(Disclaimer: I own or claim none of Tolkien's work or characters, the only character that I claim is Brenna.)
Author's Note: Please note there have been some chapters updated. While doing further research I found that I inadvertently named one of the members of Brenna's Rohirric Guard a female name. The name Elfhild had been changed to Dernhelm. Sorry for any confusion.
Chapter 19
The company of elves and Rohirrim entered the settlement and looked around cautiously. Many of the buildings were badly damaged, though there were signs of attempts to make repairs. There were two dozen cattle and a half dozen sheep as well as various other livestock in an enclosure nearby. It looked as though the people left in the settlement had pooled their resources and harvested what they could of the crops the previous year.
The Riders and Eomer looked around saddened and angered by what they were seeing. It was obvious to them that the people here, like so many other villages, had suffered greatly at the hands of the enemy. They looked around and watched as the people cautiously made their way out of their homes to greet their King.
Brenna observed all of this while pushing down the nagging feeling of dread within. She watched as two young children ran out from behind one of the walls laughing and chasing each other. There were other voices calling after them and rapid footsteps in pursuit.
The tawny youths were clean, though their clothing had seen better days. They were well fed and happy, which was more than could be said for some of the others she had seen. The youngest appeared to be perhaps five or six. He had a mischievous look in his eye as he darted towards the horses.
Around the corner came a young woman, her eyes were darting left and right as she looked for the children. "Edmund come back here!" she called out in shock. "Dernwyn, get Gléowyn, Holdwyn back to the house and stay there. I'll get Edmund."
"Yes Déorwyn," the elder of the three girls called out.
Brenna watched the exchange in amusement, but felt a pang of sympathy for the young family. At least they had each other she thought. As if sensing her thoughts Elladan turned to her to see if she was alright. She gave him a sad smile and nodded. Handing the reins of Ash to him, she slid gracefully off of the horse.
Watching carefully she saw the small child dart out from behind one of the buildings straight towards the group. The sudden motion had spooked the horses and caused some of them to stamp and rear up. Their riders held their seat but called in alarm as the young child darted between them.
Brenna moved quickly now, watching the direction of him and the stamping hooves. Seizing the back of his shirt and hauling him up, the child cried out in alarm and flailed as the horses around them stamped in agitation. She held him firmly, whispering soothing words as he trembled in fear.
In the distance Brenna heard his sister calling out in alarm and fear as her younger brother had disappeared among the stamping horse hooves. She tried to move forward but she was held back by the Riders who tried to calm her and allay her fears. The others were searching for Brenna in fear. They couldn't see her among the commotion and moving animals.
Edmund clung to Brenna, no longer fighting her hold. He whimpered softly in the crook of her neck as he began to cry softly. She rubbed his back soothingly, while dodging the horses. She finally made her way out of the groups off to the side rocking and holding the child, even as her own body trembled. The whole thing had happened so fast.
"Hush now, it's alright." Brenna soothed the little boy.
Her cloak had fallen away from her head in the skirmish, exposing her face and ears. The young boy stared at her in wide-eyed wonder. He was cautiously reaching for her ear when Elladan had reached her side. His face was ashen and he looked terrified.
"Are you harmed? Were either of you hurt?" he asked anxiously, checking them both over for injury. Elrohir was at his side doing the same.
By now the rest of the group had seen Brenna holding the small boy. He shyly hid in the crook of her neck and she chuckled at him softly. Running her had soothingly over his back she turned to where Eothain and Eomer were making their way towards her looking grim. Between them was the distraught young woman named Déorwyn. Her relief was palpable when she saw that her younger brother was alright.
Brenna stepped forward holding the clinging child. She was only an inch or two shorter than the other young woman and they appeared to be around the same age. She could see that the girl was tired and worn. Brenna could feel the grief and fear still in her.
Déorwyn stopped short seeing Brenna. Her eyes grew wide in the realization that an elf held her younger brother. Brenna just smiled reassuringly and stepped closer to her.
"I believe this young one belongs to you?" Brenna asked in an amused voice.
"Milady, I don't," she began but Brenna stopped her.
"My name is Brenna, we'll save the formalities for the necessary occasions," Brenna told her. "He's fine, a little startled and shaken, but otherwise unharmed."
The girl seemed to sag in relief. Brenna could see that she was barely keeping herself composed and looked pointedly at the males surrounding them and pressing in.
"Perhaps I can escort this young man back home and you and I can get better acquainted? Brenna offered.
Déorwyn nodded gratefully. Turning towards her companions Brenna smiled reassuringly to them. She felt the Lady briefly touch her mind before she heard her talking to her delegation, leading them towards one of the available dwellings.
Brenna saw Elladan hesitate to go, as did many of the members of her Guard. She turned and saw Déorwyn look around uncomfortably and hesitant. Brenna turned back to them and shook her head.
"Eomer King, I will escort my new friend back to his home with his family. If you could please send someone to escort me to where I will be staying with my Guard later I would greatly appreciate it. For now I think I will be fine as there is still daylight and I trust your people," Brenna spoke firmly and loud enough that the residents could hear her.
Eomer hesitated, but seeing the look on her face he nodded. Eothain next to him looked intrigued by the young woman. When he saw Brenna smirking at him, his facial expression was a comical look of shock and bewilderment.
Chuckling softly, she turned to the young woman next to her and motioned her to lead the way. Little Edmund clung to her and had his face burrowed in her neck. As they were walking away he peeked shyly over her shoulder towards the company of men and elves. The members of her Guard watched in amusement and some concern watching their charge walk away with an unknown person.
Turning towards Eomer Elladan asked, "Eomer, what do you know about that young woman and her family? I mean no disrespect, but will they be safe there one their own knowing that will be happening in three maybe for days hence."
Eomer watched Brenna walk off with the other woman and the little boy. Shaking his head he turned back to the group. "That was Déorwyn and if I'm not mistaken, Brenna has spoken of her in the past." he said looking pointedly at Eothain. "She is the eldest daughter of Guthwyn and Gárulf, both perished in the attack on this village. They died protecting their home and children. Their two older sons Gárbald and Gárwine also died in the attack on this village. A third son Fasthelm, rode to the aid of Minas Tirith, but I don't know what happened to him. I will find out though, for the sake of his family. There must be dispatches sent to every village, a census must be run so we have an idea of how many are unaccounted for."
