(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.)
Chapter 26
Brenna had been in Greenwood for three months now. She enjoyed her time in the land from which her father came from. Legolas and his family had taken her under their wing and had her staying their private wing of the Halls of Thranduil. Though she was at first regarded cautiously, many of the elves warmed up to her. They were also reluctant in accepting her Guard and escorts, however once Thranduil spoke to them most had a change in heart. With that said, there were still hold outs, many of the elleths who regarded Brenna as a threat to their "claim" to the prince's heart.
She spent much of her time with Legolas acting as a guide through his beloved woods. Members of her Guard would accompany them and they would often be found exploring the recovering woodland realm. Brenna would stop from time to time and heal what she could of the lands. There were still areas that she hadn't gotten to during her last visit, but she was taking her time in getting everywhere that needed healing. Evil had its hold on this realm for a long time, so it would take a long time to heal the hurts and wash away the taint of it.
She approach the Throne hall where Thranduil and Colfinell were seated. Dropping into a deep curtsey to them, she stood and smiled. Colfinell beckoned her forward and embraced the young elleth. She had greatly enjoyed having a young female to dote upon, especially upon receiving the happy news that her son would meet his mate in Valinor. Colfinell had despaired that he would ignore the call and be parted from the forever.
Queen Colfinell had welcomed Brenna as she would a daughter, taking her cues from Legolas who informed his parents that she was like a sister to him. He took that protective role of brother very seriously. Colfinell relished having another female in the family and enjoyed having elvish designs in fashion made for Brenna. The two elleths were often seen strolling through the gardens together. Colfinell taught Brenna the art of weaving to create tapestries and clothing, which Brenna found she enjoyed.
It was one morning roughly three months after she had arrived in Thranduil's Hall that Brenna found herself approaching the throne room somewhat nervously. Once she had curtsied, she straightened and let the Royal family know of her slight change in travel plans.
"I hate to impose on your kindness, but something is calling me north," she told them apprehensively. "I must travel to the Misty Mountain and seek out Gimli's kin."
Legolas looked at her with wide eyes. He turned to his father who sat scowling at the news. Though the relationship between dwarves and elves was beginning to repair, to hear that Brenna would be leaving their homeland to go to see the dwarves was not welcome news.
"Why is it you must seek out the dwarves Brenna," King Thranduil asked calmly, though there was a slight tick in his cheek.
Brenna's cheeks flushed and she looked at her feet. Her forehead flared, as if reminding the elf king to whom he was speaking. "I know not for certain milord, but something is not right in their land. I need to leave in the next day or two so that I will be back in time to leave for Edoras," she explained softly
Thranduil turned to his son, "It would seem that you're escorting Lady Brenna to see your friend. Guard her well." Turning to his advisers he spoke firmly, "Make the necessary travel preparations for Lady Brenna and her Guard for their slight detour north."
The elves rushed out of the room to do their Lord's bidding. Brenna let out a breath that she hadn't realized that she was holding. "Thank you. I know that there is still tension between your peoples. I fear all is not well with Gimli and his kin to the north."
Legolas stepped forward and led her to a nearby seat. "Brenna is our friend alright?" he asked in concern.
Brenna's face scrunched in concentration, "I don't know."
He helped her stand and led her to where the members of her Guard were taking their breakfast. The men stood when she entered the room. Gone was their dirty, bedraggled travel companion and here was an elf maiden, a delicate looking lady. Legolas led her to Oriel and turned to address the other members of her Guard, old and new.
Upon hearing the news of their charge's intended travel, many of them stood and went to get their gear ready for a new adventure. While they enjoyed their stays in the different realms, these battle-honed warriors were a bit bored. Soldiers were not often idle and even though they would spar and train with their elvish counterparts, they needed something to do.
Brenna thanked them and told them that she would like to leave, if possible some time the next day. Legolas informed her that by horse it would only take them a day or two, perhaps three if they were taking a slower pace, to reach the Misty Mountain. She nodded and breathed a sigh of relief. Mentally calculating her travels, she realized that she could spend two weeks there before she would turn around and begin the long trek south.
Colfinell met her in the rooms provided for her. The elvish Queen helped her to pack her things and make preparations for her eminent departure. She quietly told Brenna that she would have her things packed and what she wasn't taking with her would be stored to be brought to Rivendell by Colfinell herself and kept there for her. Brenna hugged her and thanked her for her kindness and help.
"Promise me that you'll look after him," Colfinell emotionally urged her. "Promise me that I will see my son again."
Brenna clasped the teary eyed, silvery haired elleth's hands. "Your son will be safe and I promise to look after him as well as all of the others to the best of my abilities. He will sail with me, though he wouldn't have," she told the shaking Queen. "He would have stayed and attempted to sail with Gimli, as he would not be parted from his friend. What he doesn't know is that Gimli will accompany us to the West."
Colfinell clutched her desperately. Brenna held her and told her surely, "Calm milady, he will sail. He would not risk his mate, not when he knows the future waiting for him on the shores of Valinor."
Brenna soothed the emotional elleth. Once she had calmed she began helping to get Brenna's things packed and stored. There would be little time to visit on the return trip, most of the elves would be leaving for either Ithilien, Rivendell or Lothlorien in the coming months. Though it pained many of them to be parted from their beloved home, they all now felt the call of the West.
The Halls were filled with a flurry of activity over the next twenty-four hours. Provisions were packed and gear was prepared. Their horses were saddled and waiting early the next morning as the rather large company of Brenna and her Guard assembled. Brenna stepped forward dressed in a leaf green riding habit designed for an elvish lady. Colfinell had a cloak designed to match and both articles of clothing had silver stars embroidered on the edging. Though the material looked soft and light, she was warm and comfortable.
The King and Queen called forward a group of servants bearing medium sized barrels of elvish wine as a gift to their allies to the north. Legolas nodded his head gratefully to his parents. Brenna grinned at the gesture, breaking protocol she hugged the Royal couple, who laughed at her reaction. Colfinell hugged her tightly and the normally stoic Thranduil repeated the action.
