Saving the Past

by stardancer10

Brenna Logan finds herself orphaned and left alone as the world battles in another World War. She faces the reality of her life only to find herself in Middle Earth. Brenna is called by the Valar and given a choice to help save it all or to pass...(Rated M for violence and other mature themes.)

27. Chapter 27

(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 27

Three days after the wedding of Eomer and Lothíriel, Brenna found herself sitting quietly on the steps of Meduseld watching as the sun came up over the horizon. She hadn't been sleeping very well the past couple of days, weeks if she was being honest with herself. Most nights she would wake up trembling and gasping for breath. Her body seemed cold to the touch and she felt like she was being suffocated by an icy blanket. She often woke with a chilling laugh echoing in her mind.

Pulling her cloak around her shoulders tighter, she looked out over the rolling plains of Rohan. Below she watched as the village came to life. The stable hands and masters quickly took care of the many horses and let them out to roam the vast pastures nearby. Smiling softly to herself she just enjoyed watching the people get up to greet the day.

Though this land and its people had been devastated from the effects of the war, they had recovered gradually over the past couple of years. They still had a long way to go, but they were thriving and prospering despite the evil inflicted upon them. Their determination and will to carry on was moving for Brenna. With a slight ache she was reminded of her home and the suffering of the people that she grew up with.

Sighing she stood and dusted herself off. She had dressed with the help of a maid earlier in the morning. When she woke she sought the aid of someone already awake. One of the kitchen maids was happy to help her. Brenna wore a rather plain riding outfit and had her weapons fastened securely before she exited her rooms. Her stomach rebelled at the thought of food so she had forgone eating.

Brenna made her way quickly and quietly down the steps of the Hall and went to the stables to speak with the stable master who had been taking care of Hiril. Brenna asked if she could ride her friend, to which he grinned and nodded telling her that Hiril would welcome it. Her two foals were now much larger than the last time she had seen them, as they were just over two years old.

Brenna greeted the horses and spoke softly to her noble friend. Hiril's colts watched her curiously, while Hiril waited for her at the door of her stall. Ash, who was in a stall nearby, stamped impatiently jealous of the attention. She went to him and fed him a carrot she taken from the kitchen and made sure his water and feed were full. She told him that he had earned a little rest. It would grieve her to be parted from her loyal friend.

Soon the groom helped her get Hiril ready to ride. He must have summoned a group to accompany Brenna for when she exited the stables there was an escort assembled. Eothain nodded to her with a smile. He had been in the Hall taking breakfast when he heard that Brenna was already up and looking to take Hiril for a ride. He told the stable hand that he would gather a group together and go with her himself.

Hiril was a bit higher up than Ash, Brenna realized this as she got ready to mount the horse. Grabbing the pommel, she reached one foot up in the stirrup and heaved herself up into the saddle. Once she had her riding outfit situated, she turned to see Eothain grinning at her in amusement.

"It's a beautiful day for a ride Brenna," he said casually. "You're up awfully early. Is everything alright?" he asked.

Her cheeks flushed and a shudder ran through her body. "Bad dreams my friend, I could not find rest and decided to make the most of the day."

Eothain straightened in his saddle and looked at her seriously. "Is all well Brenna? Something is clearly troubling you."

"Let's ride and I'll explain out on the plains. I want to feel the wind on my face as I let Hiril fly," she told him with a small smile.

He reluctantly nodded and called for them to move out and have the gates opened. Turning to his right he called to a nearby member of Eomer's Guard asking him to relay where he and Brenna had gone. The man nodded and waved as they rode out of the city.

Brenna let the reins fall loose and let Hiril open her stride as they flew across the plains. Her cloak billowed out behind her as she and her friend became reacquainted with each other. A few times she used her knees and legs to correct Hiril or urge her to turn, but for the most part Brenna just let her go.

Eothain and the men who had accompanied Brenna watched as the young woman and her horse became reacquainted. Her laughter floated around them as she took pure joy in the freedom of riding across their beloved plains. Though they were watchful, they too enjoyed the ride immensely. More often than not they did not get the chance to ride for leisure as their duties took up most of their time.

As they neared and outcropping of rock, Brenna took the reins and slowed Hiril to a slow trot and eventually had her stop. Brenna leaned forward and patted her friend on the neck and murmured to her softly. Both girl and horse were breathing heavily from the long fast ride.

Her escort circled around her and smiled. Eothain told her that a little ways ahead there was a stream where the horses could drink and rest for a bit. Brenna nodded with a grin and followed to where he was talking about. They quickly reached the bubbling current of water that was no more than ten feet wide.

Hiril walked right in and Brenna laughed at her horse's antics. Eothain helped her dismount and placed her on the sandy edge of the stream. She pulled an apple from the small pack that she had taken with her and handed it to Hiril. In response the horse daintily took the apple from her hand and munched happily. Brenna laughed and rubbed the soft, velvety skin of Hiril's nose.

They spent about a half hour in the small clearing letting their horses rest before they decided to head back. Brenna was startled to realize that she had ridden for hours and they had covered a fair distance from Edoras. She mounted Hiril and waited for the others to get ready as they made the trek back toward the Halls of the King.

It was past the lunch hour when they finally made it back to the royal stables. Brenna dismounted and grinned at her four legged friend. Hiril snorted and nudged her shoulder a bit before the groom led her away. Brenna laughed and threw her arms around Hiril's neck.

Brenna's appearance was windswept; her cheeks were flush with the thrill of her outing. She turned to see Eomer and Lothíriel walking down the steps to greet her. Smiling she nodded to her friends and told them of her need to clear her mind on a ride. They, especially Eomer, nodded in understanding and urged her to go grab something to eat in the Hall.

Eothain fell into step beside her as they reached the doors of the Hall. "Don't think that I forgot you were going to tell me what was troubling you my friend," he told her in concern. "I did not bring it up in front of the others in case you wanted to wait to discuss it privately with your friends and Guard present."

Brenna sighed wearily and nodded. Eothain noticed that she seemed to have dark circle forming under her eyes. He glanced around the Hall looking for the members of her Guard and found them sitting off to the right side talking with Aragorn. He caught the attention of the King of Gondor and looked pointedly at Brenna. The man excused himself and made his way over.

"Is everything alright?" Aragorn asked in concern, leading Brenna over to where the others were sitting.

He felt a shudder run through her body and observed her tired appearance. Looking towards Elladan he motioned towards the young woman now sitting next to him. Watching carefully he saw the worry and concern cross his face. They were joined by Eomer, who Eothain filled in of the situation. He nodded and led the group to his study, passing Lothíriel and her other female friends who watched in concern.

Elladan walked quietly next to Brenna, his mind was racing as he wondered what was troubling her. The others of the group had similar thoughts and concerns crossing their mind as they found seats and places to stand around the room. Brenna was led to a chair and urged to sit. Eothain passed her some water and bread he had one of the kitchen maids bring.

She sat quietly munching for a few moments gathering her thoughts before she began to hoarsely tell them of her dreams. Looking right at Ohtar, she explained that it had something to do with the threat to the North and that whatever it was seemed to be taunting her and hunting her in her dreams. She shivered and looked extremely pale as she described the bitter cold that she felt and the suffocating weight of it that seemed to smother her in her sleep.

The various members of her Guard and friends observed the trembling form of the young woman. Many of them felt guilt having not noticed that something was wrong sooner. She had kept her troubles quiet over the past few days, suffering in silence while they had been so wrapped up in their own affairs and happiness that they didn't see she wasn't sleeping or eating well.

Elladan felt as though someone had kicked him in the gut. How had they not noticed? How had he not noticed? As he silently berated himself, he felt ill as her words sank in. It was clear to him that not only was Arnor in danger, but Brenna was as well.

Elladan knelt in front of her and took her hands in his own. "Mela, do you know what it is that we will be facing?" he asked quietly. "Is there anything that we can do?"

Brenna swallowed the lump in her throat and shook her head. "Whatever it is remains cloaked in the mist, elusive yet terrifying. Its massive outline is a shadow in the mist but I cannot make out the shape, nor do I recognize it."

"You won't be facing it along milady," Ohtar told her quietly, but fiercely.