The others nodded in agreement. Eothain stood watching where the two young woman had left with a pensive look on his face. Eomer and the others checked with the Riders and horses involved to make sure that no one was hurt. Many of them were worked up and concerned that they might have hurt Lady Brenna or the child.
Once they were assured that everyone was fine they made way to the buildings available to house the Riders. Some of the men setup a watch around the perimeter of the small settlement, and the others took up rooms within the Tavern and Inn as well as the outlying buildings that lay vacant. There were regular patrols through the streets and Eomer dispatched a missive to the next closest village to send men to help defend and protect this village.
Within two hours the answering reinforcements had arrived. They were shocked and dismayed to see that their neighbors were so unprotected. Throughout the night groups of three or four Riders from the surrounding areas arrived until there was a more substantial number to give defense of the holding.
Meanwhile in the family home of Déorwyn and her siblings Brenna was greeted a little bit suspiciously by the younger girls. While their eyes were alight with the thought of meeting a real elf, they were not so trusting of outsiders after seeing their parents and older brothers cut down before their eyes. Their brothers, though gravely injured in the battle, had lingered for days with fever and sickness from their wounds. It had greatly affected the young ones.
Brenna looked around the home and saw that there were new boards on some of the outer walls replacing what must have been damage from the fight. There were tapestries hung on the wall, they appeared to be hand-woven and very old. The rustic wooden table and chairs appeared to have been well used and very lived on. Hanging in the fire was a large cast iron pot with what appeared to be some sort of stew bubbling away. A kettle was steaming and there was fresh bread rising nearby. From the exposed beams hung herbs, spices, and dried flowers.
As they were chatting and talking about their pasts and families Brenna felt the love in this place and realized that though she had felt comfortable and welcome in all of the places that she had stay, this felt like a home. Tears sprung in her eyes as the ache and longing bubbled up within her. Edmund became concerned for her immediately and in the innocence that only a child could have he hugged her and kissed her cheek to make it better.
Brenna sat on the wooden bench and held the young boy. He scrambled from her arms and sat next to her taking her hand. Déorwyn became alarmed seeing the young woman crying. She tried as best she could to comfort the poor elf. Her sisters did as well, in her they seemed to find a kindred spirit.
A knock at the door startled them, Déorwyn opened the door cautiously to see Eomer King and Eothain as well as a startling number of others.
"Pardon the intrusion Déorwyn, but we've come to collect Brenna," Eomer told her kindly.
"Milord King, I know not what is wrong, but she's distraught," she told him anxiously. "We came home and sat in the kitchen talking, when she began crying."
Elladan and Elrohir stepped forward and Eomer nodded to them. Déorwyn allowed them entry and showed them where she was. Brenna was sitting at the table in a warm kitchen with a cheerful fire, weeping as the children tried in earnest to comfort her.
Upon seeing the other men and elves enter into the room the children stilled and watched them cautiously. The Sons of Elrond stepped forward smiling reassuringly at the children and knelt before Brenna.
"Brenna, love, you mustn't carry on so. Everything will be alright. Tell us what is bothering you and we will try to make it right," Elladan implored.
Elrohir was whispering elvish words of healing and comfort as he held one of her hands. To see what would be his little sister so upset was breaking his heart. He could feel her sorrow and grief pouring off of her alarmingly. The other elves that had entered shared similar looks and were gravely concerned for their young charge.
Brenna heard them talking to her from what seemed like a great distance. She felt Elladan's presence before she realized that he was really there. She went to him, and he took her in his arms soothing and comforting her as best her could. They still didn't know what was bothering her so much. She was still not making much sense to them.
So great was the disturbance of her grief that the Lady came to the room. A hush fell over the group when she approached where Elladan sat on the ground holding her in his lap rocking her. Her tears had soak the front of his tunic. Galadriel knelt next to them, she smiled reassuringly to her grandson, who looked devastated at the heartbreak his mate was going through. She gently touched Brenna's mind to see what was happening and why and pulled back when she found what she had been looking for.
"Brenna child, you must not grieve so. All of us are homesick. Little one, breathe, take a deep breath and listen to me." Galadriel cajoled and soothed. "That's it, now let it out. I know that you miss home Brenna, and I know that you long for the peace and comfort of home and family, but grieving this way will not help that." Galadriel told her gently.
She rubbed Brenna's back and murmured to her comfortingly as Elladan tightened his grip on her reflexively as he listened. He rested his head on hers as he held her. The others in the room watched and listened and felt guilt sinking in. None of them realized what was bothering Brenna. It hurt them to see her so upset.
Little Edmund crept closer and climbed into her lap. "Don't cry Brenna," he said as he put his little arms around her neck hugging her.
Brenna laughed hoarsely and hugged the young boy back. She burrowed her face in the crook of Elladan's neck and sighed softly. He wrapped his arms around her, rubbing her back gently. His hand twitched and his jaw clenched when he felt the scar across her back.
As if sensing his feelings Brenna sat up and looked at him. He sat still and just watched her cautiously. She smile softly at him as little Edmund scrambled up and went to stand by his sisters. Turning back to Elladan she whispered thank you to him, kissing his cheek gently before taking Elrohir's hand to stand up.
Elladan sat momentarily stunned and was startled to see his brother's hand in his face. He took his hand and stood as well, turning to look at Brenna. She smile shyly at him and let Lady Galadriel lead her from the house. Pausing at the door she smiled and thanked Déorwyn and her family before leaving.
The group turned to leave their home, but Eomer and Eothain remained with a few of the other Riders. "Déorwyn, we will be looking into what happened to your brother Fasthelm and bring you word as soon as we know. Now onto the next reason that I am here," he paused. "Is the child alright? None of you were hurt in what happened this evening?"
"No Eomer King, we are well. And thank you for looking into our brother for us. Any news would bring us some sort of closure," she told him.
"Déorwyn," he began quietly. "Do you or your family need anything. It would not be charity, your family has sacrificed and suffered much in the defense of our lands. If you are in need then it is my duty to see that you have what you need."
"We've managed milord," she told him, flushing in embarrassment. "We should be fine..."
"Déorwyn," Eothain interrupted her, "the offer to help is not meant to insult. As a citizen of Rohan, it is the King's duty and responsibility to provide where there is need. You've done a wonderful job since the tragic losses your family has suffered, but he wants to make sure that you'll all thrive."