The group soon rode out and set their course north towards the lone mountain on the horizon. So as not to over burden their horses. Brenna talked quietly with Legolas asking him of the history of the dwarves dwelling within the mountain to the north. He told her their history, some of which she knew from the story of Bilbo's travels that she read when she was younger. He told her of the transition of the crown to Dain's line, a cousin of Gimli.
Brenna nodded, lost in thought. She straightened in her saddle and looked to the left and right of their path. Her Guard took cues from her body language and unsheathed their weapons. There was a whistle, to which Ohtar grinned and responded to with a laugh. A small group of Dunedain Rangers stepped from the shadows of the trees. Brenna let out a breath and nodded to them with a smile.
The Rangers led them off the path and to a small clearing where they could camp for the night. Brenna dismounted and gathered her things. She felt the eyes of the Rangers watching her curiously. Ohtar glanced at her and noticed her slight discomfort at the attention and approached his kin.
"Lady Brenna," one of the men approached. "I apologize if we made you feel uncomfortable. We are just curious about the little elf maiden that Halabard and our kin speak so highly of."
Brenna's Guard watched seemingly with disinterest, but if one looked closely, they would see that their hands were on their blades. She shrugged and blushed slightly. "I'm not sure what to say to that. I'm just doing what I've been tasked with."
"Milady, do not so casually shrug away your deeds. Many owe you their lives." Ohtar told her in a firm voice.
Over the months of their travels Brenna had gotten to know each of her Guard members and valued their friendship and companionship. Ohtar had such a strong resolve of what is right and his duty to the Free People of Arda. He explained to her of their home in the Old Kingdom and the way of his kin. She had come to greatly admire the Dunedain for their steadfast service and protection over the many years. She grinned thinking of the vibrant red head that Ohtar would meet in the near future.
Brenna nodded to Ohtar in acknowledgement. "I'm not disregarding anything that I've done or the outcome of those deeds. I simply did what had to be done, whether it was putting down two of the Nazgul or healing the injured and dying," she told them quietly.
The Dunedain nodded and the corner of their mouths twitched in response. "Well little elf maiden, our people are grateful to you," one of them told her with a smile. "We thank you for the forewarning of the trouble to come in the North milady."
Brenna nodded with a soft smile. "I'll make my way to the Old Kingdom to offer whatever assistance I can give."
Oriel settled in next to Brenna by the fire. The two elf maidens had gotten extremely close over the two years that they had been traveling together. They helped each other when they could and forged a deep bond of friendship over the many miles of their travels. Oriel was thrilled that she got to see the different parts of Arda. For the many centuries that she had walked the earth, she stayed behind the protective line of trees in Lothlorien. She ventured to the other elvish realms long ago with her family, but the darkness prevented her from doing so in the more recent centuries.
Day broke and the chirping of birds woke Brenna from a peaceful sleep. It had taken her a little while to settle into her bedroll last night after having spent so many months in the luxury of a bed, but she fell asleep none the less. Splashing water in her face, she got up and packed her things quickly. It was obvious to the Rangers observing her actions that she had experience in traveling often.
She straightened her riding habit and smoothed out the wrinkles. Fixing her cloak around her shoulders, she brought her packs to the saddle bags and turned to help get breakfast made for the company. Once everyone had eaten their fill, their horses were saddled. Brenna and her group were accompanied by the small party of Dunedain for a few hours, before they departed to continue their scouting and patrolling of the lands.
Three hours later the group rounded a corner and saw the mountain looming ever closer in the distance. They made their way through Laketown, where the people watched their progress with a little suspicion. It was obvious that they too had felt the effects of the war on their homeland. Unsure of the reception that she would receive Brenna pushed on toward the home of the dwarves.
Brenna moved to the front of the column of riders, despite the protests of her Guard. Oriel, ever the loyal friend stayed at her side. The two elf maidens rode with their cloaks wrapped around them, shielding their identity from prying eyes. They were called to a halt by the dwarves that were now assembling at the entrance of the mountain.
Keeping her head down Brenna glanced up at the group on the stairs and saw a familiar bushy red haired dwarf. She dismounted, despite the protest of her companions and stepped forward. Legolas quickly followed and fell into step beside her. There was a thick tension settling in over the growing group of dwarves.
Gimli must have recognize Legolas for he called out in greeting and made his way down the stairs towards their side. He stopped short, and a wide grin spread over his face seeing who was with Legolas. "Lass, you honor us!" He called out joyfully. He turned to his kin, "Lady Brenna has come!"
Brenna pulled back her hood, the stars upon her brow shone bright silver, even in the sunlight. She let Gimli lead her towards the stairs where his cousin Thorin III Stonehelm, son of Dain, stood. Upon reaching the steps in front of him, she dropped into a deep curtsy, stunning the dwarves present. Gimli beamed at his friend and nodded to his cousin.
Thorin stepped forward and helped Brenna to stand. "Welcome Lady Brenna," he greeted kindly. "My cousin Gimli tells me much of you and your travels together. He tells us that you're a fierce warrior. Though pardon me from saying so Lass, you don't look like a warrior."
Brenna laughed softly and smiled brightly at the dwarf king. "Looks can be deceiving my friend. Do not let the feminine attire fool you. I was in a tunic and full armor when I took on the Nazgul," she told him while pointing to the various weapons she had on her person.
The king stopped and stared at her. Her admission startled the dwarves present. "Tell me lady, is it often that elf maidens ride off to battle?" he asked, looking to Legolas not completely trusting the elf despite his cousin's friendship with him.
"No, I don't believe so," Brenna answered honestly. "I'm a bit unconventional by even elvish standards. I'm still considered to be quite young, come December I will only be twenty-tree."
The king sputtered looking towards Legolas with wide eyes. "You're but a wee bairn, even by our standards!" Thorin exclaimed.
Brenna stilled and scowled at the king. "Gimli has explained my past and history I'm sure?"
"Aye, but some of it seemed too farfetched. I see now that he was not exaggerating. I meant no offense lass, come let me show you my home!" Thorin said, leading her towards the steps.
