, Aragorn and the Sons of Elrond crouching at her side. She sighed wearily and closed her eyes for a moment resting. She felt warm calloused hands upon her brow, and heard Aragorn murmuring softly. She felt Elladan and Elrohir repeat this and slowly the throb in her head dissipated.
She sat up gingerly, swaying slightly. They steadied her, making sure that she could sit up on her own before stepping away from her. Opening her eyes, she turned to them with a fatigued smile. She just shook her head.
"I guess my powers are returning to me rather quickly and by the time we reach Minas Tirith I will be fully recovered," she told them quietly. "I now see things at will, but sometimes they come unexpected and they're getting stronger. I am now beginning to see what I will need a guard during my time here. I'm not only weak when I heal, but also when I see things."
Looking to the sky, she saw that it was past noon. Humming softly to herself she looked around and noticed that they were still looking at her waiting for an explanation. She paused and looked at them.
"I will tell you things that you need to know, some things are not meant for you to know," she chided them. "I will remind you that while I see some things, the future is on its course. I will do what I can to keep it that way, but also to aid you when I can. However, you cannot come to depend and rely solely on my gift of sight to make your decisions. It is now the time of Man and soon the elves will leave these shores."
She began humming again, running her hands along the gold thread design along the edge of the thick and sturdy Rohirric blanket that she was sitting on once again. Smiling softly she traced the design. It reminded her of the Celtic knots and designs she had been fascinated by growing up. Many of the cultures that she had seen used similar knots and designs. It was comforting to her to know that she still admired such things, even here in a completely different world.
A feast was prepared and more casks of ale were opened and the men basked in the simpleness of the camp life. They breathed the free clean air and soaked up the sun, relishing in the warmth of it on their skin. The friendships and bonds that were being formed strengthened with each passing hour. Ideas were exchanged, advice on new things to try, it was what Brenna thought of as a bit of a Renaissance period for Arda.
She smiled observing the interaction of the men. Looking around her, she saw the men laughing and smiling. She knew that their hearts were light these days, with their cares and worries put aside for a time. Sighing softly, she knew that it wouldn't last forever. There were crops to plant, fields to plow and herds to tend to. There were homes and cities to rebuild. But for now, there was sunshine and good company.
And so they celebrated and rested for the next two days. Aragorn, Gandalf and the Sons or Elrond went to Ithilien where Frodo and Sam were being tended to often, healing them where they could. On the dawn of their departure both were well enough to move out with the Army of the West, riding with Gandalf and Aragorn.
Brenna, had all of her things neatly and carefully packed in her saddle bags and in her pack. Eomer stepped forward to help her mount Ash, bowing to her. Shaking her head with a grin, she nodded to him, taking the reins. She was dressed in an elvish tunic from Lothlorien, soft in its mossy gray-green color. Her weapons were strapped securely on, and she kept glancing around her.
The others were just as vigilant, scouts had ridden a head and reported back that their path was clear and all was quiet. Brenna knew that there was still danger in the world, but gradually relaxed as they got closer to the White City. Instead of stopping, they left early in the day and marched right through to the city gates.
Aragorn waited and set up camp outside of the city, saying that he would not reside there until he was crowned king. The Dunedain, elves, and members of the Fellowship stayed with him, spending as much time together before they would be parted to go and meet their own destinies. And so it was planned by Faramir, Gandalf, Prince Imrahil and Aragorn that he would be crowned on the first of May. Brenna looked pointedly at Gandalf and he nodded in agreement remembering his promise.
Brenna kept busy, sparring with her companions and riding Ash racing across the plains with her Rohirric guard. Her laughter seemed to carry on the wind as her hair streamed behind her in raven waves. Lothíriel, though busy with her own duties as the highest ranking lady in the realm, would often ride out with Brenna, much to the chagrin of her father. Lothíriel was endearing herself to the men of Rohan and their king. Not only for her friendship to Brenna, but also for her wild and free spirit. She was the epitome of a lady, but could sit a horse well and ride like the wind neck and neck across the plains with Brenna.
