(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 32
Brenna reined in Hiril and Ash came to a stop next to her. Looking out on the horizon towards the East, she could see the Anduin in the distance. She felt the tickle of anticipation run down her spine and knew that within the next two days she would need to be ready to take a chilly dip. Looking towards the heavens, she prayed to the Valar to keep him safe.
Her travel companions pulled up beside her and looked towards the mighty Anduin. They could see Cair Andros and looked towards Brenna curiously. The island had been a key location during the war against Mordor. It made them wonder what could possibly be drawing Brenna there.
Haldir pulled next to her and watched her quietly. "Brenna, can you tell us now just what it is that you need to do?" he asked fervently. "Is there nothing that you can let us know or forewarn us of?"
Brenna sighed, knowing that it was unfair of her to expect them to just follow along not knowing what dangers may lay ahead. Nibbling her bottom lip for a moment she turned back and saw that her friends were looking at her in concern. Sighing she nodded to him, causing the collective group to sigh in relief.
"I need to reach the shore of the Anduin by the end of the day," she told them. "Somewhere near Cair Andros someone along those shores is going to need my help."
"Well that narrows it down," Erchirion muttered dryly.
Brenna snorted. "You didn't let me finish. In the next day or two I'm going to need to walk along the shore of the river," she said pausing. "How well can you swim Erchirion?" she asked causing the Prince to let out a stream of curses under his breath.
"Brenna surely you're jesting? The waters will be frigid this time of year and the current treacherous!" he exclaimed.
Brenna tried to reassure them that it would be alright. "Well you know how I feel about swimming," she said with amusement coloring her voice. "Oh hush! It's not as if I'm looking forward to a freezing dip in the water. But there is a little master that is going to need some assistance."
Erchirion looked at her in confusion. "Who is going to need your help?"
"I don't know for sure who he is, but I've been given visions from the Valar of him falling into the waters and being swept away," she told them seemingly lost in thought. "Something tells me that this young child will be important for the future."
Lord Glorfindel regarded the young woman curiously. It had certainly been interesting traveling with her over the past year. He did not regret his decision in staying to watch over the young Lady Brenna. Long had he been with and watched over the House of Elrond. The Valar had sent him back all those long years ago to aid Elrond and ever since he had remained at his side. When it was time to sail to the West, the Valar came to him in his dreams and charged him with watching over young Brenna. Though he was weary, he knew that it was a just a short century before he would sail to the West. His fëa mate awaited him on the shores of Valinor and that alone would be worth the wait.
Fram and Haleth sat straighter in their saddles and mentally cursed the situation. They could swim, but not well enough to plunge into the icy currents of the Anduin after Brenna. Their people weathered cold and harsh winters, but this was beyond them. They came from hearty stock, but even their people wouldn't dive into the icy currents of the Anduin at this time of year.
Brenna urged the group to move out. She told them that they needed to make it to the shores of the River before nightfall. They set out once more, riding swiftly towards the large river. Brenna led them around the bend and caught a glimpse of the small village situated near the river's edge just as the sun was beginning to set in the sky. The guards stationed at the village called out for the group to identify themselves. The knights of Gondor called out in answer and the group was hailed and ushered behind the protective walls of the small village.
Many of the villagers looked on in awe seeing the fairly large group of elves. Brenna's breath caught when she saw the mischievous young boy dart out from behind his mother's skirts. He grinned impishly at the weary woman and practically skipped to where Brenna had dismounted from Hiril. He went to her side bold as brass and took her hand. Brenna drew in a sharp breath as the visions caused her knees to buckle.
The little boy looked alarmed and startled to see the pretty lady elf trembling on her knees. Her friends stepped forward to help and the little boy, not sure what was happening stepped protectively in front of the elf maiden. His mother called out to him, but he turned back to face Brenna, still holding tightly on her hand. He stood in front of her and reached out to touch the shiny silver stars on her forehead.
Brenna fought to control what she was seeing, to slow it down. Flash after flash, she Saw this boy and his entire line. She Saw what his descendants would do and achieve and knew that he needed to be protected and saved. Eventually his kin would marry into both of the Royal lines and lead the Age Man into a new era. Like Halabard, she knew that this boy needed to survive to have the positive impact and outcome in Arda that the Valar wanted.
The child she now knew to be Hirluin touched her cheeks and told her to wake up. Brenna drew a shaky breath and blinked at the boy in confusion. He looked so serious for such a young child. He had been born shortly after the defeat of Mordor to a young widow. His father had been killed in defense of Cair Andros. Brenna smoothed his hair away from his face and gave him a reassuring smile. His mother had come to their side and went to scold the little boy, but Brenna assured her that it was fine.
Lord Glorfindel held his hand out for her to stand and steadied her as her body swayed a bit. Little Hirluin clutched at her hand and told her he wanted to show her their village. He chattered on about the great battle that had taken place nearby and how his papa was so brave. Brenna glanced over her shoulder as she allowed the little boy to proudly walk her around with all the innocence that only a child could have. She gave her friends a smile and a nod, letting them know that they were right where they needed to be.
Her Guard shadowed their footsteps keeping a watchful eye on things. They now knew that Brenna would be risking her life in the next couple of days to save this small boy. His inquisitive nature was charming and endearing to them. They watched Brenna interact with the child, and pulled some of the local Gondorian knights stationed at this outpost to inquire more about him and his family. It saddened them to hear of his father Hirgon's passing, but it was a cruel reality of the aftermath of the war. They spoke quietly and discreetly about Brenna to them. Of course they knew of Lady Brenna, sister to King Elessar of Gondor and King Eomer of Rohan. They knew of her deeds and her reputation preceded her.
The boy's mother Faye watched cautiously as her son pulled Lady Brenna along like a long lost friend. She smiled softly as she watched him grin and in that moment he looked so much like his father. Hirgon was a good man and she had been lucky to have been matched with him. They had learned to love one another in the early months of their marriage and were happy together. But they lived in the shadow of darkness. He had bravely answered the call to defend his home, never knowing that his wife was carrying their first and only child. He never got to see his son and it saddened her each day that she watched the product of their love grow. Her husband's kin took her in and helped her to raise their child. The pension given to the widows of the war allowed her to get by, but even still she weaved and sewed to bring in more money. She did the best that she could to provide for her growing boy.
Brenna walked along happily, enjoying the company of the small hand in her own. He was a well-adjusted little boy. He was dressed warmly and clean, but most of all he was happy. Brenna smiled down at him and listened to him eagerly pointing out the different things and places around the village. Brenna laughed at his excitement and the slight little lisp that he spoke with because he had lost his front teeth recently.