Brenna caught Legolas's eye and gave him a pointed look. "King Thorin, my father sends gifts and tidings of friendship," Legolas said. He motioned for his woodland kin to bring forth the barrels of wine. "A small token of our renewed friendship."
Thorin's eyes sparked with mirth and he clapped Legolas on the back, "Come friend. Let us show you our home and celebrate."
Brenna's Guard and travel companions dismounted. They took their things and followed behind in a long procession up the stair to the entrance of the mountain. Brenna mounted the steps and trembled as she felt the residual taint of Smaug upon the stone. The king looked at her in concern and her knees gave out at the top of the stairs. Her palms were flat upon the stone as visions of what had happened to the sturdy people that had perished. Legolas knelt at her side as did both Gimli and Thorin.
Drawing a ragged breath she looked up at them with tears pouring down her face. "Ai Elbereth!" she gasped out. With trembling hands she touched one of the scorched stones on the ground.
"Brenna, Lass are you alright?" Gimli asked in concern.
"Yes Gimli I am alright," she told him sadly looking around. "I come to you not only for a visit my friend, but to help."
His eyes lit up as he regarded the petite elf maiden affectionately. "Help us you say? That is good news!"
Still kneeling on the ground she turned to Thorin, "I will only have two weeks here before I must turn south, but I will help heal what I can."
Thorin grasped her hands in his own, "You have my thanks Lady Brenna."
He helped her stand and led her into the cavernous halls. Carved from the rock of the mountain was a beautiful city below. The columns and walls reflected the torchlight. The dwarves had returned to these halls years before, though their numbers were still not recovered fully.
"It's beautiful," Brenna whispered.
The dwarves standing nearby heard and their chests puffed up in pride. Many of them were beginning to like the smaller elf maiden. It would certainly be an interesting two weeks. They would make sure that she and her travel companions knew the hospitality of the dwarves was unrivaled.
Brenna traveled through and around the mountain. She visited the surrounding land, healing as much as she could. Pouring out her power she called forth the seed buried deep within the ground. Drawing the water to the surface, she healed and soothed the parched soil. Though many years had passed, the land was still deeply scarred. The people of Laketown, seeing the change in the landscape, sought her aid as well. She went to village some days and healed both the people and the land of the hurts from war.
Though it was only a short amount of time that she had with the dwarves, she enjoyed it immensely. Her fellow elves began to let down their guard a bit around the stocky race. Tentative friendships and bonds were forged. Stories were shared over mugs of mead and tankards of ale. There were toasts made with the elvish wine to friendship and alliances restored.
On the last night that they were staying with the dwarves, Brenna spoke quietly to Thorin. "I have healed what I could in my short time here milord. The answers that you seek can be found in the Blue Mountains. There you will find some of your kin," she told him quietly. "A word of advice. There is a threat to the Old Kingdom of Arnor. In the next five years or so the mist will rise up out of the sea. You should seek your kin before then and call them to the safety of your home."
Thorin stilled at her words. "What threat is this that you speak of?"
"I know not exactly. It rises up from the sea engulfing the land in mist and shadow. Even now as we speak livestock are disappearing. It will only be a matter of time before the farmers themselves are taken," she told him quietly, though she knew Legolas had overheard her because he tensed beside her. "I will travel there in the coming years to help my friends stand against it, though something about it chills me to my very bones."
Thorin regarded the young woman quietly. He mulled over what she said and knew that she was sincere in her warning. She had come and asked for nothing in return.
"Aye I will do as you say and send out envoys in search of our missing kin." He said quietly before he allowed his voice to carry, "Lady Brenna, should you have need I will answer the call and gladly stand beside you."
Gimli sputtered and choked at his cousin's declaration, and the Hall went silent. There were speculative whispers as the dwarves looked at their king with wide eyes. Legolas thumped Gimli on the back a few times as he gasped as the liquid in his throat seemed to go down the wrong tube.
"Lady Brenna has given me good news regarding some of the missing branches of our clans!" Thorin called out to the cheers of his people. "She has also told me of a threat growing to the West of the mountains in the Old Kingdom of Arnor. Lady Brenna came here asking nothing in return to give us aid, and I'll gladly return that favor by standing beside her in battle should the need arise."
Brenna flushed as the attention of every eye in the Hall fell on her. There were some that still regarded her with distrust even after everything that she had done. "I appreciate the offer King Thorin, but I could not ask you to endanger yourself or your people," she told him.
Gimli grinned at her and laughed heartily, "Lass you've got my axe. What do you say elf? Shall we fight side-by-side once more?" he asked Legolas.
"Aye, my friend," Legolas answered. "I would be honored to have you there with us, for where Brenna goes, I shall follow."
Ohtar sat a little way down the table in stunned silence. He couldn't quite believe what he was hearing at the moment. He thanked the Valar that his people would not face this new darkness alone. Raising his glass to Brenna, he nodded his head in thanks. Taking a deep gulp of the mead, he made mental note to have word sent to his people and another missive sent to Aragorn immediately.
The celebrations lasted well into the night, despite the early departure of Brenna's company. Gimli would be going with them in the morning to see the wedding of Eomer. Brenna sadly realized that she would not make it to the Shire to see Frodo before he left for Valinor, but she vowed to visit and comfort her Hobbit friends regardless. Leaning back on her pillow she realized that for all the time in the world, there still was not enough time to do everything that she wanted and needed to. Closing her eyes, she finally let herself drift off to sleep.
Oriel woke Brenna the next morning and looked at her friend in concern. She helped her into her green riding habit and make sure that she had everything packed. Oriel exited Brenna's room and made her way down the Halls to find Legolas. Something was clearly bothering Brenna.
Brenna emerged from the mountain Hall carrying her packs. She had her cloak and weapons on and searched for Ash in the bustling courtyard below. Walking quietly down the steps, she hummed as she went. Storing her packs within her saddle bag she made sure that she had her bedroll and blankets secured.
She turned back to see Thorin standing on the steps watching the group preparing to leave. Crossing the courtyard to where he stood she dropped into a respective curtsy. "Thank you for your hospitality and generosity milord."
