(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 33
Brenna reined in Hiril and Ash came to a stop next to her as they rode into the entrance of Ithilien. She has spent two weeks in Minas Tirith catching up with Aragorn and spending time with Arwen and their daughters. The Sons of Elrond would often spend what free time that they had with her, which was not much. Brenna and everyone in the Citadel spent long hours preparing for the confrontation with the Haradrim.
Elladan came forward and held his hand to her as she slid off of Hiril. She smiled brightly to and thanked him. They took their packs and gear and allowed the grooms and stable hands to take their horses for them. Brenna insisted that she needed to stay in Ithilien with Eowyn. This announcement made them weary, as they knew from past experiences that she often went where the most trouble would be.
After assuring them that she would not be riding to battle or looking for a confrontation, they relented and many of them felt relief knowing that she would not be on the front lines. That is, they felt that way until Brenna confessed that a party of Haradrim would break the lines and make their way to Faramir's holdings, seeking revenge on Eowyn and his heir. The stream of curses from the mouths of her Guard caused her to flush a bit.
Elladan looked extremely displeased, but she told him that she needed to be there and of course she expected her Guard to be there with her. The rest of the men would be needed at the front lines however. Aragorn sent a letter ahead to Faramir and another to Legolas letting them know or Brenna's warning. Additional Guards and soldiers were being called forth from all corners of the realms to bring in not only for the fight on the border, but also to protect Lady Eowyn and little Elboron.
"You'll be careful, won't you Brenna?" Elladan asked as he escorted her to the rooms that had been set aside for her.
"Of course I will Elladan," she said with a small smile tugging at the corner of her mouth.
They had spent quite a bit of time talking with one another when they were in Minas Tirith. Brenna had let him know of her future plans and the places that she needed to Heal in her travels in the coming years. They were both saddened that they would be separated for years at a time, but it was agreed that it would help the passing of time while they waited for Brenna to reach her majority. Elladan would accompany her and visit from time to time. They would also write one another now that Brenna had a better grasp on the elvish languages and Westron.
"I'll leave you here to freshen up and rest before dinner," Elladan said kissing her knuckles and bowing to her with a grin. "I'll be back in a couple of hours to escort you to the Dining Hall."
Brenna laughed a little breathlessly. "I'll be waiting for you," she whispered back.
Entering her room she found that the windows were opened to let the warm spring air breeze through the rooms. She put her stuff away and stepped into the adjoining bath to find that a maid had gone ahead and had a bath drawn for her. With a smile she began to shed her travel worn and dirty clothes. They had ridden through some spring rainstorms on their way to Ithilien and most of their company was muddy.
Brenna poured in scented oils and slowly lowered herself into the large bath. She hissed as the hot steaming water touched her cool skin. When she had settled into the bath, she let her worries and stress of the upcoming confrontation wash away. Her muscles loosened and she relaxed in the warm bath waters.
It wasn't until the water had begun to cool that Brenna reached for her towel and stepped from the tub. Once dried, she donned her robe and went back to her rooms. Sitting at the vanity, she brushed out her long raven colored hair. Her mind drifted as she quietly hummed a tune that she had learned from Este, bringing herself peace and calm.
With practiced hands she began braiding her hair still humming softly. A knock on the door of her room sounded as she was tying off her braid. Oriel and a handmaiden assigned by Eowyn entered the room. The pair brought out a dark apricot colored gown and softer colored under layers. An almost sheer chemise of the faintest color peach was carefully brought over her head first before they quickly dressed her. Oriel unearthed a deep golden belt with star bursts carved into that cinched at her waist, showing off her curves but in a modest yet alluringly innocent fashion.
Brenna thanked them and turned to find a pair of leather slippers as they left. Elladan arrived a few moments later to escort her to the evening meal. His eyes had flared briefly, before he carefully composed himself and greeted her respectfully. Brenna smiled up at him and noticed the heat that was still present in his eye. Not for the first time she silently cursed the fact that she was not older. It was difficult for her to understand the elvish customs having grown up in another world and time.
Brenna entered the Hall and was greeted by a childish shriek and squeal. Little Elboron ran across the floor and wrapped his little arms around her legs. Brenna laughed and affectionately brushed the golden hair away from his brow.
"Hello Elboron," she said with a smile. "How are you doing? You've gotten so big since I last saw you!"
Elboron gave her a toothy smile and in a slightly lisping voice said, "Lady Brenna I missed you!"
Brenna laughed and crouched down to hug the toddler. Time was such a fluid thing. She hadn't even realized how much had passed since she had last seen the lad, but here he was nearing five years old already. Glancing up she saw her friends were waiting for her. Brenna paused looking at Eowyn and then her smile grew.
Standing up she took little Elboron's hand in her own and let both him and Elladan escort her to the rest of the group. They all stood talking and exchanging pleasantries while the servants were making the finishing touches on the meal and place settings. Faramir announced that the meal was ready and asked everyone to be seated. Elboron went to his mother's side and sat next to his father at the head of the table. Aragorn sat at the other end of the table. Arwen had stayed behind with the girls, especially when Brenna told her that their next daughter would be making her presence known later that year much to the chagrin of Aragorn.
Glancing around the table Brenna knew that now more than ever she needed to be present to help protect Eowyn and Elboron. She knew that she would need to speak to Faramir and Eowyn in private to figure out the best course of action. While they would not empty any of the realms of soldiers or some line of defense, a significant number of their men would be riding to face the Haradrim at the border.
Brenna ate quietly, listening to the news that they each had. Eowyn smiled softly at her friend and looked at her curiously when Brenna grinned and winked at her. They had been parted for a few years now and had much to catch up on.
At the conclusion of the meal Faramir dismissed all of the courtiers and unnecessary people. The leaders of the realms, Brenna and her Guard, and Faramir retired to the large Parlor. Eowyn went to settle Elboron in his room with his nanny for the evening. She returned a short while later and the group began deliberating and refining their plans. Eomer stood to the side with many of his higher ranking men. Lothíriel had stayed behind with an entire eored at ready to protect her and Léofwyn should the need arise.
Brenna stood in the corner and leaned heavily on the wall as she felt the visions coming. Her limbs trembled and breaths came in gasps and she slowly let them come. Flash! The clash of steel and shouts of battle rang in her ears. Flash! She was standing in front of Eowyn with her sword drawn and her Guard fighting to get to their side. Flash! A horn in the distance rang out. Flash! Flash! Flash!