Faye walked alongside her son and Lady Brenna and observed the pair. The rest of Brenna's friends fell in around them and followed. Little Hirluin finally led Brenna towards the home that he shared with his mama. Faye flushed when she realized that he was leading her towards and into their home. Brenna smiled to her reassuringly as Faye went ahead to allow them into their home.
Brenna smiled warmly and took Faye's hands. She looked around wistfully and smiled seeing the warm and comfortable home. It was well kept, but lived in. Much like the home that Déorwyn and her siblings shared when she had met them, this house felt very much like a loving home. She felt pang of homesickness, but stamped it down for the time being.
Faye welcomed the group in her home and flushed when Brenna complimented her on it. There was a small glass bottle on the window sill in the kitchen that held a small cluster of wild flowers that had been the first to grow of the season. Herbs hung from the exposed beams, ready for use whenever they were needed. A warm fire crackled in the hearth where a pot was bubbling away with dinner. Nearby a loaf of bread was rising. There was a small sitting room that led to the bedrooms. A rocking chair had hand-made patchwork quilts folded neatly on the seat.
Brenna let Hirluin lead her around the cozy home and show her his toys and room. She led him back out to the kitchen and smile comfortingly to the young widow. Looking down at Hirluin, she brushed the hair away from his brow and smile softly at the boy. He was such a good little boy, which was what strengthened her resolve to make it there in time.
She nodded to Faye and waved to Hirluin as she took her leave to join with her group. Her Guard was waiting at the gate of the home to escort her to where they would be stay for the next few days. They and their horses were in need of rest.
Lord Glorfindel looked around the village along the river and was lost in thoughts of the past. This place had always been a major stop along the Anduin. As far as he could remember it had always been one of the key locations in the fight against Sauron as well. He watched the people living there and realized that as much as things had changed over the many long years, it had remained the same also. Life went on with the passage of time.
Brenna went to his side and stared out over the water beside him. She watched the cold looking waters swirl and sweep past where they were standing further south towards the sea. Instinctively her body shivered, knowing that it would be freezing to touch. Her mind raced knowing that there would be a short window of time to get the child out of the frigid waters before it was too late. Her gaze followed along the river banks, looking for a location to focus on and have some of her Guard waiting.
She turned back and followed the others to the Inn that they would be staying in for the evening. Lord Glorfindel fell into step at her side and made sure that she made it safely to her room before going to speak with the others. Oriel would be staying in the room with Brenna this evening as Angrod had elected to scout around the area and along the river to find the safest points to have members of their group waiting to help.
A rotating guard schedule was outlined and everyone prepared to bunk down for the evening. The sun was touching the horizon as Brenna and Oriel were sitting in their room quietly talking near the small fire that had been lit in their room to keep the bite of the cold that was in the air. The two elleths chatted quietly before they tucked in for the night.
Brenna crawled into bed and snuffed out the candle on the table next to her bed. She closed her eyes and prayed to the Valar that she would be able to make it on time. Sighing softly she felt herself drift and let her consciousness go as she answered the call of the Valar. Just as softly she floated to consciousness lying on the soft sands of the shores of Valinor. The gentle lapping of the waves stirred her awake and she sat up pulling her knees to her chest and wrapping her arms around them.
Brenna watched the gentle roll and crash of the waves on the soft sand for an undefined amount of time. She felt the presence of another beside her and turned to find that Elbereth had taken a seat on her right and Este sat on her left. The two Queens of the Valar sat in companionable silence with their young charge for a time.
"Little one," Elbereth began. "Your task is nearly upon you. The child needs to be saved. His fate will affect the fate of the entire world."
Brenna nodded and murmured her agreement, for she had seen the world with and without him and his line in it. She hummed softly to herself, taking comfort in the presence of the Valar at her side. Este and Elbereth hummed along with her and began singing softly to her.
"Brenna, child," Este said softly. "You must return. We will be with you throughout the whole ordeal. It will be cold, but you can and will get him in time. You will both need time to recover and the child will need your Healing skills before the Sons of Elrond can reach your side, then your convalesce will begin. You must not fight it, I will come to you and aid your healing, but little one, you must take some time to heal in Minas Tirith when this task is done."
Nodding, Brenna filed away everything that she had been told. She felt herself drifting back to Arda. She felt herself being shaken awake by Oriel, who seemed slightly concerned to find that her friend was not waking. Taking a breath, she opened her eyes to find that Oriel was sitting on the edge of her bed.
"I'm fine Oriel," Brenna assured her friend. "Elbereth and Este had a few things to tell me."
"You weren't waking," Oriel said shakily. "Even after all this time I'm still not accustomed to your fëa not being here."
"Relax my friend, all is well," Brenna cajoled.
The two elleths quickly went through their morning ablutions and dressed for the day. Brenna wore a tunic and under tunic of a soft gray color. She braided her hair tightly down her back and tried to mentally prepare herself for what she knew was to come. Brenna and Oriel gathered what they would need for the day. Oriel watched curiously as Brenna tucked a dagger into each of her boots and began strapping on a minimal amount of her weapons. Brenna paused over a few of the ones she had left behind and moved her hand away, knowing that the icy water and weight of the metal would only hinder her progress in the Anduin.
The two elleths went down to the front parlor of the Inn where breakfast and the rest of Brenna's Guard were waiting. Brenna received startled and speculative looks seeing unarmed. It put the members of her Guard on edge. They knew that they would all quickly need to devise a plan to safely and quickly get Brenna and Hirluin from the icy waters.
Brenna ate a light breakfast and chatted quietly with Oriel. She tried to remain focused on the conversation, but her thoughts kept drifting. With her mind on the little boy that she would need to rescue from the frigid waters of the nearby river, Brenna took her leave and exited the Inn. Oriel and her Guard quickly followed.
The scouts from her party should return by mid-morning. Hopefully they would be able to bring news of the eminent arrival of the Sons of Elrond. Brenna was unaware, but two missives were sent ahead to Minas Tirith with the fastest riders that Eomer had available. The members of her Guard were aware of the plan to try to get assistance for her next task. Though Eomer wasn't certain of what she would need to do, he knew that it was urgent.
Brenna walked the streets of the village and hummed to herself as she made her way towards the waterfront. Her Guard fell in around her and some of them made their way to the locations along the river's edge that they had scouted out the day before. Erchirion and a few of the men talked with the locals casually, mentioned possibly borrowing poles and lines and fishing for the day. The craggy old fisherman let out a guttural laugh and lent the men poles, but told them they'd have to find their own bait or buy some from the market.
Brenna nodded to Erchirion, knowing that he had a plan. He was dressed in breeches and boots as well as a linen shirt and with a wool doublet over it. The clothing was functional, but allowed for movement. She noticed that the men with him were similarly dressed. It was apparent to her that these would be the men that would get her and little Hirluin out of the river.
