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.)

31. Chapter 31

(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 31

Sometime during the night Brenna's wound became inflamed and a fever coursed through her veins. Her body was drenched in sweat and trembled with the burning temperatures of her body. It was a restless group that stayed by her side and did their best to control the infection that her body was now fighting. The wounds from the Wraith were proving to be deadly for the young elleth. Oriel helped them to cut away the offended portions of her clothing only to see the angry red lines of infection spreading around the wounds. They worked tirelessly to draw it out, cleansing and draining the wound repeatedly.

In the early hours of morning she began mumbling deliriously and thrashing around in the bed. Oriel had to hold her down to keep her from further injuring herself. It would seem that even now, when it was slain, the Shadow Wraith haunted her. Brenna fended up her invisible foe as her friends watched on helplessly.

Little did her friends know that this was the second part of the attack from the Shadow Wraith. Though it was indeed slain, its malevolent spirit haunted and hunted her in the spirit realm. As her will and spirit were beginning to falter, the Valar arrived in all of their righteous fury. It was Manwe who finally cut down and banished the Shadow Wraith, while the queens of the Valar soothed and healed their blessed child.

Lord Irmo looked exhausted and unwell himself as he had been locked in a battle of wills trying to locate and get to Brenna. He did his best to shield her from it, but it was aided by Melkor and his minions. Once they had found the link the Valar set out on a mission of vengeance and destruction of their foe. The kings and lord of the Valar then set out and followed the link to Melkor's minions and laid them to waste. So great was their wrath and fury that they left none alive and no chance for their return.

The Valar brought her with them back to Valinor. Manwe cradled his little warrior to his broad and muscular chest as they swiftly made their way through the halls. He laid her on the dais and they all began to work on healing her. She was still deliriously feverish and was slipping away from them. Este swayed from her task of healing, but she had finally drawn out the poisonous infection from her wounds and broke the fever. They sent her into a deep healing sleep and let her get the rest that she had rightly earned.

Brenna finally awoke after a long restful healing sleep under the careful watch of the Valar. They told her that she had done well and that she had done the right thing. Elbereth and Este soothed her injuries and helped to heal her while Manwe praised and scolded her as he would one of his children. They warned her to rely on her friends and allies more and to trust in them to help her.

She ended up sleeping for five agonizing days for her friends. Elladan hardly strayed from her side, sitting and watching over her in his silent vigil. Oriel sat by her friend and was saddened to see the young elleth so pale and injured. Lord Glorfindel and the other warriors came repeatedly to check on the young woman.

With a pained groan, Brenna jolted awake after straining the wound on her side. Though the Valar had helped to heal a good deal of it, the wound was still raw and fresh. She groggily looked around to see that her friends and Guard were now hovering nearby. They were talking to her, but there was a ringing in her ears and she couldn't quite make out what they were saying. Her head was throbbing and the gouges in her body ached painfully.

Elladan sat at the edge of her bed and her hand. He urged and cajoled her to wake up and stay with them. Watching her features carefully, he looked for any signs of pain or discomfort. It had been a long wait for him. He had watched helplessly as she fought the injury and to stay with them.

Holding her hand, he reached out gently to smooth her hair from her brow. He was comforted by the ever sparkling silver stars that graced her forehead, a reminded that she was there for a higher purpose. Gently he kissed the back of her hand.

Aragorn knelt next to the bed and looked at her solemnly. "I thought that we had lost you little one," he said thickly. "For a while there I didn't think that you were going to make it."

Eomer was there crouched eye level with her. "Little sister, we're going to have a serious talk about your idea of safe and mine when you're better," he told her seriously. "You can't do that to us again Brenna. You can't scare us like that."

Brenna tried to talk, but her throat was bone dry. Elladan accepted a cup of water that Legolas had handed him and helped her to drink a little of it at a time. Her body was weak from the fever and her injuries and she couldn't grasp the cup firmly, much less hold her head up.

"Aye Lass," Gimli said gruffly. "You scared a fair few years off of us."

King Thorin watched with amusement briefly tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Lass if we had an entire battalion of warrior elf maidens like you I think Smaug would have never dared attack Erebor all those years ago," he told her before his gaze sobered. "You dear brave girl. You've earned your rest now Lass."

Brenna grinned tiredly at the dwarf king. "The dragon would've turned tale had it face a group of angry females that's for sure my friend," she told him in an amused rasping voice. "I have much to tell you, but I fear I'm too tired to at the moment. I'll explain more about what happened, but I'm not sure that I can right now."

Elladan felt her limbs trembling and knew that it had nothing to do with fatigue. Gently tucked her back under the covers and made sure that she was warm before he stood. He took his leave and left the room, walking swiftly down and out of the tower. It felt like he was suffocating and he couldn't get his breath. In the distance he heard Elrohir coming after him, walking just as swiftly.

He reached where the horses were penned and leaned against the make-shift fence. Elrohir clasped him on the shoulder and lent him his support and strength silently. The two stood in silence for a while until Elladan had calmed and composed himself enough to put his thoughts to words.

"We came so close to losing her Elrohir," he told him quietly. "I felt as she struggled to remain and held her here as long as I could, but she almost didn't make it."

"I know brother," Elrohir told him just as softly. "I was right there with you. I felt her through our bond. She's well now brother, take comfort and rejoice in that."

"How many more times Elrohir?" he asked desperately. "How many more times will I have to hold and heal her broken body? I don't know that I have the strength in me to see her so close to death again."

"Of course you do!" Elrohir scolded him. "What other choice do you have? She's your fëa-mate! You need each other. She needs you brother! Out of all the ellons in Arda and Valinor, you are the one that is destined to be her other half. Would you walk away and sentence both of you to an empty life?"

Elladan surged to his feet and faced his brother. "Of course not! How could you say such a thing?" he exclaimed. "She is everything to me!"

"Then pull yourself together and act like it Elladan," Elrohir scolded him. "I know that you're scared and this is taking a toll on you, but you cannot afford to be selfish in this. There's a long line of elves and men who would gladly choose places with you brother. Think hard on that, you don't want to lose her."

Elladan swallowed his retort and knew that his brother was right. He was blessed to have such an elleth to claim as his own. Though everyone knew that they were betrothed, he saw the appreciative looks sent Brenna's way. Many a time he caught both men and elves looking at her with longing looks. He had seen the envious looks cast his way.

The two turned to leave and found that the rest of Brenna's Guard had come to find them. Aragorn surveyed his brother in exasperation, while Eomer had a thunderous expression on his face. Apparently they had heard some of their conversation. Elladan knew that he needed to tread carefully, lest he offend those that claimed Brenna as family. He felt humbled and ashamed of his moment of weakness.

Eothain held his king back from doing anything rash, though he and the other members of Brenna's Rohirric Guard had similar feelings in regards to the elf warrior at the moment. They held him in high regard and respected him, but his doubt in himself and Brenna was something that they found unacceptable, especially when she needed him now.

The elvish members of her Guard had some sympathy in their gazes, but they too looked a bit upset with Elladan. Lord Glorfindel peered at him with such a look that the battle hardened twin squirmed. It was a look often cast his way when he was nothing more than a wayward child getting into mischief. The ancient warrior stared him down and made him feel like he was a naughty child getting caught in the kitchens again.

Elladan held up his hands, "Peace friends. I'll not ask your pardon for my moment of weakness."

Gimli out right glared at the elf and grumbled something unintelligible as he turned to go see to his kinsmen. Legolas looked down at his elf friend in amusement and turned to follow him. He cast a look over his shoulder and gave Elladan a reassuring smile before continuing after the stout dwarf.