Elladan caught her as her knees gave out. He carefully laid her down on one of the chaise lounges in the room and ran his hand over her brow. With a relieved sigh, he knelt next to her and waited for her to wake up. He felt as her fëa drifted and knew that she had gone to the Valar to seek counsel.
Brenna felt herself drift and willed herself to answer the summons. Kneeling in reverence, Brenna smiled up at the Valar sitting on their daises. Elbereth stepped forward in her celestial glow and lifted Brenna's chin, caressing her brow.
"Come little one," she said in a lyrical voice. "We have little time and much to discuss."
Brenna was led and brought before the Valar. Elbereth urged her to sit on a soft pile of pillows beside her own dais. Brenna bowed respectfully and did as she was bid.
"You know whom you need to contact," Manwe said in a deep rumbling voice. "They will redeem themselves and he will answer your call."
Brenna looked confused for a moment by images of Marroc and a company of his men arriving flashed in her mind. She stilled and looked to the Valar with large eyes. Their lyrical laughter echoed in the mighty hall.
"Yes child," Elbereth said, "you must send word to Marroc of the Dunlendings, for this is their fight as well."
Brenna nodded, lost deep in thought. "His people have suffered greatly, will they be well answering my call?" she asked cautiously.
"Peace child!" Manwe said. "We know of his people and your worry is noted. We would not suggest his presence if it were not needed. Send for him and they will come."
"Come now," Elbereth said kneeling next to her. "Our time here is up, you must return. Go now with our blessings, child. You will succeed and all will be well."
Brenna felt herself drifting back to Arda and her body. Drawing a deep breath she opened her eyes and found Elladan kneeling next to her with a concerned look on his face. Smiling reassuringly, she looked around to find that the others were patiently waiting for her to make whatever announcement that she felt necessary.
Sitting up she turned to them, biting her lip unsurely. This caused them to become concerned as Brenna was not often unsure of herself or the tasks that she needed to do after speaking with the Valar. Even still they waited for her to speak, knowing that they needed to trust her and the Valar in whatever they deemed necessary.
"I need to have word sent to Marroc of Dunland," she said. "We're going to need him and some of his men."
Brenna raised her hand, silencing the shouts of protest. She knew that this would be difficult to convince them of, but to have them not even let her finish was frustrating. Since she had arrived in Arda and all of the years since, she had been helping and Healing whenever she could. To have them doubt her now hurt more than she thought possible.
"Have I ever led you astray?" she asked quietly in a tight voice. "Haven't I always had a reason for my actions? Do you not know, even now, that what I do is the will of the Valar?"
She sat up straighter on the chaise, looking around the room with hurt clearly visible in her eyes. How could they think that she would ever do anything that might cause them harm? It was one thing to put herself in danger, but she always worked at making sure that she protected others from harm.
"Elbereth and the other Valar pointed out that this is their fight too," Brenna said standing up from the chaise. "I'm sorry if you do not agree with this, but Their will is mine. If you won't agree to send riders then you leave me no choice, but to go myself."
Elladan stood at her side and placed a reassuring hand on her arm. Though he didn't fully understand or trust Marroc or his people, he did trust Brenna and the Valar. He glared at the others, daring them to say anything more.
Aragorn held up his hands in a placating manner and tried to calm everyone down. He knew that Brenna had a reason for everything that she did. He also knew that even if he didn't trust the Dunlendings that he did trust her.
"Peace little sister," he said. "Let's hear the rest of what you have to say. Of course I'll send out riders with my own missive for Marroc. Come, let us talk."
Brenna nodded, though her hands were clenched at her side. Elladan ran his hands down her arms in a soothing motion and grasped her hands in his own. He nodded to her with a reassuring smile before stepping back and letting her have their full attention. His eyes met his brother's and they nodded in silent agreement. Whatever happened, one of them would be at her side during whatever was to come and the other would stay with Aragorn.
Eomer still looked thunderous, but allowed Brenna to at least say what she needed to. He and his people had deep seeded mistrust with the Dunlendings, especially after their part in what had happened to Rohan during the War of the Ring. Aye, he would hear what Brenna had to say, but he didn't have to like it.
Brenna explained that Marroc had a major role to play in dealing with Mazin. She told them that his men would arrive just in time to turn the tide in their favor and that it would be Marroc who in the end would put an end to Mazin and his reign of terror. They listened as she went into detail of what she had seen and had been told by the Valar. By the time she was finished there was no doubt in what they needed to do.
Eomer looked at her with a piercing gaze before nodding and turning to speak with Eothain in Rohirric. Though she did not fully understand the conversation, she now knew enough of the language to know that he was instructing his men to keep a close eye on the Dunlendings. Brenna glared at him before turning her attention back to where Eowyn was sitting tensely. Sighing, she quietly approached her friend and knelt next to where she was sitting. Eowyn looked at her coolly before nodding.
Brenna swallowed thickly, knowing that her friend was not happy with her at the moment. "Eowyn," she said softly, "I know that you are angry, but please understand. If they do not come, the outcome will be dire."
Eowyn looked mutinous, but nodded. "I understand Brenna," she said evenly.
"I'm not sure that any of you really do understand," Brenna said softly. "Marroc will arrive and intercept a blow meant of one of the kings. I did not see who, but he saves one of them and dispatches Mazin."
The room became quiet hearing her admission. Brenna knelt clasping her friend's hand and smiled softly feeling the life pulsing in her. She raised her eyes to meet Eowyn's and grinned at her.
"Do you know yet, my friend?" she asked in a quiet voice.
"Know what?" Eowyn asked in confusion.
Brenna's smile grew and beckoned Faramir over urging him to sit beside his wife. Once he was seated she clasped both of their hands and gently placed them on Eowyn's flat stomach. Eowyn looked down and then her eyes flew to Brenna's. Brenna smiled and nodded to her friends.
"Yes Eowyn," she said with laughter coloring her voice. "The newest member of your House will be born some time before the end of the year, around the time of Arwen's daughter. Your daughter will be just as fiercely loyal and stubborn as her mother."
"A daughter?" Faramir asked still gently touching his wife's abdomen. "We are to have a daughter?"
"Yes, and in the future you may still have more children," she said with unfocused eyes. "Perhaps another, I cannot see which gender though."