For the time being Brenna enjoyed the warm sun. Though the morning started off a bit brisk with mist covering the river it promised to be beautiful day. Brenna sat near the water's edge and watched the village come to life. The townspeople bustled about their daily routines. Women went to the river to get water for the wash and to their household chores. The smell of fresh bread and baked goods permeated the air and the riverfront came to live with the coming and going of boats along the water way.
Brenna took it all in. Smiling softly to herself she hummed quietly while watching the simple life of the people here along the river. It saddened her to see that people were still struggling to recover from the War. They had all come a long way since the War, but there was still so much left to be done.
Sighing she glanced around and waited. There wasn't much else that she could do but wait and prepare herself. Her hair stood on end as she heard a familiar giggle in the distance. Turning to her right further up the riverbank she noticed that little Hirluin was running along the water's edge laughing. He was chasing a branch floating along on the water's surface.
Brenna stood and watched as he ran over the slick rocks along the water's edge. In the distance she heard Faye calling frantically to Hirluin, startling the little boy and causing him to lose his footing. His piercing scream sounded through the village and there were shouts of surprise and horror as they watched the little boy fall into the icy waters of the Anduin.
Brenna called out to her Guard and took a breath, diving in after the frightened child. The breath left her lungs as her body reacted to the cold water. She swam against the current, intercepting the child who was struggling to stay above the surface. Hirluin latched onto her and held on.
Brenna's teeth chattered together as she tried swimming towards the edge of the river. She knew that the longer that she stayed in the water the more dangerous it would be for her and the young child. Her limbs were becoming sluggish in the cold river. Looking further down river she noticed that her Guard and some of the locals had gotten rope and were ready to toss it to her. Further down Erchirion was stripping his outer tunic off getting ready to dive in to help should the rope miss Brenna and the young boy.
Little Hirluin whimpered and cried as her held fast onto Brenna's back. Brenna could feel his little body trembling from the cold and fear. As she neared the group with the rope she urged Hirluin to hold tight. He tightened his grasp and wrapped his little legs around her waist, clinging to her back.
Lord Glorfindel tossed the rope out in front of her and let her swim to it. He had already knotted a loop in the end of it, which Brenna looped around her and little Hirluin. He squealed in fright as he felt the rope tighten and grow taut as they were pulled against the currents of the river towards shore. Brenna continued trying to swim towards shore as the pulled and hauled the two of them to the banks of the river.
Brenna's Guard lifted the child off of Brenna's back and hauled her up under her arms. The two of them were immediately bundled with blankets and brought towards their dwellings to get out of the cold wet clothes and warmed near a fire. Brenna used the last bit of strength that she had in her and reached out for Hirluin. Brenna's Guard brought the child to her and watched in concern as her hands flare a faint blue and passed to the child before she slumped in their arms. Little Hirluin struggled to remain conscious as did Brenna. It was now in the hands of the Valar.
Brenna felt hot stones being added between the blankets near her feet. Oriel sat at her bedside with the rest of her Guard taking turns keeping vigil. Riders were immediately dispatched to both Minas Tirith and Rohan. Brenna's friends and family needed to know of her latest adventure. The Sons of Elrond would be needed to help heal the two that were now suffering from their icy dip in the river.
Erchirion silently berated himself for not insisting that he be the one to jump in to get little Hirluin. Everyone tried to reassure him that he would be worse off than Brenna had he attempted it. As an elf her body could handle extremes better than a human. She should recover faster, but that was to be seen as both she and the child had fallen unconscious after they were changed and tucked into their respective beds.
Lord Glorfindel prayed to the Valar that the two would make it. He prayed that the missives that were sent when they reached Rohan days prior had already reached Minas Tirith and the Sons of Elrond. Sighing softly he turned back to his young charge. Running a hand over her brow he felt how cold she was to the touch. Her murmured elvish words of healing and hoped that it would be enough to help her for the time being.
Nodding to Oriel as he left the room he made his way a few buildings down to the house of Faye and young Hirluin. He was admitted to the house as the local healer tried what he could to aid the little boy. Even now the child's lips were blue from the cold. He went to the little boy's side and rested his hand on his forehead and murmured elvish words of healing over the child. He willed the little boy to hold on a little longer and prayed to the Valar to spare the boy.
Brenna's Guard kept their vigil throughout the day and late into the night hours when there was a shout from the lookout of the village. There was a party of riders were headed their way and fast. Shouts rang out for the gates to be opened and in rode the Sons of Elrond with a mixed group of Gondorian Knights and Riders of Rohan that had met on their way to the village.
The party was greeted and quickly ushered to where Brenna and little Hirluin were staying. Elladan went to Brenna's side while Elrohir went to Hirluin. The two elves as well as the others that had accompanied them began working in tandem to try to ease the cold from the bodies of Brenna and Hirluin. Both were beginning to show signs of respiratory issues as well as beginning to show signs of fever.
They worked through the long hours of the night with the assistance of the other elves and the local healers to warm the two up and break the fever. Once the fevers had broken they worked on drawing the illness and infection that had begun to set in. It was in the early hours of the morning that the two patients had begun to breathe easier and began to gain some of the color back in their complexions.
Elladan and Elrohir briefly rested, leaving Brenna and Hirluin under the watchful eyes of the others for a few hours. Upon waking, they found that Brenna was resting in a deep healing sleep. Checking on the young boy, they continued to lend their aid in healing the child and giving his fragile body the boost that it needed to survive the ordeal.
It was well past midday before Brenna began waking up. She stirred slowly at first, as her consciousness gradually came back to her. Her head ached and she could tell that something was off and different, but she wasn't alert enough to discern. Sighing in relief, Brenna felt warm calloused hands on her brow and a strong deep melodic voice soothed the fatigue and ache that her body felt.
Elladan calmly called Brenna back to them and urged her to wake up. His brother joined him after the midday meal and the two of them were able to awaken Brenna from her Healing sleep. She came to consciousness with a sigh and burrowed under the warm blankets. Blinking blurrily she looked around the room and realized that she was in her room at the Inn.
Brenna's throat felt raw and scratchy from the lingering illness and infection that had set in from her icy dip in the river. Looking around she found the relieved looks of her Guard and friends. She met Elladan's gaze and smiled tiredly at him. She knew that he would come to aid them. Even as he and the other elves had sought to heal them, Brenna felt the Valar alongside them, lending their aid. Though Brenna was an elf, she was still susceptible to some illnesses and injuries from the lingering effects of her previous mortal life. While she would have survived the ordeal, little Hirluin would not have.
"Melamin," Elladan began, "I'm glad to see that you are well. When you're better love, we're going to have a discussion about putting yourself in the way of danger. I know that there are many things that you need to do, but you must take care, dear one."