Déorwyn thought about what they were saying and then looked to where her siblings were playing by the hearth. She knew that she had a responsibility to them. Resolving herself she turned back to her King and his apparent second in command.
"Any help would be welcome milord. I fear that it will be a difficult winter. We planted what we could this past season, but with so few of us I'm not sure what this harvest will yield. We salvaged what we could of last season's crop and split it among us, but it will be a very difficult year," she told them quietly.
Eomer stepped forward and took her hand, "Provisions will be provided to get the village through and we'll send help to get things back to normal here. Already there are Riders here securing the village and standing guard."
Déorwyn nodded and swallowed emotionally and smiled tentatively. "Thank you milord."
Eothain watched the exchange and felt a nagging sense of responsibility for this girl. He thought back to what Brenna had told him and really took the time to look at the girl and her siblings. He crouched down as young Edmund came over towards them. Smiling encouragingly he greeted the lad in Rohirric and smiled as the young one replied in kind. Chatting quietly with the boy, he asked him questions here and there to gauge how things were in the settlement and household. He filed away the little details, vowing to keep an eye and ear on things happening here until such a time he could pursue and woo the girl properly.
Ruffling the boy's hair affectionately, he stood and turned towards Déorwyn who was watching him with a guarded expression. He just smiled at her in a friendly manner and waved to the younger sisters as he and Eomer took their leave of the small family. They left the house and made sure that they were safe and secure inside before returning to the rest of their company.
"I take it you know who the girl is?" Eomer asked his friend casually.
"Know her personally? No, but I know of her from what Brenna told me. Eomer my friend I need to help them." Eothain told his friend solemnly.
"We will do all we can my friend," Eomer told his comrade seriously.
They made their way through the small village, calling out in greeting to their fellow Riders. Some of their party were staying within the available rooms and buildings within the village, most chose to make an encampment within the walls and on the town green for the night.
They turned the corner and headed towards where they knew that Brenna would be staying. They found her sitting at the fire surrounded by the rest of her Guard. She was staring into the flames with unseeing eyes and a smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. Eomer noticed that Elladan was sitting on one side while Lady Galadriel had taken up the other side. She was essentially surrounded by the members of her future family, as they closed rank and sought to comfort her.
Eomer called out in greeting to those present, drawing Brenna's attention, she smile tiredly at him, and turned to grin mischievously at Eothain. The man flushed and the whoops and laughter that rang out around the fire. He endured the good-natured teasing for a bit before it died down.
"Brenna," Eomer began seriously, "perhaps a little warning beforehand next time. You took years off my life watching you dart after the boy, only to be swallowed up in the melee."
"I'm sorry if I worried anyone, but I really didn't have much warning. I heard the children's laughter and saw him come hauling around the corner. There was no time, I didn't want to startle him more than I had. He would have been trampled if I didn't get to him in time." she told them.
Eothain crouched in front of her and took one of her hands in his own, "Thank you for intervening. I'm not sure we say it enough for you, but time and again you've put yourself in the face of danger to protect and save others. Today you saved what could possibly be a member of my house and family. For that alone I will always be there should you need my help," he told her strongly.
She smiled and nodded at him. Turning back to look at the flames when he stepped away, she lost herself in her thoughts. Drawing a deep breath she turned to Eomer.
"Where the fields that they planted this year and where are the ones that they will plant next season? If I'm to start Healing somewhere it may as well be here," she said to him with a shrug.
There were some immediate protests, but she held up her hand effectively stopping them. "I know that you're all concerned, but I won't overtax myself this time. You should know that this must be done, even with the provisions brought here, they won't survive the winter without a healthy, successfully yielded harvest."
The groups sat in silence. They were somewhat stunned at that revelation. They were each lost in their own thoughts. Eomer and his countrymen sat in horrified silence realizing the situation their people were in.
"Brenna, was she the one you were talking about?" Eothain finally asked cautiously.
With a giggle and her eyes seeming to sparkle like emeralds in the fire light, she nodded positively. His gaze dropped to the fire and his brow creased in thought. He stood suddenly and walked off to collect his thoughts in peace.
"He will be fine," Eomer assured her. "He just needs to sort out his thoughts before he can figure out what to do next."
Whatever he was expecting, Brenna's burst of laughter in response was not it. She was nearly doubled over, with tears of mirth pouring down her face. Gasping for breath, she clutched her stomach while laughing. Elladan looked at her in amusement, but she couldn't catch her breath to explain.
When she had finally calmed down enough to talk, she managed to get out, "watch out for water troths," before succumbing to her amusement once more. Those who had heard her warnings before looked at her with wide eyes before they too laughed merrily.
Once they had settled in, bedrolls were set up and sleeping arrangements were made. Brenna declined the use of a tent, despite the urging of Oriel. Arwen followed her friend's example and chose to stay with her out in the open under the light of the stars. The three elleths curled up protectively guarded and watched by the males in their company.
The night passed with no problems or interruptions. The sun poked over the horizon and Brenna stirred from her slumber. Oriel was already up getting everything together. She led Brenna to one of the rooms available and helped her to change into one of the fresh Riding habits that she had with her. It was the dark green one from Mirkwood. Her hair was washed, brushed and braided back.
By the time they returned the others were stirring and getting up. Brenna collected her things and put her pack in her saddle bags. She told Oriel to stay with Arwen and turned to see which of her Guard was already up and moving. Finding Haldir and some of the other elves leaning on one of the fences talking quietly among themselves, she made her way towards them. Greetings were exchanged and they agreed to accompany her.
Elladan and Elrohir had caught up to the group as they followed Brenna out of the main gate of the village. The Riders on guard duty called out in greeting and let them pass with no trouble. Brenna was surveying the area when Eomer and her Rohirric Guard had joined them.
"Brenna, you don't have to do this now," Eomer told her.
She turned and looked him in the eye and replied, "Yes I do, and you know that I do Eomer."
He pointed her in the direction of the fields that were just recently planted and then in the direction of the area that would be used next season. Brenna looked around mentally calculating what she would need to do. She looked around her taking in the vast plains that went out in all directions before coming up with a plan of action.
Walking in the direction she stepped carefully down the rows to avoid trampling on any of the plants. She walked out into the field, roughly in the center. Fram passed her the blanket that she usually knelt on and helped her to carefully set it up without disturbing the plants.
