(Disclaimer: I own or claim none of Tolkien's work or characters, the only character that I claim is Brenna. See profile for updated full disclaimer.)
Author's Note: **Warning** At the end of this chapter there is an attempted assault.
Chapter 24
Brenna stirred sometime around mid-morning. Stretching her tired body, she reluctantly rose from her bed. She entered the adjoining bathroom and slashed water from the basin on her face. Walking back to her room she looked through her wardrobe. After some debate, she picked out a simple dark salmon colored dress.
As she was laying out the garment on her bed Hanna knocked quietly and entered the room. She came in carrying a tray of food and set it down on the table near the window. Hanna turned with a smile and helped Brenna into the outfit. She took a brush and ran it through her hair before plaiting it down her back. Brenna thanked her and went to eat. She didn't have much the day before because she was so focused on the task at hand.
Polishing off the last of the food, she stood and grabbed her cloak. Putting on a pair of leather slippers, she left her room and made her way to check on Arwen. Walking through the halls she sung softly to herself and thought about the events of the day before. It had been a fairly easy birth in the grand scheme of things. She shuddered thinking about what she would have done and would have to do when faced with a difficult childbirth.
Coming around the corner she found some of the same women that had been there the day before waiting. They once again turned and looked at her with disdain. The guards, recognizing Brenna, greeted her and ushered her into the rooms while holding back the others. Brenna ducked her head and made her way into the room, trying to ignore the snide comments and mutterings of some of the ladies.
Sighing she knocked on the Master chambers. When she heard Aragorn's voice, she quietly entered the room to find the new family sitting in bed. Smiling at her friends she approached the bed.
"How are you all doing this morning?" she asked softly, her voice was still a little scratchy from the day before.
"We are well little sister," Aragorn replied affectionately.
Brenna grinned in response and nodded. "How are you feeling this morning Arwen? If you're in a great deal of pain I can try to alleviate some of it."
"Nay Brenna," Arwen answered. "You have done more than enough. Thank you for your help yesterday. I am told that I will heal fine by the healer that Lothíriel suggested. I will thank her and the others later."
"You do not need to thank us. We were glad to help and be there for you," Brenna told her honestly. "I could not believe the nerve of the midwife that the courtiers had sent to you."
Aragorn's face darkened at her remark. "Yes, I too was appalled. Something will be done to curb them, rest assured. I am one to appreciate and value tradition, however they over stepped their station yesterday and made demands that were not theirs to make. I've set up a meeting for early afternoon and summoned the current members of the court."
Brenna sat on the edge of the bed, lost in thought. "It will be a difficult decision before you. On the one hand, by taking back control of the courts you will gain the respect and allegiance of most of them. On the other hand, you will be alienating some of the more vocal and conceited members. In the end you need to do what is in the best interest of your people and your family."
She stood and paced the room as Aragorn listened carefully to what she was saying. The Royal couple shared a look, but kept quiet and let her continue.
"That vapid woman that the more insipid ladies sent would have had Arwen lying in bed struggling for hours. All for the sake of some silly tradition or ridiculous superstitious belief. Any woman knows that labor is just that, labor. It is difficult, painful, uncomfortable work that often requires the mother to move into more comfortable positions and keep moving. The worst part is that as a midwife she knows this. I feel sick thinking about the number of women and children suffered needlessly over some misguided belief," Brenna said weakly.
"Come Brenna," Arwen said reaching her hand out to her friend. Once Brenna was seated next to her she said, "Greet your niece."
Brenna's eyes watered as she took the slumbering babe gently into her arms. Duvaissel stirred and whimpered in her sleep. Gently rocking the baby, Brenna stood and walked the room singing to her softly. Arwen smiled softly at her sister-friend. Taking Aragorn's hand she squeezed it gently and smiled at her love contentedly.
That was how Arwen's brothers found them a short while later. Aragorn and Arwen were lounging propped up in their bed. Not seeing the baby they turned to the soft singing of Brenna's voice. Elladan's breath caught in his throat at the sight. His vision tunneled and he just saw Brenna with a dark haired baby, the room spun briefly and his brother steadied him. When Brenna looked up to greet them with a smile, his whole world shifted and refocused on just her. He knew that he loved and cared for her before, but in that instant he knew that without a doubt he was head over heels in love with her.
As if sensing his brother's train of thought, Elrohir squeezed his shoulder in support and smiled at his twin. Nodding to him, Elrohir pushed him gently forward towards Brenna. Elrohir followed a few steps behind and watched his brother greet Brenna with his eyes full of love. He gave them a few moments together before stepping forward and looked down at his sleeping niece. His heart turned over looking at the tiny child nestled safely in Brenna's arms.
Brenna smiled and carefully passed the sleeping child to Elrohir, who looked at her in surprise. Elladan grinned at his brother and pulled Brenna into his embrace. He whispered softly to her that he couldn't wait until they would greet their own children. Kissing her brow he pulled back and watched his brother hold their precious little niece. A warmth bubbled up in his chest just looking at his sister's new daughter.
After a while Elrohir carefully passed the sleeping babe to Elladan. Brenna watched her future husband settle babe against his larger frame and sighed wistfully. She had a similar epiphany and came to realize that this gentle warrior had come to mean everything to her. Brenna smiled up at him, coming to his side and looked into his eyes. The love that she felt for him shining brightly. The world around them faded away as something in their relationship had shift into something much deeper.
Soon little Duvaissel stirred in her sleep. Elladan gently transferred her into his sister's waiting arms. Arwen looked unsure and uncomfortable at first, but began to nurse her daughter, though she covered herself with a shawl to protect her modesty. Brenna sat down and chatted with the new mother. She reassured her that it was perfectly natural and normal to nurse her child. There was nothing wrong with wanting and needing to provide for her offspring.
Arwen looked to her sharply with a question in her eyes. Brenna sighed and explained to her that some cultures had the custom of using wet-nurses and governesses to raise their children. When Brenna explained the custom, Arwen looked shock and horrified at the idea of anyone else raising or providing nourishment for her child. Looking down at the babe suckling, Arwen's face became serious.