Brenna nodded tiredly, and pushed herself to sit up. Elladan helped her adjust the pillows so that she was resting comfortably sitting up in the bed. Oriel sat nearby mending a few garments that had sustained tears in their travels. She was relieved that her young friend was conscious and recovering. It had been a nerve wracking wait for her to regain consciousness.
Brenna sat talking quietly with Elladan who seemed reluctant to leave her side. He spoke of the things that had happened in Gondor during their separation. Apparently things on the Eastern and Southern borders were becoming more turbulent with each passing day. After a while he noticed that she was tiring and urged her to rest some more before they would even consider letting her get up and moving. Though she was an elf, the icy waters of the Anduin weakened her. On top of that she had used what little energy she had after the ordeal to Heal and aid Hirluin she had exhausted her body and pushed it nearly to the brink.
It was later that day that Brenna awoke to the murmuring voices of members of her Guard. Lord Glorfindel had entered the room giving them an update on how the young boy was fairing. He also greeting the younger elves and caught up with them. They were discussing the state of affairs in Gondor and Middle Earth in general.
Brenna stretched tiredly and sat up shakily in the bed. She asked if they could leave the rooms so that Oriel could help her to change. Waving off their protests she struggled to stand from the bed. Oriel bustled to her side and helped her to stand. She insisted that she see Hirluin herself and they helped her from her room towards where Hirluin and his mother lived. After seeing her tire and falter, Elladan carried her the rest of the way and put her down outside the door.
Reaching past her, Elladan knocked and stood behind her, making sure that she could stand on her own. Faye answered the door tiredly and ushered them in to the room. Brenna shakily reached little Hirluin's side and sank into a nearby chair. His mother watched wearily and tiredly as other elves entered her home. The elf lord had stayed with her son through the night and helped him to fight the cold and infection. Now it seemed that there were more elves coming to help.
Brenna reached out her hand and took one of the child's in her own. Sighing softly she prayed to the Valar for their aid in the Healing of the child. Her voice was like a whisper on a breeze, soft and soothing. Her brow flare brightly and her hands started to faintly glow blue. Her limbs trembled in exhaustion before she felt a strength course through her and into the child.
Hirluin drew one big rattling breath and let it out before the tension in his whole body seemed to ease. His mother cried out in alarm thinking that her child had passed, but he drew a soft quiet breath. He sighed in relief and rolled over, falling into a deeper healing sleep.
Brenna drew back from the boy, tucking him in and sagging back in her chair. Hirluin's mother hugged her, weeping and thanking her and the other elves present. Brenna nodded tiredly, trying to hide the wince from the pain she felt from Faye's embrace. Smiling tightly, she stood shakily and turned to leave.
Elladan sighed and scooped up his beloved. It had been a long year since he had last seen her. During their separation he thought of her often and fought the urge to go to her side. Though he was an immortal elf, their parting was still difficult for him to bear. With their fëa bond still forming and so new, it would be some time before either of them could comfortably be parted for long periods of time.
Brenna relaxed into his embrace and allowed him to carry her out of the dwelling. Her Guard immediately came to attention and feared the worst. Brenna smiled tiredly to them, hoping to reassure them that she was fine, just fatigued. Her smile dimmed as she fought to keep a calm look on her face seeing Elladan's stern face.
"I hope that you have good reason for this Brenna," Elladan murmured to her. "Though elves are not normally effected by the elements, you my dear still can feel their effects if you push yourself too far."
"I didn't have a choice," she whispered tiredly. "The Valar showed me his fate and the fate of the world if had he perished. There was too much at stake to let the waters take him."
Elladan briefly tightened his grip and cradled her against his broad chest. "Peace love," he whispered. "I did not mean to sound harsh. I know that there is always a reason for your actions. I just worry."
Brenna looked up at the tired looking elf. She cupped his face with her hand and watched him sigh and lean into her touch. Her heart warmed to see him again. She had missed him a great deal in their separation.
"I missed you," she whispered softly to him.
He tightened his hold, cradling her against his broad chest. "I miss you too melamin," he said walking through the town.
Despite it being early spring, the village at the river still felt the icy presence of winter. The lands north were slowly thawing and melting, thus the icy cold temperature of the water that flowed south through Rohan and Gondor before reaching the sea. There was a cold bite to the wind sweeping down the river.
Elladan carried her towards the large fire that her entire Guard was gathered around. Brenna smiled and nodded in greeting to her friends. She smiled a bit sheepishly at the members of her Rohirric Guard that were regarding her with scowls.
After settling Brenna down on a blanket near the fire Elladan sat next to her. He silently watched the flames dance while listening to the conversations around him. Through the letters that had reach Gondor and the stories that he was now hearing, it was clear that Brenna had been on a fair few adventures while they were parted.
Brenna leaned into his side and lulled to the sound of his stead, strong heartbeat. She felt his arm wrap around her shoulder, pulling her securely to his side. She sighed in content knowing that she was safe and that he was really there. She had missed him a great deal in their separation.
"Brenna, love," Elladan said waking her gently. "Can you tell us what's next? What is your next task and where do you need to go?"
Brenna stirred and blinked blurrily. "I need to make my way to Ithilien and then Minas Tirith," she answered tiredly. "From there we will need to prepare for the inevitable confrontation with the men of the South and East."
"Alright love," he said shifting her into his arms. "Let's get you back to bed and we'll make plans to leave in the next couple of days once you are better recovered."
Brenna murmured in agreement, burrowing her face into the crook of his neck and falling asleep. Her Guard chuckled knowing that Brenna could pretty much sleep anywhere. There had been many times that she had fallen asleep on her horse, or sitting by the camp fire. Many times they had to carry her to bed and have Oriel tuck her in.
Elladan nodded to Oriel who had met him at the Inn and led the way to Brenna's room. He walked in behind her and gently laid her on the bed. Leaning over he kissed her brow and gently touched the silver stars sparkling in the candlelight of the room. An image of their life in Valinor flashed in his mind as he pulled his hand away. His knees buckled and he clutched her hand kneeling next to the bed startling Oriel and Elrohir who had followed the pair.
"What is it brother?" Elrohir asked kneeling beside his twin.
"It is beautiful," he whispered hoarsely.
"What is?" Elrohir asked in confusion.
"The Undying Lands," Elladan replied. "She or They showed me and it is more than we could even begin to imagine."
Elrohir looked at his brother in shock and sat down heavily on the floor. The pair sat there talking quietly while Oriel sat in a nearby chair listening with a soft smile on her face. They all chatted quietly, greeting Angrod when he came to check on his fëa mate. The Sons of Elrond took their leave and made their way back to where the rest of the Guard was encamped.