The dawn of May first awoke Brenna with the sound of birds singing and the sun gently breaking in the sky. She bustled around her tent, but was startled when Lothíriel entered her tent quietly. Behind her were two handmaidens each carrying large bundles. They revealed an simple yet elegant gown in a deep blue. Like the dresses from the elvish realms, silver stars were embroidered on the edges and down the split open part of the outer gown, revealing a shiny silver material underneath. An intricate silver belt had been crafted, adorned with stars, but also the various different knots from each of the realms of men. The shift that matched the dress was similar in color to the dress.
Brenna reached out a shaky hand to touch it, looking at her friend in shock. "When? I don't understand," Brenna stammered out. "I can't accept this, I don't have money for such things."
"This is a gift not just from us, but from Lord Aragorn. He insisted that his sister dress and look the part of a high lady. Not only he claims you as kin, my friend. You need to look the part of who and what you are. Your gifts alone would require you to stand out, but you are also Valar Blessed."
Brenna sighed and nodded with a smile. She looked nervously around her, knowing that her days of being just another girl were over. After today she would stay at the homes of the leaders of each of the realms as their guest. She would travel with a guard at all times. Taking a deep calming breath, she steadied herself. Turning back to her friend, she noticed a large tub had been brought with water for her to wash and begin preparing herself.
Lothíriel took her leave, but she had one of the handmaidens stay behind to assist Brenna in getting ready. She washed her body, the maid added a perfumed oil to the water to give her skin a soft floral smell. Her hair was also washed and brushed out. Her hair was pulled back, with braids woven intricately through her hair. Sighing she turned to the many layers of her fine dress. Slipping on the shift, she sighed at the soft material caressing her skin. Looking around she found the Rohirric dagger and tried to figure out how she could wear it, she refused to go anywhere unarmed, no matter the occasion. Soon the rest of her layers of clothing were put on and the silver belt fastened on her tiny waist. The delicate links tinkled delicately with her every step. Soft leather slippers were provided.
Brenna gently touched the necklace with its delicate pendant from Lady Galadriel resting modestly on her chest. The neckline of the gown was flattering, showing off her feminine and curvy body, but protected her modesty. The only other jewelry was her mother's ring upon her hand. She exited her tent and called to Aragorn.
He came to her with his eyes dancing merrily seeing her so finely dressed, though he himself was dressed rather smartly, cutting a dashing figure. He complimented her, "Brenna you look lovely. It is well that you have a guard for I fear I would have to fight off many suitors seeing you this day," he said chuckling.
She smiled bashfully, flushing. Self-consciously running her hands over the folds of her gown she smoothed out non-existent wrinkles. "I have a favor to ask. I know it seems unconventional, but could a small leather belt for a dagger be found for me?" she asked shakily.
He looked at her sharply in concern, taking her hands in his own. "Are you well Brenna? Why would you have need for a dagger? Have you seen something?" he asked, his voice getting louder, drawing the attention of the rest of the Fellowship. Her elvish guard, the Dunedain and Eomer also came toward them.
Sighing she shook her head trying to reassure him that everything was fine. "No, it's not that Aragorn. I just don't feel comfortable or safe without some means to protect myself. I do not expect trouble, but I don't want to be unarmed, and I certainly can't strap on all of my weapons in this gown," she told him somewhat embarrassed.
Sighing in relief he nodded, then grinned at her. "Ever the little warrior," he said with a chuckle, the sobered. "I hope you have no need to arm yourself for battle again, but we can see if such a leather belt can be found so you can conceal a dagger on your person."
The group began getting ready to make way to the city. The horses were saddled and servants were given instructions for the breaking of camp. They were given orders where belongings would be brought to and who would be staying where within the city. Aragorn insisted that rooms be made for all of his friends in the King's Halls. He told the servants that any man in either the Army of Rohan or the Dunedain seeking quarter shall find it within his City.
A belt was found and Brenna retreated to the privacy of her tent, strapping the dagger on her left thigh under her dress. Once she was done, she was carefully help onto Ash. Being in so formally dressed, she was given a crash course on riding side saddle. Praying to the Valar to help her stay on the horse, the group rode into the city, as heralds announced the return of the king.
Up the seven levels of the citadel they rode passing the cheering crowds. Finally they reached the uppermost level, which housed the King's Hall. Assembled there were the various dignitaries of the realms. Brenna was helped from her horse by Gandalf, and their horses were taken. Gandalf passed her hand to Elladan's and winked before going to walk directly behind Aragorn with the Hobbits. Brenna and the rest of the members of the Fellowship and her guard fell in behind them.