"I will not have anyone else nurse my child. There will be other traditions and customs that I will strive to recognize and bow to, but on this I am standing firm. I can't imagine another doing what I and my body are meant to," she said looking alarmed towards Aragorn.
The males looked completely out of their element on the topic, but could see that it clearly upset Arwen. Looking to Brenna, they saw the severe look on her face, they knew that this would be an issue that came up in the future. She nodded and glanced carefully at the mother and child.
"The courtiers in your halls will need to learn their places. There will be some that are very vocal about certain things and expectations. You must remain firm in your beliefs," she told them tiredly. "Aragorn you will need to toe the line with them, but do not bow to all of their demands. You are the King and sovereign, not them."
Aragorn nodded with a glint in his gray eyes. He looked to his lady wife and his daughter and had such a look of love and devotion on his face. Brenna smiled happily at them, but she knew that it would be a struggle for Arwen with some of the courtiers. Their prudish and strict ideas of decorum and etiquette would stifle the elf Queen. Brenna vowed to stand with her friend and make sure that she would not be smothered and stifled under their imposing rules.
With a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes, Brenna took her leave. She told Elladan that she would find him later, but she had something to take care of first. At the questioning looks of those in the room she just shook her head. With a promise to be in the Main Hall for the summons of the courtiers, she left the Royal rooms. Turning and thanking the guards, she was faced with a rather smug looking lady of the court.
"I have taken the liberty of finding a suitable wet-nurse and nanny for the royal child," she said while looking down her nose at Brenna.
"You have taken far too many liberties of late and I can assure you that it will stop," Brenna said in a deadly quiet voice.
"How dare you! You insolent little upstart. You are not even truly kin to the king, from what I hear you spent months traveling with men alone," she said as there was an answering twittering breaking out among her companions.
Not seen by Brenna or the ladies, Brenna's Guard had come to the corridor to see what was happening. Behind Brenna, one of the guards had stepped in and had a servant summon Aragorn and the Sons of Elrond. The males listened with a quiet fury bubbling within them, but let Brenna handle it and would step in only if needed.
"I traveled for months with my grandfather, Gandalf. What sort of depraved mind do you have?" Brenna asked in obvious disgust.
"He was not always with you though, was he? It is said that you traveled for weeks without him and only men as company. Only recently have you had another lady elf travel with you," the lady said, her confidence growing with every word she spoke.
"Not only do you falsely accuse me of doing something so unspeakable, you also call into question the honor of the company that I traveled with. Many of whom claim me as sister, and I too claim them as my kin. Who are you to question me? While you had your powdered little head hiding, no doubt, I did something to fight for this world. I'll not stand for you or anyone else speaking about me in such a way. You are nothing but an artificial shell of a person, bitter and empty on the inside. As the years pass that false façade that you have carefully crafted will erode with the weathering of time and you will be left looking as you truly are on the inside. Mark my words, you will be alone," Brenna told her quietly.
When the woman lunged to strike Brenna, she easily caught her arm and twisted it behind her back causing the other woman to cry out in fear and pain. Shoving the woman away from her into her friends, Brenna took a calming breath as she felt her hands and forehead flair. The women in the hall now cowered in fear, stepping away from her. They were only now beginning to realize their mistake.
"Your help is neither wanted or needed. As I said you've taken far too many liberties and it stops now. Tell me lady," Brenna said drawing the word out sarcastically, "I go to my husband unspoiled and untouched, but can you say the same? You called into question my honor, but let me educate you in the way of elves. We love only one and wait until our marriage to act upon that love. There is a bond and a merging of our very souls when the marriage is consummated. I go to my future husband pure and judging by the look on many of your faces you cannot say the same. So don't you dare question me."
By now Aragorn had stepped forward and placed a calming hand on her arm. The look upon his face caused the women to pale significantly. Turning to his guard, "Escort these ladies to the hall and summons their guardians, fathers, and spouses. I'll not have any speak in such away against my sister again."
Elladan stepped forward and pulled Brenna to his side. He glared at the women as his body trembled with barely contained fury. Brenna's Guard looked on just as angrily as the women were led away with their faces downcast and cheeks flaming in shame.
"I am sorry Aragorn. I could not listen to it anymore," she told him shakily.
"Hush Brenna," he soothed her.
"I hadn't realized that traveling with you all would have caused any question of my honor," she said quietly. "I always felt safe and surrounded by family and friends. Nothing untoward ever happened in our travels and I was entrusted in the care of others by my Grandfather."
"Aragorn, he will need to be there to help dispel the rumors that are apparently swirling around the courts," Elrohir told him quietly.
Brenna was led into the King's Hall and Aragorn personally drew her to sit at his side, with Elladan and Elrohir next to her. Gandalf and Brenna's Guard entered the room looking grave. Lothíriel and Eowyn entered escorted by Faramir and Oriel trailed behind them.
"All are present and accounted for Sire," Faramir told Aragorn formally.
"You have all been called here for a number of reasons that have greatly concerned me over the past year. Most of the issues however have really just now become so great a concern, that I felt no other course of action, but to call you here today," he told them firmly.
"True there has not been a King on the throne for a great many years, but the traditions and customs that many of you cling to when it suits your own ends must stop now," waving off their protests he continued. "Furthermore, last time I checked the King ruled, not the court. You will comport yourselves in a manner befitting your station and to my standard or you will be dismissed or banished from this court, do I make myself clear."
"My lady wife and I will not be bullied into doing what you say. We will of course welcome some advice from our close friends and allies. However, I will not have others force their will upon us out of some distorted sense of propriety." He told them firmly, silencing their sputtering with a hard look.
"The action of the ladies in the hallway outside the Royal apartments this morning is unforgivable." He let his words sink in, "furthermore, I find the insult and questioning of the honor and reputation of Lady Brenna, my sister, something I will not tolerate. What do you have to say for yourself Lady Thewil? And what of your companions?"