There were congratulations being given to the happy couple as Brenna stepped back and walked to Elladan's side. He pulled her to his side, holding her in a possessive, yet chaste manner. He was very careful of where he put his hands. Brenna leaned in to his side and took comfort in his closeness. She sighed in contentment as she watched everyone talking quietly. Arwen and Lothíriel were missed as were their daughters, but it was much safer to have them far from this skirmish.
Brenna met Eowyn's eyes across the room and slowly nodded. Her friend seemingly just realized the added danger of what was to come. Eowyn paled, realizing that there was now more at stake. Faramir looked panic stricken at the thought of his wife, son, and newly discovered unborn daughter being left to face an attack on their home while the rest of them would be so far away.
"Do not worry so much Faramir," Brenna said over the conversations. "I'm going to be here with my Guard as well as the garrison of knights and rangers that you leave here in defense of your home."
He nodded his head looking torn between his duty to his king and his responsibility and need to protect his family. Aragorn also looked torn, but knew that Faramir would be needed with him. He glanced to Brenna and saw her serious look. When she nodded to him, and shrugged, he knew that there was nothing that they could do. Perhaps this was one of the reasons that Marroc would be needed.
"We cannot change the course of what is to come," Brenna said. "The only thing that we can do is prepare and meet it head on."
The group nodded and eventually began dwindling and taking their leave for the evening. Brenna was escorted by Elladan out to the gardens where they were chaperoned by Elrohir and Lord Glorfindel. Brenna sat quietly beside Elladan as the males talked softly in elvish. Brenna hummed quietly and felt the answering warmth on her brow. Smiling softly, she began singing the song that Yavanna sang when she created and awoke the Two Trees of Valinor.
The elves slowly began arriving in the Garden, listening to the haunting sound of Brenna's voice. Deep within them stirred a longing to go home. With each word that she sang, they could almost feel the light of the trees. A deep peace began to settle over those that heard her voice. Each of them began to feel their weariness leave them. In their mind's eye they could picture Valinor clearly.
Brenna felt her brow flare and a warmth flare through her as she continued singing, gently touching the petals of the flowers nearby. The blossoms seemed to stretch and reach towards her hand in the moonlight. There was laughter on her voice seeing the plants react to her voice and touch.
Lord Glorfindel in particular looked moved by her voice. It was like a balm to his tired and weary soul. All around the gardens the elves sat or leaned looking up at the rising stars. Her voice soothed them in a way that they had never felt before. Even the mortal residents of the dwelling listened quietly, reverently as she sang late into the night.
When her voice finally trailed off, Brenna sat back with a sigh, leaning into Elladan's side. He wrapped his arm around her and noticed that she was beginning to drift off to sleep. Grinning down at her, he kissed her brow and pulled her gently into his arms while standing. The other elves bowed reverently to her as she slowly drifted off to sleep.
Elladan carried Brenna through the halls of Faramir and Eowyn's home. Oriel walked quickly ahead of them to open the door to Brenna's rooms. She and the handmaiden assigned to Brenna turned down the bed and shooed the males from the room. They began unlacing Brenna's gown once the door was shut. After carefully taking off her leather slippers, Brenna began to stir. She sluggishly moved her limbs as the pulled her dress and the under layers over her head, leaving her in her chemise.
After tucking her in carefully, they shuttered and locked the windows before leaving her in her rooms. In the hallways throughout holdings there were guards placed to keep watch during the night as well as guards patrolling and watching the perimeters. The watch on the settlement had been increased as well.
Towers had been constructed as part of the design for the holdings in Ithilien. Nearby there were similar watches and patrols taking place with the elvish settlement. They took Brenna's warning to heart and were vigilant in their watch. Thus far there had been no sightings of any Haradrim, but they weren't about to let their guard down.
The weeks and months passed relatively quickly. Dol Amroth had been put on alert and had its navy waiting in the Bay of Belfalas. Should the enemy thing to attack via the sea, they would be waiting for them. A mixed company of soldiers were sent to the abandoned port that Brenna had been taken to when she was kidnapped to watch the comings and goings of their neighbors to the South. Thus far it was quiet, almost too quiet.
It wasn't until mid-summer that there were the first sightings of the Haradrim. Brenna's warnings were accurate. On the eve of battle after many failed attempts to talk to Mazin and the other leaders of the Haradrim, Marroc and a company of his men rode in to Ithilien escorted by a small company of Riders from Rohan.
Brenna greeted Marroc and his men, who bowed to her in response. They told her that her aid was fruitful and that even now their fields and crops were flourishing. He also told her that Eomer and Aragorn had each sent large wagons of provisions for their suffering neighbors. He bowed his thanks to them as well.
That night they traveled under the cover of darkness towards the border with their men and waited. Brenna stayed up with Eowyn, before insisting that the expectant mother get some rest. Their guards checked each of their rooms before securely closing the women in for the night. Brenna woke near the early hours of dawn and heard a noise outside of her room. Feeling her way towards her wardrobe, she silently strapped on her weapons and crept towards the door. She dressed in a tunic that night before going to bed, knowing that the enemy would sneak in some time in the night.
Brenna quietly opened her door and peaked down the hallway. A sense of dread filled her when she noticed that the guard that had been watching the hall was gone. She quickly went across the hall to Oriel and Angrod's room. Letting herself in she silently shut the door and woke her friends up. Both jolted awake when she entered the room and silently got ready. Angrod insisted on going out first as they crept their way down the hallway towards Eowyn's rooms.
A shout rang out and there were sounds of fighting out in the main entrance. Brenna raced past Angrod, ignoring his plea for her to wait. She dodge the grasp of one of the Haradrim, unsheathing her sword as she fought her way further into the home, down the wing where she knew Eowyn and Elboron to be staying. There she found more of the Haradrim, stowing her sword, she pulled out her bow and began to fire, taking them out one by one as Angrod and Oriel gave her cover.
Brenna's Guard fought their way towards her as she pushed her way towards Eowyn's rooms. She cut down one of the last men in the hallway and burst into Eowyn's room to find her facing a man while clutching Elboron to her. Brenna didn't hesitate; she rushed the man who turned towards her. Elladan flew into the room with Elrohir at his side taking down the other men now trying to break in through the windows.
Lord Glorfindel stepped into the room and engaged the brute of a man just as Brenna had been caught in the side by his blade. It wasn't deep, but it was enough to hurt and draw blood. The Haradrim's numbers seemed to be dwindling quickly as the element of surprise was now gone.