There were determined murmurs of agreement around the room. Brenna sat in the chair trembling a bit with Elladan kneeling in front of her holding her hands as the others began talking and planning. Eomer brought up the topic of the alliance with the dwarves and what it would mean in battle. Strategy and different options were discussed. Numbers and provision estimates where calculated. All the while Brenna sat quietly clinging to Elladan who hadn't moved.

Elrohir took a seat on the ground next to Brenna and his brother and stretched his legs out in front of him. Through his bond with his twin, he could feel how distressed his brother was and sought to give him comfort with his presence. He nodded to his twin in understanding; Brenna would not be alone to face whatever it was that seemed to stalk her in her sleep.

Aragorn crouched next to his brothers and looked up where Brenna was sitting. "Perhaps a brief nap would make you feel better," he suggested.

Brenna tensed and went pale. The elves in the room could feel the fear permeating around her. She swallowed thickly, but nodded bravely and forced a smile. "Perhaps a hot bath and then a nap," she said shakily as she let Eomer lead her towards the door and called for a servant to escort her to her rooms.

Elladan knew that she was putting on a brave face for the sake of the others. He turned to the others in the room and gave them a grim look. "Whatever it is has her terrified. I cannot think of anything that resembles what she has described," he told them deep in thought. "Aragorn, you know that when she leaves for Arnor I cannot let her go alone. I need to be there with her."

Aragorn looked at him in shock, "Of course she's not going alone!" In an exasperated voice he said, "Elladan, while I value and welcome your help and advice, I cannot and will not begrudge you looking after Brenna or any other affairs that you feel need your attention."

Elladan released a breath that he didn't realize he was holding. He ducked his head and composed himself while the others were talking quietly among themselves. Aragorn and Elrohir each put a hand on his shoulders to give him support.

"How long do you think this has been bothering her," Eomer asked when he returned to the room.

"Probably since we left the Lonely Mountain," Legolas admitted. "I knew that something was bothering her, but she let me believe that it was the fact that she wouldn't get to say goodbye to Gandalf or Frodo. She was also deeply troubled by our people leaving."

"Aye," Gimli offered. "Brenna has been deeply troubled for some time, but has kept it to herself."

Legolas seemed to hesitate, "I think there is something else that you should know." He paused before turning towards Elladan, "she seems to be struggling with her immortality and the reality of what that means for her, especially in regards to her loved ones."

Elladan's eyes went wide and he mentally scolded himself. Most of the elves in the room were not much better. They all had long centuries and millennia of experience. For them it was just what they were, but they could see that for Brenna it was difficult. The men in the room shifted uncomfortably, unsure of how to react to the news. They all had come to care from Brenna and were saddened that she grieved for them and would grieve their loss someday.

Their thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. Eomer opened the door and allowed Brenna's female friends to enter. After a few shared looks they filled them in on what Brenna had told them and what they knew to be bothering the young woman.

While Lothíriel, Eowyn, and Déorwyn were talking quietly, Arwen and Oriel nodded to each other and stood. Oriel took her leave and headed towards Brenna's rooms. Arwen kissed Aragorn on his whiskered cheek and whispered to him that she and Duvaissel would sit with her. He held her to his side and walked her towards Brenna's rooms. At the door he embraced his wife and daughter and told her to let them know if they needed anything.

When they entered the room they found a couple of maids getting the bath ready for Brenna. Brenna was alerted to their presence when Duvaissel squealed happily and rushed towards where her aunt was sitting in a robe. Brenna laughed tiredly and hugged the child to her, burying her face against her little shoulder. She choked back the tears and emotions that she found warring within her.

Oriel took her braid out and brushed her hair, and hummed softly. Arwen lowered herself into a nearby chair and patted her belly affectionately while smiling at Brenna. She drew Brenna into a conversation about elvish lore and told her legends and stories of old. Little Duvaissel listened in rapt attention to her mother and snuggled into her aunts arms.

Brenna felt the tension drift away as she let herself relax. The voices of her friends lulled her and little Duvaissel fell asleep. Oriel tucked the little one into Brenna's bed and then helped her friend into the waiting bath. She added scented oils and herbs to the water and let her soak. When she was done Oriel helped her into a fresh chemise and led her to the bed. Her elvish friends talked to her of their experiences and the lives that they had lived. They soothed her and told her that they understood how she felt. They told her that they would sit by her and watch over as she slept.

Finally Brenna let herself drift, snuggled against the young child next to her. The Valar called to her and so she went. She awoke in the protective arms of Manwe who was carrying her within his Halls. Elbereth and Este walked alongside her with the other Valar trailing behind. He walked into a private chamber and gently lowered Brenna onto a chaise lounge.

"You're safe little one, rest peacefully here." He told her.

Lorien stepped forward looking upset, "I know not how he was able to reach you in your dreams, but I'll allow it no longer child. You'll be safe and able to rest."

Elbereth's lyrical and soft voice drew her attention even as her consciousness began to fade. "You were not meant to face this evil ever my child. Somehow Melkor's minions were able to release the Shadow Wraith of an ancient evil. Where there once was fire, now there is an icy death. We will aid you in every way that we can, but you will need to call upon all of your allies. Set in motion is something that should have never been allowed. You will find aid where you least expect it child, now go and rest. We will be watching over you."

Brenna stirred slowly to consciousness and felt a tiny warm hand touching her face while giggling. She rolled over launching a tickle attack on the child, causing her to shriek with laughter. Unaware of her audience Brenna continued her play before turning and settling back with the giggling little princess at her side.

Once she was settled comfortably she looked around the room and found that not only Oriel and Arwen in her room smiling at her, but Aragorn and the Sons of Elrond were also present. She blushed hotly and pulled the blanket up a bit. Her family just laughed at her discomfort.

Elladan watched her play with their niece and felt the love he had for both of them swell within his chest. He laughed at their antics and then chuckled at Brenna's obvious embarrassment. Standing from where he had been leaning against the wall he dropped a kiss on each of their foreheads and took his leave. Elrohir exited the room with a wink and a mischievous smile tugging at his mouth.

Aragorn laughed merrily as his stood. He scooped Duvaissel from the bed and headed out the door in search of a treat for the little princess. Arwen watched them leave the room with her face full of love. She heaved herself up from the chair and beckoned Brenna's other female friends into the room. She reclaimed the chair and picked up the embroidery that she had been working on.

The women all talked quietly and spent the remainder of the day talking quietly. Lothíriel would leave from time to time to see to her new role and responsibilities as Lady of the Realm and hostess. Arwen and Oriel had helped her work through her grief and fears regarding her immortality. It was an emotional conversation for Arwen, but Brenna reminded her that their parting would not be forever and that there was nothing to fear. When Arwen asked her how she was not afraid of death, Brenna shocked the others with her bluntness.

"For mortals there is one sure thing in life and that is their inevitable death. One of my teachers was a bit of a pessimist in life and told us that as humans we actually started dying the instant that we were born. But I have a bit of a different outlook on it. You've got this one chance to make the most of your time that you're given in life. So why not do and see it all? Why not live your life to the fullest so that when it is your time to go, you greet Death like an old friend to find rest and peace," Brenna said thoughtfully.

Oriel smiled sadly at her young friend. Arwen had tears in her eyes but she smiled at Brenna. Brenna reached over and took her friend's hand. She told Arwen that the short life mortals lived is what made their lives so beautiful. It was a peace and understanding that settled over the women. In her time with them Brenna had come to an understanding and accepted her new life more.

The women parted when dinner approached. Brenna assured them that she would be fine, and allowed Oriel to help her dress for the meal that was ready in the Hall. Brenna wore a soft red Rohirric styled dress. Cinched at her waist was a golden belt, emphasizing her feminine curves. She wore her hair long and flowing down her back.

Brenna stepped into the hallway and found Elladan and Elrohir leaning casually on the wall across from her door waiting for her. They both straightened and stood when they saw her enter the hallway. Elladan offered her his arm to escort her to the Hall for the feast that had been prepared in honor of some of the Gondorian guests that were leaving on the following day.

Elrohir watched the pair with a smile. "Are you feeling better Brenna?" he asked.