He let out a laugh and bowed deeply to her in return. "It was an honor to have you stay with us Lady Brenna. Should you have need, call upon me."
Brenna smiled and nodded to him. "I shall miss you and your people Thorin. You've been very kind to me."
"Before you go milady I have a parting gift for you, though it pales in comparison to what you have given my people," he said sincerely. From within a velvet pouch he pulled out a long mithril necklace with a blue teardrop sapphire pendant.
Brenna accepted the gift with shaking hands, realizing the wealth of the gift she was being given. Putting the necklace on, she knelt down and hugged the startled dwarf. Thorin told her gruffly that it was nothing, though she could see a slight flush to his ruddy cheeks. She laughed merrily and took her leave. Walking towards Ash she notice Legolas waiting with an amused expression on his face.
"You seem to make friends and allies wherever you go gwathel," he told her with his eyes alight with mirth. "Only you could reaffirm the alliances of old and smooth away the hurt and distrust that was between two races."
He boosted her into the saddle and regarded her carefully for a moment. Seeing his intense gaze, she shook her head and gave him a small smile. The group mounted up and were ready to go. Legolas reached down and pulled Gimli up into the saddle behind him.
"Just like old times Gimli," Brenna called out with mirth tingeing her voice. "We'll have to get you riding on your own my friend, if I can do it then surely you can!"
Brenna's stories from her escapades with horses prior to coming to Arda were becoming legendary. There were many amused chuckles at her declaration. The Rohirrim present snorted in amusement.
"Brenna, I still think those stories are made up to amuse us," Fram told her.
Brenna raised an eyebrow at him and looked around. They had already passed Laketown and were now following parallel to the river beside the road. She pulled Ash to a halt and dismounted. The group watch curiously as she walked to the edge of the river bank and knelt beside it. Closing her eyes, she put her hands in the cool water. Pushing the memories, she felt her hand pulse in the water. She pulled back and opened her eyes. Before her was one of the many memories of her past experiences with horse.
Fram watched in amusement as the scene played out on the surface of the water. Sure enough there was Brenna riding a horse. Just as she describe the horse tried to sit down with her on it. Once she managed to get the horse to stand, he watched while laughing as the horse decided to take the scenic route off the trail. By the end of the memory the Rohirrim were laughing until they had tears of mirth in their eyes.
Oriel tried to stifle a giggle, but seeing Brenna's bland expression she burst out laughing setting off a chain reaction. The loud chuckling lightened Brenna's mood significantly. She went to Ash and mounted him without assistance. Fram nudged his horse to her side and took her hand.
"I can see now that you have come a long way. Though I'm not sure how much of your past experience is your own fault or the horses that were chosen for you," he said with his eyes dancing with laughter.
Brenna swiveled in the saddle and faced the west side of the road, but relaxed when a group of Rangers stepped out. Ohtar immediately greeted them and spoke with them in hushed tones. There were occasional loud exclamations, but he managed to relay his message and hand them a written message to take back with them as soon as possible.
The group waited, giving the kinsmen time to talk, but they soon moved out. Brenna wanted to reach the Halls of Thranduil before nightfall. Without the added weight of the barrens of wine, they felt that it was safe to push their horses to reach the safety of the woodland realm. They raced the sun in the sky and rested their horses briefly from time to time. Some of the Guard lit torches and they rode through the growing darkness and reached their destination just after nightfall.
They were ushered into the halls and their things were taken for them. Rooms had been prepared for them and a meal was awaiting them in the main hall. Legolas went to address his parents, while Brenna and Oriel went to their rooms to wash and change. Once they had donned fresh clothing, simple dresses as it was so late in the evening, they returned to the group and eat dinner with them.
Thranduil and Colfinell walked into the hall with wide eyes searching for Brenna. Legolas trailed behind them with an expression of amusement on his face. Gimli who was sitting next to Brenna stiffened slightly, but she laid a calming hand on his arm and smiled reassuringly.
"Good evening King Thranduil and Queen Colfinell," she greeted them. "Will you be joining us?"
"Brenna is it true? You've renewed the old alliance?" Thranduil asked in shock, uncaring of the audience present.
The elves that hadn't accompanied the group looked at Brenna with a wide range of looks upon their faces. Gone were their normally stoic and calm demeanor, for most of them gaped at her outright.
"Well, I went and helped them if that's what you're asking? In an offer of friendship, King Thorin told me that should I have need he will answer my call of aid. So I do suppose that an alliance was formed," she mused.
"Lady Brenna," Thranduil began in a somewhat exasperated voice, "I'm not sure you quite understand the implications and consequences of what you've done. You are not a leader of any of the Elvish realms, it was not your place to do so."
Standing she turned to address him with a grave expression on her face. "What I've done is help a people still hurting and healing from their ordeal with the dragon. What I've done is exactly what the Valar have charged me to do. What I fail to understand is how this is a bad thing, especially since the elves will be leaving Arda never to return."
There were gasps as she addressed the king so tersely. They watched as her brow flared and her hands shone iridescent blue light. King Thranduil's face hardened as she spoke.
"Brenna," Legolas began in warning, but she waved him off.
"What you fail to understand King Thranduil, is that we are all children of the Valar, regardless of our race. While the First Born will be blessed and allowed to enter Valinor, there are those that will remain here, but they are still children of the Valar. It is my duty and privilege to prepare them for the New Age. What does it matter to those that will not even be here by the end of the century if I have allied myself with others, especially with the blessing of the Valar?" she asked.
Thranduil's jaw snapped shut. He nodded curtly to her and spun, leaving the hall. "Oh dear," Colfinell said as she left the room after him.
Brenna sat down with shaky knees. Legolas sat next to her and held her as he felt her body tremble. He knew that his father was a stern elf, full of pride and often distrust, but he was a good father and leader.
"Oh God," Brenna gasped out with tears in her eyes. "I cannot believe I just spoke to him like that."
"Hush Brenna," he told her, rubbing a soothing hand on her back. "I have to say it has been millennia since he's had quite a public dressing down. His pride will recover though. Fear not Gwathel."