True to his word, Elladan made preparations to leave when Brenna was recovered. Two days later Brenna set out with the much larger delegation heading south towards Ithilien and Gondor. The party from Rohan turned West back towards their home with letters for Eomer and further instructions from Brenna for both Eomer and Lothíriel. Brenna knew that Lothíriel knew how to rule over her people, but Brenna had a few suggestions for her to help her in the absence of her husband.
The group traveled at a steady pace. They rest often, mindful of the fact that Brenna was still recovering. She still looked fatigued and drawn. It was a long two and a half weeks later that they rode into the elvish settlement of Ithilien. Legolas called out in greeting, but looked concerned seeing how exhausted Brenna looked. He quickly ushered the group into the Main Hall and called for refreshments to be brought.
Legolas watched as Elladan escorted Brenna forward and seated her. He looked at the group in question and sat down heavily hearing all of her adventures since their parting. Shaking his head slightly he looked towards the petite elleth that he had come to think of as his sister and watched her carefully. He could see that her adventures and tasks were beginning to take their toll on her.
Brenna nodded in thanks and took the proffered drink and plate of food. She was bundled in a thick riding habit and had a warm cloak wrapped tightly around her. Despite being further south and the spring season really starting to warm up, she was still chilled. The Valar had visited her in her dreams advising what she should plan for next. They urged her to rest and did what they could to Heal her, but since her dip in the Anduin she was struggling to get control of her gift of Sight. Visions were plaguing her off and on throughout the day and it was beginning to take its toll on her. The simplest touch often would set off a chain reaction of visions and pain that she could not shield against.
As she reached to hand her plate to a maid their hands made brief contact and Brenna recoiled clutching her head. She groaned and tried to fight against the onslaught of the images flashing in her mind. Drawing a deep breath she prayed to the Valar for strength and aid in controlling this. Whimpering in pain she felt Elladan running his hands over her to check for any pain. He lightly touched her brow with the intent to relieve some of the pain and heal her, but in doing so some of the visions flashed to his mind as well.
Brenna finally pulled herself out of it, when she noticed that Elladan was sitting pale and shaky at her side. She turned to him and reached out to see what was wrong. He looked up at her with such emotion in his eyes that she swallowed back her own.
"What's wrong Elladan?" she asked worriedly.
"Why didn't you say anything Brenna" he asked in a hurt voice. "I would have tried to help you. How could you let yourself deal with this pain alone? Why would you at least not tell me?"
"I didn't want to worry anyone," she replied in a tearful voice. "There are none here that can help me. Only the Lady Galadriel and my grandfather could really help me. Your father tried to help me, but even he was limited in his attempts at training me and guiding me. My powers have grown since then."
"Would you mind filling the rest of us in?" Erchirion asked.
"Brenna has been struggling to contain her Sight," Elladan said in a hoarse voice. "She's been in pain and plagued by visions since she rescued the child."
"Brenna!" Oriel scolded.
Brenna looked up at the people present in the room and felt their disappointment acutely. She knew that she should have said something, but there really was nothing that any of them could do to help her. Sighing she stood and went to leave. Elladan reached out to stop her but she pulled her arm away and left the Hall ignoring the calls of the others.
The overwhelming feeling of being constantly watched was grating on her. She was tired; bone deep tired and just wanted to rest. Following the path towards the Gardens she walked quietly fighting the tears and grief that she was feeling. She really just wanted to go home. She ached all over and just wanted sleep. There was pain throbbing in her temples and nothing that she could do to relieve it.
Sitting on the ground with her back against the trunk of a large tree towards the back of the Gardens, she sat quietly and closed her eyes. She prayed for help from the Valar and strength. Drawing her knees towards her chest, she wrapped her arms around her legs and rested her forehead on her arms.
Finally she let the tears fall. Silent, heart-wrenching tears poured down her cheeks as she let go of the pain. This was certainly not the reunion that she had expected to have with the rest of her Guard and Elladan. She had not intentionally set out to hurt anyone. Deep down she knew that even if she had said something, none would be able to help her.
When she was all cried out, she let herself lull and drift away, seeking the Counsel of the Valar. She found herself sitting in the sand on the shores watching the moon rise over the sea. The waves gently lapped at her toes and the felt peace within her soul.
"Little one," Elbereth greeted her. "We are sorry that were weren't able to help you sooner. We will help you to control this. You're growing stronger from your ordeal and as you do so your powers grow with you."
Este walked forward on the sand and sat beside them. She ran her hands along Brenna's hair and gently brushed it, braiding it while singing softly and soothing the lingering pain that Brenna felt. For the first time in weeks Brenna felt the fatigue drain away. The pressure behind her eyes was fading and the suffocating feeling of being near others was being washed away with the Healing words of Este's song.
The two Queens of the Valar urge Brenna to rest to the sounds of their voices and the waves. They knew that their little one was tired and homesick. Manwe approached them and knelt next to his petite little warrior elleth. Hers had been a hard journey and it was only just really beginning. Not for the first time He mentally communicated with the other Valar in hopes of aiding their blessed child. They would leave her with the knowledge that roughly once every decade until the time she reached Valinor, she would experience the surge in her powers. She would need to seek their aid in helping her to adjust to this and to sooth the pain.
When they were certain that they had helped her, Elbereth gently woke her. Each of the Valar kissed her brow and told her to go back and get some rest. Brenna looked pained to be parted from them, but nodded in agreement.
"Go young one," Elbereth said gently. "A century is but a blink of time for your people child. You can visit us from time to time and we will aid you all that we can. When you sleep tonight you will heal and feel refreshed. Go now, he's waiting for you."
Brenna stirred and felt Elladan calling her frantically. She blinked her eyes tiredly looking around in confusion. Darkness was beginning to fall and she was leaning against the same tree that she had sat by hours before. Apparently she was gone longer than she thought. Her muscles ached, stiff from being in the same position for so long. She hissed in pain as she stretched her legs and arms out. Pins and needles tingled in her limbs.
"I'm here!" she called out, realizing that her companions were searching for her quite frantically now.
Torch light and rapid footfalls approached her location in the gardens as she leaned heavily against the tree trying to stand. Her legs felt like jelly and she had a dull ache behind her eyes. Legolas and the Sons of Elrond rounded the corner and approached her looking frantic. When they went to go to her, she held up her hand to stop them from touching her.
"If you would please direct me to where I will be staying I need to retire for the night," she said tiredly.
"Where were you?" Legolas asked in concern.
"I've been here against this tree for hours apparently," she said trying to control her frustration. "I was overwhelmed and overwrought and sought the Counsel of the Valar." She answered.
"Melamin," Elladan said taking a step closer.
Brenna turned away from him, not meeting his eye. She looked to Legolas with imploring eyes. "Can you please just show me where I'll be staying? I'm barely able to hold myself up right now," she said. "No, don't touch me. No one can touch me until I can control it," she said nearly in tears.