"Bema!" Eomer exclaimed. "Your lady is laying up there recovering and you're down here feeling sorry for yourself and what you've been through!"

"Eomer!" Aragorn said sharply. "Enough! Peace friend."

The King of Gondor played peacekeeper for the time being. While he could not fault Elladan for feeling as he did, he also understood what Eomer and the others were feeling. Brenna needed him and them to be strong. She was so young to carry such a great burden on her shoulders. She would need all the love and support that they could all give her in the coming years while she remained in Arda. There was no room for doubts. He regarded his adoptive brother quietly and knew that Elrohir had already said everything that needed to be for the time being.

"You had better hope that Lady Brenna doesn't hear of your doubts," Eomer told him gruffly. "That girl has done more for Arda that many will ever begin to comprehend. She gave up the chance to pass and be with her kin, but instead chose to come here and help complete strangers. She has faced things that would have broken grown men. There is no room in her life for doubts. As your brother told you already, I'll reiterate for you. There is a long line of men and elves who'd cut off their right hand at a chance to make her happy. She is kind, generous, honorable, and brave and so much more."

"I don't need you to list her endearing qualities Eomer King," Elladan told him tiredly as he rubbed his hand over his face. "She means more to me than you could even begin to understand. I have walked this earth for over three thousand years hoping and praying to be blessed enough to find her. Now that I have her, I'm terrified that I'm going to lose her."

Eomer regarded the forlorn looking elf for a moment before nodding to him and taking his leave. Brenna's Rohirric Guard glanced at him before they too took their leave and went to check on their kinsmen in the encampment. They held their opinions on the momentary break down of Lord Elladan and kept it quiet of respect for the elf and Lady Brenna.

Brenna's elvish Guard members and Aragorn spoke quietly with Elladan before leading the exhausted and distraught elf back up to the room where Brenna was resting. He was pushed into a nearby cot and told to get some rest. He tried to protest but they assured him that they would keep watch over them.

Erchirion had observed the whole situation with a muddled mind. He had seen what Brenna had done at the Black Gates, but seeing her face the Shadow Wraith shook him to the very core. His mind wandered a bit before he sat up sharply with wide eyes. Eomer regarded his brother-in law in concern as did the others who had traveled with him.

"What troubles you brother?" Eomer asked.

The prince turned and looked towards Eomer with a slightly panicked look on his face. "How are we to explain to the ladies of the Realms what happened to Brenna? Lothíriel will surely skin me alive when she hears that Brenna was injured so grievously."

The others hearing this gave nervous laughs and grimaced, knowing full well that he spoke the truth. Eomer swallowed and looked a bit concerned. His lady wife was sure to take him to task as well. Then he thought of what his sister would have to say and visibly winced. The others had similar trains of thought and looked at each other with the same signs of concern.

Aragorn and the others heard the prince's concern and winced a bit when they thought of having to bring the news back. The King of Gondor knew that his kind and gentle wife would not be pleased to know that her sister-friend had been harmed. With a sigh and a glance towards the heavens he shook his head with a grin tugging at his mouth.

"Well, I fear that Eomer may have the worst task ahead of him my friends," Aragorn ribbed. "For his sister is the Slayer of the Witchking and his lady wife can be just as formidable."

Eomer pulled a face at his friend but laughed it off. Looking around the encampment he and the other realized just how lucky they had been. The Shadow Wraith only made it to the third closest trench. Brenna's haunting forewarning about the Old Kingdom holding no matter what had shaken him and the others. The soldiers and army had felt the chill and cold looming with the mist. The war hardened soldiers shook in their boots, but held their ground. The archers had sent volley after volley trying to bring down the beast. The elves and then the dwarves charged the ancient creature and miraculously made it to Brenna's side before it was too late. It stopped their breath when they had seen her standing alone facing the Wraith. It nearly brought them to their knees when they saw her fall.

Eomer shook himself from his thoughts. He met Aragorn's eye and realized that he was having similar thoughts. They had gotten lucky. Both men silently prayed that their sister-friend would be able to hang up her weapons and lead a peaceful life soon.

Brenna's recovery was slow and delayed her travel by another two weeks. In that time the dwarf contingent had left to return to their home under the mountain. Thorin had gruffly patted Brenna's back as he hugged the elleth when he said his goodbyes. Gimli watched his kinsmen go with some sadness, but vowed to stay at Brenna's side. Legolas had agreed to travel with him for a time to visit his kinsmen and to explore the caves of Helm's Deep and in return he would travel with him to Fanghorn forest and go to Ithilien.

Soon the different delegations of the army were making preparations to return to their homelands. Aragorn deemed that it would be prudent to leave a small company of his knights at the watchtower as well as a number of the Dunedain Rangers to use this mighty tower once more in defense of the North.

Once Brenna was deemed well enough to ride, the group began to make their final arrangements for departure. It was decided that with her still recovering, that she would travel back with the whole army as far as Rivendell, where she would stay and continue recovering and resting. She wanted to protest, but knew that she was in no condition to travel great distances for prolonged periods of time at the moment. Even with the wound sealing, they still ached and burned as the muscle and tissue was still re-growing.

It was two days before their intended departure that a small party of Rangers entered their camp. Brenna grinned tiredly from her spot near the fire when she saw that Ash had been brought along and returned to her. In her haste to get to the watchtower he was left behind. The Rangers brought news that though their lands had been attacked, their people were well. They announced that Lady Alanna and Lady Beatrice were now formally and officially betrothed. It was a nice visit for the men, who sat talking quietly with their chieftain.

Brenna smiled tiredly and eventually drifted off to sleep leaning against Elladan, who had her bundled up in multiple blankets to help fight the chill she felt due to the amount of blood she lost. The elven warrior looked down at his slumbering fëa-mate and thanked the Valar that she was well. He swallowed thickly when he thought of how close it had been. Sighing he turned back to the others, wrapping an arm around her securely. She burrowed closer in her sleep causing him to chuckle slightly. It must have woken her because she looked up at him blearily and smiled before drifting off to sleep again. Sighing in amusement, he carefully stood with her and carried her to her bed, tucking her in and making his way to his own sleeping arrangements for the night.

Soon it was time for the group to depart. Oriel helped Brenna gather and pack all of her things. The loyal elleth insisted on remaining at Brenna's side. She assisted her young friend with no complaint and kept her company throughout her recovery. Angrod, ever the understanding and devoted fëa-mate, gave her the necessary space and time to build her relationship with her friend again. Brenna soon insisted that Oriel let him accompany them and spend time with them. When she explained that she knew that their bond was still growing and they needed to be together, Oriel relented and nodded gratefully.

Once all of her things were gathered she began strapping on her weapons and her pack. Oriel looked startled as her young friend gritted her teeth and hissed in pain as her gear rubbed against the sensitive flesh. Brenna waved off her concern and grabbed both of her packs for her saddle bag and left the room.

Angrod passed her in the hallway and looked at her with raised eyebrows as the young elleth muscled her gear towards the stairs. He went back to the room to find his fëa-mate rushing to gather their things. Grinning, he crossed to her side and stilled her hands. Calming her, he helped and soon they too were on their way down to their waiting horses.

Brenna nearly stumbled a few times as she felt her limbs begin to shake from the exertion. Sweat was beginning to coat her brow and she was short of breath. She knew that she was pushing her body, but there was no time to tarry, they needed to move out. As she exited the door at the bottom of the stairs, those assembled there shouted for her to let someone help her.