Brenna stood between Eowyn and the enemy with her sword at ready. She had cuts on her arms and sides as well as a rather large cut on her left thigh. Her adrenaline was running high as the last of the Haradrim was dispatched. None were left alive for the vileness of this attack. Brenna felt and showed no mercy when those that were there meant to slaughter them all in their sleep, while the men were off to fight in the war.
As the sun crept up over the horizon, the bodies of the enemy were piled out in the main courtyard. Brenna hissed as the cuts began to ache. She clutched Eowyn to her and checked her and Elboron over. Though scared, neither of them was hurt. Even Eowyn's unborn daughter was safe and well.
Brenna limped over to Elladan and Elrohir. Elladan caught sight of her injuries and looked livid. He and his brother immediately set about tending to her wounds. She was sat down on a nearby chair and allowed them to cut away portions of her leggings to treat the large gash on her leg. Her outer tunic was also shed so that the wounds on her arms and side could be assessed and treated.
Once her wounds were treated, Brenna stood shakily on her legs. Oriel rushed forward to help her back towards her rooms. Eowyn's guard was increased for security reasons. She and Elboron would be staying to the inner rooms of the holdings under the careful watch of their personal guard.
Brenna made slow progress down the hallway, nodding to her guard who all seemed to be fine other than a few scrapes and bruises. They fell in around Brenna, walking protectively around her and Oriel. A few of them went ahead to the wing that Brenna was staying in and cleared room to room. Once they reached Brenna's room, they checked the room and called out to the guards now stationed back out in the courtyard and gardens below to make sure that the room was secure once more.
Brenna allowed Oriel and her handmaiden to gently strip her of her bloody and soiled clothes. They carefully bandaged the wounds before helping her into a fresh chemise. Brenna pointed out that a dress would be alright to wear now that the attack was over and there would be now further threat to them.
Oriel pulled out a dark wine colored gown for her to wear. Brenna shrugged the under layers of the dress over her head. She raised her hands over her head, hissing as her wounds pulled a bit when they pulled the outer layer of the dress on. Brenna sat stiffly as they laced up the back of her gown. Luckily the style of dress did not require a belt or corset. The empire waist did not rub on the cut to her side.
Oriel crouched and slid Brenna's slippers on her feet. Brenna took her dagger and slipped it into the pocket sewn into her dress. Looking around her room she crossed to the wardrobe. Digging around for a bit, she pulled out the pouch containing her necklaces. After slipping both of them over her head, she turned to exit the room.
Elladan stood leaning on the wall across the hall waiting for her. He straightened and stepped towards her as she opened the door. Seeing her dressed in a gown his posture relaxed as did the rest of her guard.
"I take it from your attire that we can relax a little?" Angrod asked coming to Oriel's side.
Brenna nodded tiredly. "Yes, our part of the attack is over," she answered. "Now we just need to wait for the confrontation on the border to be over. The advance from the sea was stopped before it even started. Prince Imrahil sunk the remainder of the Corsair fleet."
Elladan stepped forward and swept her up in his arms. Ignoring her protest he walked swiftly towards the front Parlor that they had met in the night before. The rest of her Guard fell in around them. Brenna stopped protesting and wrapped her arms around Elladan's neck. He reflexively tightened his grasp and dropped a kiss on her brow as they reached the room. He gently set her down on one of the chaise lounges in the room.
The group sat talking for hours before the first messenger from the border arrived. Apparently Marroc lunged in front of a blow aimed at Eomer, deflecting it and cutting the arm off of Mazin. The enraged and deranged man continued fighting despite the staggering odds against them. Marroc fought against him, with Eomer guarding his back. Mazin lunged, trying to get past Marroc, but Marroc parried and swung down striking a killing blow to the back of Mazin's neck. Seeing their leader fall many of the men turned to flee only to find that they had been surrounded. They were rounded up and given a choice. They could swear to never return to West or they would be killed.
Aragorn and Eomer made it plainly known that they wanted no further trouble from the men of the East and South. They had pointed out that they had tried numerous times to come up with trading agreements and treaties with them only to be rebuffed and mocked. One man stepped forward and introduced himself as the brother of Mazin. Adnan told them that he was now the leader of their family's tribe and swore that there would be no more trouble with his tribe. He just wanted peace and prosperity for his kin and people. Though he had been present for the battle he had not wanted to be there. It was only by order of his brother and duty to his family that he had rode to confront Gondor.
Faramir immediately sent word back to Ithilien as soon as it was safe to do so. He fervently prayed that all was well with his family and people. He hoped that Brenna's warning had come soon enough that everything would be fine. Once they were sure that the border was secure they turned back to Ithilien. It was two days later when they marched into his holdings to find the smoldering pile of the enemy burning out past their fields. They feared the worst seeing the large number of foes.
Entering the main courtyard, Faramir launched himself from his horse and raced up the steps toward the doors of his Hall. The door guard opened the doors as he reached them and welcomed him home. Calling out to Eowyn, he was greeted by a slightly limping Brenna and her Guard. Eowyn came rushing around the corner holding Elboron to greet him.
Faramir's knees felt weak with relief as he embraced his wife and son. He looked to Brenna and nodded his thanks as he fought back tears. He clutched Eowyn to his side and cradled his son between them.
"Thank you," he said hoarsely to Brenna. "Are you well Lady Brenna? You seemed to be limping when I came in."
"I'm well Faramir," she replied with a smile.
"Nay my love," Eowyn said earnestly. "Brenna came like an avenging goddess and stepped between us and the assassin sent to kill us. She killed the man and the rest of her guard and our men took care of the rest."
"We are in your debt Brenna," Faramir said bowing to her. "You have my eternal gratitude that you were there to save my family."
"There is no debt among friends Faramir," Brenna said with a smile. "I'm glad that we were able to get there in time. Even with the forewarning, they came in the early morning hours after you all had left and while we were sleeping. They caught us unawares. There were many of our men injured, but there were no fatalities."
Aragorn and Eomer had entered to hear what had happened. Marroc entered cautiously behind them, but the others ushered him forward and welcomed him. His men had fought valiantly and had earned their respect.
Brenna stepped forward towards Marroc and greeted him warmly. He smiled, making him look years younger than his age. He greeted her in kind, bowing to her respectively. She introduced him to Elladan and the others that had not been to his village in Dunland.