Legolas nodded he held his torch high indicating for her to follow him. She followed him silently as he led her to one of the dwellings that had been set aside for her. He opened the door and let her go in before him. With his torch he lit the fireplace and a few candles for her.
Brenna entered the small cottage like building and found that her things had already been brought there for her. She nodded her thanks and began to unpack some of her things, not meeting his eye. Feeling tears form in her eyes, she shook herself angrily. It was not the time to cry. If she could not control her gift, she would surely go insane.
"Gwathel," Legolas said in a sad voice, "is there nothing that we can do to help?"
"I need to figure this out on my own and with the aid of the Valar," she replied in a whisper. "My powers have gotten stronger and will continue to do so every decade until we sail West. I need time and space."
He nodded and swallowed thickly and took his leave. As he closed the door behind him, he realized their mistake in scolding her. None of them fully understood her situation and they judged her for it before bothering to find out. It shamed him to know that she was suffering and now felt that she had to do so alone. He was not sure what they could do to fix that, but vowed that his little gwathel would not face it alone.
"Why did she pull away?" Elladan asked quietly. "She recoiled from me and I don't understand," he said to Elrohir as Legolas approached.
"How is she?" Elrohir asked him.
Legolas took a moment to compose himself. "She's withdrawing and I fear for her," he answered honestly. "According to her, her powers have grown and only the Valar can help her. It is something that she will have to deal with and adjust to until we sail. She's in pain physically, but also emotionally. None of us asked more about it, we just made accusations."
Elladan looked down at his hands in shame and hung his head. He felt an ache in his chest and pain knowing that he had even inadvertently hurt Brenna. He was mentally berating himself for his actions. He knew that there was something bothering her, that something had changed in her when he arrived in the village near the Anduin. He should have tried to figure it out sooner. She had been distant the entire journey towards Ithilien. Yes, she talked and smiled, but it didn't reach her eyes.
Oriel approached them quietly looking distraught. "How did we not know?" she asked. "How could we not know that she was in so much pain?"
"She didn't want any of us to know," Elladan said hoarsely. "She told Legolas that only the Valar can help her and that this is something that will plague her until we reach Valinor."
Oriel leaned in to Angrod and let her tears fall for her young friend. Brenna had helped her to find adventure in life again and then led her to her fëa mate. She would do all that she could to stand by Brenna's side until it was time for them all to go home.
The group sat quietly in the Main Hall talking late into the night. Each of them felt the sharp guilt that was now plaguing them. Elrohir was trying to keep his brother from succumbing to grief. Meanwhile Brenna slept fitfully before the Valar joined her and soothed her in her sleep. They sent her into a deeper Healing sleep, assisting her in harnessing her growing powers. They sadly informed her that it would be a few days yet before she would have full control again.
Brenna awoke the next morning feeling slightly more rested than the day before. However she still had dark circles under her eyes. Opening her door she called to a nearby elf and requested to have some food and water brought to her. The elf bowed to her and set off to get her request. He brought back a tray, knocking on her door.
Brenna greeted him tiredly and gave him a wan smile, carefully avoiding physical contact as she took the tray. He bowed and took his leave before going back towards the Main Hall. Brenna closed the door and slid the bolt, effectively locking herself in and all others out. Until she could control her Sight, she needed to stay away from everyone. It hurt her too much otherwise and would set her progress back. Ideally she'd go somewhere remote away from everyone, but that wasn't an option.
Elladan and Elrohir entered the hall and looked around. Elladan seemed to fold in on himself seeing no sign of Brenna. Oriel entered the hall looking distressed and made her way over to Legolas. He nodded sadly and closed his eyes following her out of the hall. Elladan went to follow, but Legolas shook his head, stopping the Sons of Elrond in their tracks.
"What exactly did she say to you Oriel?" Legolas asked sadly.
"She wouldn't open the door and said that she needed to be alone," Oriel replied tearfully. "She insisted that she couldn't be around others until she got her Sight back under control."
They reached the small dwelling set aside for Brenna. Legolas knocked on the door and called out to her. Her muffled reply came through the door. He pleaded with her to just let him in to check on her, promising that neither of them would come in to contact with her. He heard shuffling and the sound of the bolt sliding before the door opened revealing an exhausted looking Brenna.
"You've seen me," she said quietly. "I'm going back to lie down. My head is throbbing, please just let me come to you," she pleaded.
"Gwathel," he implored, "at least let us check in with you in the mornings to make sure that you're well? I'll have food left in a basket at the door or near the window in the front. All I ask is that you let Oriel or I at the very least come and see you once a day until you're recovered."
Brenna thought it over, but nodded in agreement. "In the mornings come see me," she said softly. "It should only take a few days, but it's safer to remain isolated. It hurts being around so many people and any physical contact is agonizing."
The pair nodded and took their leave, insisting that Brenna get some sleep. Brenna watched them go and locked the door again. Sliding down the back of the door, she sat on the floor heavily. Her head was throbbing and she fought the onslaught of the visions that were simmering just below the surface. Once she felt them begin to bubble over she whimpered in pain and clenched her teeth. Brenna sat on the floor sobbing as vision after vision swamped her.
In the Main Hall Legolas and Oriel were explaining their discussion with Brenna to the rest of the elves and Brenna's Guard. Many of them tried to protect but Legolas silenced them. He told them that it was not about what they wanted, but what Brenna needed. He let them know that missives were being sent out to Gondor and Rohan as well as another heading swiftly north to Lord Celeborn who may have some insight and advice Brenna.
Elladan listlessly ate and allowed his brother to bring him back to where they were staying. His world seemed to be caving in around him. Brenna, his sweet, kind, gentle Brenna was suffering and there was nothing that any of them could do to help her. He hated to think that he had added to her pain with his words the day before. He ached to hold her and talk to her.
He walked quietly, before turning to where he knew that she was stay. Elladan sat on the door step leaning back against the door. He could sense her nearby through the bond and clung to the knowledge that she was still here.
"Brenna," he said knocking slightly on the door. "Melamin, can you hear me?"
Brenna fought off the visions hearing Elladan's voice. Weakly she sat up against the door. Once she caught her breath she leaned back and closed her eyes.
"Yes, Elladan I am here," she replied tiredly. "What are you doing here?"
"I had to make sure that you were alright love," he said sadly. "I apologize for what I said Brenna. I did not mean to upset you. I just worry for you."
"I know Elladan," she said softly. "I just need time and space my love. Only the Valar can help me with this. It will happen again once every decade as my powers grow. Only on the shores of Valinor will I find respite and peace."
"I'll be with you every step of the way," he told her. "I know that you fear being around us. I do not want to cause you more pain and suffering, but I cannot leave you to suffer alone, Brenna. You cannot ask that of me."