She knelt gently on the blanket and took a deep calming breath. Just as the sun had fully risen on the horizon, Brenna burrowed her hands deep within the dry soil. Whispering the songs of Este and Vana, she called forth the water from deep within the ground. As her voice picked up, the wind began to swirl around her. The blue tendrils of her magic pushed out and soon washed over the field as far as the eye could see, surrounding the whole village.
The others could feel the power pouring off of her surging through the ground and air around them. Her body began trembling with the exertion of the magic. Her ring pulsed in the now moist soil. The seeds that had been planted, and others that had lain dormant or barren, now sprouted to life.
When she began to sway with exhaustion, Elladan called out to her. She pulled back, sitting back on her heels. He and Elrohir crouched next to her and helped clean the mud off of her hands. The warm breeze of her power was still swirling around them in the air. Across the vast plains, blue tendrils of her power reached far and wide, healing leagues of the land that had been so damaged from the destruction of the war that nothing would grow.
Eomer knelt down and gently touched the sprouts and shoots of the crops now popping up. He stood and looked around him in shock seeing that most of the fields surrounding the village had some sort of crop sprouting. Turning towards Brenna, he swallowed a lump in his throat as he watched the Sons of Elrond help her to stand.
Seeing that she couldn't move well on her own, Elladan swept her up, despite her feeble protests. Elrohir bent and grabbed the blanket and dusted off the dirt. The group turned and made their way back to the gate where a crowd had assembled and watched.
Déorwyn looked at Brenna with wide eyes and then back out to the fields of crops now flourishing. There were cheers and exclamations of joy throughout the people. Tears of relief and happiness ran down their faces as they realized that all would be well for them.
Elladan brought Brenna back to where they had camped and sat gently on a log near the fire while holding her. She had nodded off to sleep on the walk back and was clinging to his tunic. The others nodded to him and talked among themselves quietly, making preparations for their journey while others were preparing breakfast.
Brenna started to stir to consciousness about an hour later. She listened to the deep timber of Elladan's voice rumble in his chest as he talked quietly with his brother. He gently shifted her in his arms, brushing hair from her brow as he spoke to Elrohir. She shifted in her sleep, not quite awake yet, and burrowed in closer to his chest causing him to chuckle deeply. The sound sent tingles straight down her spine.
She murmured softly in her sleep, with her breath fanning the exposed skin of his neck. Had he not had the years of training and practice to remain stoic he would have shown more how much she was going to drive him to the point of insanity. His brother so in tune with him noticed and laughed at his predicament. She shifted closer and he reflexively adjusted his hold.
Though her breathing was still even, he knew that she was waking soon. He knew that he would have to let her go soon, but relished holding her close. He took comfort knowing that she was well, safe and alive. He would need to keep that train of thought to get him through the next few decades while he waited for her to come of age.
She blinked slowly, her lashes tickling the skin of his neck, sending a shiver down his spine that he fought. When she snuggled in closer, pressing tighter against him, he took calming breaths. He shifted her so she was sitting across his lap more rather than laying back in his arms, bringing her further awake.
Wrapping her arms around his neck she lay her head in his chest, listening to the strong steady beat of his heart. She took comfort in having him near and was too sleepy to be embarrassed about their seating arrangement. Musing silently that she was far too comfortable right where she was to protest.
"Good morning sleepy head," Arwen said with her voice colored with mirth.
Brenna turned her head and smiled tiredly at her friend. Arwen looked concerned seeing her so fatigued and sat down next to her, touching her brow briefly. Lord Elrond had come forward to check her over as well. Finding that she was just exhausted, he murmured quietly in elvish.
She sighed in relief and nodded her thanks. Sitting back she rested her forehead on his collarbone and relaxed into his arms. She knew that it wasn't completely acceptable, but at this moment in time she was too tired to care about propriety.
"Brenna, love," Elladan whispered to her, "You're going to have to sit next to me. While I'd like nothing more than to keep you right where you are, it isn't proper and I won't do anything to compromise your honor."
She nodded and allowed him to shift her to the log next to him. Despite his insistence, she stayed right next to him leaning comfortably into his side so that his arm had to remain around her. The others around the campfire grinned and smiled at the two.
The Riders and residents of in the village watched the young elf maiden. What they had seen her do was more than they could have ever hoped for. They were overjoyed to see that their land and crops were now going to thrive, but they saw the cost of it. Their concern for the young girl grew as they realized that she would soon have to ride out with the entourage heading to Minas Tirith.
Everyone was startled from their thoughts as the thundering of hooves sounded in the distance. Over one of the roads a company of Riders came, bringing with them three dozen horses. Eothain stood, heading to greet the arrivals and Eomer followed.
Brenna grinned knowing what was going to happen in the near future. She silently wondered if he had a spare change of clothes in his pack or if he would have to borrow some from a friend. The others watched her expression curiously, unsure what would bring such amusement to her.
The Riders and new horses rode up the main rode in town. The horses, were a gift to the townspeople from some of the Riders as Eothain had sent word of the plight of the people with permission from Eomer. Eomer turned to his second in command with a raised eyebrow. He shrugged and flushed a bit as a member of his home village came forward. The Rider handed him the three horses that he had sent for.
Brenna watched from a distance and grinned. Déorwyn who had come to the center of town with her younger siblings, looked to Brenna in question. Brenna grinned and looked pointedly at Eothain. Déorwyn, flushed, but Brenna could see that there was a spark in her light blue eyes. The younger siblings watched in awe as the Riders brought most of the horses to the stables nearby.
Eothain walked forward bringing the three horses with him. He realized that he now had the attention of most of the town and looked at Brenna with wide eyes. Her smile softened and she nodded encouragingly towards him.
Déorwyn watched the exchange curiously. In a state of shock she realized that the young captain was leading the horses straight towards her and her siblings. She flushed when she realized that he meant to give her the horses.
Clearing his throat he stepped closer towards her, ignoring the others that watched. "I bring you these as a gift and a token of gratitude for what your family has sacrificed for the Riddermark." He stately softly looking her straight in the eye. "Please do not take this as a form of charity. We are a farming and equine people and I know that this village has suffered greatly. As you can see other Riders have sent what they could from their own herds in hopes of helping and restoring our neighbors lives to what they once were."