Gimli sat next to her looking gob smacked as did most of her travel companions. "Lass, while I agree with you I'm not so sure that speaking to him like that was wise."
Some of the other elves present in the hall looked at her horrified. There were those that now regarded her with disdain. Legolas glared at them in challenge and offered her solidarity.
"While her words could have been more diplomatic, the message would have been the same. Who are we to question the will of the Valar?" he asked loud enough for them to hear. "Lady Brenna has proven herself and I for one cannot fault her."
The words of their Prince gave many of those present pause. Most of their people were all packed and ready to leave in the morning. There were very few willing to stay now that their Rulers were leaving and heading towards the Gray Havens. Many would follow their Prince to Ithilien.
Legolas led the shaken elf maiden to her rooms and bid her good night. He offered her a kind smile as he took his leave in search of his parents. With a roll of his eyes, he set off in the direction of his father's study intent on smoothing ruffled feathers. He chuckled slightly thinking that Brenna truly was amazing, but sobered upon thinking of all the things she had done. A shudder ran through his body remembering her encounters with the Nazgul and he felt slightly faint at how close she had come to passing. With a knock he braced himself and entered the study, shutting the door firmly behind him.
Brenna awoke the next day to a knock on her door. She got up and grabbed a robe before she opened the door. Colfinell was waiting in the hallway with a blank expression on her face. Brenna gulped and stepped aside to let her in.
"Milady, I'm sorry for the way that I spoke last night," Brenna said shakily. "You have been nothing but kind to me and it was uncalled for."
Colfinell's gaze and expression softened. "Oh hush child. I won't say the rebuke and terse reality that was thrown back at us didn't sting. However, I and Thranduil both understand. Now come, let us get you prepared for your journey. We will travel with you to Lothlorien, from there we will part ways."
Oriel entered the room and helped. Brenna stepped into the steaming water of the bath. She relished in the feel, knowing it would be a long four days before they would reach Lothlorien and nearly two weeks to reach Edoras. With a sigh she stepped from the water and grabbed a towel. She dried herself and wrapped a robe around her as she stepped back into her room. She found a deep purple riding habit laid out on her bed. Oriel quickly helped her put it on.
Colfinell re-entered the room wearing a green riding outfit and urged Brenna to sit so that she could braid her hair. As she braided Brenna's hair she wove in a delicate silver linked headdress. Brenna gasped when she saw it, touching it with shaking hands.
"Consider it a peace offering and an early wedding gift, for we shall miss the happy event. You're going to marry the son of one of the Elvish Lords, it is only fitting that your station is reflected," she said giving Brenna's shoulders as squeeze. "Wear it today as a gift from us and for special occasions."
Brenna hugged the elf queen and thanked her. Oriel smiled softly watching the two. Nodding to Brenna she went to go get her own things to leave. Colfinell led Brenna stand and gently wrapped a cloak around the young elf maiden. She gently touched Brenna's brow before stepping back.
Brenna looked around the room one last time and saw all that was left were her packs. She now had three packs, a small trunk was being taken with Colfinell to leave in Rivendell for her. With a shaky breath Brenna left her room, shutting the door snugly behind her and she made her way down the echoing halls. The tapestries and paintings had been removed and packed away along with most of the belongings of the elves that had dwelt there for so long. Furniture, unless priceless, was left for it could be remade and replaced. Pulling her hood up she urged herself on.
Brenna slowed her steps and leaned on the wall full of sorrow. It was one thing to see visions of the elves leaving, it was an entirely different experience watching them pack up and prepare to leave. She ached for a number of reasons. Once she and her companions left these shores, never again would an elf walk the lands of Arda. She fought emotions welling up inside of her as the weight of her duty nearly crushed her. There was a dull roar in her ears as she heard someone calling out to her in the distance. Strong arms caught her and swung her up as her knees gave out. She was overwrought with grief and guilt.
Legolas brought her out of the front steps of the halls and into the sun. He sat holding her and rocking her. His kinsmen watched in shock as they could fell Brenna's emotions rolling off of her. Colfinell rushed to her side and tried to soothe the poor elleth. Thranduil knelt next to the girl, not sure what to say. The rest of Brenna's Elvish Guard stood nearby, each of them calling out to their distressed charge.
Brenna drew a shaky breath and buried her face in Legolas's tunic. She was still trembling and her fair complexion had gone ashen. She clutched at Legolas's tunic, anchoring herself breathing in his woodsy scent. Closing her eyes she took deep calming breaths and fought to center herself once more. She knew rationally that she wouldn't be left alone here, but the reality that many of her kin were leaving weighed heavily upon her.
"Are you well little one?" Legolas asked, for in that moment she did indeed look small and fragile.
Nodding with tears in her eyes, she let him hold her. "I am well. I'm sorry to have scared you all. The weight of my duty overwhelmed me for a bit, but I am better now." She told him wearily. "Really Legolas, I am well. I'm saddened to see so many of our people go, but it is their time. I think what hurts the most right now is that I won't get a chance to say goodbye to my grandfather and Frodo before they depart."
Legolas shared a look with Oriel and the others. Sighing he pulled her into a tight hug and stood with her in his arms. He made his way through the crowd towards where Ash was being held by Wulf. Many of the elves regarded Brenna with sad sympathetic looks. For one so young, she felt and expressed more emotion than they had seen in a very long time. She was quite childlike to them.
"I will be alright to ride on my own," she assured her friends. "We've wasted enough time on me, we need to leave."
Legolas was reluctant to let her go when she was clearly upset, but did so as he knew that she was right. He swung her up into the saddle and handed her the reins. Taking her hands in his own, he gave them a gently squeeze before he stepped away and walked towards his own horse.
Brenna shift uncomfortably in the saddle for a bit. She didn't meet the eyes of those around her as she rearranged her riding habit. Ohtar walked forward and handed over her weapons. She smiled gratefully and busily strapped them on securely. When she was done, she sat straight in the saddle and waited for the others to be ready.