Before she could protest Eothain was at her side taking the packs from he hands. Wulf was right there with him, taking her hand and leading her trembling body towards the fire ring so that she could sit for a few moments. The rest of her Rohirric Guard all but pushed her down on the seat and asked her if she was alright.

With a wan smile, she nodded to them tiredly. Eothain returned from storing her things in her saddle bags and looked at the weapons and gear she was wearing speculatively. She immediately protested and told him that there was no way that she would be traveling unarmed. The group peered at her curiously, waiting for her to explain. They asked her if she expected trouble.

Brenna pulled a face and shook her head. "No I don't expect trouble, but I'm fast learning that it usually follows me everywhere I go," she told them ruefully causing those in hearing range to chuckle.

Aragorn crouched in front of her and took her hands in his own. "Are you well enough to travel little sister?" he asked in concern.

Brenna nodded to him reassuringly. "Aye, Aragorn," she confirmed. "I'm ready and well enough to travel as far as Rivendell."

Her eyes briefly went unfocused and she groaned at the onslaught of visions and flashes that surged through her mind. Taking a shaky breath she tried to pull back from it. Flash! She saw herself being left behind in Rivendell. Flash! She saw herself being taken to Dunland to parlay with their leader and help to heal their lands. Flash! She saw a child fall into the rapid waters of the Anduin and be swept downstream. Flash! Flash! Flash! She saw all of their lives and deaths. She saw their sorrows and joys. Finally, she was able to pull back from it.

When she came back to the present she realized that Aragorn was now sitting on the ground holding her and rocking her. It wasn't until his calloused hands gently wiped her cheeks that she realized that she was crying. So great was her joy and pain that the elves of her Guard knelt nearby to assure her that everything was alright.

"What has upset you so Brenna?" Aragorn asked gently. "Is there something that we can do?"

Looking at him with heartbreak in her eye, she threw her arms around his neck and sobbed into his shoulder. The King of Gondor looked startled and shocked by her tears. He tightened his grip on her ever so slightly and held her to him. Elladan was at his side and looking for all the world like he himself was in agony.

Brenna clung to her brother and friend. The reality of their parting hitting her hard and not for the first time she was struck by grief in knowing that her friends would pass while she lingered on. Her heart wrenching sobs tore at the warriors present. In her pain and illness she didn't cry, but whatever she had seen left her a wreck.

Eomer swallowed thickly and fought the urge to scoop her up himself. To see her thus was almost as painful for him as seeing his lady wife in pain. This petite little warrior had come to mean so much to him, to all of them. He truly feared that she would succumb to her grief if she didn't pull out of it soon. He prayed to the gods that nothing and no one would ever hurt the girl. And then a fierce look crossed his face, startling his companions. If any should dare harm her they would not live to see the next day.

"Eomer King," Eothain addressed his long-time friend carefully in Rohirric. "Is everything alright sire?"

Eomer tore his gaze away from the scene in front of him and looked to his friend. "I pity the person dumb enough to cause her pain," Eomer replied in kind. "For if it is something that she has seen, if someone should dare harm one hair on her head. They'll not live to regret it."

The answering growls from the Rohirrim present startled Brenna, who was finally calming down. She gasped and hiccupped, willing the tears to stop. Peering over his shoulder, she saw the dark looks on her friends' faces and was very confused. Try as she might, the tears just would not stop falling. Oh to lose these men, these friends and brothers! It was too much to bear. She heard the startled and anguished cries of her elvish friends from the distance as she felt herself drifting away. The Valar were summonsing her.

Brenna immediately found herself in the soothing and loving embrace of Este and Elbereth. They held her between them and smooth her hair away from her face. They were both humming and singing softly, pouring their love and peace into her. Under their ministrations, she was able to calm and lull enough that they were able to talk to her.

"Brenna, child you mustn't carry on so," Este urged.

"Little one," Elbereth said softly, "Your parting will be hard and a difficult burden to bear, but you must remember that it will not be forever. Your friends will reside in the Halls of Mandos for a time, but it will not be an eternity before you see them again for you and they have been deemed worthy. You shall see each other again. Do not despair."

Manwe had come to them and took her in his mighty arms. He cradled her to his chest and the three Valar sat calming the distraught elleth. He ran a hand gently over her brow.

"Young one," his soothing timber rumbled through his chest, "You have done so well. With each task given you have done more than we could have ever hoped for. Be at peace in knowing that we would not part you from your loved ones. Even if they choose not to reside in Valinor, you may visit them in the Halls of Mandos. Now rest easy and return little one, we are watching over you."

Brenna sighed as she drifted along. Every fiber of her being felt at peace as she returned to consciousness. When she blinked her eyes open there was a collective sigh of relief and a flurry of activity. Aragorn clutched her to him, only to have Eomer pull her to him as well. Elladan scowled briefly, but held his arms out to receive his betrothed from the King of Rohan.

"Are you well melamin?" he asked as he held her to him.

Leaning back she looked up at him and nodded. "Yes Elladan I am well. The Valar had a few things to tell me," she told him quietly.

"Do you want to talk about it love?" he asked, searching her eyes.

Brenna bit her lip and shook her head. She blinked back the tears that pooled in her eyes once more. He held her hand and wiped away the tears. Once she was calmed the two made their way towards where the horses had been readied. Brenna hissed as she stumbled a bit over uneven ground. He steadied her and held her gently to his side to lend his strength and comfort.

Brenna haltingly and stiffly mounted Hiril with the help of Elladan. She gritted her teeth against the pull on the muscles and skin of her left leg where the Wraith raked her. Her right side pulled uncomfortably at the movements, drawing a whimper from her as she straightened in the saddle. With stilted movements she took the reins of her horse and waited for the others. Once Elladan was sure that she was alright on her own, he went to his own mount.

Eothain walked to her with Ash, whom he tethered to her saddle. He observed his charge carefully and offered her a sympathetic smile as she turned to mount his own horse. Eomer rode up next to her with Aragorn on her other side. Soon the whole company was mounted and ready to move. Brenna was protectively surrounded as they prepared to move out.

Eomer reached to his side and drew his horn. With a mighty blast of sound that resonated through Brenna's whole being, the company moved out. Chills swept down her spine and her hair stood on end. She was lost in her thoughts and memories of darker times not so long ago. Her mind recalled the clear, hopeful, haunting sound of the horns piercing the darkness. She shivered with the memories and shook herself.

She found Eomer looking at her in concern but she just smiled at him softly. "I'm fine my friend," she told him. "Just memories of darker times."

Eomer looked down at the horn in his hand and saw the haunted look in her eyes. Aragorn observed his young friend in concern. He too remembered the sound of the horns. It was a sound that still sent shivers down his spine. He would be forever grateful and in Rohan's debt for answering their call.

It was a quiet and contemplative group that began the long trek back towards their homelands. Brenna sighed softly and knew that she would have to tell them about the things that she had Seen. That she had been silent about it bothered them even though they would not say it. Looking to her left side, she saw Elladan and his brother riding nearby. He looked up sensing her gaze and offered her a small smile.

Looking down at the reigns in her hands, she drew a calming breath before addressing them. "It's not that I intend to keep things from any of you," she told them tiredly. "There are some things that I See that are meant for me alone and some of these things I cannot change. I was distraught earlier because I saw your lives and your passing," she paused emotionally.

Her elvish Guard members and friends looked at her sympathetically. Elladan watched her sadly and nodded to her in understanding. The Men in their company became quiet and contemplative. Now they understood her pain and grief all too well. She cried for them, and that both touched and humbled them.