He looked to their male counterparts, his displeasure evident in his expression and demeanor. "I will not have my House insulted in such a way. Either you take my words and see to your own Houses, or they will be banished from these Halls and this City indefinitely."
Aragorn watched as many in the room paled and stiffened. He called Gandalf forward, the power and presence of the wizard seemed to expand as he dressed down the misguided and jealous courtesans. He anger shivered in the air as he addressed them and their accusation of his granddaughter's honor. Many became ashen as the men of the room realized the political and permanent damage the women in their families had induced.
Brenna sat next to Aragorn shaking. Elladan stood at her side, with a comforting and possessive hand on her shoulder. It was a showing of support and solidarity, a message was clearly sent and received. The Sons of Elrond stood with grim expressions on their faces as they scanned the crowd.
The parties responsible were held with looks of contempt by their peers. The other ladies of the court voiced their support and loyalty to both the Royal House and Lady Brenna. Other courtesans voiced their support and Oaths of fealty were renewed. The disgraced Houses made formal and public apologies. They would leave the City and return to their homes elsewhere until such a time that the lesson of today had sunk in.
Lady Thewil still regarded Brenna with contempt, but her father seeing her demeanor, grabbed her arm tightly and shook the wayward girl. While he didn't agree with some of the decisions that the King made, he would never voice them or act on them. The damage his petty daughter had wrought upon their House was nigh irreparable. He would work tirelessly to make it up to King Aragorn and Lady Brenna. Thewil would be sent home to stay with her dowager aunt and learn her place.
It was a shaken and exhausted Brenna that was led from the Hall back to Arwen's private solar. Lothíriel led her to one of the chairs and sat holding her hand as the others filled in Arwen. The lady Queen's face flushed in anger and her eyes flashed sharply with the more that she heard. She called Brenna over and pulled her to sit next to her, hushing her and talking to her quietly. The tired and sore Queen was reassuring the younger woman that all would be well.
Later that day Aragorn and a pale Arwen made their way and presented their daughter to their court. Clarions rang out and heralded the new Princess. The announcement was made later than intended. The much needed reprimand of the courtesans and courtiers seemed to have done the job as they appeared to be on their best behavior. Many curbed their opinions and began to take their cues from the Royal House, few wanted to feel the ire of their Lord or the shame of banishment that others were now faced with.
After a few days the Royal family settled into a routine. Arwen declined the use of a nurse-maid quite vocally. If any found their Queen's decision unusual, none were now willing to say so. Life in the courts eased, especially now that many of the courtesans that caused the most tension had left. Brenna held her head high, especially when many of the others approached her and spoke on her behalf. She found that she was fiercely defended by many people, particularly the soldiers and their families; both those that she fought with and those that she had healed.
Elladan watched as his love struggled with the rumors. Many stood in her defense and he stayed at her side, knowing that she was entirely innocent. He was furious that anyone would set out to impugn her reputation in such a manner. It was only his years of training and the pledge he had made to aid Aragorn that had stayed his hand.
Lothíriel, Eowyn, Oriel and Arwen stood with Brenna in a show of solidarity among the high ranking women. Though Oriel was not of what would be considered noble blood, she was afforded more respect and regard as an elf maiden. They were often seen spending their time together. Brenna was thankful for her friends and family.
While sitting in one of the gardens she was leaning back against one of the trees found there. The plants were just starting to come alive as spring grew closer to summer. Sighing she let her mind drift and she sought the comfort and Council of the Valar.
She felt the warm, welcoming embrace before she realized where so was. Opening her eyes, she found herself in the soothing embrace of Este and Elbereth. Manwe approached and took her in his arms, smoothing her hair away from her face. He drew her to sit with them under the light of the Two Trees.
"We were expecting you to seek us sooner young one," Manwe told her in a warm voice.
"I did not want to trouble you with something so trivial in comparison to the grand scheme of things," she replied quietly, cheeks flaming in embarrassment.
Taking her hand Este spoke softly. "Brenna child, you have nothing to feel ashamed for. You and your travel companions have done nothing wrong. The woman was spiteful and jealous. She will reap what she sows in her life. While we love each of our children, such hate and maliciousness is not something we condone."
Elbereth regarded her with kind, yet piercing eyes. "That is not the only reason that you seek us is it? Something you have seen has you terrified and seeking our aid and Council."
The other Valar walked into the clearing gathering round. They heeded the call of their Leader and regarded their blessed child in great concern. She was filled with turmoil and fear.
"I am sorry. I know that I should not fear and that I should have more faith." She told them remorsefully. "I am afraid of what I have seen. What if I am not quick enough in Dol Amroth? What if I cannot save Lothíriel? What if they do not make it in time to save me?"
Este held her and soothed her. "Brenna, we will be there to make sure that you succeed and that you are safe. We will not leave you to such a fate."
Brenna sighed and relaxed into the warm embrace of the Lady Vala. She closed her eyes and choked back tears as she let her emotions out. After days and weeks of fear, she was finally trying to face it all and seek their aid and assurances. They murmured to her comfortingly and soothed her before sending her back with their blessings and a kiss on her brow.
Brenna came back to consciousness slowly. She realized that she being carried swiftly down a hallway. Listening to the rapid heartbeat of the person holding her, she fought to gain consciousness. From what seemed to be a great distance away, she heard the frantic whispering of voices around her. Her body trembled and she must have made a noise as the noise as the visions assaulted her senses because the person holding her called out in alarm and quickened their pace. Whoever it was, called out to someone, but it was drowned out by what she was Seeing and hearing.
Flash! She was in Dol Amroth walking through a village with Lothíriel. Her Guard were around them as they were taken by surprise. Flash! She saw members of her Guard cut down defending the two women. Flash! She saw Lothíriel and herself being held in a dank and dimly lit room as a leering man entered. Flash! Flash! Flash! A whisper entered her mind, telling her to change it and to stop it from happening as she had Seen it.
