Nag Kath

by Gelansor

This is a sequel to The Lord of the Rings following a released prisoner at the beginning of the Fourth Age. He has to adapt to changes in his world and in himself as Middle-earth copes with life after the dark lords. All chapters have been loaded as of 2/9/2020. Reviews welcome. Thanks for looking, sh

14. Chapter 14 See These Walls Again

Chapter 14

See These Walls Again

~o~

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~o~

He never thought he would be here again. So these were the famous new gates, a combination of mannish and Dwarvish craft. They stayed open during the day as a constant stream of merchants, travelers and soldiers came and went. Was anyone he knew still inside?

Nag Kath would seek everyone in their turn but this was a royal invitation and that would come after a first stop to get his bearings. On the third level he knocked on the door of a modest house south of the prow. A stout gray-haired woman answered. She had a youngster clinging to her skirt peering around her hip. Nag Kath waved and he smiled. Then he said to the woman, "I am looking for Mr. Tallazh. I remember he lived here long ago."

She smiled and said, "He still does. If you will come in, I will see if he is receiving." He had never been inside the home. It was very nice with sketches and painting on most walls and a full bookshelf, a luxury even here in the capital. He looked at a few titles while waiting.

A few minutes later Mr. Tallazh walked into the main room and clapped his hands together in delight. He was fit and spry with the same wise eyes and said, "I did not know if we would ever see you. Welcome back!"

"Thank you, Mr. Tallazh. It has been quite a journey."

"I am sure it has, and please, Amiedes. I think we are past mister. Have a seat."

Nag Kath smiled and said, "I will try." Almost instantly tea was served. It was the same smell he remembered both from Quastille's and Mr. Juguesh in Trum Dreng. That was lucky tea. It was too hot to sip just yet so Nag Kath asked, "Please, tell me of your life. I must have missed so much."

"You are the one with adventures but yes, I will begin. After you left, the King asked my humble advice on matters of trade outside the old borders. Once a month, a man-cart takes me up the hill with other old fellows who talk more than listen. We still get things done occasionally."

Nag Kath told him about Orthanc and the Huntsman and Elvish places. He talked about Dale and love and loss. Mr. Tallazh knew that by heart. And of all things, the Elf actually spoke a little Elvish! After half an hour, Nag Kath said, "Amiedes, I hope you got my letter from Dunland."

"Oh yes, forgive me. I should have mentioned that first. Yes I got it with the messengers too. They arrived safe and sound. The ladies stayed with me for a week and then found an apartment on the other side of the prow. Mrs. Skilleth died a few years ago but I still see Talereth. She married well and has two children. His name is Toroldinar, officer of foot." Mr. Tallazh took a piece of elegant notepaper from his side table and wrote her address. "It is next to a bright blue building on the fourth level, north-side."

Nag Kath leaned forward, "And now Mis … Amiedes, I need a little advice" He went into how he was discovered in Gondor and that tomorrow he was to present himself to the King to discuss, among other things, the possibility of an aqueduct from Minas Morgul to Osgiliath. "I have experience in design and building work and have some good ideas but this will be a project not seen since the last great kings. It seems a noble cause and I have time. You know the moving parts. Do you have any recommendations on how I state my case?"

Tallazh paused for quite a while and said, "Are those sketches in your folio?"

Nat Kath unrolled the same ones he showed Prince Faramir. The elderly advisor studied them carefully with a pair of half spectacles. Folding the specs back into his pocket he said, "The main job will be organizing who will help. Be prepared to require, not ask, that good people be made available. And say you want nothing to do with the money. They have to provide that. All the surveying work should not be too expensive, give them time to count coppers for moving all those rocks.

"Now, and this is important, you need to discover if the King or the Prince is driving the cart."

Nag Kath said, "I think I know that already. The Prince has seen this already and is enthusiastic. I suspect the King will make sure it is built. I will let both know that I am not the middle-man as subtly as I can."

Tallazh sat back in his chair and put his palms on his thighs. "I cannot help but marvel at you, Nat Kath. When you left you could barely put a sentence together. And now … you have done well. I am proud of you. I know you have things to do. When you have more time, come by and have tea with your old friend. And please visit Talereth. I know that was a hard parting but she landed on her feet and I am sure she would like to see you."

~o~

Nag Kath found an inn near the prow. Dinner was not appealing so he walked along the rail until he found a bench looking at the river and sat down for several hours to breath-in the air of his first real home. It seemed natural but also surreal. He thought he would be in Belfalas. Now he was waiting for the King of Gondor.

The next morning he reported at eight with the other supplicants at the main hall. He had only ever been to the palace under arrest. A throng of folk waited adjudication. Except for known complainers, their pleas would be heard by administrative staff with very few making it to higher or highest ears. After leaving his name he sat in the same place where the fat gaoler had slept against him all those years ago.

An hour later, an attendant walked to him and quietly said the King would see him at five that afternoon. With time to kill, Nag Kath went back to his room to change and the stroll the city. Minas Tirith was up in the world. The rubble and debris had been cleared away. Every level had been promoted a notch in status, even the humble first with fresh paint and sober soldiers.

Nearing five he was shown directly to the King's study and made comfortable in the same chair Mrs. Skilleth sat in. The office looked over the north-side gardens in full bloom. Not long after, Aragorn came in and gave the guard permission to leave. Nag Kath stood and bowed as the King approached. They sat down and Aragorn said, "Thank you for coming. I did not know if we would see you here again."

"I doubted that myself, Sire."

Aragorn said, "I met the two ladies from Dunland and got a better report from Gandalf before he left. But I have not heard since. Have you been well?"