Elladan stepped forward to greet the man while resting a hand on her lower back. Brenna grinned up at him and rolled her eyes knowing that it was a possessive gesture. Elrohir caught her eyes and smirked at her as he stepped forward to greet the Dunlending that his little sister so staunchly defended and vouched for.
The armies did not enjoy much rest as they all had to return to their homelands. Brenna felt an urging to visit Isengard and voiced her need to travel to her Guard and companions. Plans were made for their departure in just a few short days later. Once all the injured had been treated and deemed well enough to travel the armies made ready to leave.
The armies would slowly be making their way back to their homelands. Ithilien and Dol Amroth would remain on high alert with larger numbers of soldiers present to retain their safety and borders. Aragorn would be traveling back to Minas Tirith with the Sons of Elrond and most of the soldiers that had marched with them.
Brenna and almost all of her Guard left with the Rohirrim and Dunlendings. Eomer and the Riders of Rohan traveled with them as far as the Fords of Isen. Marroc and his men continued their way through the Gap of Rohan North to their homeland. Brenna bid both groups farewell and let them know that she would be traveling around Isengard, in the attempt to Heal the destruction caused by Saruman.
Before departing, Eomer dispatched an additional twenty five Riders to Guard her. Marroc informed them that his people would keep an eye on the lands to the North of the Gap of Rohan. If anything or anyone suspicious moved near or was a perceived threat to Brenna. Brenna bid her friends farewell as she and her company set up camp on the outskirts of Isengard.
Later that evening as their camp was set up and a watch rotation was established, Treebeard came to investigate what was happening. Brenna greeted the Ent warmly and let him know that she would begin Healing the lands here and helping the nearby forest to regrow. Treebeard was elated and in his own longwinded way, thanked her before setting off to call the Entmoot to let the others know.
Brenna smiled as she watched the tree-herder walk North towards the barren mountain side. Glancing around, she shivered at the wasteland around her. Even nearly a decade later she could feel the taint of evil in this place. Something was wrong with this place and she couldn't quite put her finger on it.
Brenna cautiously stalked to her where her pack rested on the ground and began strapping on her weapons, putting her Guard and travel companions on high alert. She beckoned one of the Riders that Eomer had charged with staying at her side. In hushed tones she sent him to ride to the nearest settlement of Rohan and raise the alarm. There was something that was definitely off about this place.
Folcwine listened wide eyed as Lady Brenna voiced her concerns and urged him to calmly get on his horse and Ride to Rohan. She handed him a scroll and in a louder voice told him to have this missive sent to Eomer King letting him know that they had safely arrived at Isengard. He pasted on a smile, nodded to his men, giving his comrades a hand signal that had them all straightening and glancing around subtly. He saddled his horse and rode out reasonable pace until he passed around the bend out of sight of Isengard. Once he knew he was clear of the valley he rode as if the Hounds of Hell were at his heels.
Folcwine knew that for Lady Brenna to looks so pale and shaken there was something awful sure to happen. He pushed his horse and himself to the very brink and reached the Westfold within two hours. Both he and his horse were winded, but they had made it. He called out in alarm and a party of Riders mounted up and immediately rode out heading back where he came from. At the same time another courier rode to Edoras, stopping at all the villages along the way. With each stop parties of Riders set out in all haste to answer the call of Lady Brenna.
Meanwhile farther Northwest, Marroc and his men watched a party of ruffians assembling and making their way South. He and his men silently and swiftly shadowed their progress, realizing that they were heading right for Brenna and her company. They had no way of sending forward any warning.
Brenna and her group lit large bon fires in the center and around their encampment. She stayed towards the center of the company with Oriel and her Guard nearby. Mentally she was berating herself for not looking into this further before deciding to Heal this area. Of all the places in Arda she had picked one that seemingly had more danger than the others on her mental check list.
It was just as the sun kissed the horizon that they heard the snarls and growls. In the falling darkness they heard the sinister laughter of their foes surrounding them. Glowing eyes were reflected in the light of the campfires. Brenna's limbs trembled as she recognized a large number of Orcs and Uruks that had escaped the purging of evil in Arda. With them were a number of Wargs.
The elves quickly formed a circle, standing protectively between their foes and Brenna. In the distance the Horns of Rohan sounded and the sound of many horses hooves beating on the ground rumbled closer. Brenna breathed a sigh of relief knowing that help was on the way.
Even as aid approached, the Orcs, Uruks, and Wargs attacked. Their numbers seemed to multiply as more came scrambling up out of deep holes within the ground around Isengard. The fighting broke out and Brenna's company fought hard to not fall to the darkness that was attacking them. The Riders of Rohan arrived in waves coming from the Southeast.
A shout rang out in the night as a large party of unfamiliar men joined the melee. Brenna turned, deflecting a blow that approached from behind. She noticed that Marroc and his men attacked from behind their newest foes. She ducked and swung her sword, dispatching her current opponent. Before she could even catch her breath two more engaged her.
Once more loudly in the distance more horns of Rohan rang out in the night. Even louder still were the thunderous hoof beats upon the ground. Brenna could faintly see torchlight and the large numbers of Riders speeding with great haste towards them.
Spinning and kicking out she dropped one opponent and jabbed the other. With a heaving swing she dispatched both and moved on to her next foe. Her limbs were tiring, but the seemingly endless number of Orcs and Uruks kept pouring up from the ground.
Brenna heard a shout from nearby and ducked, rolling to the right just missing an attack by a Warg. She was cornered now and isolated. Her legs trembled even as she fought for courage and to remain focused. There was a great whooshing sound and suddenly a spear appeared from in the night, piercing the Warg dropping it. Eomer emerged from the night looking as fierce as she had ever seen him.
They continued fighting into the early morning hours, taking great care to make sure that none of the enemy lived. Marroc fought his way to Brenna's side, deflecting what would have been a fatal blow and killing the Orc. The group finished off what they hoped was the last of the enemy and began igniting the many holes in the ground to make sure that there would be none left in hiding.
Treebeard and the Ents came in the middle of the chaos and began stomping on the Orcs and Uruks with a vengeance. Needless to say by the time the sun crept over the sky there were none of the enemy left alive.
Brenna's knees gave out where she stood and her whole body trembled. She was so tired of fighting, tired of the death and destruction that had become her life. She wept there on the blackened grounds of Isengard as the sun climbed in the sky. The bodies of the enemy were tossed into the burning pits.