Eomer who had come closer, spoke loud enough to be heard by those present, "Each of the villages that are in need will be provided for as best we can with what we of the Mark have. Where others have and those that do not there will be an exchange and a trade. We must all help one another if we are to survive the coming years. It is the way of the Mark, we help our own."
The answering rally cry from the people sent chills down Brenna's spine. She nodded to Déorwyn and smiled encouragingly towards the young woman. She watched as the girl smiled her thanks as she took the reins of the horses. She thanked Eothain for his consideration and kindness while she blushed furiously.
Eothain grinned as he bowed to her and her siblings. The younger sisters giggled and young Edmund grinned and waved in response. Eothain winked at the boy as he turned back to his King. Eomer though his face was calm, his eyes were alight with laughter. Eomer nodded to his friend, who turned to walk and talk to you close knit family.
Brenna stood, swaying slightly. Elladan stood, putting his arm around her and looked at her in concern. She didn't seem to notice as she was craning her neck to see what was happening further up the road near the stables. By now the crowd had dispersed and went about their business.
Sure enough just as Brenna got closer to the fence looking down the street, she saw Eothain sputtering from the water troth out in front of the stables. The young family laughed merrily, but even more so when he reached and pulled young Déorwyn in with him in retaliation. Her indignant shriek and his booming laughter had the children dancing about giggling madly. Luckily for them the horses had been tethered to the posts already.
Brenna walked down the street, having stepped out from under Elladan's arm. She got closer and laughted at the tangle of limbs in the water. Déorwyn by now had joined in the laughter and Eothain turned to see Brenna approaching and grinned at his friend.
"A little cold for an outdoor bath is it not?" she asked through her laughter.
"Nay, milady," Déorwyn replied. "The briskness is good for you."
Causing those nearby to laugh at the hilarity of the scenario. They were assisted from the water and sent to change, lest they catch cold. Eothain took the good-natured ribbing from the men with a grain of salt. Little else mattered to him at the moment. He had found her. He changed and rung out his clothes as best he could. An extra set was brought to him via a grinning and giggling Dernwyn. He bowed to the young girl making her giggle as she took off back in the direction of their home.
He quickly stowed his belongings and set out towards his waiting horse. He put his packs in his saddle bag and had the wet clothing secured to the back of his saddle to hopefully let them dry some on their journey. He heard the approach footsteps and turned to face what turned out to be a surprise.
Déorwyn stood nearby with a shy smile and mirth evident and her usually somber eyes. "I've come to apologize for the dunking milord."
"Nay, there is no need to apologize. I should not have spoken so," he told her, running a frustrated hand through his hair.
"I should not have gotten so defensive," she told him urgently. "I should not be so distrusting, but unfortunately there are those that would use my situation to their advantage, and with my siblings I must be cautious."
He turned to her with a fierce look upon his face looking every bit the warrior that he was. "Who would dare?" he demanded. "Who has done this, tell me and they'll not make the same mistake again."
She stepped forward cautiously and laid a comforting hand upon his arm. "Peace, Eothain. They are no longer here, and I fear that they did not survive the war. I'll not speak ill of the dead as that only leads to bad things, but I soon learned that they were not truly good friends of our family before they set out to answer the call of the King."
He took her hand in his own and kissed the back of her knuckles gently. "None shall do such a thing again if I have any say about it," he told her searching her eyes.
She flushed in response and dropped her eyes to the ground. "I know not what to say Eothain. We do not know one another. How do we know that we would make it work and be happy? My home is here until such a time my brother is old enough to take over our Father's holdings."
"Peace lady. We will take the time to get to know one another. I know that my place is with my King, but if we truly wanted it to work we can make it do so. I would not ask you to abandon your home or your family. I would offer all of you my protection if I could," he told her earnestly.
With a trembling breath she regarded him carefully. Here was a man she had just met and knew nothing about, offering her it all. He didn't know her personally, or her siblings, but he was willing to take them all on. She didn't know what to think or do.
A noise from behind her alerted them that they would have company soon. Brenna came around the corner and smiled softly at them. Déorwyn went to step away from Eothain but he held fast, not letting her move.
"Greetings to you morning swimmers, I must say that I'm a bit jealous. Perhaps I'll have a chat with Lothíriel and go for a dip in one of the fountains in Minas Tirith as discussed when we return," she told them with laughter in her eyes.
Sputtering behind her erupted as the rest of her Guard caught on to what she was saying. "Absolutely not!" Amrothos exclaimed. "You two will not be swimming in the fountains!"
Brenna laughed merrily, as did Déorwyn and Eothain. She stepped up to her friend and the young woman who had captured his fancy. "I could always use another female companion in my travels and I'm sure that one of the men or yourself will someday need a squire. Their personal effects could be packed and kept safe and their home temporarily used and kept by another to rent it. No please listen to what I'm saying before you make decisions. You want to get to know one another am I right? Consider this a trial run, if it does not work out, you can return home to your separate lives with no harm, no foul."
The two mused over what Brenna had said. Déorwyn looked towards Eothain questioningly, and the answering grin was all the answer she needed. Taking a leap of faith she nodded in agreement. Eothain whooped and picked up the startled young woman and spun her around. Setting her down he smiled at her and the two began talking quietly making the necessary plans and arrangements. When they came to an agreement, Eothain kissed her knuckles again and set off to take care of the plans and arrangements for Déorwyn and her sibling to accompany them.
She turned to Brenna with a shy smile, "In that case, you've volunteered yourself to help us pack milady Brenna," Déorwyn said with a smile.
Brenna laughed and nodded in agreement. Arwen, ever the romantic, accompanied the other young women and helped to store the family trinkets and valuables in an attic space, locking it securely. They packed the clothes and other essentials for the family and set out.
Eomer stood looking at Brenna questioningly. She smiled reassuringly at him and nodded toward Eothain, who had beaming smile upon his face. Eomer looked toward the sky as if in exasperation, but smiled at Brenna and nodded.
Brenna stopped and turned towards the children, crouching down. "Now we're going on a bit of an adventure, but you'll need to stay with your sister and do as your told. There may be dangers in our travels and you must listen and obey immediately."
They nodded solemnly. Eothain called forth the Rider that brought the three horses for him and Déorwyn asked if he would look after their family's home during his stay there. He looked surprised at the request, but they explained that he and whomever he deemed trustworthy would be able to stay in the home rather than seek other accommodations so long as they made sure that the house and their holdings were safe and secure.