"Much thank you. Your sister and Oriel were a great help. I was able to sort through a lot of my feelings and come to terms with a lot of things," she told him with a soft smile. "I spent the afternoon pampered and well cared for. I am truly blessed to have such amazing supportive women that I count as family and friends."

They must have noticed a change in her facial expression because they paused in the hallway just before the entrance to where the feast was taking place. The Sons of Elrond looked at her in question. Brenna bit her lip, unsure of the right time or way to tell them.

"Can we enjoy the evening before we talk of it?" she asked. "It would be best if everyone from this afternoon is there. The Valar gave me some answers. I really don't want to spoil the festivities with this."

Elladan looked like he wanted to protest, but he nodded slowly. The only reason that he agreed to it was because she hadn't eaten much so far. He shared a look with Elrohir and nodded to him. They resumed walking and entered the Hall. Elladan led Brenna towards where Eomer and Lothíriel were sitting on the dais. Brenna dropped into a curtsy, while the Sons of Elrond bowed to their hosts before they took their seats at the table with Arwen and Aragorn. Eowyn and Faramir sat opposite them at the table. They ate and chatted quietly among one another.

Elrohir and Elladan relayed the message to those whose presence was needed later. Eomer lifted his tankard and nodded to them when Eothain leaned over and whispered to him the plan. Eothain discreetly told them that after the meal they would meet in the King's study. They watched as he stopped by each of the groups that were part of Brenna's Guard.

Brenna though terrified of what the mist would bring, was more relaxed and at peace. As with everything else, she would face it head on to whatever end. She smiled at Arwen and Eowyn who were both looking at her in question, but she just shook her head. Little Elboron started fussing and Brenna held out her arms to take the young baby. She settled the boy in her arms and hummed softly to him, soothing him as he gurgled up at her happily.

Duvaissel climbed into Elladan's lap who was sitting next to Brenna and laid her head on his chest while listening to Brenna. Little Freya had ventured over and pulled herself up at Elrohir's leg. He picked up the little one and perched her on his lap as he would with his niece. The three young children were soon lulled to sleep. Their parents sighed in relief and smiled in thanks. Nurse maids were beckoned forward to settle their young charges to bed for the night, as their parents would be staying for the rest of the festivities.

Brenna and the others enjoyed music and dancing as the night wore on. She twirled rapidly in Elladan's arms, laughing merrily as they danced to an energetic tune. The music slowed down and she felt his large hand span her waist as he began to lead her in a waltz-like dance. The world around them fell away as they lost themselves in the music and dance. She smile softly at him, his responding smile sent chills tingling down her spine.

All too soon for Brenna's liking it was time to retire to the King's study. Elladan led her with his left hand on the small of her back. He let her enter before him and led her to one of the available seats. He stood behind her chair and waited for the others to file into the room. With the large group is was going to be a bit crowded but they would make it work, just as they had earlier in the day.

Once everyone was present, including the Ladies of the Realms, all eyes turned to Brenna. Her cheeks flushed with the attention and she struggled with where she should begin. She started be recapping what she had told them previously and gradually got to her terrifying news.

"The Valar called me to them this afternoon while I was sleeping," she told them in a quiet voice. "They confirmed that something was and will be targeting not only the Old Kingdom of Arnor, but me as well."

She was cut off from speaking further at the exclamations of shock and anger. Elladan clenched his jaw. He prayed that she would stay safe. He prayed that she would not come to harm, not again.

"Please let me finish!" she called out over the raised voices. "This foe is nothing that has been seen here, nor should it have been. According to Elbereth the minions of Melkor somehow released a Shadow Wraith of some sort and set it on Arda."

Now the fear set into those in the room. They were dealing with an ancient evil, a foe beyond the likes of which any of them had ever seen. Elladan now truly knew what fear meant. His hands were fisted and his knuckles were white.

"Brenna how are we to face this foe?" he asked in a deceivingly calm voice. "Surely they do not think that we can defeat it alone!"

"Peace Elladan," she told him. "I was told to call upon all of my allies and that help would come when least expected. Elbereth herself told me that they would aid me, us in any way that they could."

"Lass," Gimli spoke up. "Your idea of relative peace and prospering is a bit skewed."

Brenna burst out laughing at his remark. She clutched her stomach and giggled merrily, while the others looked at her like she was crazy. "Oh Gimli! Don't ever change my friend!"

"Brenna," Elladan said tensely. "I fail to see what is so amusing about this situation!" he said as he crouched next to her chair while looking at her seriously.

She took his hand and smiled softly. "If I don't laugh, then I'd probably cry and I hate crying."

He sighed in exasperation. "Melamin, what can we do to prepare for this?" he asked quietly.

"The borders of the Shire need to hold. Reinforcements need to be sent to Arnor, in small numbers at a time. Some of the ancient holdings and ruins need to be rebuilt, if they can, to offer cover and protection for those living there. If the mighty watch towers of old cannot be rebuilt, then new ones need to be completed as quickly as possible," she told them as her eyes clouded.

She drew a shaky breath as she slowed and let the vision come to her. Flash! She saw the Elvish leaders and Ringbearers now on a ship heading towards Valinor. Flash! She saw the mist and shadow stalking the northwestern realm. Flash! She saw a familiar blonde haired elf appear in their hour of need. He had forgone the call of the West to aid his kin that remained. Flash! Flash! Flash!

Brenna pushed the visions back and slowed them. She was shaking from what she Saw. The evil that they were facing was unlike anything she could have ever imagined. It was some sick perversion of what was once some sort of ancient ancestor of dragons. Long and serpentine, but skeletal and decaying. Its hide was like shriveled and rotted leather. Its forked tongue flicked in the air through its massive deadly jaws, but it was its piercing and eerily white eyes that chilled Brenna to the bone.

She realized that Elladan was holding her and trying to sooth her. Touching her cheek she felt tears streaming down her face. She tried swallowing, but it was like she couldn't get her throat to work. Elrohir and Aragorn came to her side to try to calm her. Her hands were fisted in Elladan's tunic so tightly that her knuckles were white.

"Brenna?" Aragorn called her softly.

"It's awful," she whispered hoarsely. "How can anyone be expected to go up against that?"

She went into detail describing their foe and watched as the people in the room, regardless of race seemed to shudder in fear and revulsion. Brenna pushed on and left nothing out. Elladan had tightened his hold on her, instinctively acting as if to shield her. She sank into his embrace and breathed in his scent deeply. She let the warmth of his arms begin to thaw the chill that had seemed to engulf her. A few more deep breaths seemed to have calmed her enough that she could continue.

"We do however, have an unexpected ally and friend," she said. "Lord Glorfindel escorted your father to the ship sailing West, but chose to remain. He is now in charge of the people in Rivendell along with Lord Celeborn. When the time comes he will be at our side fighting our ancient foe with us."

The elves present sat in stunned silence. They knew that the only thing that kept Glorfindel from seeking Valinor previously was his oath to Elrond's House all those many years ago. To hear that he chose to willingly stay behind was a shock for them.

"It will all work out. Come what may, I will face my enemy and do what I must to draw it away from the innocents left in the world. It will not touch the Shire while I still have breath in me," she told them fiercely. "Frodo did not go to Mordor and back to have some other evil wash over his beloved Shire. I'll not let it!"

Elladan closed his eyes and tightened his hold on her. He wanted nothing more than to plop her on a ship and have it sail her West where it was safe but he knew that he couldn't. Meeting his brother's eye he nodded slowly. They would be heading to Arnor to check in with the Dunedain as soon as they left Rohan. Brenna would be sent to Gondor with Aragorn and Arwen. He wanted her as far away from the evil for as long as possible.

Brenna stayed in Rohan for another week before it was decided that Aragorn and his company needed to make way back to their own realm. Brenna would be traveling with them and staying in Gondor and its surrounding provinces for the next while. She hated to be parted from her Rohirric friends, but she was glad that they were settling into life back home.

The Rohirric members of her Guard introduced her to their families. Brenna instantly took a liking to the large group of people. She was greeted warmly and welcomed at each of their homes that she visited. Their family members proudly told Brenna of their history and ancestors during her visits.

Brenna especially like to see the relationships and future romances of her Guard blossoming. To see the forging and beginning of life long bonds was something that she felt privileged to see. Each of these men had sacrificed much in life. She prayed that they wouldn't have to sacrifice anymore and that they would leave long happy and prosperous lives.