Eomer knelt beside his sister-friend and took her hands into his own. He swallowed the lump that had formed in his throat seeing her weep so earnestly. When the missive had arrived on his route back to Edoras he had feared the worst. They had been about two hours from reaching the Golden Hall when the Rider had reached their party. He and his company turned around and spurned their horses to the very brink to reach Brenna in time.
"Hush milady," he said softly. "All is well. We've survived the night, love. Come let's get you away from the carnage and cleaned up."
Brenna's limbs felt like lead. She didn't even protest when Eomer lifted her against his broad muscled chest. Lord Glorfindel picked up her weapons and cleaned them along the way. He and the members of her Guard were extremely concerned for their charge. In all of their travels and adventures, they had never seen her break down so before. Even when they had disagreed in Dunland she had not crumbled so.
The men present fell silent upon seeing Brenna being carried away from the carnage. She, like everyone there, was covered in the blood and grime of battle. Many of them bowed respectfully to the petite elleth who had done so much for Arda. To see her so affected had many of them concerned. Watching her become emotionally overwrought was not something that any of them had ever had to deal with before.
Oriel gingerly made her way to her lady's side. She had sustained some minor cuts in the fight, but had fought to stay at Brenna's side throughout the night. Angrod assisted his mate over to Lady Brenna. He marveled at the two elleths, but now feared for their young charge. If she did not recover soon a Rider would need to make haste to Lord Elladan.
Eomer gently lowered Brenna to where her bedroll had been set up. He pulled off her various weapons and belts, accepting a bowl of water that one of his men brought forward. Gently he began cleaning her hands and wounds. She sat still with silent tears pouring down her face.
"Are you alright Brenna?" he asked quietly. "Will you be able to make the ride back to Rohan? We will stop at the nearest village where you can rest and recover."
Brenna looked up at him with a look of such heartbreak in her eyes that he fought his own tears. His hands trembled as he brushed away her tears, unsure of what to do. He could fight and kill, but he was finding that the tears of the women in his life unmanned him.
"Don't carry on so, Brenna," he whispered hoarsely. "We'll away from this place and you won't ever have to return if you do not wish it so."
Brenna looked at him with unseeing eyes. She ached and longed for answers from the Valar. Her body and mind were exhausted. Closing her eyes she heard the sounds of the encampment in the distance. She felt her body slump even as she drifted to Valinor. Opening her eyes she found herself lying under the Light of the Two Trees.
Brenna saw the Light and wept. She curled in on herself and cried for all the pain that she felt. So much death and filth she had faced was now beginning to really take its toll on her. Even as she let her grief come to the surface she felt Este and Elbereth kneel at her side soothing and singing. Manwe sat and smoothed the hair from her brow, trying to comfort his beloved child.
"Child," Este cajoled softly, "breathe, it is alright. That's it, listen to my voice and harken to me. Peace little one and let the hurts wash away."
"Brenna," Elbereth breathed, "you've done so well little one. We're so proud of you. Never again shall you face another Orc or Uruk in your days on Arda. You and the others have wiped out the last stronghold of them. Breathe that's it."
Brenna's tears were all cried out. She felt empty and wrung out. Manwe lifted her and cradled her to his broad chest, sitting with his back on the trunk of the large Silver Lighted Tree. His presence was a balm to her aching soul. The other Valar lounged nearby, reaching out to touch and soothe their beloved child. They realized that they had perhaps asked too much of her in such a short amount of time.
"There now child," Manwe said as Este soothed and healed her completely. "Go back and rest. Take some time to Heal yourself and rest. You've earned a reprieve from your toils. Peace and go with our love and blessings."
Brenna drifted, finding warmth and strength in His embrace. She felt his words rumble in his chest and reverberate through her. As she drifted away, she felt each of the Valar kiss her brow and she drifted away from consciousness.
Elladan had received an urgent message earlier that morning, but he had been in counsel with Aragorn throughout the day. He tiredly opened the scroll and felt his knees buckle. He heard Elrohir's muffled voice cry out to him as his head spun. Elrohir dropped to his knees by his twin and took the letter and read it crying out in alarm.
Aragorn had come to see what was wrong as Elrohir read the letter and paled. Aragorn took the parchment with trembling hands as he watch his adoptive brothers stagger to their feet. He nodded to them and immediately left the room to send a small company of Knights to ride with his brothers to Brenna's side.
The letter from Lord Glorfindel was horrifying. Upon reaching Isengard they had been ambushed and surrounded. While it was a relief to know that there were no Orc or Uruk left on Arda he would have spared Brenna fighting in another battle. She had apparently lost consciousness that evening and had yet to awaken. Eomer had ordered her to be taken to Edoras where he could ensure her safety himself until the Sons of Elrond could arrive.
It was within the hour that Elladan and Elrohir set out towards Edoras. They would be taking the Great West Road with all due haste. It had already been a week and then some since the letter was sent by Lord Glorfindel. Brenna had fallen unconscious nearly two weeks prior. Elladan rode with a single purpose on his mind. He needed to reach his beloved's side. To know that she had been in such danger without him there was a crippling thought. However, it was the knowledge that she was hurting and needed him that was almost too much to bear. He thought that the message about her dip in the Anduin was terrifying, but this was more.
It was late on the fifth day that they rode across the plains towards Edoras. A small party of Riders escorted them. It was now widely known that Lady Brenna was within the halls of Edoras. People were pouring in daily to pay their respects to the lady and leave gifts for her.
Eomer and Lothíriel greeted them with solemn faces on the steps of Meduseld. They were ushered into the Hall and shown their rooms where they could freshen up. When Elladan tried to insist he see Brenna Lothíriel pinned him with a grim look.
"You'll freshen yourself up from your journey and take some rest and refreshment," she said firmly. "Then when you look like a gust of wind won't blow you over and compose yourself, you can see her. She doesn't need to awaken and see you neglecting yourself Lord Elladan."
Elrohir nodded and pulled his brother towards their rooms where baths and food were waiting. Elrohir shoved his brother towards the bath before going in search of his own. When Elrohir was changed and fed he went to check on his brother and found him fast asleep on his bed. Sighing in relief, he carefully crept out of the room and went in search of Lord Glorfindel.