Oriel took her usual position next to Brenna and smiled at her friend. Reaching over, she tugged the hood of her cloak off. There were startled gasps in the crowd. Thranduil and Colfinell joined her and nodded with serene smiles, though their eyes were dancing merrily. Legolas chuckled under his breath, understanding the statement being made, as he and Gimli pulled up beside her.
"I see you've begun accessorizing more," he stated casually as he nodded to the headdress and additional necklace that she now wore.
It was Colfinell who answered him loud enough for all of the elves present to hear. "She is betrothed to Lord Elladan. If it were only that alone, she would be entitled to wear such a piece. Add to her various other titles and Royal Houses, including our own that claim her as kin, well it is but a mere token of what she should be wearing. However, it is the piece that I knew she would be most comfortable wearing."
Many of the elleths who had regarded her with mistrust and disdain looked like they had swallowed lemons. Legolas saw their expressions and laughed merrily and leaned over to talk to Brenna. Her answering giggle did nothing to curb the looks of envy and anger now directed at her. But it was Colfinell's next words that left most of them stunned and silenced any question regarding Brenna and their Prince.
"Besides, Brenna insisted the headdress for the Princess be saved for your mate. I'm thrilled to hear that she's awaiting you in Valinor son. I cannot tell you how happy I am that Brenna has Seen her and your future children." Colfinell said with a glint in her eye.
By now the company had moved out and they were swiftly making their way south to Lothlorien. They would ride as quickly as they could to reach the safety of the mellyrn trees. Their pace was grueling, each night the exhausted group would set up camp and fall asleep with little difficulty. The group made good time, reaching Lothlorien in four and half days.
The Wardens stepped from the trees to greet them. Haldir greeted his kin and talked with them quietly. Their guests were led into the safety of the trees and given safe passage to Caras Galadhon. When they finally reached the heart of Lothlorien, they were exhausted and weary. Brenna and Oriel took their leave of the group and went up to the rooms in the Main Talan. They both sighed in thanks as they saw that baths were waiting for them in their rooms. Brenna bathed quickly and changed for bed, falling asleep almost instantly.
In the morning Brenna was up with the sun. She knew that they would have to rest the horses for at least today, meaning they could relax and get a brief reprieve from their journey. Donning a soft apricot dress, she made her way down to where her Guard was staying. She relayed the news that they would be taking the day to rest before continuing the next day.
Sitting on a blanket under the trees she spoke quietly to the Rohirric members of her Guard. For many of them this had been the longest that they had been away from home. They were looking forward to spending time in their homeland with their families. She smiled softly at them and listened as they talked of their families and youth. It crossed her mind that Wulf and Dernhelm had remained at her side for two years now.
The two men shrugged off her concern and told her that their families had other sons and nephews to help. They understood their orders when they volunteered to guard her. For them it was duty and honor that they lived and died by. She had saved their king in battle, healed their people and land, the least that they could do is guard her while she completed her tasks.
"It is I who am honored my friends," she told them emotionally. "I am sorry that you have been away from your home for quite so long. I'll be traveling back to Gondor to stay with Aragorn and Arwen until the spring, then I will travel to the Shire for a visit. I'll make my way back to Rohan at some point in time, so when I leave after the wedding you will be staying."
She stopped their protests, holding up her hand. "I can't and don't expect you to put your lives on hold. The immediate dangers have passed for a time." She looked at them with her green eyes glinting with amusement. "You'll all be a bit busy in the coming months and years. You've got some very special ladies waiting for you in Edoras."
Ohtar who had sat nearby listening has a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. His grey eyes had a spark of mischief in them. "I take it I'll be remaining with you?"
Brenna turned to him with impish grin. "But of course! Your lady is in Gondor. Besides, you'll be acting as a liaison with the Dunedain while in the City."
He sputtered a bit, not expecting that sort of an answer. Erchirion had laughed quietly from his spot. But sobered when she turned her gaze upon him.
"Dear Erchirion, don't get too comfortable with the bachelor lifestyle. Your sister brought with her a lady friend from the shores of your home. Someone you haven't seen since childhood, but will remember instantly." She told him cryptically. "You're going to have your work cut out for you convincing said lady that you're not the same boy who tugged her hair as a child."
The other members of her Guard laughed at that revelation. They watched as she leaned back against the trunk of the strong tree. She had a peaceful smile on her face as she began to sing softly and quietly. The clearing had gone quiet as the listened to the words pour out of her lips. A gentle breeze swirled around them, caressing their skin as her power seemed to fan out and crackle in the air. Most of them were touched deep within their souls as the let her words wash over them, soothing their weariness.
Song after song she sang quietly throughout the day. Her Elvish Guard had come to listen as it was a rare thing for her to sit and sing for just the enjoyment of it. More often than not she used her voice to heal, this was a rare treat and a gift as she and most of her kin would part for many years.
Hours later her voice trailed off and she drifted off to sleep. Haldir approached the little elleth and gently lifted her. He smiled down at her gently, a rare display that many of the elves did not often see grace his features. The stoic warrior clearly cared deeply for the young elf maiden. He brought her up the many steps to the rooms that she was staying in. Oriel met him at the door and led him in, where he place Brenna gently on the bed before leaving.
Oriel woke her friend slightly to help her out of the dress that she was wearing. Brenna mechanically changed into a nightshirt and out of the dress. Oriel laughed at her young friend and packed the things in her rooms. A pack of clothes were added to Brenna's things to take with her. The rest was stored in the small trunk that Colfinell would make sure made it to Rivendell for the young elleth. Once she was done Oriel took out a fresh riding habit and stored way everything save what she would need in the morning. With one last glance around the room, she slipped quietly out the door.
It was Brenna's stomach that woke her the next morning. The hungry ache and grumble caused her to stir from a very peaceful and deep sleep. Stretching, she sat up in bed and rubbed her eyes sleepily. Standing she stood and went to splash water in her face. She sat running a comb through her hair humming softly. Once she had gotten the tangles out she stood and turned to get dressed.