Reaching the steps of the King's Hall, Faramir stepped forth to hand the scepter of the Steward to the king, Aragorn accepted and then handed it back to him. Faramir brought forth the crown, but Aragorn paused, insisting that Frodo be the one to crown him. Everyone bowed to the newly crowned king, but he in turn bowed to Frodo and the Hobbits.
Celebrations broke out and loud cheers rang out in the city. Gandalf kept his promise and the sapling had been found and presented to the people before it was planted in the courtyard. Brenna stepped forward, bowing to the king with a grin. She asked for a blanket to be brought forward and Aragorn looked at her in question. She looked him and the eye pointedly. Turning he called for a blanket.
Once one was brought forth, she put it on the ground and knelt. Aragorn knelt next to her. She told him to plant the tree. He followed her instructions with steady hands. A murmur through the crowd began. Who was the elf maiden? What was she doing? Word got out who and what she was, and the murmurs grew.
Brenna leaned forward as Aragorn sat back on his haunches. She buried her hands deep in the soil around the sapling. Calling forth the water and a gentle breeze, her brow glowed brightly with power. Her hands glowed a soft blue, and seemed to pulse with energy. She pushed power into the tree. Calling forth blessing of the Valar and their guidance, the roots of the little tree grew and expanded, sinking wide and deep in the ground. They reached out, spreading and gripping firming. Strength surged into the little tree, and a faint blue then white glow surrounded it. A single flower unfurled on a branch and a deafening cheer rang out amongst the people.
Brenna pulled back, still glowing and pulsing with power. Servants brought forth towels, and Aragorn cleaned her hands of, thanking her. He hugged her tightly and then picked her up spinning her around. "Thank you my friend, my sister!" he called out in happiness.
"Blessed be the days of your House my friend, and brother," she replied with a smile.
Eomer stepped forward swearing to answer Gondor's call for aid, renewing the Vow of Eorl and the Red Arrow was presented ceremonially back to Aragorn. He nodded to his friend and they clasped forearms and embraced. The two laughed as the crowd cheered. Aragorn turned and called for a celebration.
A feast was provided and celebrations lasted well into the night. There was drinking and dancing. Minstrels and bards sang of the war and the heroes. Lively reels and tunes from all of the realms were played. Brenna and Lothíriel were popular dance partners, much to the dismay of the other ladies of the court. Neither girl cared what others thought, they were enjoying their time with their friends. Eomer danced with each of them, though he was drawn to Lothíriel. Brenna smiled at her friends and nodded to Prince Imrahil who was watching with a bittersweet smile on his face.
For her part Brenna kept up with the others and held her own on the dance floor. She danced with all of her friends at least once. Eothain, stepped forward bowing to her with a grin. She curtsied in return. The musicians struck up a Rohirric reel, and Brenna just laughed. The two looked over and saw that Lothíriel was partnered with Eomer, just as Eowyn was partnered with Faramir. The pairs twirled around the dance floor laughing merrily. Their feet moved agilely in tune with the music. The crowd clapped and cheered in encouragement. Faster and faster still they went matching the music.
With the last note hanging in the air their song had ended and their chests were heaving from the exertion of the dance. Brenna smiled and thanked Eothain. He bowed and kissed the back of her hand before making his way back to his friends, who looked stunned. Brenna looked to see Eomer do something similar with Lothíriel before heading towards Eothain grinning. Eowyn came over with Faramir smiling widely.
"My friends, you danced well to the music of my home," she said with a laugh. "One would think that either of you had been doing it all your lives."
"It is a good thing Lothíriel taught me, otherwise I fear I would have embarrassed myself tonight," Brenna said.
Elladan had watched her dance and laugh with others. He saw Eothain kiss the back of her hand and he had to force himself to calm. He knew that she only thought of the man as a friend, that she was his soul mate, but it was hard to not be a little upset. He had to remind himself that she was still young, that it meant nothing to her.
As if sensing his thoughts his brother raised an eyebrow and gave him a humorous grin. "Jealous brother?" Elrohir asked.
Elladan snorted and scowled at him.
"Brother, she danced with you as well. She is dancing with her friends and celebrating this night. Do not be sour or ruin a happy time for her or others." Elrohir cautioned.