He found Brenna's Guard lounging and pacing in a nearby parlor in the adjacent hallway. Across the hall was the door to the room that Brenna was apparently resting in. He was greeting quietly and filled in on what had transpired leading up to Brenna's deep Healing sleep. Apparently she had not been expecting trouble in Isengard and the battle took its toll on her spirit.
Lord Glorfindel pulled him to the side and urged him to bring Elladan when he had awoken. His mentor told him in hushed tones to prepare his brother for the inevitable need to call Brenna back to them. She had sunk deep within herself to Heal.
Elrohir walked towards his and his twin's rooms some time later only to be met by Elladan coming down the hall. He pulled his twin by the window and gently explained what Lord Glorfindel had told him. He urged his twin to take courage and be strong for Brenna. She needed him strong and whole to bring her back to them. When she was well enough she would be escorted to Rivendell for a time to Heal. She would unfortunately miss the births of her friend's children, but she needed to Heal and rest. In her short time in Arda she had done more than any should have asked of her.
Elladan walked quietly towards her room and entered after knocking quietly. Lothíriel stood and let him take the chair by the bed. She sat in a chair by the window and picked up her embroidery. Little Léofwyn sat by her mother's side practicing her own stitching. Her Aunt, Lady Brenna was ill and she was on her best behavior. Her papa had promised her that Brenna would be well. Uncle Elladan would come and make it better. She flashed the elf a hopeful smile when he entered the room.
Elladan sat in the chair and took Brenna's hand into his own. His other hand rested on her brow and he felt out with his fëa. With a sigh, he found her there, just resting peacefully. His fëa called out to hers, urging her to follow and return. Brenna responded with some reluctance, but answered his call once she knew that he was truly there.
Blinking her eyes blurrily, Brenna first realized that she was indoors. She then noticed that she was in her rooms in Edoras and that Elladan was at her bedside looking heartbroken and hopeful at the same time. He brought her hand to his lips, kissing her finger tips gently with a look of so much love that it caused her heart to stutter.
Lothíriel left to alert Eomer and the others of Brenna's awakening. There were muffled exclamations across the hallway in the parlor and then even louder ones in the King's Hall. Rapid footfalls came down the hallway as Eomer, came to see for himself. Hugging Lothíriel to his side he picked up his daughter and hugged them both to his side.
"You gave us quite a scare little sister," Eomer said gruffly. "It is three weeks past the battle at Isengard."
Brenna nodded tiredly. "I know," she replied in a raspy voice. "The Valar let me know of what was happening. They kept me and Healed me while I was resting."
Elladan clutched her hand and looked her over carefully. "Well you rest all that you need melamin. We can take some time here in Rohan and perhaps take brief respite in Imladris for a time," he suggested softly.
"Aye, Brenna," Eomer said eagerly. "You are welcome to stay as long as you like."
Brenna looked as if she wanted to protest, but Elladan silenced her with a finger gently upon her lips. He looked at her with so much love in his eyes. She could see and feel his worry. She felt his fëa reaching out to comfort and sooth her. Sighing she closed her eyes tiredly before nodding.
"Yes, some rest is what the Valar said that I needed," she whispered. "It would be wonderful to spend some time here in Edoras and perhaps spend until early next year in Imladris."
Elladan smiled at her softly. "Good, we'll make the arrangements," he said softly. "When you're ready we will travel to Rivendell. Perhaps we'll stop in Lothlorien and walk the Golden Woods for a time."
Brenna nodded tiredly. "That sounds like a wonderful plan," she said with her voice trailing off.
Her eyes were growing heavy despite the fact that she had been unconscious for nearly three weeks. During that time she had lost some weight and her body had weakened. Only by the will of the Valar had she been able to survive as long as she had. She was dehydrated and suffering from malnourishment, having not eaten or drank anything in that period of time.
"Sleep melamin," Elladan urged her. "When you wake up we'll get you some warm broth and water."
Letters were now en route to Brenna's friends and allies giving them an update on her health. The letters would also briefly outline her travel plans for the next eight or nine months. It was clear to her Guard and the Sons of Elrond that she desperately needed to rest and recover. She had stretched herself a bit thin in recent years. Only when she was fully recovered would the escort her to wherever she deemed it necessary to go next, though many of them were reluctant to ever let her near Isengard ever again.
Elladan ever the patient and loving mate stayed at Brenna's side, nursing her back to health. The light was coming back to her eyes with each passing day. Little Léofwyn helped with her recovery as well showing her the innocent love that only a child could bring in life. Déorwyn visited with Freya and little Déorthain, Eothain's newborn son.
Brenna spent the next few months in Rohan riding freely across the plains and visiting with her friends. She gained more of herself with each passing day and finally felt well enough to travel towards the beginning of August. Brenna and her Guard made preparations to leave, heading north to Lothlorien. Erchirion and the Knights that had escorted the Sons of Elrond to Edoras would return to Gondor. In the early spring there would be a number of Knights and Elphir that would meet Brenna in Imladris. It was tentatively planned for her to make her way back to Gondor sometime next spring.
For the first time since meeting the members of her Rohirric Guard, they were slowly introducing new members that they and Eomer deemed loyal and trustworthy enough to accompany and protect her. Despite the fact that most of them were only in their thirties and forties, it was deemed time to start planning for the next generation of Guard members. Ideally they wanted their own sons to take over their duties, but they were all either infants or toddlers. Until such a time that they were ready, this new group would ride with Brenna while she traveled and was abroad. Though it would never be quite the same, Brenna welcomed and greeted them warmly.
Brenna tearfully said goodbye to Eomer and his family as well as Eothain and his. She had greatly enjoyed her time with her friends that she had so dearly missed over the years. After hugging each of her original Rohirric Guard members goodbye, she boosted into the saddle. Sitting surely in the saddle, she reached forward to pat Hiril on the neck. Ash was accompanying them as she didn't have the heart to be parted from her loyal friend.
Over the next few weeks the traveled at a pace that allowed Brenna to enjoy their trip. There was no hurry or urgency to get to their destination. Her group assured her that she had plenty of time. She breathed deeply and freely for the first time in as long as she could remember. Saying a silent prayer to the Valar, she finally let go of her grief. A warm gentle breeze swirled around her and her brow briefly flared.