Brenna had tears silently pouring down her face listening to the pain in Elladan's voice. She ached to just open the door and crawl into his lap and let him just hold her, but she knew the visions would come and with them would be the pain.
"Just a few days Elladan," she said tiredly. "All I need is a few days to get this sorted out. Please don't make this harder."
"I'm not trying to Brenna," he replied emotionally. "Please understand that I physically cannot handle you being in pain. Our separation is hard enough with distance and time, but please don't shut me out now."
Elrohir found his brother sitting against the door and took up a seat beside him. He didn't need to ask his brother what they were doing as he already knew his twin couldn't stand being parted from Brenna. He also knew that his brother was feeling guilt for his words the previous night, as all of them were feeling.
"So little sister," Elrohir called out, "What is your favorite color?"
Brenna laughed through her tears, "What a random question Elrohir! If you must know by now that I'm partial to blues and purples. What's your favorite color?"
"Well I myself like green," he said with a soft smile. "This lump next to me prefers blue as well so I feel that you're in luck."
Brenna smiled sitting back against the door taking comfort in their presence. The Sons of Elrond spent the rest of the morning. Legolas found them there and said that there was a missive from Aragorn requesting their return to Gondor. Elladan looked torn, but Brenna urged him to go to Aragorn. She told him that if he sent word for him, then it was important.
Brenna slowly stood and cracked the door opened and looked out to find the Sons of Elrond and Legolas standing outside her door. She opened the door a bit and stepped out to face Elladan. He swallowed thickly seeing the dark circles under her eyes. He watched as she wearily stepped towards him and reached a trembling hand to touch his cheek. At first he thought to take a step back, but when she cupped his face and stepped up to him, he leaned in and closed his eyes.
"You know that you need to go to him," she whispered. "I will be fine and recovered in a few days' time. I will then make my way to Minas Tirith myself and we can figure out the best course of action. Until then I am useless to everyone."
Elladan looked down at his beloved, marveling that even when she was struggling and in pain, she sought to comfort him. Gently and ever so carefully he wrapped his arms around her and cautiously pulled her into his embrace. He reverently kissed her brow and held her close for a few moments.
Brenna sighed in his arms, thanking the Valar for the ability to find comfort even briefly. Reluctantly she stepped back from his arms and gave him a tremulous smile. Legolas and Elrohir nodded to her, both of them afraid to touch her lest they cause her any pain from the visions that she had been experiencing.
"Go Elladan," she told him. "I'll follow soon after. Remind him that before waging war it would be best to try to have talks of peace and trade. There may yet be a way to avoid another war between their realms."
He bowed respectfully to her. "I'll await your arrival Brenna and relay your message," he told her. "Perhaps at our next meeting we can try again at a proper greeting after being separated for so long."
Brenna smiled softly and bade them good day as she stepped back into her dwelling and closed the door. Later she watched the Sons of Elrond ride out with half of their company back towards Minas Tirith. Half of their men had been left to escort Brenna to Minas Tirith when she was recovered.
Brenna spent the next three days confined to her room. She would let Legolas and Oriel check in on her but spent much of her time confined to her bed or let herself drift and dream with the Valar there to help her. On the dawn of the fourth day, Brenna woke feeling like she finally had control again. Her body had recovered the previous night deep in the Healing sleep of the Valar. The dark circles under her eyes were going away and the visions no longer swamped her and made her feel like she was drowning.
Dressing carefully in a deep blue riding habit, Brenna braided her hair and gathered her things. She strapped her weapons on her body and called to a passing elf to request Legolas to come see her. Legolas arrived a short while later looking at her in concern.
"Are you well Gwathel?" he asked in concern.
Turning to face him she offered a tremulous smile. "Aye, I'm well Legolas," she replied. "I apologize for not being very good company during my short stay here. I'm fully recovered now and need to make my way swiftly to Aragorn."
"It is something that you have seen?" he asked urgently.
"Yes," she stilled in her packing. "The leader of the Haradrim is leading his army West and will arrive at the border in four months."
"So soon?" he asked in shock.
"Yes, unfortunately," she replied, stowing her bundles of clothing in her packs and handing them off to Haldir who had come to check on her.
Over the last four days her Guard had been stopping in almost on a rotation to see how she was doing. Though she didn't open the door she conversed with them on a regular basis. Many of them tried to apologize, but Brenna said that there was nothing to apologize for before giving her own. They denied that she needed to give any as they understood or were beginning to understand the burden of her Gift.
There was a flurry of activity at Brenna's announcement that she needed to reach Minas Tirith in haste. She had also given Ithilien enough warning to fortify and set up watches. Messengers would be sent out to Osgiliath and Minas Tirith prior to her departure to give forewarning of what Brenna had told Legolas.
Brenna walked over to where Fram and Haleth had Hiril and Ash both saddled and waiting for her. She smiled shyly to her Guard and vaulted into the saddle. Once seated, she turned to Legolas.
"Make the borders ready," she instructed him. "Send word to Faramir and Eowyn. You will have three months before the first of their scouts will attempt to penetrate the realm."
"Be safe Brenna," Legolas urged her.
Brenna smiled at him, and for the first time in almost a month it reached her eyes. "I don't go looking for trouble it just seems to find me," she said laughing.
"That doesn't make me feel any better about this," he replied dryly.
Oriel was on her horse next to Brenna and the two smiled at one another. Brenna's Guard was relieved that she was back to her old self. They vowed to be more vigilant and keep a closer eye on her to make sure that she wasn't in pain while on their watch.
The group mounted up and set out and at a fast pace heading towards Minas Tirith. Brenna headed up the column much to the chagrin of her Guard. Pausing only briefly to rest their horses and take a brief reprieve from their journey. They rode full out crossing at Osgiliath and passing right across the Pelennor Fields. Brenna rode at the forefront with her cloak and hair streaming behind her in the wind. The heralds announced their arrival and the gates were open awaiting their arrival.
Brenna rode Hiril up the seven levels of the city before sliding off of her horse and racing up the steps heading right for the King's Hall. She just hoped that they would now have enough time to make preparations. Her harried appearance and sudden arrival cause some alarm in Aragorn's court. She was ushered through the palace and right into Aragorn's study where she was met by the king and the Sons of Elrond. Fidgeting slightly under their gazes she told them what she had seen.
Maps were pulled out and ledgers drawn. Missives were sent immediately to their neighbors and allies. There was war to plan and it was apparently going to happen much sooner than they had at first anticipated.
Brenna sagged in her chair and felt Elladan sit next to her. He cautiously took her hand, drawing her attention to him. She smiled softly at him, her green eyes sparkling, before her eyes clouded.
"I'm sorry Elladan," she whispered to him.
"Hush," he said placing a finger on her lips. "We will move past this and learn from it. I for one know that I will do better for you."