Eothain had already spoken briefly to the young man. They had grown up together and trained together. He trusted Wídfara implicitly, and so when Eothain asked him to look after the home of the woman he meant to pursue, his friend agreed without question. As the younger son of five, he did not have the same responsibilities as the others. He often rode with the eoreds and guarded their home. He was one of the fortunate ones to have survived Minas Tirith and the Black Gates.
Wídfara nodded in agreement and thanked Déorwyn for giving him leave to stay in their home. He told them he would do his best. He let them know that he would most likely be calling upon his brother to come and stay when he was unable to do so.
With that agreement made, everyone saddled their horses and made ready to leave. They were fast approaching mid-morning and needed to make it as far as they could before nightfall. Déorwyn had her horses saddled and gathered her siblings around her. She reminded them to be on their best behavior. Dernwyn would be riding with young Edmund, while Gléowyn and Holdwyn rode together. The younger children rode on mares, while Déorwyn rode a chestnut gelding.
Eothain nodded approvingly at the choice and helped her and the children as best he could. Brenna was nearby as well keeping an eye on things, ready to intervene if need be. The females and children rode in the center of the entourage, surrounded by the various Guards who were highly alert.
Brenna spent the day talking quietly to Déorwyn and the children. She spent much of the time reassuring the young woman that none here had any ill intent or will towards her or her siblings and that they genuinely liked and cared for them. It took a lot of convincing, but when the others explained more about Brenna and who and what she was, Déorwyn balked a bit and looked at the young woman incredulously.
"This really is happening and isn't part of some elaborate scheme?" Déorwyn asked in shock. "I mean I'm curious about Eothain, but to hear what you're telling me seems nearly impossible."
Wulf who was riding nearby bristled and took offense to the comment, "Lady Brenna has done all that you've been told and then some. If she says it's going to happen then it will happen. Our own Lord King is alive due to her intervention and it caused her to nearly die because she knew it was going to happen and prevented the attack. You saw her heal and help the land, what more do you want?"
"Peace Wulf," Brenna soothed. "I'm sure that she meant no offense. In her shoes I'm sure that I would question it as well. Do not be cross with her. Your people have had little reason to trust outsiders and I for one cannot blame them for it."
Déorwyn looked down ashamed of how she was reacting, still having a hard time wrapping her mind around what she had been told. She looked over at the young elf maiden and looked at her forehead. Clearly visible where the iridescent silver stars upon her brow, shining and sparkling in the sunlight. Taking a deep cleansing breath, she nodded and stamped down the doubt.
"No one is asking you to believe all that you've been told immediately," Brenna assured her. "It would be wrong of me to expect that of anyone. I admire your courage to come on this journey despite your doubts."
Whispering conspiratorially Déorwyn said, "He intrigues me milady, and I didn't know if I would ever see him again. Your argument for our coming was difficult to argue against."
Brenna chuckled quietly, "I assure you my friend, that you won't regret coming along. At the very least you gained some friends and got to see the world a bit."
Déorwyn smiled unsurely and turned back to her siblings to check on them. They appeared to be having the time of their lives laughing and watching the countryside go by as they traveled. She talked quietly with them, making sure that they were comfortable and well.
The rest of the day passed uneventfully. Eothain kept falling back to speak with Déorwyn, and the two chatted companionably along the way. They talked of their lives and families. The children chimed in from time to time and Eothain listened and smiled encouragingly at them.
Brenna moved throughout the entourage speaking with those that she knew and getting to know those that she didn't. She was still tired from earlier in the day so she dared not stop to Heal again until she had a chance to rest and recover some more. She couldn't shake the feeling of dread and foreboding that was lingering in her mind. Steeling herself against what she knew they would be facing she pushed down her fear and decided to face it head on.
As if sensing her thoughts, Galadriel turned to her with an unreadable expression. She looked pensive for a moment before smiling at the younger elleth. Nodding once, she turned back to speak with an elf from the delegation accompanying them for the wedding.
Brenna sang softly to pass the time. Urging the horses to make haste, giving them strength and courage so that they seemed to fly over the plains. Her voice carried, swirling around the whole delegation and company of riders. Many found comfort and courage in her voice and words.
Déorwyn, seeing and experiencing firsthand the power of the young woman next to her, began to believe more and more. She steeled her heart and dared not to believe that the man she met was her destiny. She had so much heart ache and disappointment in life, she wasn't sure that she could handle it once more. Déorwyn observed the young elf maiden throughout the day and realized that she was so much more than she had first thought, that everything they had been telling her was indeed true. With those thoughts, she began to believe and hope that what they had told her about Eothain and herself would be true as well.
Brenna turned to her with an eyebrow quirked as if challenging her. The amusement was dancing in her bright green eyes as Eothain fell back to speak to her once more. He looked at Déorwyn in question and concern seeing the expression on her face. Brushing off his concern she turned to focus on his and what he was saying, smiling at him shyly.
Laughing quietly Brenna rode up to where Eomer lead the column of Riders. He turned to her with a smile that crinkled the corner of his eyes. She could see that he was truly happy and at peace riding freely across the plains.
"What brings you to the front Brenna?" he asked with a smile.
"I came to reassure you about the decision to have Déorwyn and her family come along. It serves as a dual purpose milord." She told him with laughter in her voice. "It gives Eothain and Déorwyn and chance to get to know one another, but it will also give Lothíriel a female besides your sister that she can talk to about Rohan."
Brenna laughed outright at his stunned look. She watched as he flushed and sputtered a bit, causing his men closest to him to laugh quietly as they rode. With an impish look and a slight wave she fell back to where she had been before, leaving him to his thoughts, having planted the idea in his mind. Congratulating herself on a job well done, she rode next to Amrothos for a time, chatting with him and the other men from Gondor for a time.
The day passed relatively quickly and the entourage soon found themselves stopping to set up camp for the night. Five fires were started, with on larger central fire where Brenna, the other females, children, and people of significance would sleep near. The four outer fires and circles had the guards stationed. A watch was established and soon the fires were roaring and the evening meal was cooking.
The children were fed and settled in for the night and soon the others were hunkering down for the evening as well. It had been a long day and they had a series of long days to get through before they reached Minas Tirith.