Oriel entered the room and assisted Brenna into the soft gray riding habit. When she was in her clothes, Oriel tucked her night shirt into her pack while Brenna tied on her boots and fastened her weapons on. Once she was ready, Brenna shouldered her packs and made to leave the room. Haldir was in the hall waiting for her. He took a couple of her packs and instructed the other elf there to have the trunk taken to Queen Colfinell who would see it safely to Rivendell for Lady Brenna. The elf nodded and gave Brenna an easy smile as he went about his task.
Making their way down the many steps, Brenna ran her hand gently over the tree trunk along the way. She could feel the life of the tree pulsing under her hand and smiled. Haldir looked at her in question, but she shook her head and continued on. When they reached the bottom she asked him to have a blanket brought forward. He looked at her curiously, but did as she asked.
The assembled group watched as she knelt on the blanket. Her necklaces from Galadriel and Thorin glinted in the sun. Though she did not wear her headdress today, the light from her forward was all the ornament that she needed. With a soft smile she whispered, "One more gift."
Burying her hands deep within the rich and fertile soil of the ground she sang strongly and pushed her power deep within the ground. They watched as the blue haze of it surged out far and wide with her voice carrying on the breeze that now swirled around them. The words she sang were even deeper and older than any present could remember. She sang the song that Vana had sung when she first woke the trees and plants. Letting her voice and power reach out, stretching to the very borders of Lothlorien, she opened her eyes. Their green depths seemed to glow with power as the song reached it crescendo and then trailed off.
Her chest was heaving and her limbs were trembling as she slowly pulled back in the power resonating through the clearing and wood. The elves immediately noticed that the forest seemed to hum around them. Thranduil reverently touched one of the trees and felt it pulse beneath his hand. Haldir crouch next to her and carefully took her hands to clean the soil off of them. He could feel the static electricity of her power shooting up his arms.
"Will you be well enough to ride Brenna?" he asked quietly.
She nodded with a smile. "Yes, though I may fall asleep in a few hours."
He helped her to stand and handed the blanket to his brother Orophin. The elves of Lothlorien looked at her in astonishment. Haldir led her to Ash and helped her to mount.
With a shaky smile she told him, "There will be elves dwelling here for a time. I wanted them to feel some comfort before they decided to move on. This is but a taste of what they will feel in Valinor. I will try to do the same in Ithilien for those that will remain there until I sail."
She went onto explain the song and its significance. There were murmurs of excitement. Brenna's group mounted their horses and prepared to depart. She kept a distance, allowing those that were parting from their loved ones privacy. Oriel remained at her side as did the Men in her group. Soon they were ready to move out.
Without the many ladies who were unused to rigorous travel they were able to cover a great distance each day. The day passed quickly as they made their way south at a rapid pace. There was an excitement bubbling in the group with each passing mile. For the members of her Rohirric and Gondorian Guard, they could not wait to meet their future spouses. They were also excited for the wedding of Eomer King and Princess Lothíriel. Brenna while excited for her friends looked forward to seeing Elladan.
On the sixth day they reached the border where they were greeted by a waiting company of Riders. Brenna greeted them with a tired smile, which bloomed into her whole face lighting up happily when she saw that Elladan and Elrohir had come. Elladan nudged his horse to her side and smiled at her. He watched as a blush colored her cheeks and chuckled deeply.
She smiled at him and gave a slight laugh of her own before turning to greet Elrohir. His mischievous grin had her scowling at him playfully. The group turned and continued their way further into Rohan before they would set up camp on the edge of Fanghorn. Hours later as the sun began to set in the sky, they chose a spot to camp for the night.
Brenna dismounted and was immediately swept up in Elladan's arms. She put her arms around his neck and buried her face in his chest as he slowly set her down. Looking up at him, she found him staring down looking at her curiously. Following his gaze, she realized he had discovered her necklace from Thorin.
With a grin she began to tell him and Elrohir of her adventure to the Dwarf kingdom to the north. He looked at her incredulously and looked at the pendent wide eyed.
"That is no small gift you've been given my love," he told her. "You've just about turned things on its head with all that you've accomplished. And you really said that to King Thranduil?"
Brenna laughed merrily and nodded while setting up her bedroll. She was chatting quietly with Elladan and some of the other Riders that met them when Elrohir chimed in. With a mischievous glint in his eye he said, "Wait you hugged the Dwarf King and made him blush?"
Elladan's head whipped to face his brother then Brenna. He gaped for a bit and looked at her in question. She blushed and shrugged a bit sheepishly. Gimli's rumbling laughter rang out in the encampment and many didn't meet each other's eye lest they join in the laughter.
It was a happy reunion and a night filled with tales and news passed among friends. Brenna accepted the plate of food from Elladan as he settled in sitting next to her. Both of them were content to just be near one another for the first time in months. He watched as she quietly ate small bites, seemingly lost in thought. His gaze strayed from her forehead down to her gift from the dwarf kind and he shook his head in amused disbelief.
While she and Oriel had washed up with fresh water, Legolas had filled them in on everything that had happen, including her episode of grief. He was elated to hear that she would be spending the next six months or so in Gondor. He wished that he could travel with her, he most certainly planned on being at her side when she went to the Dunedain. Nothing in all of Arda would keep him from being there.
Coming back to the present, he looked down at the small hand that rested on his arm. Looking towards Brenna he saw that she was looking at him in part amusement and part concern.
"Sorry my thoughts strayed for a moment," he told her.
"Oh, I had thought that I was boring you," she told him playfully.
"Bema!" Wulf called out in amusement. "You've got another twenty-seven years of dancing around one another. What are you going to do?" he teased them with a smile.
Brenna waited until Elladan was taking a drink to avoid answering before she replied, "Travel and take lots of cold baths in the meantime."
She knew she had timed it perfectly when the liquid sprayed out of his mouth and he choked. Elrohir pounded on his back, while laughing at his brother. The answering laughter around the campfire lasted for a few moments.
Brenna winked at Wulf with a knowing smile, "You left that one wide open my friend."
"Brenna," Elladan said somewhat tensely, as though restraining himself. "You cannot say such things."
"Why ever not? I may be young at least by elvish standard, but I assure you that I am not naive," she told him with her eyes dancing.