Brenna made her preparations to leave and packed her things. Lothíriel handed her a fairly decent size bundle of clothing that was neatly packed and ready to travel. She told Brenna that there were more waiting for her in Minas Tirith. Brenna hugged the new queen and thanked her.

She dressed in a slate blue riding habit and laced up her leather boots. Lothíriel helped her braid her hair and handed her weapons to her. Brenna took the new thick gray cloak from her friend and fastened it around her shoulders. In a pouch, carefully wrapped and stored, were her jewelry gifts. She had requested that her clothing have pockets sewn in them, either hidden in the folds of her gowns, or somewhere well hidden on her person.

As per her wishes, she now had pockets hidden in her clothing. This allowed her to keep her valuable possessions with her and to keep them safely hidden. She also carried an extra dagger hidden in one of the pockets at all times. Her kidnapping had left her shaken and unwilling to be unarmed ever, if she could prevent it.

Looking around her rooms, she realized that it would be some time before she would be there again. She took Lothiriel's hand in her own and thanked her. Leading her friend, she sat her on one of the chairs in the room and explained to her that it would be some time before they saw one another again.

"Trust Déorwyn. She will make you a great friend and ally here. I would suggest that you take her on in an official capacity as one of your ladies, to keep her close by at all times. She will help you," Brenna told her quietly. "You will have a son my friend, but it will be a few years before he greets the world. He and the future king of Gondor will be born months apart. You will have a daughter before then, and I will be here to assist you in that birth. Have faith and live well my friend."

Lothíriel took her words to heart and made plans to speak with Eomer and Déorwyn after their guest left. She stood and hugged Brenna, "Thank you, for everything."

Brenna shouldered one of her packs and carried another, while Lothíriel grabbed the other two. They exited Brenna's rooms and made their way to the Hall where everyone was assembling. A servant rushed forward to take Brenna's packs down to the horses.

Brenna paused, not sure which horse she would be riding back to Gondor. Hiril was ready to ride because her foals were grown and weaned, however she ached at the thought of leaving and being parted from Ash. Eomer came over seeing the troubled look on her face. When she explained her quandary, the man laughed and smiled causing the others to look at him curiously.

"It would seem, Lady Brenna, that we've made a true Rider out of you," he said in amusement. "You'll ride Hiril, if she'll have you. That one of the Mearas is loyal to you is a mighty gift. Ash, will be going with you as your alternate horse. He is a gift from me."

Brenna broke protocol and hugged her friend, who laughed. She turned and hugged Lothíriel as well, thanking them both for everything. Eomer held his hand up stopping her.

"Brenna, you will always have a home here. After everything that you've done not just for my people, but for me as well we are honored to have you and see to your needs. For as long as my House remains in Arda, you will always have a home and want for nothing," he declared in a strong but kind voice.

Lothíriel squeezed his hand and looked up at his with a shy look of affection. Though they had corresponded over the two year period of their betrothal, their relationship was still very new. The young queen turned toward Brenna, "I will always count you as my friend and sister Brenna. After what you did to protect me, I will always be in your debt. Clothes and provisions pale in comparison to what you saved me from."

Brenna nodded to her friends and went to stand with her Guard who were waiting with Aragorn and Arwen. The door warden announced to the King that there was a rather large party of elves making their way south towards Gondor. Brenna's friends turned towards her and she nodded while smiling.

"So begins the settling of the elves in Ithilien," she stated with a soft smile.

Legolas asked her if it was his people and she nodded, "Aye my friend. Your people have come for you to lead them to their temporary home here while they wait to sail."

Eomer and Lothíriel gave them a traditional Rohirric blessing and toasted to them ceremonially. Eomer escorted the grouped down the stairs and out of his Halls to the waiting horses, and in Arwen's case a carriage. Tethered to the back of the carriage was the young colt from Hiril that was gifted to Aragorn.

It was an emotional parting for Brenna as she said her goodbyes to the Rohirric members of her Guard. She hugged each of them and wished them well. They firmly told her to stay out of trouble. Dernhelm and Wulf both particularly looked reluctant to not remain at her side. She pointedly looked at their new lady friends and their families to silence their thoughts. Stepping back she blinked away the tears in her eyes and made her way to the horses.

Brenna approached Hiril who was saddled and waiting and noticed that Ash was nearby, ready to go as well. She greeted both horses, giving them a carrot each and murmured to the quietly. Her things were stored in packs between both horses. She had all of her elvish clothing with her and a mixed assortment of garments from all the other realms of Arda. She wore all of her clothes equally in rotation, so as to distribute the wear and make them last longer.

Elladan stepped forward and gave her a boost into Hiril's saddle. She took the reins and tethered Ash so that he would run beside her on the journey. She watched as the others got ready to leave. There had been arrangements made through Gimli to have watch towers constructed in Arnor. They had five years according to Brenna to prepare as best they could for the final face off against the Shadow Wraith.

A messenger had been sent two days ago to see if they could commission the skill and craftsmanship of the dwarves. Gimli sent word to his cousin and his own Clan to make the arrangements. When he heard that the Wraith was once an ancestor to a dragon, he vowed vengeance for his people and knew his cousin would feel the same way.

Messengers were also sent out to the elvish delegations and other provinces in Gondor. The people to the North would need their allies. The Dunedain would not stand alone. Ohtar was humbled and grateful to know that his people, Protectors of this world, would now be protected.

The group made their way out of Edoras. It would be a long slow trek south as they were traveling with two small children and one very pregnant Queen. Brenna took young Duvaissel on Hiril with her to give Arwen a reprieve from the active child. She sat securely in Brenna's arms as they made slow progress across the plains. At nightfall, they were joined by the elves that were traveling south as well.

Duvaissel had fallen asleep in Brenna's arms some hours ago. When they stopped to make camp for the night, Brenna found herself in a bit of a quandary. Elladan walked towards her with a soft smile on his face. He took the slumbering child from her and cradled the little one against his chest as he helped Brenna dismount. With one hand on the small of Brenna's back he held his niece firmly to his chest and made his way over to where his sister was sitting.

He carefully handed the sleeping child to her mother and took a seat next to Brenna. The elves that had joined them looked at the young child curiously. It had been some time since their kind brought children into the world. There were dark times and they were reluctant to bring such innocence into that darkness. Most now had decided to wait until Valinor to have families.

Brenna sat quietly humming and looking into the flames of the fire that had been built. There was a perimeter and watch set. Oriel and Brenna would be staying in a tent that had been brought for them. Brenna thanked Aragorn for his consideration, but she told her that it was Arwen who made sure that there would be privacy for her on their return trip. Brenna shared a grin with Aragorn. She had spent years traveling and sleeping under the stars, a tent was a luxury for sure, but it slowed travel time. She was used to moving quickly and quietly, this slow procession south was a drastic change from what she was used to.

Leaning back against a log that had been dragged in front of the fire, she rested her head on Elladan's chest and relaxed. She felt him tense at first, but then he gently ran a hand over her hair and held her to his side. She felt the tension leave him as she let the crackling of the fire lull her. Oriel was sitting on her other side and was talking quietly to Arwen. Brenna listened to the murmur of the voices around her.

Through heavily lidded eyes, she watched as Legolas spoke with his kinsmen with joy evident on his face. Some of the elleths seemed to be trying to get his attention, but he paid them no mind. He laughed merrily and clapped Gimli on the back while talking to his friends.

Telgalad was talking quietly with an elf she didn't know, while Beleg and Faelchon stood nearby speaking in hushed tones. Haldir and his brothers were talking with a group that had clearly come from their homeland. They had bittersweet smiles on their faces as they realized that the elves had finally left Lothlorien. All of the Wardens had escorted the people either to Rivendell or joined the group heading to Ithilien.

As her eyes grew too heavy to keep open, she heard a sharp command in Sindarin from Arwen and she felt Elladan tense. He bit out a tense phrase and there was an answering twittering and snide remark from a few of the elleths that had accompanied Legolas's group.

Brenna stirred and looked to see some of the elleths sniffing disdainfully in her direction. She turned to Arwen who looked furious. Oriel stood and faced off against the other females who seemed to be cowed by the vehemence now directed towards them. Even the males in their own group now stepped away from them and angrily scolded them.