The group awoke, quickly eating, before they packed and mounted up to set out again. By midday they had passed the border of Rohan. They briefly stopped to rest and eat, but kept the pace swift and making as much of the daylight as they could. There was little of note for the next day and a half, as it followed a lull of riding and talking.
The second day out from Rohan, as Brenna had warned the scouts had discovered Orc tracks. Déorwyn looked alarmed at the news and had the children keep close to her. Brenna asked among the Riders discreetly if there were blades that could be given to the young children as a last defense for them should the worst happen. Daggers and long knives were found and given to them when they stopped to rest. Déorwyn shakily accepted a sword from Eothain, who looked at her with such emotion that he looked away to compose himself. She accepted the blade, setting it down and then waited for him to look back at her. When he did she placed a hand on each side of his face and leaned in kissing him. Eothain pulled her against him, deepening the kiss in response. Catcalls and cheers erupted around them.
Déorwyn pulled back blushing, but smiled up at Eothain. He leaned down, resting his forehead on hers and smiled. Stepping back he kissed her knuckles and turned to where Eomer was gathering his Riders to discuss the course of action for when the attack began. He spun back to her again, pulling her in for another deep kiss.
"Bema! Woman, you'll be the death of me!" he exclaimed. "Stay safe, you hear me? You keep you and the children safe." He told her before walking to where Eomer was waiting.
She sat down shakily, one hand touching her lips and the other clutching her heart. With a soft smile towards Eothain, she turned towards her younger siblings who were looking at her in shock. Her sisters began to giggle, but Edmund made a face and a sound of disgust. Déorwyn grabbed the young boy and started tickling him. His peals of laughter rung out throughout the group, lightening their hearts.
They all mounted up and set out to cover as much ground as possible. Eomer was leading them parallel to the Anduin River. They were traveling at a rapid pace, going as fast and as far as they could. He worried for the children that now traveled with them. Sometime in the middle of the night they would be surrounded and have to fight of a band of orcs that were apparently hungry, which made him sick to think about. Looking to the sky he realized that they had maybe another hour of hard riding before they'd have to look for the best place to set up camp. The outcroppings of rock made him uneasy.
With their horses tiring and the riders weary, he called the company to halt. There was some debate about lighting fires, but Brenna insisted that they be lit like they had the previous nights before. He had a group of men go and collect as much wood as they could, as the fires would be lit all night long. The children were tended to and given stern warnings to stay close to the central fire and their sister at all times.
Eothain knelt in front of the children and talked to them, explaining what was happening. While they had fear in their eyes, he was proud of the courage that they were showing. Déorwyn was right next to him as he was talking to her siblings. She smiled bravely at them and followed Eothain as he brought her towards the horses.
"Déorwyn," he began thickly, "I meant what I said earlier. You must stay safe."
"And what of you Eothain? Will you also remain safe? You cannot get my hopes up just to leave me now," she returned just as emotionally.
He held her to him, praying to the Valar to keep them safe, to keep her safe. He rested his head on hers and just held her, taking in the peace of the moment. The others gave them some space and privacy.
Brenna watched from a distance and prayed that they would be safe. Closing her eyes she sat, drawing her knees to her chest and sought the Valar's Council. She felt her consciousness drift away as she heard the startled cries of young Edmund. Drifting along she smelled the heady floral scent of the meadow in Valinor before she got there.
"Child, you come to us on the eve of battle. What Council do you seek of us?" Este asked lyrically.
"I come to you now seeking Council, blessings and aid for those traveling with us on this journey. We now have young children with us and others that are unaccustomed to fighting." She told them softly, "I ask for your protection this night and the courage and strength to see us through safely to the morning."
Manwe stepped forward and knelt in front of the young elleth, taking her chin in his warm hand. "Little one, we are always with you watching over you. You and your company will make it out of the upcoming battle alive, though there may be some injures. However, none will be mortal or cause lasting damage."
She nodded, letting out a breath in relief looking at him with tears in her eyes. He embraced her as a father would his child and soothed the shaken elleth. "Come now Brenna, all will be well. They will be safe. He will be safe."
"Brenna," Elbereth said coming to her side. "You must go back now. Go with our blessings and pass them along. Rest assured child that all will be well. Take courage."
Brenna felt herself drift back. Drawing a deep gasping breath she opened her eyes and found herself cradled in Elladan's arms. Little Edmund sat next to her crying into Déorwyn who had come over immediately to her distressed brother's side with Eothain following quickly behind her.
Elladan sighed in relief as she awoke. He held her close to his chest, sitting with his back against a log that was dragged to the fire for a seat. He breathed in deeply the scent that was uniquely her; slightly floral, yet musky and all Brenna. Praying to the Valar to keep her safe, he closed his eyes against his emotions.
Brenna stayed snuggled against his chest, listening to his heart thump wildly in his chest. She turned her face into the crook of his neck and sigh softly. Feeling his arms tighten slightly around her she laughed quietly and felt a shiver run through him. She looked up to find him watching her with roguish grin on his face. Smiling impishly at him she leaned up and kissed his jaw before moving from his grasp.
Laughing at his stunned expression, she grinned at Elrohir before turning to search for Eomer. Her expression sobered as she reached his side. Members of her Guard soon fell in around them, Elladan stepped up beside her and squeezed her hand, winking at her before turning back to the group.
She relayed her message from the Valar and they went over the plan, discussing different scenarios and actions that would need to be taken. Soon the sun set completely in the horizon. The fires were built and kept burning brightly in the night. The stars winked in the sky as night was upon them.
Eothain helped Déorwyn settle the children in for the night. Each of them had blades nearby and had been given a few basic pointers over the past day. Déorwyn situated herself shielding the children, putting them nearest to the fire with a large log blocking them from the flames. Brenna, Arwen, Oriel, and Lady Galadriel and the other ladies traveling in their company were all nearby. Each of them was heavily armed. Brenna had changed from her riding habit into a more functional tunic earlier, as had the rest of the women in their party. She had on her quiver and bow, with her twin daggers on her back, her sword at her side and her dagger in her boot. She breathed deeply and evenly and began praying fervently to the Valar. Other voiced joined in, as they all prayed for strength, courage, protection, and to survive the night.