Elladan nodded, turning back to watch the crowd. As if sensing his gaze, Brenna turned to him and smiled shyly. In the background the beginnings of a waltz began and he strode over to her side. Bowing and taking her hand, he pulled her into stance. Keeping his hold within propriety, yet closer than a stranger would, he spun her around. The two locked eyes and the world dropped away from them. She smiled softly to him, and he felt an answering one tug at the corner of his mouth. He spun her around, twirling her skirts and fanning her hair out with the move. He pulled her back in just a little closer than before, and she could feel his large hand spanning her tiny waist and shivered.
The song ended and she curtsied gracefully as he bowed, kissing the back of her hand making her blush. Elladan led her off of the dance floor, escorting her to Gandalf's side. He stayed at her side talking quietly with the Istari. Whether he knew it or not, he had a possessive hand on the small of her back as he stood talking. He looked down at her and smiled from time to time.
Lothíriel had joined her side and the two young women were talking quietly. As the night wore on they began to tire and frequented the dance floor less and less. Soon in the early hours of the morning, it came to an end. They were all escorted to their quarters and told to rest peacefully and enjoy a late morning, something they all agreed to.
Brenna was helped by a handmaiden out of her dress. Looking around the room she saw that all of her things had been brought her and put away for her. There was a large four poster bed against the wall and a wardrobe filled with all of her dresses. She noticed that there were quite a few more there. Turning she noticed a vanity next to a set of drawers near windows and a door that opened to a balcony overlooking a garden.
The maid drew her back to the present with a shy smile as she held out night clothes for her to change into behind the privacy screen. When Brenna came around, the maid beckoned her to sit in the chair of the vanity so that she could take her hair out and brush it. Once that was done the handmaiden curtsied and took her leave.
Sighing softly, Brenna put on one of her dressing gowns and went out on her balcony. Looking up at the stars she sang softly, taking solace in the quiet of the night. A warm breeze swirled around her and she smiled, closing her eyes. Turning back to her room, she latched the door shut and climbed into the bed. She blew out the candle on the bedside table and let herself drift to sleep.
Morning came too quickly for Brenna's liking. Though she was an elf and didn't need as much rest as humans, she was still tired. She had finally recovered from her injury that she had sustained at the Black Gates. Being an elf she didn't scar as easily as humans, but her body would still bear the marks of her journey in Middle Earth. They weren't quite as jagged and raised as they otherwise would have been, but she would bear them for the rest of her life.
Stretching somewhat like a cat, she rolled from her bed and walked to the pitcher and basin on her set of drawers. She moved to sit at her vanity and began brushing her hair out humming softly. A knock sounded at the door and a servant announced themselves. She beckoned the handmaiden in the room and smile warmly at the young woman.
The young handmaiden, whom she learned was called Hanna, selected one of the gowns from her wardrobe and the matching shift. Though the dress was less ornate than the gown from the night before it was no less beautiful and soft. The shift was of a light sage green color, embroidered with ivy along the edges, while the dress was of a deep forest green color with light sage green ivy embroidered along its edging.
Brenna sat quietly in the chair of her vanity as the handmaiden pulled her hair back. Brenna stilled her hands and asked if she could just have a simple braid down her back. Hanna reluctantly complied, deftly braiding her hair and tying it off with a matching green ribbon. Thanking her Brenna stood and put on a soft leather pair of slippers. Hanna took her leave after giving Brenna instructions to reach the main hall.
Brenna made her way to the hall, taking in her surroundings. She looked at all of the tapestries and statues along the way. She observed the intricate carvings within the white stone. Humming softly to herself, she traced the Celtic-like designs etched into the surfaces along the way. Finally she found herself in the front hall. With a smile she nodded at Aragorn as she met him in the hallway. He offered her his arm and led her into the room to a large dining table, where a very big spread of food had been prepared.
Walking down the far end of the table, he seated her and then took the head chair which was to her left. He nodded to the others coming in the room and bade them come sit and partake in what Brenna assumed was brunch, judging by the later hour. They chatted quietly and enjoyed the wonderful food prepared by the kitchen staff.
Brenna finished, and politely put her napkin on the table next to her plate. Though finished, she sat listening and talking with her friends. Looking around the table, she noticed that Eomer was nearby and she caught his eye. He paused and looked at her in question. She grinned and asked if she could speak to him when he had a moment. The others looked at her but she just kept a mysterious smile on her face and shook her head.