Sitting up, she stood and dusted off her riding habit. Brenna turned to the group of females who were glaring at her. She wasn't quite fluent in elvish yet, but she caught enough to know that they were essentially calling her a whore. Turning to them her forehead flared brightly and her hand glowed blue as her anger built.

"Lest you want to be left behind and forbidden from Valinor, I'd seriously do some soul searching and change your attitude," she stated in a deadly quiet voice. "You know nothing about me and your petty jealousy would seek to harm in the attempt to cause a rift. All of us know the bonding and way of our kind. Tell me, did you know that we already have a fae-bond forming? I thought not. You obviously know what that means for us, so tell me something. Between all of the men and elves that you're accusing me of sleeping with, how is it that neither Elladan nor myself have died from the grief or betrayal of those supposed actions?"

Brenna's body shook with the intensity of her emotions. She fought the power that was welling up inside of her. The stars on her forehead stood out brightly in the night, daring the elleths to say another word against her.

"I'm appalled and disgusted to be in the company of such petty and vain people. I have always had chaperones present, not that I answer to you. Before you seek to cast doubt and hurt on others, you ought to take a reflective look at your own lives. As far as I can see, you'll end up bitter cold and alone," she said before stalking off angrily towards the tent she was sharing with Oriel.

Legolas seemed to stand taller as did the other members of Brenna's Guard. He rounded on the elleths, many from his own realm. "You will not speak to or about Brenna again unless it is to offer an apology. You are to stay away from her and make no more trouble for her. One more word or slight against her, you'll be banished and escorted to the next ship to Valinor where you will answer to a higher power for your actions. I'm ashamed that any from my land would do such a thing. After what you and yours did to her grandmother!" he shouted in Sindarin. The elleths flinched and paled with each word. They would find no welcome among their people now.

"Should you stop in the home of my father let me assure you ladies, that you will be immediately escorted to the Gray Havens. Stay away from me and you will stay away from Brenna," Elladan told them coldly before he turned and walked off away from the camp with Elrohir following behind. There would be a slight change in their plans, Elladan would not leave her now with the additional troubles that seemed to be brewing around her.

Aragorn was trying to calm his wife, and fought his own anger. He knew that Brenna would face many trials until she reached her majority, but he didn't think that she would deal with so many that would set out to harm her reputation. He vowed to do what he could to protect her, whether that meant a constant chaperone or some other course of action he did not know.

Oriel, stepped forward and got right in the face of the elleth that had seemed to be the ring leader. "Should you ever, and I mean ever say a word against her again, you will have me to deal with. With the blessing of Lady Galadriel I have been at Brenna's side for over two years now. I can assure you that nothing untoward has happened and that she is as innocent as ever. Word will be sent to Rivendell and the Gray Havens about what happened here. I'm sure that a missive will be sent along to Valinor well before you sail. I wouldn't want to be you when your families learn of the further shame you've brought upon them."

Brenna's Guard looked at Oriel with a new respect and agreed with every word that she had said. Not only had the elleths called into question Brenna's honor, but they had questioned their own and that was unacceptable. It was whole-heartedly agreed that missives would be sent to Rivendell, the Gray Havens, and one would travel on the next ship to Valinor.

The shamed elleths found themselves ostracized. Not even their own kinsmen would associate with them. Though they didn't know it then, word would indeed reach their families in Valinor. The Valar themselves were greatly displeased and would deal with them in their own way. It would be a long and lonely existence for them until they changed their ways. Some of them would, others would face eternity alone, cold and bitter just as Brenna predicted.

There was a tension that seemed to blanket the camp when they woke the next morning. Brenna and Oriel washed and dressed quickly. Their things were packed and stored with years of practice. They moved in sync and were ready to move out before most of the camp was up. The two friends sat by the fire talking quietly. Oriel had spent much of the night comforting her hurting friend.

Brenna greeted Arwen and Aragorn as they sat by the fire. Little Duvaissel climbed into Brenna's lap and snuggled in. Brenna kissed her brow and turned to talk to her friends. Her focus shifted to Arwen for a moment and she paused. She had a startled look on her face before a bright smile slowly bloomed.

"Well that's a surprise!" she stated with a laugh. "You're going to need some extra hands and nurses my friend."

"What is it Brenna?" Aragorn asked.

She stood and approached while holding Duvaissel in her arms. Kneeling before Arwen, she passed the toddler to the arms of her father. Taking Arwen's hand in her own, she brought it to the rather large swell of her stomach.

"Look closely," Brenna she urged with an excited smile. "You'll notice a little surprise in there."

Arwen closed her eyes and sought what Brenna was describing. Her eyes went wide and she gasped. With a laugh, she hugged her little sister as tears formed in her eyes. The beautiful smile on her face let Aragorn and the others present know that nothing was wrong and it was welcome news.

"Twins, Aragorn!" she exclaimed. "No wonder I feel so large this time, there are twin girls my love!"

Duvaissel squealed happily and clapped her hands. Aragorn embraced his wife and then hugged Brenna happily. Two more children would be joining his family soon. He was elated at the news and turned to where the Sons of Elrond were approaching.

"What is it?" Elladan asked as he reached their side.

Brenna laughed throatily and winked at Elrohir. "You won't be the only twins in the family anymore," she stated happily.

They let out a whoop. Brenna stepped back and watched as they checked their sister and congratulated her and Aragorn. Elrohir swung little Duvaissel up making the young girl laugh in delight. The two warriors certainly transitioned to the role of doting uncles with an ease that Brenna marveled at. She smiled at them happily, even as she saw glimpses of the twins that each of them would have in the future.

Elladan caught the look on her face and she grinned. "Well you two were the first of many twins in the family and that's all I'll be saying," she told them with a laugh. "These two new ones that will be a handful, as I'm sure you both were when you were younger. Luckily for their parents, they'll settle out and turn out to be quite the little ladies by the time they reach their teens."

Arwen held her stomach protectively and rubbed it lovingly. She accepted Duvaissel in her arms and the little one put her hands on her belly and said "babies." Brenna smiled fondly at the child.

Soon camp was packed and the group were on their way. It would take them weeks to make it to Minas Tirith at the pace of the carriage. Beleg had spoken to the Sons of Elrond and had agreed to venture to the Old Kingdom of Arnor in their stead to contact the Dunedain. He promised to send word or return when he had answers for them. He set out with a handful of other elves that volunteered to accompany him.

The days were long and their progress was slow. Brenna would often take Duvaissel or little Elboron and give their mother's a break from having little ones on the road. Elboron was often cranky and fussy, so Brenna would hold him and hum until he would drift to sleep. Once asleep he would be carefully handed to Eowyn in the carriage where he was secured in a basket on one of the seats.

When they reached Osgiliath Eowyn and Faramir as well as Legolas with the company of most of the elves left for Ithilien. The only elves to accompany Brenna to Minas Tirith were the Sons of Elrond and Orophin, who had volunteered to stay with her while she was in the City. His brothers and the other members of her Guard were going to make sure that the elves settled into Ithilien easily. Many of the Wardens and border Guards from previous settlements, would fill the same roles here.

Brenna settled back into life in Minas Tirith. She was often found in the company of Arwen and Oriel. With the discovery that Arwen was carrying twins, Brenna made sure that she was resting and not overtaxing herself. Duvaissel was in their company most days, chattering happily about babies and other things that didn't always make sense, as was the way with toddlers.

There were frequent messages sent between the realms, even as the weather turned colder and winter set upon them. Ithilien was reported to be thriving and the people living there welcomed the arrival of the elves. They were living side by side in harmony, much to the delight of all parties.

It was a particularly cold morning when Brenna was summonsed to Arwen's chambers. Oriel accompanied her as they were both to assist the queen through her labor. The gentle midwife that attended her before was also present. Her labor, thankfully progressed rather quickly. Aragorn was called in to offer his wife support like he had last time. The Sons of Elrond waited in the antechamber, keeping little Duvaissel occupied.