"I've Seen that the next several years are going to be very busy, for all of us. I will need to remain and recover in Rivendell for a time before I will have to travel to Ithilien, stopping in Minas Tirith for the next princess and eventually to Dol Amroth for a brief stay to help there. I will have stops along the way though," she told them evasively, not meeting any of them in the eye.

"Brenna," Eomer began warningly, "if you do not tell us, then we cannot prepare and do what we must to aid and protect you."

Setting her jaw she turned and looked to him. "There are things that I must do that others will not necessarily agree with," she told him firmly. "I will let you know when the time comes, but you need to trust me to know what I'm doing."

"Lass, we've trusted you thus far," one of the nearby Riders called out, "but thrice now you've ended up grievously injured for it. It's our duty to aid and protect you milady."

Brenna smiled tightly as she was all too aware of her injuries at the moment. "I know what I'm doing my friend. I trust you to keep my safe and well, which is why I keep my own counsel and the counsel of the Valar until I need to let others know. I'll be safe and recovering in Rivendell while the majority of the company must return to their homelands and make the necessary preparations for the conflict with the East and South. I'll make my way towards Gondor and make it in time," she said trailing off.

"There's going to be something to delay you along the way isn't there Brenna?" Aragorn asked while looking at her piercingly. "One of these little detours you're going to take is going to be dangerous is it not?"

Brenna looked down at her hands and almost smiled at the stream of curses leaving the mouths of her friends. Though they were said in various languages, the meaning was all the same. Looking back up, she saw the scowls on her friends' faces. Many of them telling her outright that she could not go.

"I'll do what I must, just as you will," she said while looking at him softly. She grinned at both kings and said, "The heirs and sons of your realms will be born in roughly three, perhaps four years."

The cheers and hoots of the company caused her to grin at them cheekily. She mentally patted herself on the back with the distraction and deflection she tried to throw into the conversation. Her mini celebration was short lived when she saw the stern looks on the faces of her Guard. With a sigh she looked heavenwards before addressing them once more.

"Most of you will return to your lives and your homes," she said holding her hand up to their protest. "The protection of your realms and their sovereignty is more important than most of you traversing across Arda in the coming years. I am meant to travel and Heal and so I shall. You are meant to get on with your lives and bring the world into a new Age of Man."

"Little sister I would have you part of that world and Age," Aragorn told her softly. "Is there nothing that can be done to aid you more? I would protect you if I could, perhaps when we reach the safety of Rivendell we can further discuss reinforcing your Guard and entourage."

Brenna shook her head with a grin. "Aragorn, I'll be fine," she assured him. "While there will be some... tension... over the next couple of years before I reach Gondor, I will be well. I promise no more slaying Nazgul or Wraiths."

Eomer leaned across his saddle and looked at her sternly. "Little sister you had better come to no harm on this excursion of yours," his deep timber voice was deadly calm, belying the emotions flashing in his eyes. "Lothíriel will have my hide if anything was to happen to you and I would never forgive myself."

"I will do my very best to stay out of trouble," she told him. "I will complete the few tasks leading up to my arrival in Ithilien and make my way to Minas Tirith. All will be well you'll see. The next task will further aid the coming Age of Man and help to bring peace."

They regarded her warily, wondering just what it was that she would be doing. None of them had the slightest clue where she would be going or what she could possibly be doing on her way to Gondor. It frightened many of them how she blithely talked about her next task while she winced from the injuries sustained from the Shadow Wraith.

The rest of their trip was rather uneventful. It was a sore and exhausted Brenna that was swept from Hiril and carried by Elladan into the Last Homely House. She had put on a brave face for them, but they knew that she was recovering and often in pain on their trip. He walked quickly through the halls and called out for a maid to come help attend his lady. Along the walk she had fallen asleep in his arms. That she was so trusting of him moved him like nothing else.

He gently laid her on her bed and kissed her brow before he stepped from the room to allow the maid to help wash and change her. Walking through the halls towards the study he nodded to his grandfather. Lord Glorfindel had been filling him in on everything that had happened. The group talked late into the night.

Rivendell played host to the company for a week before they needed to leave. Brenna stood on the steps with Oriel and some of her elvish Guard waving goodbye to the others. The Sons of Elrond would need to return to Gondor to assist Aragorn preparing for the next confrontation. Legolas and Gimli left to explore and return to Ithilien.

Haldir and his brothers remained with Telgalad, Faelchon, and Beleg. It was decided that Angrod and a good portion of the other elves from Valinor that had chosen to stay in Arda with Brenna would travel with her. Nearly one third of the warriors had returned on the next available ship to Valinor and they did so with Brenna's and the Valar's blessings.

Of the other members of her Guard only Wulf, Dernhelm, and Erchirion had been elected to stay. Aragorn insisted that she allow at least one Ranger and a handful of knights remain as well. Most of the others tried to volunteer and all but demanded to stay at her side, but Brenna was adamant that she would be fine and they were gravely needed elsewhere.

It was a difficult goodbye for Brenna. She would not see her friends for almost two years. Since their discussion on the return to Rivendell she had remained evasive and none committal about what she would be facing. It wasn't that she didn't trust them; it was more that she knew that they would vehemently object to her aiding the people in her next task.

It was nearly two months before Brenna moved around easily like she had before. The wound from the Wraith took longer to heal because of its severity and the unknown characteristics of the wounds. In her time there she sat speaking with the elvish lords and elders of the elvish ways and culture. She was tutored in the written and spoken languages regularly and though she was not quite fluent, it was close. They sparred with her in the practice rings and helped to hone her skills. It also served to build back her muscle strength and keep her body accustomed to the movements.

The separation from Elladan for Brenna was a difficult one. He had been by her side for over a year before the incident with the Shadow Wraith. She would often stand up in the highest room of the Last Homely House and look out over the Valley missing him. Her companions did their best to keep her occupied. Lords Glorfindel and Celeborn would often sit with her and explain to her the workings and significance of their ceremonies and customs. They would take the time to tell her of family both those that had passed and the family that she would officially become a member of in just about two decades.

Days passed to weeks and the seasons turned. Brenna was taught the ways of the scouts and Rangers, and would often spend days and weeks in the surrounding area learning all she could. The Dunedain Rangers took quite a shine to her and took her under their wing. They would stop in every couple of months with news from the Old Kingdom and have messengers sent from Rivendell to Aragorn in Gondor.

Brenna ended up staying through summer and into early fall when she felt the urge to move on. It was one such crisp fall morning that she made her announcement to her Guard and the residents of Rivendell. Lord Glorfindel looked at the young elleth, still a youth in the eyes of their people and announced that he would be accompanying her. When she went to protest he told her that he made a promise to the House of Elrond and he intended to keep it. Lord Celeborn hid his grin and nodded to his friend. He made the arrangements for her eminent departure just three days away.

Oriel spent her time in Rivendell attending to Oriel as her companion and handmaiden, but was also often seen with Angrod. The newly bonded pair enjoyed their time together and the strengthening of their bond. He pledged to stay at his fëa-mate's side and take part in Brenna's journey around Arda.

Dawn of the day they intended to depart was met with a flurry of activity. The night before was a lively celebration in honor of the company leaving in the early dawn. Brenna had her gear and packs ready the night before. Dressing in a deep forest green riding habit of elvish design, she quickly made herself ready. She pulled her hair back in a long French braid down her back and checked to make sure that the skirt of the riding habit was smoothed out.

Standing and looking around, she made sure that she had everything that she would need. Once satisfied, she began strapping on her weapons. She had a dagger in each boot now, and another hidden in the folds of her riding habit. Her jewelry was safely stitched into a hidden pocket of the skirt as well. Next came her quiver and bow as well as her twin knives. Lastly came her sword slung on her hip.