Elladan held her and rocked her gently sitting in the privacy of the King's parlor. Her Guard and friends had been summoned quickly by Eowyn who had been sitting with her in the garden. They answered the call immediately. The normally calm and stoic Eowyn was frantic by the time that they had arrived. Brenna had slumped over, going cold to the touch and unresponsive far longer than Eowyn was comfortable with.
Aragorn had been in a meeting with Elladan and Elrohir in his study when there was a rapid knock on the door. The pale and shaken guard informed them of what had happened and the three males set out of the room at a fast pace. Elladan made it to her side and scooped her up. He turned and followed Aragorn towards his private quarters. Brenna's Guard and friends closed rank around the prone elf maiden.
Pushing up out of his arms with a gasp, she immediately buried her face in his chest and started crying. Looking around the room in shock, he just held her. He leaned down and quietly asked her what happened. She shook her head and told him that the ladies would have to leave. He relayed her message under much protest from her friends, but the males told them that they would figure out what needed to be done to help her. Brenna looked up and shared a solemn look with Eowyn who was the last to leave and nodded to her. Eowyn's eyes widened, but a look of understanding crossed her face before she schooled her features.
Brenna clutched at Elladan's tunic and listened to the rapid beating of his heart as she held her and tried to sooth her. "They're gone now Brenna. What have you Seen?" he asked with a concerned look on his face. He was pale and looked shaken.
Her eyes went unseeing and she trembled violently. Turning her face to Amrothos, "The port they've taken is to the South across the Anduin. They have numbers greater than I anticipated."
A chill swept the room at her news. "Brenna, what has you so shaken?" Aragorn asked her, taking her hand in his own.
Tears welled in her eyes as she fought for the words to answer him. "I have seen what will happen if we don't succeed; what will happen should I fail. My Guard will be cut down, slaughtered before our eyes before Lothíriel and I are taken. If we do not plan this correctly, they will," her voice cut off abruptly as a haunted look overtook her.
There were shouts of horror and shock. "Surely there must be something we can do Brenna?" Amrothos asked her weakly.
"It will take place this fall, a year from the day that Lothíriel and Eomer are to be wed. We will need aid from our allies to the North," she said turning to Aragorn. "They will have to be tracked by land by a large company. I fear that this will be the beginning of the troubles that will plague us for the coming years. The Dol Amroth navy must have a fleet at ready, there is a small window of time in which they will arrive in time. The foot soldiers and soldiers on horse will flank them on land and surround them. We must stop this."
She reluctantly left Elladan's arms and stood. Her complexion was still ashen and her hands shook. "Dispatches must be sent immediately. Eomer must come. I know that his lands face their own troubles, but Rohan must have their Queen."
"Brenna, what would you have us do in the meantime?" Aragorn asked her.
"Prepare because this is going to be pretty bad. I have a plan to keep Lothíriel from racing that future, but she will need to listen to what I say. I need a group ready to ride out within the next two days. I need to bring the news to Eomer myself, there is something calling me to Rohan," she told him.
There were concerns voiced, but they knew that it must be serious if Brenna was making such a drastic change in plans. Aragorn summoned the captain of his guard and Faramir did the same. The members of her Guard shared a look and left to prepare for their journey. Aragorn called a servant and ordered to have enough provisions to get them to Rohan provided. He also called to have his fastest riders sent to him and quickly sent them out with a message to both Imrahil and Eomer about the change in plans.
"Aragorn, I will need to travel the fastest road. He will do something rash if I do not explain it to him. I will need to take the Great West Road and travel light," she told him.
"I will make the arrangements Brenna, go get some rest and pack. Will you be alright Brenna?" he asked unsurely. "Will you be harmed in all of this?"
She wouldn't meet his eye, "If I do not stop and change this Aragorn we will not live through the night."
Clenching his jaw, his eye flashed. "Then we will change it Brenna, I will not let you came to harm."
"I know you won't Aragorn," she told him with a sigh. "You must keep Lothíriel here and keep this from her until I can talk to her when we are in Dol Amroth."
He nodded in understanding and led her to the door. She ducked out of the room just as the Sons of Elrond were returning. Smiling at them shakily she left and went to her rooms to prepare her pack.
Eowyn was waiting for her in her rooms waiting to be filled in. She told Brenna that Arwen had taken Lothíriel to see to Duvaissel and talk about things regarding Gondor. The Queen had obviously been told of the situation previously and was helping them to run interference.
Brenna launched into her explanation and watched as the emotions crossed her friend's face. She tried her best to soothe the other woman, but Eowyn was shaking with fury and fear for her friends. She appeared lost in thought before she rounded on Brenna with wide eyes.
"What about Eomer?" she gasped while standing.
"I'll be leaving tomorrow, probably at first light for Rohan. I need to get there before he has a chance to come storming to Gondor," she told her friend with a rueful smile. "Your brother is smitten with Lothíriel and would not see her come to harm."
"This is true Brenna, but he would storm to Gondor and scour the world in search of you and come to your aid," Eowyn told her passionately.
"I know, and that is why I must get there before he leaves," she explained. "Yes we need his aid and he will come, but it will have to be a bit more discreetly. Eowyn, Lothíriel must be taught the basics of defending herself. I know that she has some, but I need you to spar with her when you can."
A knock on the door interrupted them from discussing things any further. Oriel entered and looked at her friend in question. Swamped with guilt, Brenna explained to her what was happening. Oriel, paled and sat down heavily. She abruptly stood and left to pack her things, obviously deciding to stay with her friend come what may.
The next twelve hours passed by in a blur and soon Brenna was ready to leave. A company of fifty Rangers from Ithilien and knights from Gondor were waiting for Brenna and her Guard at first light with Oriel accompanying them. Lothíriel was concerned and looked upset at being kept in the dark but Brenna promised to explain everything when they safely reached Dol Amroth together in roughly a month's time. She looked ready to protest, but seeing the serious look on her friend's face she kept quiet and promised to keep Arwen company.