Just past the noon hour the first of the twins was born. About another half hour later the second tiny babe entered the world. Once both were cleaned and warmly dressed. Brenna bundled them in two different color blankets, though she need not have worried. While both babies had the same dark hair of their parents, one child had light gray eyes and the other seemed to have blue.

Arwen was helped back into the bed once the linens and bedclothes had been changed. She had been cleaned and tended to while Aragorn proudly held a new daughter in each arm Once Arwen was situated back in the bed, Aragorn sat next to her and handed her their new daughters. He thanked the Valar for his family and the blessings that he had been given.

Duvaissel tiptoed quietly in the room with her uncles. She seemed shy and unsure as she approached her parents. Brenna scooped the little one up and carried her to where her mother was nursing her baby sisters. She soothed the child and sat her gently on the bed with her family. There she was introduced to her sisters Elhael and Limiel.

To give Arwen and Aragorn a bit of a break, she suggested that she keep Duvaissel occupied and bring her to visit them in the coming days while they adjusted to the new babies. Arwen tiredly and gratefully accepted. Duvaissel looked thrilled about spending time with her aunt.

The days passed quickly as Brenna soon realized that toddlers seemed to have a never ending supply of energy. Little Duvaissel was such a happy sweet little girl, who seemed to have all of them wrapped around her little finger. Her uncles would often stop in to see her and give Brenna a bit of a break.

When the twins were about a month old, Arwen and Aragorn had a routine down and began to acclimate their older daughter to it. She happily and easily adjusted to the new role of big sister. More often than not she hovered by the babies, wanting to see everything and help. Brenna thought it was adorable to see her dote on them with all the love and innocence that only a child could have.

In between the weeks of poor weather, Brenna received happy news from many members of her Guard in Rohan. All five of them were either married or soon to be married and both Eothain and Dernhelm's wives were expecting children sometime in the fall. Brenna smiled as she read another letter from Amrothos as he told her that he was set to wed his lady love in the spring, when his sister could hopefully attend. He also informed her with great amusement that his brother Erchirion was frantic trying to woo Miriel via correspondence.

Sighing, she wrapped a cloak tightly around herself and went to the King's Hall. Aragorn asked her to sit with him as an adviser for some of the grievances that were brought before the court. She paused mid-step while walking through the hall and a grin tugged at the corner of her lips. Oh yes, this would be interesting to hear. She just hoped that Ohtar kept his cool once he saw her.

Brenna made her way to Aragorn. She took the seat that he indicated and sat quietly as the long day progress, offering what advice and insight she could. Finally there was a murmur in the crowd. She caught the eye of Ohtar, who was present as a representative of the Dunedain. He looked at her in confusion.

A small, cloaked figure was dragged forward harshly by a burly and gruff looking man. An older man who was wringing his hands followed behind, looking thoroughly embarrassed and put out. The large man tugged the cloak off the smaller figure, exposing a red haired young woman who appeared to have a large bruise on the side of her face. She stepped away from the man you grabbed her roughly and forced her to kneel before the king.

Aragorn's jaw clenched seeing the girl treated in such a harsh manner. He saw that many of the knights and men present had their hands on their swords, ready to intervene if necessary. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw the normally calm and stoic Ohtar pushing is way closer to the woman.

"What is the case being brought before me?" Aragorn asked. "And why is this young woman looking to mistreated in my Halls?"

The burly man sputtered and tried to talk his way out of it but he was silenced by Aragorn, who turned to speak to the girl. He realized that she was clearly the victim in whatever the grievance was between the two men. It dawned on him that she was the case of property dispute and he felt sick.

Standing he approached the trembling girl and saw that she had bruises all over her arms and her clothing was torn. He crouched down before the girl and watched in anger as she flinched. Turing to call Brenna forward, he found that she was already at the girl's side, wrapping her own cloak around the girl.

Brenna breathed deeply and turned to the men who brought the girl with a look that had them taking a few steps back. "You disgusting excuses for men. I don't know which of you is worse. Her father that sold her to pay his own debt, or the man that purchased her to work in his brothel," she said in a cold voice, shocking the court. "You will listen to me and heed my words because they may very well be the last that you hear. She is not property, despite what you seem to think. She is a living, breathing, feeling person."

"Now see here miss," the brute tried cutting her off.

"No!" she shouted, standing to face the man who was a good foot taller and easily twice as wide as her. "You listen to me!"

Turning towards the young woman, "Wait how old are you," Brenna asked.

"Seventeen, nearly eighteen milady," came the quietly reply.

"You're going to bring every single girl in you employ here that is under the age of eighteen. I'm going to speak to them and so help me if I find that any of them have been abused or forced there will be nowhere that you can hide," her voice chilled the room significantly. "If you do not comply I'll have a list of every single client published and sent to their spouses by the end of the day. Mark my words, the day of your reckoning is here!"

"And you!" she rounded on the now pale older gentleman. "How could you? Tell me you have no other children in your care!"

"I had debts, beggin' your pardon milady," he grouched.

"Then you should have paid them, not your daughter!" she shouted.

"Brenna," Aragorn tried to calm her.

"Forgive me Aragorn, but you'll have to try to understand where I'm coming from right now. How is her or any other girl that is forced into such a life any different from what would have happened had you not rescued me a year ago, " she said causing him and the other males in the room to look as though they had been struck.

"Any grown adult woman who chooses that life for herself, has the right to do so, but a child? A teenager? Surely you can see what I'm saying milord," she implored. "It is clear to me that this girl did not agree to the decision or the treatment and fought back. This isn't a case of property. It's a case of slavery and bondage within your realm."

The elves present were sick with the reality that Brenna was exposing. They knew men often sought the comfort of women, sometimes even when they had spouses. To hear that young girls were subjected to it made them nauseous.

"I run a reputable business miss!" the larger man said loudly.

"Reputable?! Do your clients' wives know that they're married to perverts who have a taste for young girls and children?" she all but shrieked.

"Brenna, it will be handled," Aragorn told her. "There will be a new law passed and each of the establishments will be checked. I swear to you it will change," he promised as he felt her body trembling.

Brenna dropped to the weeping young woman on the floor and held her. She searched out and found that although the man who purchased her services for the evening attempted to force his will, the girl remained untouched and she fought off his advances. She rocked the shuddering girl and held her while soothing her.

The women of the court present were horrified. Many of them rounded on their spouses with steely looks in their eyes. It was abundantly clear that change was coming. The women weren't so naive to think that men didn't stray from time to time, but the plight of the young girl so close to the age of their own children hit close to home. Oh yes, the ladies of the realm would indeed be seeing changes made.

Brenna helped the girl to stand and led her from the Hall towards her own rooms. Her Guard fell in around her and escorted her silently down the private Hall's in the King's home. She could feel the younger girl shaking as they progressed. Oriel walked with them, silently seething at the callous nature that some people seemed to exude. Children were a blessing and a gift!

They reached the room next to Brenna's and the ladies ushered the young woman in. A couple of maids, including Hanna had come to assist. Brenna stilled in her action of brushing out the girl's hair and shook with rage. Once Brenna was certain that the red haired girl was taken care of she stormed into her room and changed quickly. Gone was the peaceful soothing image of a lady and a warrior ready to do battle replaced her.

Brenna dressed in a dark green tunic of elvish fashion. She pulled her hair back into a long plait and began lacing on her knee high boots. As she was reaching for her weapons her door opened revealing a livid Arwen. The queen stopped short seeing Brenna's expression and gasped.

"Brenna you must calm down," Arwen tried to calm her.

"Children! Arwen there were children in that hell hole!" Brenna shouted, drawing attention to her room.

Donning her gray cloak, she turned to leave, despite the protests of Arwen. Brenna entered the room where the girl was. The women there gasped when they saw that Brenna was armed and dressed in such a way.

"I've realized that I don't even know your name," Brenna said quietly to the shocked girl.

"Raina milady," she replied quietly.

"Lovely," Brenna said with a kind smile. "Now I need you to tell me where it was they took you."

"Brenna, surely you don't mean to go there!" Oriel cried out in shock.

"Oh I'm going there, and I'm getting the two young girls being led there as we speak and any others that pig still has there," Brenna said in a calm, quiet voice. "He's going down."

By now Brenna's Guard were in the hallway listening. Closing their eyes and shaking their heads in disbelief, they listened. Aragorn and his men had also come and heard her.