Brenna smiled in content knowing that the Valar both understood and supported her taking some time. At the end of the third week they rode into the silent Golden Wood. They were greeted by the last handful of elves that chose to remain until such a time that Brenna was ready to sail. Brenna dismounted from Hiril and grabbed her packs. Elladan reached her side and shouldered one of her packs for her. With a gentle hand on the small of her back he escorted her up to the Talan that had belonged to his family for many millennia. Oriel and Angrod followed behind as did the rest of their party and their hosts.
The Sons of Elrond invited the group to stay in the surrounding Talans. Brenna's official Guard members were given rooms in the main Talan in the guest wing. Brenna entered the now very familiar rooms with a soft smile. Though there was really only some furniture left, it would be nice to spend a week or two in the enchanted wood.
After freshening up Brenna slipped from her rooms and silently made her way down the steps to the gardens below. She had forgone shoes, walking gently on the soft earth below her feet. She could feel the thrum of the forest around her. Walking further into the garden she sat on a bench near a small pond and ran her fingers over the water's surface humming softly to herself.
So lost in thought was she that she did not even notice when Elladan had joined her in the garden and sat beside her. Ever so gently and cautiously, he took her hand in his own. Brenna turned to him with a soft smile and continued to sing softly.
"It's like time stands still here," she whispered reverently. "The power and beauty here is but a small echo of what it is like in Valinor. I long to return home, but there is much for me to do here before I can go."
"We will get there love," Elladan said. "We will do all that we can to help you in our remaining time here Brenna. You need but say the words and we will do what we must to make it happen."
Brenna glanced at him with a smile. "I know melamin," she replied. "I am glad that we get to spend some time together away from all the evil and destruction in this world. I fear that my heart would not have been able to handle more if I did not take this brief respite."
Elladan nodded and pulled her closer to his side. The often forgot how sensitive she was to life and how young she truly was by their standards. With his arm chastely wrapped around her waist, he held her back against his chest as they sat quietly looking over his grandmother's garden. Many summers he and his siblings had spent running around playing here. With a pang he thought of his mother.
Brenna glanced up at him sharply, noticing the change in him. She felt his fëa calling out to hers in pain. "What is it, love?" she asked in concern.
"My naneth used to love it here," he whispered. "Long has it been since I have gazed upon her."
Brenna held his hand comfortingly and nodded. Turning to more fully look at him she smiled brightly. Her gazed turned to one full of mischief and glee. Biting her lip, she searched his gaze briefly before seemingly deciding to tell him what she had thought or remembered.
"I've met your naneth, Elladan," she said with a gentle smile.
"How is that possible?" he asked clasping her tightly to him.
"I had forgotten it had happened," she murmured looking up at him. "She met me sitting on the shores of Valinor once and then another time in the Gardens of Yavanna. You and your siblings are such a perfect blend of your parents."
"You really met her," he breathed out. "How was she? Was she well? Was she healed?" he asked in rapid succession.
Brenna laughed throatily. "Yes I really met her," she replied with a mischievous look. "We had some lovely chats about you and your youth. She is whole and healed in Valinor and misses you and your siblings greatly, my love."
Elladan pulled her in for a tight embrace before pulling back and looking at her tenderly. "We need to let my siblings know this, melamin," he said softly. "The news you've just shared will allow us all to heal."
Brenna smiled at him and nodded. Elladan stood and held out his hand to her. Seeing her bare feet he laughed deeply and shook his head at her. They walked hand and hand under the enchanted light of the wood in search of Elrohir. Elladan called out to his twin, irreverently breaking the silence of the Golden Wood.
Elrohir heard his brother calling for him and quickly went in search of his twin. He found Elladan and Brenna walking towards the large stair near the Main Talan. He flew down the steps and met them at the bottom of the stairs with a look of concern on his face. When Elladan repeated what Brenna had said his whole being seemed to light up and he plucked Brenna up and spun her around joyfully. Placing Brenna carefully back on her feet, both twins looked so happy that it caught Brenna's breath.
They celebrated that evening and shared the news with the rest of their company. Brenna retired that evening and slept peacefully and soundly through the night. She was soothed and calmed by the thrum of the trees that stood watch for them at night.
It was two weeks later that found their party ready to leave for Rivendell. It was decided that they need to make it over the Mountain Pass before it became too treacherous to travel. As it was, it would take them nearly a month to reach Rivendell. They hoped to reach the Last Homely House by November. The Valar willing, they would make it there without incident.
It was a long a tiring journey for Brenna and her entourage, but they made it to Imladris, where Lord Celeborn awaited their arrival. He warmly welcomed his grandsons and Brenna home. When he heard the news of his daughter's Healing, he rejoiced and gently hugged his future granddaughter in-law. The elves living in the Valley came forward to help Brenna's party and escorted everyone to their rooms. Brenna's had long since been moved in to the same hallway of the rest of the family.
Elladan escorted his little love to her room and took his leave of her. He walked down the familiar hallways and felt a pang of nostalgia. There was an ache and slight sense of loneliness that he felt knowing that both his parents were now gone as well as his younger sister. Even his grandmother had sailed to the Undying Lands.
Shaking himself from his musings, he lowered himself into the bath and let the aches and weariness of travel wash away. He scrubbed the dirty and grime from his body and grinned thinking of Brenna. She had recovered a great deal in her time away from the pressure and duties of her calling. He thanked the Valar that they deemed in prudent for her to rest and recover.
Meanwhile Brenna was toweling off and pulling on a soft shift. She quickly brushed out her hair before crawling into bed. She knew that any day now Arwen and then Eowyn shortly after would both be welcoming daughters. Logically she knew that being there would have been too much for her, but she was disappointed that she would not be there.
The Valar had urged her to take this time to recover and learn more about her kin. They told her that she needed to let her body and spirit properly recover before they would give her more tasks to complete. Even now they were changing their expectations and tasks for her. Now that she and her allies had wiped the Orc and Uruk off the face of Arda, she would find more rest. Never again would she need to take part in a battle, though they cautioned her to never be unarmed.
The rest of her time in Arda would be spent Healing and advising. She was charged with preparing the rulers of Men for the transition and the final Exodus of the Elves. Though it pained her to part from her friends she knew that it would be temporary.
Brenna closed her eyes and rest knowing that she needed to breathe. It was the will of the Valar come what may. As long as she had them and Elladan at her side she could face anything. With a smile on her face, she pulled the covers up and curled up on her side letting sleep take her, knowing that everything was alright in the world.