Brenna and her company set out at the first sign of light upon the horizon. With personal missives from Lothíriel, Eowyn, and Aragorn, Brenna mounted Ash. They set out from the City Gate before most of the people had even begun to stir. Brenna whispered words of encouragement and speed to the horses. The snorted and tossed their heads in response and heeded her urging. She nearly sang herself hoarse of the course of the four long days that it took them to reach Edoras.
They were greeted by a company of Riders on the border, who sensing Brenna's need for a swift journey, fell into formation around her as they rode hard. They experienced no trouble along the way. A few hours from Edoras she saw a large company riding their way, Eomer had apparently received the message from Aragorn and had decided to act, just as she had expected.
The group met, not far from Edoras. Eomer looked grim and frantic seeing the travel worn Brenna. Dismounting he walked to her side and helped her from Ash.
"What are you doing here Brenna, we were just on our way to Gondor?" he asked fiercely.
"Which is why I am here Eomer," she replied tiredly.
He looked at her carefully and saw that she was pale and had dark circles under her eyes. Turning towards her guard he glared at them and addressed Wulf and Dernhelm harshly in Rohirric. He was startled when Brenna rounded on him with her hands on her hips.
"Don't you dare yell at them!" she all but growled. "We have been traveling day and night with little to no rest to get here before you did something rash. We need to either go back to Edoras to plan this out logically or it will be the death of not only myself Eomer, but Lothíriel as well. I won't tell you what will happen to us before they finally kill us, I don't think that I have to." She told him, letting her voice trail off.
The men around her stiffened visibly and scowled. Many of them only heard the basic idea of what they were riding out for. To hear Brenna lay it out there so plainly for them shocked many of them.
"You cannot expect me to do nothing Brenna," he all but shouted at her.
"Of course I don't Eomer!" she yelled. "But I expect you to calm down and think this through. Do you really think that I would ever allow her to come to harm if I could prevent it?"
"What about yourself Brenna? Last I knew, you were the one to be taken?" he asked quietly.
The Riders now looked at her in horror. Surely Lady Brenna would do something? She couldn't possibly expect them to stand aside and let this happen.
"Eomer, we need to talk. I will tell you the plan, and yes I, we rather, will need your help. However, there is a different way of going about it. Come, I am tired my friend. Let me rest and eat. I promise that I will tell you everything," she told him.
Sighing he nodded and called out to his men to mount up and prepare to head back to Edoras. They entered the City to the shock of the people. The citizens were also startled to see Lady Brenna returned to them. Eomer helped her dismount and had her things brought to her rooms. Oriel followed behind, knowing that Brenna was exhausted. She kept quiet, but her friend would wake up each night gasping in fear.
Brenna and her company stayed in Edoras for just under two weeks. She stayed for the birth of the twin foals that Hiril bore into the world. Eomer woke her in the middle of the night and had her meet him in the stables in the middle of her stay. They attended to the laboring Mearas and helped to bring the foals into the world. Edoras rejoiced at the newcomers. Brenna smiled at the young king and told him to pick his stallion.
The grooms and other Riders present fell silent at her declaration. Eomer looked at her with joy in his eyes as he picked the chestnut foal with a white star on its nose. The other had white stockings and a smaller white spot between its eyes. He thanked her and smiled widely at her.
Soon Brenna left, but roughly fifty Riders accompanied her back to Gondor. The plan was to have smaller groups of Riders arrive in Gondor every couple of weeks, staying in Ithilien, Minas Tirith and Osgiliath. The idea was to draw the least amount of attention to their presence as possible. Eomer himself would return to Gondor at the beginning of September, under the guise of discussing the betrothal agreement and to visit his sister. Eothain would be left in charge in Eomer's stead.
Brenna rode with Oriel at her side. They were surrounded by Brenna's Guard on the journey. The added protection of the Riders accompanying allowed Brenna's protection to breathe easier. They made good time and made it back to Minas Tirith in five days. Her travel companions urged her to take a day to rest. They stopped in the town where Brenna received her shawl. She made a point to check in on the little old woman who had sold her the fabric. Brenna found the woman and went with her to visit her grandson, healing his arm enough that he could move it better.
It was a travel weary Brenna and company who returned to Minas Tirith at dusk. Aragorn met them in the courtyard and ushered them in to his study immediately. He called for food and refreshment before addressing the obviously tired Brenna. The Sons of Elrond joined them and Elladan went to Brenna's side. She told them of the plan and agreement regarding the Riders. Aragorn nodded and pointed out it was a good move and that they could all be brought together with a relatively short amount of notice in September.
Oriel had gone to make sure a bath was ready for Brenna and that Hanna would be there to assist her and get her things taken care of. She worried for her friend and would do whatever she could to make her stay here easier. Taking a deep breath she prayed to the Valar that Brenna and Lothíriel would remain safe, that they would not come to harm.
Brenna let herself be led to her room by Elladan who gently held her hand. He dropped a kiss on her head as they reached her door and told her to get some rest. Once he was sure that she was securely in her room, he left to find Aragorn and the others who were planning their next course of action. There would be a series of messages sent between the realms in preparation for the confrontation in September. He prayed that it would be enough and that Brenna would be alright.
Stirring tiredly the next morning, Brenna dressed and got ready for another day of meetings with Aragorn and her Guard. She dreaded the conversation with Lothíriel, but she did not want to make the situation worse. Already too many people knew, she didn't want to risk too many more. Their conversation would have to wait until Dol Amroth.
Dressed in a plain green dress, she quickly left her rooms and made her way to Aragorn's study. She was ushered into the room and from there it began a day of long talks and plans made. She gave advise where she could, but kept her intended plan closely guarded. She knew that she would have to eventually tell her Guard, and knew they would at first protest. In the end there would be little choice left to her.