She pulled on her well-worn travel boots, vambraces and the new leather fingerless gloves that Lord Celeborn had made for her. Standing, she grabbed her packs and left the room. Walking quickly down the familiar halls, she made her way to the courtyard. Grinning, she saw Wulf and Dernhelm had Ash and Hiril ready to go. Both horses were saddled and she could see that both had additional supplies and food stuffs in their saddle bags.

Walking down the steps she went to where they were waiting. Each man grabbed one of her packs with whiskered grins and put them in the saddlebags of Ash for the time being. Hiril would be given rest in a day or so and Brenna would switch to riding the ever faithful Ash. Both horses turned to her expectantly and she pulled the carrots she had ready from one of her pockets. They snorted and gently took the proffered treats greedily. The two affectionately nuzzled her shoulders and nickered softly. Brenna laughed softly and patted their necks. She turned back to see that Wulf and Dernhelm were grinning at her affectionately.

"Brenna, girl you're one of us I swear," Wulf said with amusement coloring his voice.

"Aye," Dernhelm said in his deep baritone, "that she is."

Erchirion watched them with a soft smile on his face. Though he missed his family and his lady love, he had no regrets about staying at Brenna's side. Lady Miriel had accepted his suit and understood his family's debt to the elf maiden. Though their parting had been a bittersweet one, they would soon be reunited and wed shortly thereafter. It would be Elphir's turn to travel with Brenna after as Amrothos was the first and their father was needed by their king.

"Young one," Celeborn said stepping forward with his arms open for her. "We shall see each other soon I should like to think. I will remain here with those that wish to stay until it is our time to go. Now come, you've forgotten your cloak. Go now with the blessings of the Valar. Be safe."

Brenna hugged the ruler of the Realm and thanked him. She let him clasp her elvish cloak snugly around her shoulders. Stepping back she smiled at him before turning to mount Hiril. The company said their goodbyes and mounted their own horses before they set out on their way.

At the edge of the elvish realm they asked her which direction. She calmly told them that they would take the Old South Road to the Gap of Rohan. Wulf and Dernhelm turned to her swiftly and stared her down before swear fluently in three different languages. The others in the group hadn't caught on to the interplay yet, but when they did Brenna knew that there would be objections all around.

"Bema woman!" Wulf exclaimed. "You know the dangers that will be along the way. The Dunlendings want revenge, they'll waylay our party!"

"And yet that is our path," Brenna told them sternly. "We need to take the quickest road to Gondor. There will be some pauses along the way, but we must take this road. In the end you will understand why. You will just have to trust me."

"There will be trouble along the way?" Glorfindel asked.

Brenna bit her lip unsure of how much she should tell them. Resolving herself in her decision she addressed the group. "There are those that need help along this route. There are lands here that need to prosper and people that need hurts healed. It is my duty to do this," she told them firmly.

The group nodded grimly and continued on their way. It was four days later that they figured out just what Brenna meant. Their way was blocked by an armed group of Dunlendings. Brenna and the others heard and saw the scouts and others traveling flank to them. It was with chills down her spine that Brenna realized that they were effectively surrounded and outnumbered.

In garbled Westron, the apparent leader of the group addressed Brenna directly. "Word has come to us of a lady elf who helps and heals the lands and people," he spoke strongly. "I have come on behalf of my chieftain to request your aid for our people and lands. We mean you no harm."

Brenna looked around them pointedly looking at their weapons and the man held his hands up away from his weapons as if to show he meant to talk to her peacefully. The others around them made similar gestured. Many of them bore signs of malnourishment and scars from battle. They were a poor people and Brenna knew that they needed help. Even with the land granted them by Aragorn, they would need help to grow and prosper.

Cautiously she dismounted, despite the protests of her travel companions and walked towards the leader. He walked towards her and met her half way, bowing to her respectfully. He kept his hands were the others could see them as he straightened.

"My name is Marroc, son of Sadoc who is chieftain of the Dunlendings," he told her. "I've come to ask of your help milady, for I fear we will not survive another year should the conditions remain as such."

Brenna nodded to him respectfully. "I'm going to trust you at your word Marroc son of Sadoc. For should you be distrustful you and all of your people will be wiped from this world permanently. There is no room for deceit."

He looked at her and nodded solemnly. "I know milady, however the fact remains that our people are in desperate need of your help," he told her in his accented Westron. "Please help us."

Brenna looked at him and felt the stars on her forehead warm and knew that she must obey the will of the Valar. She nodded to him and held her hand up when those in her party went to protest. "The Valar have willed that I aid you and your people. Should you even think to betray or harm myself or those in this party, the consequences will be dire."

The proud man fought with himself and eventually dropped to his knees. "Thank you milady, we shall be in your debt," he said grasping her hand.

Brenna gasped and shook with the flashes of images swamping her. Her companions called out to her as her eyes rolled back and she fell to her knees. Marroc called out asking her if she was alright, not sure what was happening. Her Guard made their way to her side and pulled her hand from Marroc's. The man looked on in shock and horror as she trembled and then sighed as he relinquished his grasp. He looked down at his hand in shock and turned to her Guard and told them he didn't know. Wulf and Dernhelm especially looked at him distrustfully, but held their tongues.

Brenna wearily opened her eyes. She saw that she was being held against Glorfindel and her Guard had protectively surrounded her. She pushed to sit up, but Glorfindel steadied her and told her to rest a moment and collect herself a bit. Sighing she took a few calming breaths and then nodded to him. She brushed off her riding habit as she stood and faced the son of the Dunlending chieftain. He and his people had seen such hardship.

She pushed past her Guard and walked towards the still kneeling man. Crouching in front of him she said, "We will come with you Marroc, and I will do what I can to help your people before the winter sets in, but then I will need to continue on to the Gap of Rohan before it is too dangerous to travel."

He nodded to her. "You're a Seer as well milady?" he asked cautiously.

Brenna looked at him guardedly. "Yes I am, but it is a gift that I am still learning to control. It will eventually become too much for me here on the shores of Arda and I will only find respite from it for short periods of time. I generally avoid touching strangers for I am often swamped with visions."

"I meant no harm lady elf," he tried to assure her frantically. "Had I known I would not have touched you milady. You have my word that you shall be given a respectful amount of personal space by me and my people."

Brenna nodded to him and the two stood. She had Seen that he was only in his early thirties, yet looked so much older than his age. He had remained behind with his ailing father, but his brothers had listened to the empty promises of Saruman. His people just wanted a better way of life for themselves and were becoming desperate. Sure there was anger and a deep hurt between their people and the people of Rohan over who were the rightful people to rule the realm, but mostly they just wanted a means to survive. They were tired of war and wanted peace as much as their neighbors did.

Brenna looked around and saw that his men had carefully kept their hands away from their weapons lest their movements be construed as threatening. She watched as they shifted their weight uncomfortably under the weight of her gaze. Inclining her head to them with a soft smile she told Marroc to lead the way and escort them to their chieftain.

Her Guard warily watched the Dunlendings. They grumbled about the foolishness of trusting these people, but stopped under Brenna's withering glare. She vaulted into Hiril's saddle and watched as the Dunlendings led their own steeds from their obscured hiding places just off of the road. About an hour down the road the led the group sharply left, down a well-worn road through a copse of trees.

The party set up camp as the sun was dipping in the sky. Brenna's travel companions warily regarded their hosts. They had made the agreement to set up their own rotating watch throughout the night. Brenna and Oriel would be staying securely in the middle of their group and kept watch over very carefully. While they trusted Brenna, they did not trust the Dunlendings.