"Sweet Eru Brenna! You'll be the death of me," he said somewhat scandalized.
Her throaty chuckle sent tingles down his spine and he took deep calming breaths. His eyes darkened as he looked at her and offered her a tense smile. She touched his arm in concern, Elrohir who was sitting next to his brother, snorted in amusement. Elladan stilled at her touch and she cautiously pulled her hand away. He grabbed her hand gently and held it, staring into the fire.
"I was only teasing Elladan," she told him quietly.
He brought her hand to his lips, "I know melamin. You caught me off guard, but I'm fine now."
They sat watching the fire for a while longer talking to one another. Soon after they said good night and went to their bedrolls for the night. Brenna pulled out one of her extra blankets and lay looking up at the clear night sky. Gradually her eyes drifted shut and she fell asleep.
Brenna woke and began getting her things packed. She had just finished rolling her bedroll and folding her blankets, when Oriel stirred. The rest of the camp was waking and began packing their things. Soon they were ready to go and mounted their horses. They made it to Edoras by sunset. Eomer greeted them warmly from the top of the stairs at Meduseld. He ushered Brenna into the Hall and had a servant take her things to her room.
Sitting quietly at one of the long tables, Brenna gratefully accepted the bowl of warm stew and fresh bread. She sat quietly eating watching the happy reunions of her Rohirric friends and their families. Wulf and Dernhelm pick up their mothers and spun them around. Out of the corner of her eye, she watched some of the women in the halls and smiled to herself. Looking down at the food in front of her she laughed quietly to herself knowing that he friends would find happiness soon. Even as she looked up, she watched as their gazes locked with the women they were destined to be with.
Sighing she finished her food and stretched the sore muscles in her back. Eomer sat across from her with a smile and spoke to her of her travels. Eothain and Déorwyn soon joined them. She told them of all of her travels in the past two years and left out none of the details. They laughed during some of her tales and grew serious when they learned of the dangers she had faced in her travels.
They too filled Brenna in on what she had missed in Rohan. Little Freya was now toddling about and getting into everything. Fasthelm had recently married and was starting a family of his own. The crops that they were harvesting this season would be some of the most plentiful that they had in years.
Partway through the night Brenna tried to stifle her yawn. Eomer laughed at his young friend and told her that she should get some rest. He informed her that Aragorn and Arwen had retired with young Duvaissel for the night, but would see her in the morning. Many of the other guests were already asleep within the Halls. Only Lothíriel and her contingent were left to arrive, though a messenger arrived earlier saying that they would be there tomorrow morning. The wedding was set to take place in two days' time.
Brenna took her leave of her friends. She and Oriel made their way to their rooms. Brenna entered to find a maid bustling about and getting the bath ready. She helped Brenna out of her riding habit and took her soiled clothing to be laundered and returned as soon as possible. Gratefully, Brenna stepped into the bath and soaked away the weeks of travel from her body. She washed and used scented oils before getting out of the large tub. Putting on a night shirt, she climb into bed and immediately fell asleep.
A knock on her door woke her the next day. The maid bustled in with her returned clothing as she puttered around the room. Brenna got up and dressed in a burnt orange colored dress with a gold belt on her waist. The maid braided her hair and tied it off with a strip of leather. Once she found her leather slippers, Brenna left to take her meal in the Hall with the others.
She opened her arms to little Duvaissel who happily went to her. Brenna swung the girl up in the air making her squeal with giggles. She walked toward Aragorn and the very pregnant Arwen holding the beautiful child perched on her hip. She greeted her friends and spoke quietly with them. Eowyn approached with a gurgling bundle in her eyes. It was such a happy reunion for Brenna, she had greatly missed her friends.
A short time later heralds announce Lothiriel's party approaching in the distance. Everyone assembled either in the Hall or outside to wait for her arrival. Brenna grinned at Erchirion and gave Eomer an encouraging nod.
Princess Lothíriel rode up the main street of Edoras on a stunning black mare. She rode astride and wore a riding habit in the colors of her homeland. Eomer helped her dismount and greeted her warmly. She introduced her friend Miriel, who would be staying with her for a time. Erchirion stood stunned looking at the curly haired beauty standing beside his sister. Gone was the young girl who he used to tease, replacing her was a stunning woman.
Brenna nudged him and laughed quietly. She opened her arms to her friend and Lothíriel embraced her tightly. There were tears in her eyes when she pulled back. Brenna smiled at her friend and whispered reassurances to her quietly.
The day was spent with preparations for the wedding and a welcoming celebration for their guest. Brenna told her friends of her travels and the places that she had been over the past two years. Aragorn reverently held the necklace that Thorin had given her with an astonished look on her face. He sat in silence when he heard of the alliance that she had formed. He grasped her hand and thanked her for what she would do and had done for his people. Eomer expressed his interest in aiding his allies as well, but it was decided to push off talks of such troubling things until after the happy nuptials of the king.
And so the dawn greeted the wedding goers, cheerfully as ever. It was bright and sunny on that fall day. Brenna dressed in one of two special gowns that Colfinell had made for her. This one was a shimmery midnight blue color, with silver stars embroidered on the edges. The underdress was silver and the shift beneath was of the softest, finest material she had ever seen. Oriel entered the room and helped her with her hair, insisting that she wear the headdress. Brenna wore her necklace from Thorin that reached midway down her chest.
Stepping from her room into the Hall she observed the stunned look on her friends faces. Elladan looked like he was struggling for words as he bowed over her hand. He looped her arm through his and escorted her to stand with him for the ceremony.
The union of Lothíriel and Eomer was a beautiful one. They made it a mixture of their two cultures. Once their vows were taken and the actual wedding ceremony was done, Eomer held the Queen's crown above her head. He called out Hail to the Queen, to which the crowd responded and cheered as he gently placed it upon her head.
The celebration lasted long into the early hours of the morning. There was food and wine and dancing and so much love and happiness in the Hall that it seemed to bubble up to the rafters. There was laughter and happiness in the Halls. Rohan, as well as it's King, was on the mend and looking forward to a bright and blessed future.