"Brenna, twenty of the younger workers there were brought here and are being taken care of, but there were none under eighteen" Aragorn told her.

"Well he lied!" she shouted at him. "Children! Aragorn there are two girls as young as twelve and thirteen that were being led there this afternoon to pay a debt owed by their family!"

"What?!" he exclaimed in shock. "He told us there were no others!"

Aragorn called for a company to assemble and for his sword. The man was given a chance to come clean and had lied. The penalty for that lie and subsequent abuse to the king's subjects, the man's life would be forfeit. The thought of the young girls, just children, made him sick. Anger welled up within his chest as he nodded curtly to Brenna.

As night had fallen they left the King's Halls and made their way down to the second level of the city. Brenna felt sick as she saw the hovel of the place in front of her. She could hear crying from within and anger coursed through her veins. There was an angry shout from within and a scream.

Brenna could stand it no more and kicked the damned door open. Aragorn walked in with his armed Guards and all of the patrons were dragged from the various corners that they were trying to hide. Brenna set about gathering the women and girls. She checked each room, and the hidden rooms as well as the cellar. Once she was certain that she had all of them she ushered them out. Her braid was suddenly yanked from behind halting her forward motion and a blade held to her throat.

"You!" the angry brute shouted.

Some of the young girls cowered in fear, screaming and crying. The older girls shushed them and protectively pushed them behind them, even as Aragorn's men and Brenna's Guard moved forward. Brenna glared at them and motioned towards the girls. Some of the men, wrapped them in their cloaks and ushered them safely outside.

Brenna looked right at Aragorn and her eyes blazed in anger. She moved almost faster than they could keep up with. Pushing forward on his arm, she stomped as hard as she could on the instep of his foot. He staggered in agony as she felt a crunch under her foot. Seeing his momentary distraction Brenna yanked the blade from his hand and kneed him as hard as she could before slamming his face down into her knee. The audience winced and watched as she had taken down a man twice her size.

Elladan pulled her back when she advanced on the sniveling figure that was now on the floor. He held her as the fear and rage trembled through her limbs. Running his hands soothingly over her arms and back he led her from the building to where the girls were outside waiting to be taken to the House of Healing to be checked and treated. She could see that some of them were bruised and disheveled.

Brenna sought the youngest of the girls who had been left there by their families. She looked them over and found that they were just scared and slightly bruised. Running her gaze over the group she realized that many of them were in need of looking after. Most had chosen that way of life and that was their choice. But the three young girls that had been left there to pay debts did not.

She ushered the young girls up the steps towards where Raina was staying, with her Guard following carefully behind. As she passed the other young women, many of them thanked her quietly and let themselves be led away to get a health check from the Healers. For them it was a way of life. Before the war life had been very different, but after it was difficult. When they began working there it got infinitely worse, hopefully now it would get better.

Brenna entered the room, ushering the young girls in. Raina called out in shock as she recognized one of the girls. They apparently were cousins. Their names were Alanna and Beatrice and they were twelve and thirteen. Their father's had somehow incurred a debt with the owner and couldn't pay it back. So an agreement was made that their daughters would work to pay it.

Elladan waited for Brenna in the hallway. When she and Oriel stepped out of the room he asked them how the girls were. It had been decided that Hanna would stay with the girls for the night. The two elves felt Brenna's body still trembling with the rage and fear that she felt.

"Some of those young women are now over eighteen, but they weren't when they started there. What that knave did, is unforgivable," she whispered hoarsely. "I'm just sorry that I could not save them all. I'm not so naive to think that those sorts of places don't exist. I just didn't think that children and young girls were on the employee list."

"Brenna, none of us thought there were children and younger girls there," Elladan assured her.

"What happens now for them?" Oriel asked sadly.

"Unfortunately, the girls eighteen and over figure it out on their own and seek employment elsewhere. The few younger girls that were in that place will be looked after and Aragorn will decide their fate. Luckily none of them had been touched yet," Brenna told her quietly. "The girls in there, are now under my protection," Brenna stated, indicating to the room they had just left.

Elladan smiled softly and tugged her braid affectionately. "Picking up a few more strays love?" he asked softly.

"They won't be mine to worry over for very long. You'll have to be observant, but there is another who would claim the heart of young Raina." Brenna smiled up at him. "He'll take her and both younger girls under his protection and they'll be welcomed by his people."

Oriel's eyes sparked merrily, "Ohtar."

Brenna nodded with a smile. "He's already smitten and protective. I'm sorry that the circumstances couldn't be better. She's a fighter though."

Ohtar made his way down the hall towards where they were talking. He had been warring with his senses for that past few hours, unsure of what his role would be. From Brenna's description and his own recognition deep down, he knew who this young woman was to him. He wanted nothing more than to protect her, but he feared that she would not accept his suit after her poor treatment.

Brenna turned hearing his footsteps and greeted him with a sad smile. "Good evening Ohtar. How're you holding up?"

"Good evening milady," he greeted in a quiet voice. "It's her isn't it. The one that you spoke of. Is she alright? How are the other girls?" he asked in rapid succession.

"Breathe, they're fine. Better than the majority of the girls and young women that were taken from there." Brenna put a comforting hand on his arm. "She's a bit bruised and battered. She's gotten past the fear and now she's angry. Give her time. In the meantime, I've taken them under my protection until such a time that I will release their care to another whom I trust when they're ready."

Ohtar sigh in relief and nodded gratefully. "You have my thanks Brenna. When I saw her I feared the worst."

"As I said, give her time. I'll introduce you as she gets more comfortable with things," she assured him.

The group parted and Brenna retreated to her rooms for the night. A warm bath had been drawn for her. Shucking her clothes she entered the tub. Her limbs trembled in memory and she nearly scrubbed herself raw as she tried to wash away the ghosts of her past. Oriel found her in the tub, her skin pink from washing. She pried her hand from the cloth and helped her from the bath and into a soft robe.

Oriel led Brenna out to her bedroom and pulled a fresh nightshirt on her and sat her at the vanity to brush her hair. When finished she led her friend to the bed and tucked her in. Arwen had joined Oriel a short while later to check on Brenna. The two watched helplessly as their young friend trembled and whimpered in her sleep.

Arwen stepped out of the room and whispered something out of the door. Elladan and Elrohir entered with Aragorn trailing behind them. They watch grimly as Brenna fought off and unseen enemy in her dreams. They began to whisper in elvish over her. Elladan placed a hand on her forehead and sent her deep into a healing and cleansing state of rest.

They took turns keeping watch over her, with one of Arwen's handmaidens in the room at all times. Brenna slept uninterrupted and peacefully throughout the night. The same could not be said for the girls next door, who often woke crying. Hanna did her best to comfort and soothe them, but it would be a long time before they got over their ordeal.

Days passed, which turned in to weeks. Brenna and Oriel did they best that they could to help the young girls now in their care. Arwen would often stop in with the little ones to spend time with them as well. They were slowly recovering and making great progress. Theirs was a hurt of betrayal of the worst kind and it would take quite some time for them to trust males in their lives. Brenna, Oriel and Arwen were doing their best to help the young girls to adjust and recover.

As the weather turned warmer, Brenna knew that she would have to travel to Ithilien and the Shire in the coming weeks and months. She was unsure of how the girls would react to the news and contemplated leaving them here in the city. However, she knew that taking them with her would get them away from part of their problems as well.

Sighing, she pulled out a dress for the day and Hanna helped her into it. Once her hair was finished she left her rooms in search of Aragorn and her Guard. She heard a happy voice call out behind her and turned to see Alanna and Beatrice racing down the hall after her. Raina followed at a slower pace, but had a content smile on her face.

"What can I do for you little ladies?" Brenna asked in amusement.

They started talking at once asking her about her horse Hiril and was she really a Mearas? Did she really go to Rohan? And ride to war? Question after question, the girls talked excitedly. Brenna smiled a bit sadly at them and nodded, ushering them along with her out of the hustle and bustle of the hallway.

"Come with me and I'll answer your questions," Brenna told them quietly.

Raina touched her arm in concern, "You don't have to tell us. If it hurts or troubles you, then you need not say anything. They're just curious. One of the maids told them all about the great Lady Brenna this morning and there's little else they've talked about."