Brenna sat on her bedroll and hummed quietly to herself looking up at the stars in the clear night sky. Though they were surrounded by trees, they could still clearly see the heavens in all of their glory. The night air had a bite to it and there were three large fires lit and kept going throughout the night. This helped to stave off the worst of the cold as they all huddled and hunkered down for the night.

Brenna woke up groggily in the morning and stirred, stretching like a slumbering cat. She briefly burrowed back under the blankets before sitting up and rubbing the sleep from her eyes. She sat crossed legged on her bedroll and fixed her braid as the camp slowly came to life.

Brushing herself off, she stood and set about gathering her things and packing up. Oriel who had slept nearby mirrored her actions as did the rest of her travel companions. The Dunlendings watched the synchronized and practiced movements of the group in curiosity and some amusement. Though the little lady was clearly a lady, she apparently knew how to travel and was ready to move relatively quickly. It was clear to them that she had done this before.

Brenna looked across the camp and nodded to Marroc and his men when she and her party were ready. The group sat and ate a light breakfast before heading out. Marroc had informed them that they would reach their village before nightfall if they kept a steady pace.

Mounting Ash and opting to give Hiril a rest for the day, Brenna waited for the group to set out. Wulf and Dernhelm kept especially close to Brenna. Their every instinct told them to get out of there, to get her out of there fast and quick. Brenna could practically feel the tension rolling off of them and told them quietly to relax, that none of them would come to harm. The two Riders nodded to her grimly, watching the Dunlendings distrustfully, with their hands near their weapons waiting for the attack.

Marroc had warned his men not to do anything rash or threatening towards the group. He made it plain to them that without the help of the little she-elf their people would not last another year. It was sobering news for his people, who were desperate enough to put aside their own grievances to survive.

A signal was given and answering response sounded. The group moved forward and around the next bend they saw the gate to the village opening. Brenna saw smoke pluming out of chimneys and listened to the hustle and bustle of the large village. They were ushered into the village and led down the main road where the people had begun to gather. Many of them whispered at the sight of the approaching company of travelers. They were fascinated by the elves, but more distrustful of the men. They scowled fiercely at the sight of Wulf and Dernhelm who both had grim sets to their features as the rode through the village.

Marroc led them to the center of the village where a tall, frail looking man leaned heavily on a staff. Marroc called out in greeting and gave his salutations to his father and chieftain. Brenna followed and dismounted Ash. Her Guard stayed nearby and had their hands on their weapons watching warily.

The older man bowed shakily and coughed viciously in the process. He was heaving and wheezing in the simple task and Brenna stepped forward ignoring the protests of her friends. She took the older man's hands and introduced herself. She looked into his tired and feverish eyes as her hands glowed faintly blue. Speaking with him softly she tried to sooth his hurts and help heal his illness only to discover that there was nothing that she could really do to take it away. Old age and cancer would claim him before spring. She vowed to make him as comfortable as she could in his remained time, even if that meant staying in the village.

Brenna looked up at Marroc who was watching her hopefully. It was obvious that he held his father in high regard and affection. She looped her arm through the chieftains and implored him to rest, that his son would see to their accommodations. He tried to protest, but Brenna managed to charm the older man to sitting at his table in his home and sipping an herbal tea in no time. Marroc nodded to her thankfully and helped his father to the chair by the father before leading her back out of the house.

He turned to her once they were far enough from the house. "How bad is it?" he asked.

Brenna looked at him sadly. "I'm sorry to say that the illness has progressed too far combine that with his age there is not much that I can do for him," she admitted. "I will do what I can to make his remaining time as comfortable as possible, even if that means staying through the winter."

"So soon?" he asked breathlessly. "I am to lose him as well so soon? By the Valar, is my kin cursed? First my brothers, then my mother and now my father!"

Brenna tried to sooth and console the man, but finally thought it better to let him grieve. "I truly am sorry Marroc. I will do what I can, but I make no promises. If we could be shown where we're to stay, in the morning you can lead me to where your crops are just about ready to harvest and where you will plant next year."

He nodded to her tiredly. "Follow me," he told her. "There have been four cottages that have been constructed for you and your company. It will be tight quarters for such a large party, but we hope that you will be comfortable and warm here."

"I'm sure that we will be fine," she assured him. "I'm grateful that you've generously thought to provide such accommodations for us."

He smiled at her and led the group to four cottages that were built just a short way from his father's home. Marroc showed them the paddocks that had been quickly put together near the homes for their horses. He pointed out the well and told them that he would give them a full tour of the village on the morrow. With a bow to them, he left them to settle in for the night.

"Brenna is it wise staying here?" Wulf asked her cautiously. "We're surrounded and essentially shut in on enemy territory."

"Wulf, I know that you're worried, but it will be fine. You have to trust me. Now stop worrying like a mother hen and go get settled in," she told him with an amused smile.

Brenna was unsaddling Ash and Hiril when she heard whispers behind her. She peaked over her shoulder to see a group of children staring at her and watching from the other side of the fenced in paddock. She greeted the children with a smile and a wave. They spoke to one another excitedly pointing to her ears. Turning back to her task she continued brushing Hiril. Brenna was humming softly to herself when she felt a tug on her riding habit. Looking down there was a little girl, no more than three, perhaps four years old looking up at her with big dark eyes. Brenna crouched down eye level with the little one and introduced herself. The child grinned toothily and garbled something, handing Brenna a small bunch of wild flowers. Touched, she thanked the little girl.

Language was obviously a barrier, but Brenna still listened to the girl as she chattered on. The little girl reached out her grubby little hands to pat Brenna's cheek and then boldly and inquisitively touch her ear. Brenna caught the child's ear and laughed with the girl. She tickled the little one and then introduced her to the ever patient and noble Hiril and Ash. Picking her up, she let her pat Hiril on the nose before she carried her safely back to where the other children waiting.

It was on her way back to the fence that she realized that quite an audience had assembled. Brenna brought the little girl to where her older brother was waiting, clutching his own handful of flowers. He shyly thrust them to her. Brenna accepted them with a smile and thanked him as well.

The villagers, not sure of what to expect from a real elvish lady, were pleasantly surprised that she was so open and friendly. She hadn't turned up her nose at the accommodations, nor had she been rude or reproachful towards the little one. She had embraced her, despite her dirty attire and hands. This was not the aloof and pious elf maiden they had expected this was an approachable, down to earth being that truly was there to help them.

Brenna passed the little girl to the waiting arms of her mother. She stood near the fence speaking with some of the people for a little while before she took her leave to finish her task of tending her horses. She sang quietly to herself while she completed her task, soothing her four legged friends and herself.

Returning back to the cottage that she would be sharing with Oriel and some of her Guard, she sat at the table where Wulf and Dernhelm were sitting scowling. They watched her quietly while she ate the bowl of stew that Oriel had passed her. She knew that they were upset to be here, and she really didn't blame them. Sighing, she pushed back the bowl and met their eyes.

"I know that you're angry," she said causing them to snort. "I know that you don't understand and don't want to be here. I wish there was something that I could tell you that would make this easier, but there isn't. There's been centuries of hate and distrust between your people and I understand that. But you need to understand that this is something that I have to do. If they aren't helped they will continue lashing out and trying to survive any way that they can. We cannot afford more enemies, not with the East and South amassing their armies again."

"Say you help them Brenna," Wulf began hotly. "What then? Will you got to the South and East and heal their hurts as well?"