Finally when everyone had eaten their fill the group decided to take a walk through the gardens. Eomer came to assist Brenna and to escort her. She took his arm with a smile nodding to the others as they left the room. He led her to the garden ahead of the group.
"What is it Lady Brenna?" he asked her softly.
"Please, just Brenna even if it's only away from the public eye. We've been through far too much to hold such formalities," she urged him. "There's something that I wish to speak to you about before you and the others are called away to meetings with advisors and such."
"Brenna, I fear that you too shall be called into the meetings and negotiations," he cautioned her.
She nodded thoughtfully, "I know perhaps that it is not my place, but I wish to speak to you of your sister. I consider her a dear friend and know that she has found love. No wait, please let me continue, if only to allay any fears that you would have. I can assure you my friend, that theirs is a love that will remain timeless. They were destined to be together. He will love and cherish her as she deserves and allow her to be herself."
Eomer looked at her with emotions conflicting in his eyes. His shoulders hunched forward and he put his head in his hands. Turning to her, "So I am to lose her and face this alone? I would have her happy and keep my sorrow to myself. I must leave in a weeks' time at most to go and prepare my kingdom for my uncle's burial."
Brenna took his large calloused, yet warm hand into her own, "You will not have to face the troubles of your country alone my friend. We will all be there to help you. Under your rule, your people will flourish and prosper. All will be well you will see."
Sighing softly, he gently squeezed her hand in thanks. "I will begin the negotiations to officially announce their betrothal this morning. The day before I leave, if they wish it they may be wed here," he stated and a gasp was heard behind them.
Eowyn came forward, launching herself in her brother's arms. He smiled somewhat sadly as his younger sister, nodding to Faramir, who bowed to him in thanks. Eowyn then pulled Brenna into a crushing hug, thanking her friend repeatedly. Brenna chuckled, hugging her back. The others quickly learned of their conversation and began congratulating the happy couple.
The group talked and enjoyed the warm sunny day for a while, before a servant came forward announcing that the advisors were in the hall awaiting the King's presence. Brenna frowned at this, something that was noticed by the others. She went to Aragorn and the group made their way into the room. The advisors bristled seeing the three ladies with the group, but were silenced by the stern looks upon the faces of the sovereigns in the room.
Brenna stepped forward towards a greasy, sneering man. The men and elves of her guard fell in close by waiting. She tilted her head to the side at the man, keeping her facial expression blank. He leered down at her, standing a good seven inches above her petite five foot three inch height.
"What place does a woman have in the King's Hall. These meetings and counsel are no place for a woman," he grumbled.
Brenna turned to Aragorn, who frowned but remained quiet watching the confrontation play out. The men present gasped seeing that though she was clearly female that she was an elf maiden. Some of them recognized the stars on her forehead and stepped back, nodding respectfully, knowing who and what she was. Those remaining in a belligerent posture, either didn't notice or care.
"An elf maiden!" he exclaimed laughing. "What business do you have here," he demanded.
The others bristled at his tone and the implication in his voice. Brenna's eyes went cold and seemed to burn with anger. Her forehead glowed brightly and her hands began glowing blue.
"She's an elf witch my lord, can you not see?" he cried out angrily. Many of those that had before stood by him now stepped away, leaving only a handful of men.
"You sir are a rude man, though I would expect no less from a traitor," she said viciously. "Even now you would seek to overthrow his rule and claim to the throne. I do not trust you, or any loyal to you. I name you a traitor and tell you now that what you seek is treason," Brenna declared firmly. Turning to Aragorn, "My lord king, he would see you dead before a fortnight and plots to end your life. I have seen his plan and what he seeks is evil and madness."
Guards stepped forward rounding up he and his men. They were escorted from the room and taken to be questioned. Faramir apparently had nodded to the guards standing discreetly along the pillars of the hall. Once they were gone the group turned to Brenna who was pale and shaking.
Laughing nervously, "It seems that it was a good idea that I came today," she said. Nodding as she took Aragorn's arm, he escorted her to a chair near his. Once she as well as Eowyn and Lothíriel were seated, the men and elves present sat down.