Three days later saw Brenna with Lothíriel, Oriel and her Guard being escorted to the docks of Osgiliath to catch a ship to Dol Amroth. With them an additional five Riders, five Rangers from Ithilien and five knights from Gondor made the trip. They quickly made the journey to Dol Amroth, much to Lothiriel's relief. Her grave looking family greeted them at the docks with an entire company of Dol Amroth knights. Lothíriel looked at Brenna in question, but she told her that now was not the time.
Haleth and Fram were two of the additional Riders from Rohan with them, while the other three present were hand selected by Eomer to keep the ladies safe. Brenna's Guard old and new knew their task and vowed to do whatever was necessary to keep the two young women safe. They consulted the knights of Dol Amroth and the princes about the plan and brought them up to speed.
Brenna kept Lothíriel at bay as long as possible, but as the weeks passed it became more difficult. Her friend was deeply hurt that everyone seemed to be keeping something from her. It was only when Brenna began waking up in the middle of the night screaming and crying that she finally relented and stopped asking her friend. Something was obviously troubling her friend and going to happen.
The spring passed to summer and summer waned bringing September ever closer. With every passing day the feeling of dread and foreboding built within the city. The months passed quickly with nothing of significance happening.
On one particularly bad morning Brenna woke up fending off an unseen foe, crying. Lothíriel seemed to connect the dots and held her friend as she shook and cried. Oriel met her eyes on the other side of her and knew that they would have to sit down soon. It had become a routine where they would stay by her side to wake her and comfort her. Brenna's Guard watched helplessly as she seemed to remain fatigued and jumpy.
Beleg sent frequent missives to Minas Tirith informing Elladan and Aragorn of Brenna's state. Rumil and Faelchon both sent word back to their counterparts, keeping them informed. They had received replies that Haldir and Orophin as well as Legolas and Telgalad would be making their way to join Eomer and the others in Minas Tirith. With them they were bringing a company of elves who volunteered to aid Brenna.
It was a short two weeks later when Brenna finally sat Lothíriel down, it was the morning of the day that everything would be happening. She held her friend's hand and urged her to listen to her no matter what happened today. Lothíriel looked at her friend startled and more than a little afraid. They were set to tour the market and festival set up in celebration marking the impending nuptials of their Princess.
Lothíriel looked at her friend and nodded. Seeing the grim looks on the faces of Brenna's Guard and her family, she knew that something would be happening. Following Brenna's odd advice she wore leggings under dress for the day. She also had a large dagger strapped to her thigh. In a pocket in the folds of her dress, she carried a second, smaller blade, just as Brenna did.
She thought back to the weeks leading up to today and realized that all of the sparing that Brenna and the others had challenged her to was in preparation. A cold chill went down her spine as she looked at Brenna shakily. Brenna nodded grimly and stood and greeted her Guard. Various members had been strategically stationed throughout the festival and market keeping a close eye on things.
Brenna reassured her friend and the Royal family of Dol Amroth. With a smile that didn't quite meet her eyes, they set out to begin the day's festivities. Lothíriel walked with Brenna on her right and Oriel to her left. The family in Guard fell in around them, not drawing suspicion to them as best they could.
The day passed quickly and Brenna became more tense with each passing moment. Prince Imrahil and his sons stopped at stall talking to the vendor quietly. Her vision faded briefly and she had a vacant look on her face as she turned to look at Lothíriel. They stepped into a tavern for refreshment and to grab something to eat. Brenna looked around the room and immediately her Guard noticed her tense subtly, but she smiled.
Taking Lothiriel's hand she led her to a seat smiling as cheerfully as possible. Their drinks were brought to them when Brenna leaned over and whispered for Lothíriel to bump her drink over and spill it onto her. Lothíriel laughed merrily and did as asked. Brenna jumped up in response, mopping at the mead that now soiled the front of her dress. A barmaid bustled over quickly and led the two women to a private room to dry off.
Once in the room Brenna and Lothíriel switched clothes. As soon as Lothíriel was dressed in Brenna's wet and stained dress she looked at her fearfully. Brenna took her hand and calmed the shaking girl.
"Listen to me, when we leave here you need to not draw attention to yourself. You head back to the keep with the intent to change the soiled dress. Smile, laugh and act normal," she told her friend firmly. Once you reach the safety of the keep follow the plan and lock yourself into your father's study."
"Brenna what about you?" Lothíriel asked in obvious worry.
"Listen to me," she said shaking her slightly. "You have to go back and not worry about me. When you reach the castle sound the alarm. It's all been planned, now we have to go."
The two women exited the back room laughing and whispering together. Brenna could feel Lothíriel shake as they walked arm in arm to the door. Brenna caught Imrahil's eye who did a double take and smiled happily, though it didn't meet his eyes.
"Father, Lady Brenna must go back to the castle to change. There are a few more stalls that I would like to look at, perhaps you can arrange for an escort for our guest?" Brenna said looking at him pointedly.
"Of course my dear," he said jovially. "Come Lady Brenna, I'll accompany you back with and escort you back."
Brenna smiled and waved them off, even as her stomach churned. She saw her Guard get into place, but knew that it was no use. Dernhelm walked at her side talking about Rohan and his home. It was a cue to the others hidden within the crowds.
A shout rang out on the street and then there was screaming. People were running and scattering and there was chaos. Dernhelm hit the ground with a grunt of pain. Brenna dropped to his side and looked at the arrow protruding from his side. Looking at it she realized it wasn't mortal, but he would be in a lot of pain. He tried to wave her off and tell her to run, when a second arrow hit him in the shoulder.
Brenna's Guard were trying to reach her side, but the fleeing people were blocking their progress. Wulf was struggling to reach her, trying to tell her to run. Brenna was too focused on helping Dernhelm. She snapped the arrows off and eases his pain as much as she could. When she turned to look for the other members of her Guard she saw that a number of other people had been injured in the process.
Looking around, she saw Dernhelm's panicked look as she felt the blow on the back of her head. She struggled to remain conscious as she heard the outraged cries of her Guard and the anguished cry of Dernhelm. She blacked out as she heard a fight break out between their attackers and her Guard.