Brenna looked unsure of what to say. It hurt her greatly to have her friends so upset and angry with her. She could see the concern and disapproval in the others as well. Closing her eyes as if in pain she looked away. She didn't know what she could say or do because her task was before her.

She stood from the table and went to look out the window at the darkening sky. "Not all of my choices will be easy or popular. I am sorry if they cause you pain or discomfort," she told them in a flat, emotionless voice. "If you'll excuse me I'm going to retire for the night."

The group watched her walk away guiltily. However, they couldn't help but question her choice. These people had been part of the war, on the opposing side. It rankled, especially with Wulf and Dernhelm whose people had suffered greatly from it. It wasn't until they heard her crying softly in the other room that they knew they had hurt their friend.

Oriel stood and scowled at the males. "None of you seem to realize that while she did indeed choose to come here, there was little choice for her. She is following the will of the Valar. While I too am apprehensive of being here, I do not fault her." Oriel gave one last fierce look, "You all ought to think long and hard on everything that girl has been through and how much of a difference she has made. To make her question and doubt things now. You ought to be ashamed. What would your lords say?"

Wulf and Dernhelm shifted uncomfortably in their seats, feeling the weight of the gazes of the others. The group looked from one to the other and knew that they had crossed a line. One that they weren't sure that they could come back from. The members of her Elvish Guard sat silently, torn between their duty to protect and the fact that they had hurt a friend by saying nothing. They knew that she was struggling with her journey and task, as well as her separation from the others. Haldir in particular felt terrible and vowed to stand by her and make it right. He left the room to check on his young friend and was followed by his brothers and Angrod. The rest of her elvish Guard followed behind and waited in the hallway.

They entered the room and found her lying facing the wall crying. Her pain was palpable in the room. Oriel sat on the bed stroking her hair whispering to her soothingly, but to no avail. Their young friend seemed inconsolable. Her soft sobs tore at them and the others who could now hear her with the door to her room open.

Wulf and Dernhelm swallowed reflexively against the emotions that they were feeling. When they could no longer take her pain they walked to her room and knelt next to the bed. She was crying in heart wrenching gasps, and it was now beginning to worry the others. They reached out to her and she pulled away from their grasp. Both men looked as though they had been struck and realized that they had deeply wounded the girl.

Brenna could not stop crying. The months of separation were beginning to weigh heavily on her. She missed them. She missed him more than she could begin to put to words. She felt terrible that she needed to be here to help these people after all that they had done, but she knew what they had suffered as well. Brenna felt torn and didn't know what do to make it better or to fix it.

The warming on her brow let her know that she was not alone. With a sigh she felt the Valar pulling and calling her to them. Her friends called out in alarm when she went limp and they felt her fëa leave. She let herself be carried away, softly drifting on a breeze.

When she opened her eyes she found herself sitting on the shores of Valinor under the moonlight. The waves lapped gently at her toes in the sand. The breeze swirled around her, caressing her skin softly. Sighing she closed her eyes and wrapped her arms around her knees.

She felt and heard the sifting of the sand as someone approached her. The footsteps stopped next to her and she felt someone sit down next to her in companionable silence. An arm cautiously wrapped around her shoulders and drew her towards them.

Brenna opened her eyes and saw that instead of the Valar as striking elleth had come to her. In the distance she saw the Valar watching with encouraging and reassuring smiles. She turned back to the beautiful elleth next to her and wondered who she was. There was something about her appearance that seems so familiar, but she couldn't put her finger on it.

"You miss him great don't you little one?" the mysterious elf lady asked in a lyrical voice.

Brenna nodded, not trusting her voice. She peered at the taller elleth quietly and tried to connect the dots. Looking at her features carefully, there was a familiarity to her. Then something clicked. She knew that this was Lady Celebrain, Elladan's mother.

Brenna looked up at her with large green eyes and Celebrain laughed softly. She squeezed her comfortingly and they sat watching the waves for a time. It was soothing and peaceful for Brenna. The gentle roll and crash of the sea was beginning to lull her and drain away all of her weariness and sadness.

Celebrain addressed her once more. "Before you go back little one, you must know that he loves you dearly. Your parting will be brief and soon you will be bonded. The others will come around. You know that you're doing what you must," she told the younger elf. "You need to be strong. This is only a rough patch and it will get better. You will understand and believe this. You must move on from Dunland before the beginning of spring. You need to reach the Anduin in time young one."

Brenna nodded and thanked her. Celebrain hugged the girl and kissed her brow. "We will be glad to welcome you when you arrive in Valinor. I look forward to having another daughter to dote on. Though it grieves me that mine will pass, I'm overjoyed to know that she will be returned to us," Celebrain told her.

Este and Elbereth reached Brenna's side and helped her to stand. They smiled at their brave little warrior. Each of them took one of her hands and walked with her along the beach telling her that they were pleased with her and would watch over. They gave her their blessings and sent her back on the warm ocean breeze.

Irmo sent her into a deep healing sleep when she returned. Their little charge needed her rest from all her toils and troubles. He stood guard over her dreams and rest and gave her pleasant dreams.

Brenna spent the next six months with the Dunlendings. Her time with them showed a different side to this people much to the chagrin of Wulf and Dernhelm. They still fervently and stoutly believed in their right to the lands of Rohan, but were slowly becoming more accepting of their new home, especially now since Aragorn had promised them land within his realm.

Brenna could often be found in the company of Sadoc, soothing him as best she could through his dwindling and failing health. She would spend days at a time when the weather permitted healing the land and encouraging the soil to be fertile. Her group weathered a bitter and difficult winter with the people of Dunland, giving them further insight into the struggles that they faced as a nation. Eventually they all lent their help to them willing and not just at Brenna's behest.

Finally it was one day in late February when Brenna felt the urge to move. She knew that her time in Dunland had come to an end and made her announcement to the group. Marroc nodded to her gratefully for her aid not only to his people, but his dying father. Sadoc had lived to see his people through one more winter and had peacefully passed in his sleep two nights prior. Brenna had been at his side, singing softly to the elderly man, bringing him peace in his final moments. The man had regrets in his final days and had letters written to both the King of Rohan and the King of Gondor. He expressed his regret and best wishes to the rulers. Brenna promised to carry the letters to her friends.

The large traveling group made quick preparations to set out the following morning. They were given as much of the supplies that the people could spare at that time. Brenna's help allowed them to survive the winter, but more than that she ensured that they would endure and flourish in the coming years. Their harvest would yield plenty and they would be able to grow.

Marroc gave a solemn vow and pledge that he and his people should be at peace with their neighbors. He told Brenna that they would gladly accept a truce and work alongside their fellow man to bring peace to the New Age. He clasped her forearm in a warriors grasp and pulled her into a grateful hug on the morning of her departure. Brenna had promised him that his line would live long and lead noble and prosperous lives. She took the letters that his father had written as well as letters from himself and turned back to her friends.

Brenna mounted Hiril when the group was packed and ready to leave. She called goodbye to her new friends and rode out along the road back to the Old South Road. From there they set out East along the road and made for the Gap of Rohan. Brenna set a fast pace, and urged them to move on. Her insistence and urgency had them concerned, but they followed her lead.

Three days later they made it to the Gap of Rohan. They set a grueling pace and were met by a party of patrolling Riders at the border of Rohan. The Riders hailed Brenna and her travel companions, and escorted them to the nearest settlement in the Westfold to rest their horses and have a brief respite from their travels. Wulf and Dernhelm joyously heard news of their families and friends. Brenna watched the reunion sadly and made a decision.

Walking to the group Brenna waited for them to finish speaking. "Wulf, Dernhelm I think you should return to your families for a time," she told them. "You've been away from your homes and families far longer than I would've liked."