The topics ranged from everyday grievances to larger problems. Solutions were discussed and plausible answers bandied back and forth. Brenna kept quiet, observing and listening. Eomer brought up the topic of Eowyn and Faramir's betrothal and subsequent marriage. He told them of his plans to go and prepare his home to receive Théoden for burial. He told them he would need to assess the damage of the lands and needs of his people. Aragorn, Faramir, and Imrahil pledged to help in whatever way that they could.
Brenna looked up and caught Aragorn's eye. The table went silent as she began to speak. "Rohan is a noble land with a noble and hardy people. Their lands however have suffered greatly from the taint of Saruman. His army and the Dunlendings either pillaged or laid waste to their crops and herds. They will need help if they are to survive the coming winter. I will go and spend some time there healing what I can of the lands, but I won't be able to really get much done until next year's planting season."
Her speech was met with silence. Eomer's jaw, that of his Marshalls and the men of Brenna's guard, clenched tightly in anger. Aragorn looked to Faramir, who nodded. Faramir left and came back with a large ledger and flipped it open. They called their advisors and began discussing numbers. It was quickly decided what they could spare, which was a lot. They had large stores stock piled and held in case of need.
Eomer and his men listened in stunned silence as the men of Gondor were talking about wagon loads of grains and food stuffs to be sent with them to Edoras in a week's time. Eomer swallowed thickly and looked to Brenna with such a look of gratitude. He thanked his friends and allies, his brother's at arms.
Looking around the room quietly, Brenna turned to Aragorn waiting for him to finish speaking with Faramir. Once they noticed that she was looking at them they turned giving her their attention.
"Aragorn," she paused with a large grin crossing her face. "You need to make ready for your bride's arrival."
His eyes got wide and he looked at her in question. "My lady comes to me?"
"Yes my lord, you should plan for a Midsummer's Day wedding," she said with a wink. He nodded in thanks and turned back to Faramir and the others to begin another set of plans.
Brenna looked down at the table lost in thought. She let her mind wander for a bit. Soon the conversation was drowned out as visions came upon her. A rushing sound reached her ears and her eyes went unfocused.
Flash! The sounds of waves reached her ears. She felt the ocean breeze across her face and breathed in deeply, smelling the sea. Turning and looking around, she saw a large castle-like dwelling built into the cliffs. In the nearby bay she saw a fleet of naval ships anchored in defense of the port and city. Flash! Time rushed forward and she saw Lothíriel and Eomer announcing their betrothal. Flash! She saw the elves settling in Ithilien and helping Faramir and his men there. Flash! She saw the Men of the East amassing and marching on their borders. Flash! She saw roaming bands of orcs attacking and killing as they went. She saw people and elves attacked as they traveled but the rogue bands of orcs. Flash after flash, the visions plagued her and her temples began to pound.
Brenna gripped the table tightly and her breathing was coming in gasps. The others turn to her in concern. Aragorn stood and went to her side. Prying her hands from the table, he tried to draw her back to them. Her whole body was trembling as tears began to slowly fall down her cheeks.
She turned to Aragorn, pale and wide eyed and cried. Brenna buried her face in her hands and wept. Gandalf made his way to her side, but the girl seemed to be inconsolable. Her grief overwhelmed the elves present. Elladan knelt next to her, taking one of her hands in his own.
"Brenna, love what it is?" he asked her gently. "Tell us what's wrong and we'll help. We can try to fix it Brenna, but you have to tell us. You cannot let the grief overwhelm you, please," he emotionally told her.
Haldir watched the young woman in concern. She was a strong, vibrant girl. He knew whatever she had seen must have been horrible to cause such a reaction in her. She hadn't even reacted this way when she had seen some of the other things that had come to pass. Turning to the other members of her guard, both elves and men, he nodded grimly to them. They would all have to be on their guard because something would happen in the future and for it to cause such a reaction from their friend, it must be something terrible.
Beleg watched Brenna quietly. Her grief was enough that it caught his breath. He looked to Telgalad and Legolas and saw that they were similarly affected by her grief. Elrohir looked on, standing at his brother's side. He had a lump in his throat, feeling the waves of grief and sadness coming off of Brenna. The rest of the men in the room looked on in worry. Some of them knew that something was wrong, understanding what grief could do to an elf. The others were slightly confused, not quite sure what was going on.