Prince Imrahil watched in horror as Brenna was being carried off in the distance. His knights and her Guard did their best but he knew now was the time to act. At his signal a messenger was sent to the harbor master, who was waiting for the signal for the naval ships waiting in the harbor. As he watched the enemy cart Brenna away he realized that Lothíriel would be devastated. He and his sons secured her in the castle and locked it down.
They quickly armed themselves and set off down the street toward where the trouble broke out. Dernhelm and the other people injured were brought to a secure location, while the other members of her Guard briefed him on what had happened. A second messenger was sent toward South Ithilien, where the forces of Aragorn and Eomer had amassed silently over the past weeks. Prince Imrahil and the others prayed that they would make it on time.
Brenna woke to her stomach churning and bile rising in her throat. Shutting her eyes tightly, she fought the urge to retch. Not sure if it was the blow to the head, or the rocking of the ship on the waves, she prayed that they would make it on time. Above deck she heard the strange accents talking and laughing raucously. She hummed quietly to herself and prayed to the Valar to keep her safe. Checking herself for her daggers, with a sigh of relief she found them still where they had been before. Turning with her back to the wall so that she could face the entrance she tried to rest her eyes and recover her strength.
It was dark when she came around to consciousness the second time. The rough rocking and rolling of the vessel let her know that she was still aboard a ship. Keeping her eyes closed tight, she pretended to sleep. Tucking her cloak tightly around herself and making sure her forehead was covered, she prayed that the ruse would be enough.
Listening carefully she heard footsteps coming below deck. Mercifully her hands and legs were not bound so she could fight back if she needed to, but she feigned sleep.
Keeping her face still and breathing even, she didn't react to the fetid breath upon her face. The man called out that she was still out and scolded someone harshly for hitting her too hard. There was a third voice that crudely said they should have their way with the little princess while she was out so that she would wake up screaming. While there were some laughs in response, the man leaning over her harshly told him that she was to remain untouched and unspoiled. There was a grunt in response.
She breathed easier when they left the small space and finally let the tears fall. Brenna must have lost consciousness because she woke again as someone roughly grabbed her. She screamed and fought him off, but a blow to her cheek knocked her out again. The man hefted her over his shoulder and wrapped a rough wool blanket around her. He carried her above deck and out onto the dock. His captain led him to an old ruin of a watch tower. He dropped the girl on the floor and laughed harshly as she groaned in pain.
The captain crouched down in her face laughing at first before he let forth a string of what she imagined were curses in his own language. There were rapid footfalls approaching at his yell. He pointed to her forehead and looked at his men in shock. He scolded them for their stupidity. Mid-way through his rant he stopped and observed her, before a feral look crossed his face.
"No, it is just as well if not better than we originally planned." He told them with a laugh. "We will get two kings' ransom for this one rather than just the one the other girl would have brought us."
Turning to his men he gave orders and looked back at her harshly. "Try anything and you are dead. You live at my mercy."
He grabbed the two men in the room with her and shoved them out of the door. "She is still to be guarded and untouched. Anyone caught harming her or despoiling her will be killed immediately. That includes you Amr, do I make myself clear?"
"Yes Nawfal." The men replied.
Brenna huddled in the room and looked up at the hole in the roof to the night sky. She prayed that her friends would be there soon. Fighting to stay awake, she hummed quietly to herself. Shudders of fear and revulsion coursed through her thinking about what was to come.
Meanwhile her friends and allies were racing to her aid. The Naval ships of Dol Amroth were only hours behind them and he friends had moved into position over the course of the last two weeks so that they were only a few hours out. Elladan was beside himself with worry and with each passing mile his fury grew exponentially. How dare they?
Aragorn and Eomer had received word from Imrahil who was on one of the ships. His messenger had signaled to them along the cost giving them the signal that Brenna was gone and they needed to be on the move. The two groups move in union toward Brenna's location. Hoping and praying that they wouldn't be too late.
It was in the early hours of the morning that Brenna was awoken to a hand over her mouth and the harsh laugh of Amr. He pinned her down against the wall and made his intent quite clear. He struck her as she struggle, causing her to see spots and give him a brief advantage. He tore at her dress, not realizing she wore leggings or daggers yet.
"Time to have a looksee at the goods," he growled at her.
She bit his hand hard and spat in his face. "Don't touch me you pig!"
When she started screaming for help her tackled her with renewed fervor. "Shut up you stupid chit!"
Reaching into the pocket of her dress with one hand, while prying at the hand now at her throat, she stabbed him in his side. Sliding the dagger between his ribs he cried out in pain and struck her again, this time harder. They rolled over and fought for control of the blade.
There was a shout outside and an alarm was sounded around the encampment. They were surrounded now. Brenna fought harder, realizing that hope had arrived. Amr continued his struggle with the unusually strong girl.
"Give up little elf witch," he leered. "No one will save you."
He now held her hands over her head as he licked her cheek. Ignoring the call of his captain he pawed at her. She bucked and fought, causing him to laugh more at her actions. A shout outside momentarily startled him and she freed one of her hand punching him in the face. The sickening crunch of his nose signaled that she had indeed broken it. He reared back in pain and she kicked him in the chest, effectively getting the brute off of her.
By now she stood on her feet sway, dizzy from being knocked around so much. She now had both of her daggers in her hands as he rushed at her in is blind fury. Spinning out of his grasp, she launched her own attack, dropping him in a few short minutes. The man was dead and wouldn't harm her or any other girl again.
Outside she could hear the fighting. The night lit up with the torches and fires being lit. Leaning heavily on the wall, she kept her daggers at ready. She heard familiar voices and called out to them. Soon she heard the rapid footsteps of her friends as they made their way to her.
Eowyn charged into the room and looked around in horror. It was obvious there was a struggle. Faramir stopped short behind her holding a torch. The others were right behind him. Brenna's knees gave out and she dropped her weapons. She wept as Eowyn crouched at her side holding her and rocking her. Eomer and Aragorn entered the room and looking at Brenna in shock. Eowyn waved the men off to talk to Brenna and check on her.