"My lady!" Wulf exclaimed. "We cannot just leave you. Your numbers are already too few for the dangers you've encountered."

The Riders looked at the group in question and listened as their comrades explained what had happened over the past year. There were exclamations of shock at her injury and scowls hearing her aid of the Dunlendings. It was at the fierce and vehement defense that Wulf and Dernhelm gave that made them pause. In rapid Rohirric, their countrymen explained to them the suffering and hardships the people faced. Telling them that the Valar willed her to act on their behalf. They told them of the promises of peace and truce, but were wary. When they finally and begrudgingly nodded in understanding they looked back at Brenna.

"It still does not change the fact that you'll both need to journey to your homes and families. I'll be fine and make due," she told them simply.

"A likely story Brenna," Dernhelm said dryly. "You've been having us ride full out for nearly a week to make it this far. Something is coming and you're riding right towards it. Just you try to deny it!"

She grinned up at him. "I deny nothing of the sort. I do have a pressing matter to attend to and a short time frame to get there," she admitted laughing at the stream of curses from him. "Peace my friend, if you are so concerned then perhaps Fram and Haleth can be sent for to meet us along the way and you can trade off. Would that put your mind at ease?"

One of the Riders called out to a young man in his late teens. The lanky lad came forward at the call and listened as they instructed him to ride with missives for Lords Fram and Haleth of the Royal Guard. They were to be informed that Lady Brenna had returned and would need them. The young man looked toward Brenna with wide eyes and flushed seeing the amused look on the lady elf's face. He nodded importantly and whistled for his horse. His commander handed him two written missives and Brenna had another two.

The Riders all knew of Lady Brenna and all that she had done for their people. Any one of them would have gladly and proudly ridden with her to give her protection or aid. It was an honor for them to return the favor in any way that they could.

A second messenger was summonsed. He was given missives to be sent South to Minas Tirith immediately. Brenna gratefully and tiredly accepted the hospitality of the nearby village. The leader of the Riders led her to his home where he and his family offered to host her stay there. Oriel came in with her bag and the two elleths entered the guest room that they were being provided. A bath was drawn for Brenna and she washed away the many miles of sweat and grime away. She emerged from the bath refreshed and tugged on the soft chemise and under dress of a new riding habit. Sighing she allowed herself to be seated on the bed where Oriel brushed out her hair and then pushed the tired younger woman under the covers to sleep.

Oriel slipped out of the room once she was sure that her friend was sound asleep. She walked down the stairs and went outside to find where the rest of their group was staying. By now they all knew that something was coming up and were a bit concerned for their friend. Their time in Dunland had been difficult for Brenna, especially at first.

She reached the group where they were encamped in a circle near the square. Though they had been offered accommodations they waved it off, only accepting the chance to bathe and the generous offer to fill their bellies.

"How is she melamin?" Angrod asked causing the group to go quiet.

"She's asleep," Oriel said simply. "The poor girl is exhausted, but determined to leave in the morning. It will be a fast hard ride to where ever it is that she needs to be."

"She gave you no hints?" Erchirion asked.

Shaking her head Oriel replied, "No she gave away no information."

The group stayed up talking and pondering what Brenna could possibly be needed to do and where they were going. They dispersed a while later, and went to bed, for they knew that ere the sun rising that they would be riding out again.

Brenna awoke the next day and looked down at her outfit, contemplating the choice. Sighing, she drew the under dress over her head and exchanged it for an under tunic and then a black outer tunic over that. Tugging on leggings first and then her boots, she began to meticulously pack her things. Her weapons were next to be put on and she was ready to go. She looked over to see Oriel watching her carefully.

Brenna just smiled reassuringly to her friend and grabbed her stuff to go outside. Downstairs she accepted a warm and hearty breakfast from her hosts and thanked them for their kindness. Setting her gear near the door she waved over the four young children of the Rider. They each came to greet her shyly and she silently checked and scanned each of them for any injury or illness, while listening to them attentively. She smiled and let them lead her outside where her entourage was beginning to assemble.

Her things were taken and stored in her saddle bags and she greeted her friends with a smile. Looking out over the horizon she saw a cloud of dust moving fast in their direction. Laughing merrily, she just grinned at her friends knowing who was coming their way. Over the last hill Brenna could see that Eomer King and his Royal Guard were present. They rode straight in the village towards where Brenna's company was preparing to depart.

Eomer vaulted off his horse and strode towards Brenna with a smile. "Little sister!" his deep voice called out happily. "Welcome back to Rohan. What's this I hear you're heading towards trouble again?" he asked hugging her tightly.

Brenna shrugged, "Not really trouble for me. I'll be fine."

He gave her a stern look and said, "Your definition of fine and mine are two very different things. I've read the missive and of your adventures with the Dunlendings Brenna. You and I will need to sit down and talk about things when there is time my friend. I've also read the letters from the late chieftain and his son. There is much to think about."

There were murmurs and startled looks towards Brenna when the people heard where she had been all these past months. Those that knew explained to their kinsmen and fellow countrymen. They told them of the truce and vow of peace that she had received in return from their new chieftain and though they were wary, they would trust Lady Brenna knew what she was doing.

Brenna looked and found that Eothain, Fram, and Haleth were all present as well. She grinned and hugged them in greeting. It was a happy reunion for her as she heard of them and their families. She explained to them that Wulf and Dernhelm had earned a respite and some time with their families and kinsmen. Once she explained their reluctance to leave her Fram and Haleth immediately agreed to ride with her party towards Gondor with leave from Eomer. Eomer and Eothain both looked like they wanted to ride with the group, but knew that they needed to make the necessary preparations for the coming confrontation with the Corsairs and Haradrim.

Brenna made sure that her things were secured and ready to go while Haleth and Fram checked over their supplies. They would have to restock and grab extra gear on their way through Edoras. Eomer spoke with her quietly about her stay with the Dunlending people and what she did there. His jaw tightened off and on throughout the conversation, but he could see the strategy in making sure that they weren't another enemy to watch. He knew the intelligence in keeping the calm and peace.

Eomer insisted on his group accompanying her to the border if Anórien. Brenna seemed reticent at first but agreed to it when she saw that he would not budge. She grinned at her group and told them it was time to move out. Her eyes clouded briefly as she looked off in the distance. Coming back to herself she had a tight smile and nudged Hiril forward. Ash trotted along beside her. Both were ready to stretch their legs. The group moved out and set off flying across the plains.

Brenna softly whispered on the wind to the horses, urging them to fly. She softly sang of strength and endurance as they raced making astonishing progress each day on their way to Anórien. They stopped in Edoras for a day and Brenna was warmly welcomed by Lothíriel and little princess Léofwyn, who had gotten so big already. Brenna picked the golden child up and smile as she tugged at her hair. She sang softly to the little girl who watched her with wide curious eyes. The following day the group set out and continued on their way.

Brenna was sad that she could not stay longer, but she needed to make it to the Anduin. Near Cair Andros, she would need to make sure that she was there in time. Eomer regarded his sister-friend carefully over the next three days of their travels. He could tell that something was spurning her on to make her travel at such a pace. He prayed that no harm would come to her.

At the border of Anórien, Brenna and Eomer parted ways. He tried to urge her to take more Riders with her, but she told him that he would need his men. She explained to him that in six months he would need to begin moving his army to help Gondor face the Corsairs and Haradrim. He nodded to her and thanked her for the warning. He and his personal guard watched them ride over the horizon before turning back towards Edoras. Looking back over his shoulder as he rode, Eomer prayed that she would be safe.