Lothíriel and Eowyn stepped forward to their friend. Stepping to her side, they each went to one side of her and whispered softly to her that everything would be alright. That she was safe and that everything would be fine. Brenna let out a few quivering breaths and managed to calm herself and tamp down the grief welling up in her.
"Aragorn, Eomer," she said turning to them, "while both of your reigns and lives will be blessed, you must remain vigilant. Though Sauron and Saruman are gone, their allies and armies are still at large. The Men of the East will try to cause trouble and test you in the coming years. The rogue bands of orcs are going to be a problem," she told them with a trembling voice. "They will need to be hunted down and dispatched as soon as possible."
She turning and looked to Prince Imrahil and his family. "There will be a fleet of enemy ships coming to Dol Amroth in the near future. You must prepare your home and the shores."
They nodded with grim looks on their faces. "Thank you for the forewarning Lady Brenna," Prince Imrahil told her gratefully.
Looking around the room, she let out a shaky breath. Turning to Aragorn, he stepped forward and took her hand, helping her to stand. Elladan stayed close, not quite hovering, but staying nearby as the need to protect her overwhelmed his senses. Yet again he wanted nothing more than to take her away from all of this and take her to Valinor where she could rest and be safe. Sighing, he knew it would be quite some time before he would be able to do that.
Aragorn called the meeting to adjourn, Brenna clearly was distraught and they had already been in talks for hours. It would soon be time for the evening meal. He nodded and the group made their way out to a nearby private courtyard and garden. Leading her to a bench under the shade of a flowering cherry tree, he sat her down and crouched in front of her, taking her hands.
"Brenna, little sister, are you well?" he asked her urgently. "Is there anything that I can do?"
Taking a steadying breath, "I am well Aragorn. I pray to the Valar that what I saw will not come to pass. I will not succumb to my grief, do not fear for me."
The group talked quietly among themselves, before slowly dispersing, taking their leave to attend to matters with their own delegations. Brenna sat quietly in the garden with her guard nearby talking quietly to each other. Eowyn left with her brother and Faramir to plan her wedding and the funeral procession of Théoden. Lothíriel stayed by her side, but her father and brothers went to tend to matters pertaining to Dol Amroth and the impending invasion of their waters. Aragorn and the Sons of Elrond left to speak about matters of the state and what Brenna had warned them of in the meeting.
Brenna turned to Lothíriel, "I think I would like to visit the House of Healing."
Her guard came forward hearing her intention. Lothíriel nodded and looped her arm through Brenna's and the two women made their way down towards the House of Healing, flanked by Brenna's elvish guard.
Brenna and Lothíriel entered the halls and began greeting the still recovering soldiers residing there. Though the young women were not dressed to treat them, they still pulled on smocks and made their way through the halls going from room to room. Many of the men called out in greeting, recognizing the young women who had treated them before.
Word of Brenna's deeds had spread throughout the halls and seeing her dressed as a lady, she was regarded respectfully. The men of her Rohirric guard had spoken to their kinsmen and they in turn spoke to the men of Gondor. They also held Princess Lothíriel in high regard. Here were two noble, high classed ladies that had treated each of them as equals. They had been treated with dignity and respect, despite the differences in class and background, something that had endeared the young women to the seasoned soldiers.
Aragorn and the Sons of Elrond found them in the halls talking and laughing with some of the soldiers as they helped to change bandages. Elladan watch Brenna quietly, smiling softly as she carefully cleaned and bandaged a large wound on the side of a soldier from Gondor. She was nodding to something he was saying and smiled, turning to Lothíriel who was nearby laughing along with the others.
Brenna turned seeing them enter and nodded to them with a smile. The healers came forward to continue, shooing the young women. The wounded called out their thanks and greetings as they left. The group made their way back to the King's Hall where a large spread had been prepared for them. They were soon joined by Eomer and his men as well as Prince Imrahil and his sons. Faramir came in with Eowyn on his arm and soon they were all seated.
Dinner went by quickly and they all retired for the night. Brenna entered her room and a handmaiden was there waiting to assist her in getting ready for bed. Her dress was taken and hung as she slipped into a soft night gown. She splashed water in her face and brushed out her hair. Sighing she went to the bed and climbed into the soft mattress. Saying a prayer to the Valar to help her through what she knew she would now have to face in the coming years, she let sleep take her.