When Brenna lifted her head to talk to her Eowyn gasped in horror. Her startled cry alerted the others that something had happened. Eomer caught sight of Brenna's face and roared in fury. Captain Nawfal was dragged into the room and shoved at his dead man. Nawfal looked around and saw Brenna's face and paled immediately. He took in the bruising on her face and neck as well as the tears at her clothing and new that he and his men would not live to see the dawn that was approaching.
Eowyn pulled Brenna's cloak around her shoulders and pulled up the hood. She handed her friend the daggers and helped her to stand, but her legs wouldn't hold her. Eomer stepped forward and swept her up and carried her from the room. The others cleared the way and let them out. Elladan had been held back by the elvish members of Brenna's Guard. He was frantic to be by her side, but knew that Eowyn would calm her and help her.
The assembled crowd and allies fell silent seeing the small figure being carried by the King of Rohan. Elladan went to move towards them but Aragorn shook his head no. Captain Nawfal and his men were rounded up and quickly dispatched. Their heads were put on pikes and their ships burned in the harbor with their bodies inside. It was especially gruesome, but the allies would not stand for threats on their families, especially their women.
Brenna trembled in Eomer's arms and cried silently into his breastplate. He walked towards the waiting horses and his men fell in around them. The rest of the group boarded their ships and mounted their horses. Their goal was to reach Ethir Anduin before the end of the day.
Brenna clung to Eomer, who held her with a lump in his throat. He rode swiftly and kept telling her that she was safe and it was all over now. His eyes clouded when he thought of what would have happened if it had been Lothíriel instead. With those thoughts the guilt overwhelmed him. His men rode in grim silence.
Elladan rode with his brother and Aragorn near Eomer. He desperately wanted to check on Brenna but knew that now was not the time to think of himself. The other members of Brenna's Guard were shaken to their very core with what they had been told. The sinking realization that they had almost not been in time weighed heavily on the group as they rode as far and as fast as they could.
The day passed swiftly, with them stopping a few times to water and rest their horses. When Brenna finally removed the hood of her cloak the growls and cries of anguish from her friends rang out. Elladan went to her then, approaching her cautiously asking her if it hurt a great deal. Eowyn remained at her side as the Sons of Elrond and Aragorn set about healing Brenna's wounds.
Eomer took a fresh bundle of clothed from Eowyn's pack and handed it to her. It was then that the company noticed the state of Brenna's dress. At their questioning looks she shook her head with tears in her eyes.
"As you can see it was not for a lack of trying," she told them in a hoarse whisper. Her throat sore and raw.
Many of the men shook with rage realizing what she had truly been through. Elladan remained calm on the exterior, but on the inside his mind was screaming out in horror and anguish to see her so. Elrohir put a calming hand on his brother's shoulder.
A make-shift enclosure was strung up with blankets so Brenna could quickly wash and change. Eowyn assisted her and paled a bit seeing the full extent of the bruising on Brenna's body. Her face, throat, side and thighs were all black and blue. She helped to rub bruising salve onto her and helped her into a fresh riding habit and cloak. Her damaged and soiled clothing was brought to the small fire where Brenna viciously tossed it into the flames.
Looking around she saw the approving nods from some of her friends. She caught Elladan's gaze and slowly walked towards him. He held out his arms and she threw herself into his embrace, bursting into tears. Her whole body shook with the anguish and fear radiating off of her. He rocked her gently, rubbing her back and whispering to her how brave she was. He let her know what a good job she had done and how much he loved her.
Brenna sighed into his embrace and let him lift her. She briefly went to Elrohir's arms before being passed up into Elladan's arms. He tucked her cloak firmly around her and held her protectively to against his front. She rode astride in front of him, while he held her with an arm snugly around her waist. He didn't give a damn about propriety at the moment, his mate was hurt and needed him.
The company made good time and were met in Ethir Anduin by one of Prince Imrahil's ships. Knowing that Brenna would want to return to Minas Tirith per their plan, he had her things on the ship with Ash and the gear and belongings of the rest of her Guard. Lothíriel swiftly walked down the dock seeing Brenna's arrival. She gasped in horror at her friend's condition and ran to her side.
It was an emotional reunion in which Brenna finally confessed to her friend what had happened. Eomer stood at his betrothed's side as she listened in a complete state of shock. By the time Brenna was done with her tale, the group was shaken. Lothiriel wept and thanked her friend for what she had done. Brenna looked around and firmly told them that it was now done and over with, but it was only the beginning of their problems from the South and East. Never again would they kidnap another, but they would still cause trouble.
The whole company spent the night in the port city. Brenna was too tired and weary to continue on. She was extremely reluctant to board another ship after her ordeal, but she knew that she would have to. At the dawn of the next day the group parted. The men from Dol Amroth and Prince Imrahil's family would return home. Erchirion would be trading places with Amrothos for a time and guarding the little elf maiden in his stead.
Eomer and his Riders would be returning to Minas Tirith before returning to their own homeland. It was a bittersweet meeting and parting for Eomer and Lothíriel. Here they were a year from when they were to wed and such tragedy had taken place.
Dernhelm had come with the ship carrying the belongings of Brenna's Guard. He refused to leave her side, despite his injury. He gently scolded her for not running when he told her to, but was silenced when she told him that if she had run the village would have been slaughtered in the search for her.
It was with great relief and equally great anger that the allies left up the Anduin River. It took three large ships to carry all of the men and their steads to the port in Osgiliath. Brenna rode Ash across the Pelennor field surrounded by her friends and family. A rush of warm affection flooded her as she realized that they had come for her and gotten there in time. She looked over at Elladan who was riding protectively at her side and smiled softly at him. He returned it with a lopsided smile of his own. Love for this elf coursed through her and soothed her frayed nerves as the entered the White City just as night fell in the sky. She breathed deeply, feeling safe. Silently thanking the Valar for their aid and protection she let herself be led away, to the warmth and safety of Aragorn's halls.