They walked through the halls and entered the Royal chambers. The young girls hadn't been here before and looked a bit apprehensive. Brenna just smiled encouragingly as they were led into Arwen's private solar.

Brenna greeted the family lounging and talking quietly. Elladan rose and kissed her brow, leading her to the seat that he had just vacated. The younger girls hadn't seen Elladan and Brenna interact so affectionately before. They were startled a bit but smiled seeing their friend and champion so happy. Brenna smiled at them and introduced him as her betrothed, he nodded and gave a slight bow in their direction. The news startled them a bit, but the younger girls were happy for her.

"What brings you for a visit this morning Brenna?" Aragorn asked, fully relaxed while holding one of the twins.

Brenna picked up Duvaissel and turned to reply. "I need to make preparations to go to Ithilien and then the Shire soon. I've put it off as long as I can."

The group quieted hearing her plans. Elladan tensed at the mention of the Shire, as did the others in the room. Raina picked up on the tension and worried for her friend.

"It will just be a visit on this trip?" Elladan asked casually.

Brenna nodded, bouncing Duvaissel on her knee. "Just a visit. I want to check in with the others in Ithilien and then I need to make my way to the Shire. Samwise is not dealing with the passing of Frodo very well," she told them.

Aragorn handed the sleeping infant to his wife and stood. "I'll summon the necessary people. We can meet in my study in an hour to begin making the plans for the trip. I think I'll be going with you, I need to take a tour of the realm."

Brenna shook her head ruefully. She knew that he was going to keep an eye on her. Sure he probably did need to have a tour of the realm done, but she knew that the Ranger in him was fighting against the stiff role of the crown. Smiling at him, with obvious amusement in her eyes, she thanked him as he headed out the door.

Brenna turned towards her young friends and found them watching her apprehensively. "You've got a couple of choices my friends. You can stay here and keep Queen Arwen and the little Princesses company. Or if you'd like you're welcome to travel with me on a bit of an adventure. I will support whatever decision you make, there's no pressure for you either way."

Raina looked at her younger cousin and her friend. She knew that Brenna wouldn't let anything happen to them. She had been there for them and helped them through something that could have been much worse had she not intervened. Something was bothering her about the situation though. There was something either in or near the Shire that had them worried. She was concerned for her friend and nodded to the younger girls seeing their eager expressions.

"If it's not too much trouble, we'll keep you company on your trip," Raina announced with a cheerfulness that didn't quiet meet her eyes.

Brenna smiled happily at the girls. "Wonderful, I've got some friends that I'd like you to meet."

"What kind of friends?" Alanna asked curiously.

"Well I've got friends from all the different races. Hobbits, dwarves, elves and men. I suppose you can count Ents as well," she mused contemplatively.

Beatrice and Alanna giggled and talked excitedly about meeting her friends. Raina smiled, happy that the younger girls were recovering from their ordeal. She nodded to Brenna in thanks, but paused looking a bit apprehensive.

"Milady, we don't have horses or things appropriate for travel," she whispered while blushing, fully aware that they were living so comfortably by the mercy of others.

Brenna laughed merrily. "Well I've got two horses, and I'm sure that we can find a third so that you can ride on your own Raina, the girls can share for now. As for things, don't worry. You have been a great help to me and I've heard that you're a great help in the kitchens as well." Brenna assured her young friend. "We'll see that you've got the necessary things for the journey. Though I'm giving you fair warning. I travel fairly light and sleep on a bedroll outside under the stars on my trips."

The younger girls giggled. Raina looked a bit unsure. "That's a bit exposed isn't it? What about bugs or animals? What about your privacy?"

"Well we've typically got a watch set up on rotation while we sleep through the night. As for bugs, well they haven't really bothered me yet." Brenna told them with a slight giggle in her voice before sobering. "Now privacy is important and respected on our travels. I travel with an honorable noble mixed group of travel companions who have been traveling with me and keeping me safe for a few years now. I trust all of them with my life."

Raina swallowed a lump in her throat and nodded, blinking back tears. Elladan took Duvaissel from Brenna's arms and she went to the younger girl. Brenna pulled her into hug and assured her that everything was fine, that they were safe and no harm would come to them. Once Raina had calmed, she nodded to Brenna and gave her a shaky smile.

Aragorn poked his head into the room and informed Brenna that they were waiting for her and the Sons of Elrond. The twins stood, kissing their nieces on the forehead and bidding their sister good afternoon. They made their way to exit the room. Brenna left the younger girls with Arwen and her handmaidens while Raina bravely accompanied her to the meeting that would be taking place.

Brenna talked quietly to the younger woman, distracting her from her apprehension. She discovered that Raina would be eighteen in just a few days and made a mental note to have something special put together for her in celebration of her coming of age. Though girls in Arda often married young, Brenna was choosing to acknowledge her own upbringing and customs.

Looping her arm through the younger woman's arm, Brenna led her into the room. She ignored the immediate stiffening of Raina's posture as they entered the study which was filled with Aragorn, his advisers, Brenna's Guard and some military personnel. Brenna held her friend to her side, even as she felt the younger girl tremble. She hated putting her through this, but if she didn't she knew that it would be much worse when they were traveling. Brenna continued talking with the males and laughed with them. She slowly felt Raina relax as she observed Brenna interacting so easily and comfortably with the males.

It was decided that Aragorn would indeed ride out with them and go to the Shire along with Brenna. With him would come seventy-five of his men. He would call upon twenty-five Rangers to accompany them. Brenna's Guard would supplement the rest. They would leave in three days. Their plan was to travel light and fast.

When the meeting adjourned, Brenna hugged her friend as the advisers and military members left the chambers. She released her trembling friend when it was just Aragorn and her Guard remaining. Raina sat down heavily into the chair that Brenna pushed her to. Ohtar observed her from across the room, his jaw clenched tightly.

"You did well Raina, it will get easier," Brenna told her softly.

"What would you know about it?" Raina asked hoarsely.

"I know more than you think Raina," Brenna said while standing.

Raina looked up to see her friend looking ashen and ill. "I'm sorry Lady Brenna," she said immediately.

Brenna turned to stand by the windows overlooking the City below. "A year and a half ago, I was kidnapped while in Dol Amroth. Queen Lothíriel was the intended target. I used our likeness to our advantage and get her out of there before they could grab her, but in doing I was taken in her stead." Brenna told her quietly. "Had help not arrived when it did, I don't want to think of what happened. I fought and killed the man that put his hands on me and attempted to take what was not his. I still have nightmares, and wake up terrified if I'm in an unfamiliar place."

"I'm sorry Brenna," the younger girl told her emotionally.

"You've gotten better over the past weeks and months. I'm sorry that I pushed you today, bringing you to the meeting. I had to be sure you would be able to handle traveling surrounded by men you didn't know," Brenna told her.

"I understand," Raina replied emotionally.

Brenna led the younger woman from the room and headed back towards Arwen's solar. They stayed and spoke with the queen for a little while before Brenna brought the girls to begin making preparations for their upcoming travels. She made arrangements to have clothing made for the girls and to get them appropriate footwear. Next she brought them to the armory and a blacksmith. There she made sure that each of the girls had at least one dagger and one sword. She told them that they would be taught to use the blades to defend themselves. When she told them that she planned on instructing them in the bow as well, the younger two giggled with excitement. Raina nodded to her friend in thanks, understanding that she was giving them the means to protect themselves.

The next three days passed in a blur. Brenna spent a couple of hours each day instructing the girls on the basics of their weapons. There were knights nearby observing their actions and Elladan and Elrohir often attended the sessions, offering pointers. Raina was becoming more confident and comfortable with the blades. With the presence of the Sons of Elrond as well as the other members of Brenna's Guard, she was becoming more comfortable around males.

Brenna spent as much time as possible with her nieces and Arwen. She was loath to leave them, but knew that she had a duty. On the eve before their departure, Brenna had her packs ready. Oriel also had her own gear packed and ready to go. The two brought packs and the finished clothing for the younger girls and showed them how to pack it efficiently. Once she was ready, she got them situated for bed and bid them goodnight. Everyone went to bed in eager anticipation of the journey yet to come.