"Elladan," she said softly, "you don't need to do better for me! Like you said, we will work through this together. I'll try to be more vocal about what's bothering me in the future. I will do better, I promise."
"Right," Aragorn said clearing his throat with a grin on his face. "Is there anything else that we should know Brenna?"
Shaking her head she replied, "No, not that I know of at the moment. I haven't seen anything, but once I'm in my rooms and have a clear mind I can try to look into it further."
Brenna took her leave and was escorted from the study towards the familiar hallway where her rooms were. Elladan caught up with her outside of her rooms and called out for her to wait. Brenna smiled and waved good evening to Hanna, who left to have water brought to her rooms as well as a light meal.
"Will we be able to talk?" he asked cautiously.
Brenna smiled softly at him. "Let me get out of my travel clothes and into something that is fresh and comfortable."
"Of course," he said, "I'll meet you in the gardens down the hall?"
Brenna nodded and entered her rooms. Hanna bustled in with another maid carrying food and a fresh pitcher of water. Hanna also arranged to have a bath drawn for her. Brenna sat and ate quietly before Hanna ushered her into the adjoining bath. Brenna soaked and washed away the grime of travel.
Upon entering her room, Brenna noticed that the maids had selected a deep hunter green colored dress. Hanna helped her into the dress and brushed her hair out before leaving her rooms heading towards the Gardens to meet Elladan. The sun had finally reached the horizon and it was slowly fading to night.
Brenna entered the garden and found Elladan leaning against the balcony overlooking the lower levels and Pelennor Fields. He turned as she entered and crossed to her side, leading her towards one of the nearby benches. They sat quietly observing the city below for a time before Elladan turned to look at the elleth at his side.
"Our time here on Arda, I fear will not be easy on you melamin," he said softly holding her hand. "If you'll allow me I'll be at your side every step of the way Brenna."
Brenna looked up at him shyly. "It will be some time yet before you will be released from your duties here in Gondor or those in Rivendell," she spoke softly. "During that time I will be traveling throughout Arda Healing the land and people as best I can. If it is agreeable to you, in two decades we should discuss more of our future together. Whether you want to marry and bond here in Arda or wait until we reach Valinor is something we'll have to decide."
Kissing her finger tips, Elladan regarded his fea mate carefully. "In two decades love, should it be your desire I would marry and bond with you," he said with a look of love that caught her breath. "Once we are bonded I would be grieved to be parted from you again Brenna. It will take months, if not years for us to be able to tolerate any separation at all. I'll be at your side love, from that point on."
"I can hardly believe that it's been nearly a decade since I came here," she whispered looking out over the Pelennor Fields. "There is still so much I have yet to do here and I feel as if my time is running short."
"Is there anything that we can do to help?" he asked hopefully.
Brenna bit her bottom lip, lost in her thoughts. She knew that she had seen her next major task was one that would cause a lot of protesting on the part of her friends and allies. Sighing she glanced at Elladan and knew that it would be better to broach the topic with him and see what advice he would have to offer.
"At some point I will need to make my way back to Ithilien and Osgiliath to help those settlements flourish. In the next few years Gondor and Rohan will have their heirs and I will need to be there for the births," she said with unfocused eyes. "I will also need to take time Healing the Veterans and survivors of the War. Many of them are still pained by their injuries and are suffering. In about five or so years I'll be heading back to the Shire to check in with the Hobbits and greet their young families."
Drawing a breath, she looked back at Elladan with troubled eyes. "I will need to do things that others will not agree with," she said tiredly. "After we finish this nonsense with the Men of the East and South, I will need to make a trip."
Elladan waited for her to tell him patiently. He vowed to keep his calm and let her explain. Nodding, he urged her to continue.
"I have Seen that I will eventually need to make a trip South," she said cautiously. "Elbereth has told me that the man that will become the chieftain to the tribe nearest Ithilien, Adnan, will want to change for the sake of his people. He will be open to trade and aid and in return will have his tribe and holdings act as a buffer between Gondor and the South and East."
Elladan thought carefully about what she was saying. "Does that mean that this Adnan is not their leader now?" he asked.
"No, their current leader is his older brother, Mazin, is Hell bent on revenge," she said with a guarded look. "He will seek to find revenge for the deaths of his kin and the suffering to those that fled home back beyond our borders here."
"Come," Elladan said helping her to stand, "we should let Aragorn and the others know so we can make plans. You are certain that Mazin will not live past the oncoming battle?"
"He will fall," she said coldly. "I will not ride in to battle, but I'll be in Ithilien when the skirmishes start."
Her eyes went wide and she clutched Elladan as her knees buckled with the visions now coming to her. Flash! Eowyn clutched Elboron to her while brandishing her sword. Flash! The leaders of Men met on the edge of Gondor and parleed with the Haradrim. Flash! She saw herself traveling South and finding a Garden. Flash! She saw herself and Elladan in Rivendell. Flash! Flash! Flash!
"Are you alright, love?" Elladan asked. "Do you need to rest?"
Brenna smiled up at him. "I'm well, but we need to see Aragorn and the others," she replied.
They walked towards the archway leading to the halls. Brenna paused with a mischievous look and stepped to the side, pulling Elladan with her. Standing with her back against the cool stone wall and Elladan standing caging her in with his arms while looking down at her, she reached her hand up tracing his jaw to his chin and over his lips. She grinned watching him close his eyes and swallow thickly. Standing on her toes she reached up, brushing against him to kiss his jaw and then a light kiss on his lips before ducking under his arms and slipping down the hallway with a slight laugh.
Elladan stood with his hands in front of him leaning towards the wall. He fought for control and not for the first time he thought that she would drive him to insanity. Closing his eyes he drew a few deep breaths and set out after her. Eru, the elleth would be the death of him. They still had two more decades until they could bond and though she physically and mentally was an adult due to her past life in her old home, by elvish standard she would not be considered of age until she was fifty years old. He needed to tread carefully lest her honor be called into question. Sighing, he also knew that he would need to gently try to let her know that they would have to wait for such intimate contact as it wasn't appropriate. Perhaps when she was in her late forties most would overlook the disregard for custom, but not in her late twenties and early thirties.
Catching up with her outside of Aragorn's study he sent her a slight wink. "We'll have to have a chat about that love," he said. "When the time comes I'll be sure to pay you back for every single teasing and distracting action."
Brenna grinned at him, "Oh I'm looking forward to it."
Intertwining their fingers they relished in their reconciliation and the fact that they could reaffirm their bond. They both laughed and entered the study to confer with the others. Slight changes to the plans would need to be made. Ithilien needed to be reinforced, but also Dol Amroth. Already their fastest riders were racing towards their friends and allies. Brenna hoped that it would be enough as she sat back listening and giving what advice she could. They talked long into the night before they all retired for the evening.