She began to sing as her forehead and hands began to shine brightly in the night. Staying close to the fire, she hoped to not draw too much attention to herself or her location. Sighing she settled back on her bedroll, hoping to get in some rest this night, but sleeping with her weapons strapped on ready to go.
Brenna realized that she must have drifted when she awoke to the alarmed shouts of the night watch. Eyes glowed in the blackness of the night. Growls and fierce shouts erupted in the quiet of the night. Brenna moved slowly, so as not to draw attention to herself, motioning to the others to do the same.
The men had stood and armed themselves preparing for what was to come. Brenna sat up, taking her the cloak from the Lorien elves and wrapping the children in it, telling them to stay underneath it until one of them told them it was safe to come out. Despite their initial protests the children listened. Arwen and Galadriel added other cloaks onto the children, concealing them from enemy eyes.
The females stood fanned out around the central fire. Brenna stood close to her next task for the evening. Little did anyone know, but there would be one heck of a fight heading directly towards her at some point in the night. The first battle cries were heard in the night as the men let loose a volley of arrows aimed at the gleaming eyes. The elves let loose the next volley, and so it went.
Eothain and Elladan dropped back to where they were a few times checking on them, but remained focused for the most part. It was two hours before dawn when the first of the enemy had reached the outer fire ring. The fighting began with a vengeance.
Brenna heard little Edmund whimper in terror, so she began to sing softly and quietly to calm the children and those standing near her. Letting her voice fan out to their company and entourage, she sang of strength and courage. She pushed her powers out to them, soothing the aches and renewing their strength as best she could from the distance the stood.
It seemed to last for ages, when the enemy broke through their lines, overwhelming them with sheer numbers. Brenna briefly looked to the sky to see that they had just one more hour until the sun broke the sky. Just one more hour to fight in the darkness. She drew her blade, twirling it in her hand stepping over one of the logs to face off against the enemy. The orc snarled and leered at her menacingly as it advance. Their blades met in a flurry of motion. The brute strength and force of the beast nearly brought her to her knees.
Fighting back she parried and blocked a blow aimed at her head. She turned, hacking of its arm before beheading the foul creature. There was no time to catch her breath before others had taken its place and fought against her. A sense of déjà vu hit her as she was fighting a particularly nasty looking orc. Out of the corner of her eye she saw an orc running straight at Galadriel from behind. Beheading her enemy and throwing the blade from her boot, hitting her target in the head, she slowed him enough to give Galadriel a chance to kill it before he got to her. The Lady nodded in thanks and they both turned to face their next foe.
A startled gasp came from behind her and Brenna turned to see Déorwyn being overwhelmed by one of the orcs. Brenna went to her aid deflecting what would have been a fatal blow, turning just in time to stop a blade swung at her back. She heard her Guard call out to her in alarm as they watched, unable to get close enough to aid them. The enemy numbers were dwindling as the sun began to creep up over the horizon, causing the orcs to flee. Brenna drew her bow and took out as many of them as she could as they fled the light of the sun. Soon her quiver was empty and she was left exhausted and shaking.
When the sun had fully emerged, they called to the children, who came out from under the elvish cloaks pale and crying. Brenna checked them for wounds, when she found none she began checking the others. She helped to heal the minor scratches and cuts that the ladies had sustained. Déorwyn was shaken but otherwise alright. She clung to her siblings and Eothain as they all took comfort in each other.
Brenna moved among the men and elves healing all that she could. Elrond, and his Sons were also walking among them healing and helping where they could. They were all relieved to see that there were no mortal wounds. Most of the wounds could be bandaged or stitched and not leave any lasting damage.
Eomer ordered the carcasses of the enemy to be piled and burned. He had his men quickly pack up camp and assist the ladies where they could. He was glad to see that they had survived the night. Turning to find Brenna he saw her healing the wounded. Observing her carefully, he noticed that she had dark smudges under her eyes and she seemed to be favoring her right side.
Walking quickly to her side he urged her to sit down. His actions had drawn the attention of others in the camp and Elladan swiftly made his way to her side. He checked her over and found that she had been cut by one of the orc blades on her right side across her ribcage. It wasn't very deep but it was beginning to become inflamed and looked like infection was forming around it.
Her outer tunic was removed as they inspected the wound, leaving her in the light linen undershirt. Déorwyn was at her side anxiously watching as they tended Brenna's wound, unsure of what to do to help. "She came to my aid when I had been overwhelmed. I think I distracted her enough to have her be injured," she told then wracked with guilt.
"Easy there Déorwyn. I'll be fine, it's just a nasty scratch. We caught it soon enough that it won't be a problem. I will most likely be weak and possibly have a fever for the next day or so, but I will recover just fine," she assured her friend.
Elladan looked at her in concern at her admission, feeling her brow, he noticed she was already warming up. He looked to his father and brother and nodded grimly. Murmuring in elvish with his hand on her brow, he held her as he sent her into a healing sleep. They worked in tandem cleaning the wound and rubbing an antiseptic slave onto it before wrapping it tightly in a bandage.
Arwen and Galadriel stepped forward to help change the sleeping elleth into clean garments. A tent had temporarily been constructed for people to change out of their soiled clothes and freshen up before they set out from their camp to cover as much ground as they could. They dressed Brenna in her dark blue riding habit and matching lighter blue under layers of clothing. They put her in leather boots and brushed out and braided her hair before they called Elladan to come carry her.
Brenna slept through all of this, deep in a healing sleep. The Valar aided her and helped to heal her. But much like when she was wounded in Moria, she would need rest to heal completely.
Elladan entered the tent dressed in a fresh deep brown tunic, his damp hair had been braided back and pulled away from his face. He gently lifted Brenna, who slept soundly, and carried her out of the tent towards the waiting horses. Eomer watched in concern as his young friend, his sister lay injured. He turned to see Eothain with similar thoughts plaguing his mind.
Elrohir took Brenna as Elladan mounted his horse. He gently passed her to his brother before mounting his own horse. All of Brenna's things and weapons were packed and stored on Ash. He was tethered to run next to Elladan so that he would be readily be available should his mistress need him.
Déorwyn looked on helplessly, wracked with guilt over her new friend's injury. She and Eothain had spoken earlier and she told him what had happened. He tried to console her, but he too felt guilt over his young friend. They turned their attention towards the children, who were exhausted and terrified from the ordeal. It had been a long hard night for everyone and they were still five or six days from Minas Tirith.