Nag Kath said, "I have. I fought my way to the Elven Kingdom and stayed a while there and then lived in Dale for eighteen very good years. I married and spent considerable time designing works for the city."

"Did your wife accompany you here?"

"I fear not, My Lord. Eniece died last year. That was my call to go forth as Gandalf advised to understand my gifts."

Aragorn said more gravely, "I heard about those gifts. Wargs?"

That story would not die. "I have healing skills too. On my way here I stopped to see Radagast and visited both Rivendell and the Elven Kingdom now that I can read Sindarin."

The King shook his head and said, "Those must be lonely places now."

"I only saw three Elves in Imladris but I had a grand time with the Elf-keepers. There were seven plus their wives and a youngster who was probably a thousand years old. We sang songs and told tales. I learned much more from them than the books. I think they are gnomes, though none admitted as much."

Aragorn had heard of the creatures that keep hallowed Elvish places against their return. He asked, "And Thranduil's Halls; are those empty?"

"Nay, Sire. The Silvan Elves remain in their hundreds."

That was unexpected. The worker elves? Aragorn supposed they were welcome to it and Lorien too. "Did they say why?"

"In no uncertain terms, My Lord. They did not look forward to serving those they called the High Elves in a new place. They would stay in their beloved home and resist the call of Valinor, though it may mean diminution and mortal lives. Fearnold said they will meet Mandos on their own terms."

Nag Kath leaned forward in his chair, "Speaking of terms; am I well and truly welcome in your lands, King Aragorn?"

"Yes, and I am sorry it took so long for you to learn."

"Please, Sire. Do not trouble yourself. I have led a fulfilling life. I have two splendid children and was welcome in Dale. I will visit them again."

The King said, "I keep up with my brother King Bard. Those lands are much like Gondor."

The Nag Kath grin, "He has even better stories about me. As it happens, my daughter is his sister. It is an entertaining tale best told over Dorwinion wine." As the King smiled, the Elf changed the subject, "I told Lord Faramir about the aqueduct. He seemed interested but has concerns over my credentials."

"Leave that with me. His Lady wife is sister to King Éomer. You caused quite a sensation up there."

"I met her, Sire." Nibbling at the subject, "There were other noble ladies concerned as well."

Now it was the King's turn to grin, "I think Gandalf put those to rest. She even let me put our picture in the study. And speaking of pictures, let us have a look."

Nag Kath opened his satchel and pulled the main sketches of the collection pool and noodlings of bridges and ditches borrowed from the north. As the King looked the Elf said, "This is not the Argonath but it will certainly be the largest construction since the days of your kingly ancestors. The surveying and preparation work will take two years. If Architect Finenbrad is right, some of those folk will have to be trained. Property will have to be acquired. I have Dwarf friends in Erebor to consult on all those rocks"

Remembering Tallazh's recommendation, "And Sire, I need to know the relationship between you and Prince Faramir so I do not step on Lordly toes."

"We speak as one, Nag Kath. Most of the money will come from here."

The King was not expecting what came next. Nag Kath said matter-of-factly, "Since there will be so much preliminary work, I will provide the first hundred Florin myself. When that runs low, the Purse can manage from there."

The King started to protest but Nag Kath kept talking, "Please, Sire. I think that will let everyone know that whatever they have heard, which is mostly true, that I am to be taken seriously in these matters. And I do not want to be cap-in-hand for niggling expenses when I should be working."

Aragorn nodded. He would have required the same thing before taking on a project of this magnitude. He had learned much of being a King in the last twenty years. "Very well, what do you need from me?"

With his least Elvish grin of the day Nag Kath said, "I need you to throw a party."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

At eight the next morning, an indecent hour by city standards, Nag Kath visited Architect Finenbrad. He was in early with hot tea ready and glad to see the fellow he caused so much trouble at the bridge. The Elf opened by saying, "Yes indeed, I am in deep. The King has decided to pursue the aqueduct."

Finenbrad slurped the too hot tea and smiled without guilt. "That is a good project. How can I help?"

Nag Kath said, "Four surveyors. I know the local lads would rather sleep in their own beds. Can men be trained for distance work in a reasonable time?"

"I don't see why not. They won't all be greenbottoms."

In a gray area of municipal finance, Nag Kath broached, "Would you consider finding and training such fellows? This would be a private contract with the approval of people we know and love."

"Certainly. I retire in a month so I am available then, sooner if this is official. What did you have in mind?"

~o~

Now it was time to see old friends. Nag Kath walked down to the second level and knocked on the door of the Quastille School. To his surprise, a taller, balder Timalen opened the door. He did not recognize Nag Kath until the Elf said, "I thought you would have graduated by now."

With that Tim gave him a bear hug and said, "I do not believe my eyes! Come in, come in." Calling down to the kitchen, "Marie, come out and meet Nag Kath." Tim told him to sit in one of the chairs and flopped in another. A short, dark-haired woman came out wearing an apron and Tim repeated, "Marie, this is Nag Kath. You remember me telling you about him."

Marie smiled and said, "Would it be fair to say he has not offered you tea?"

"Fair and typical, I should think. Cool if you have it." She walked over to a jug in the same place it had always been. Turning to Tim he asked, "Yours was not the face I was expecting. How are you here?"

Tim took his mug of tea and said, "Quastille died about eight years after you left. I was making my way as a sculptor and renting the bottom level. Sylveth decided to sell and wouldn't you know it? The fellow who was going to buy it married her. Looks just like her! Instead she sold it to me and I reopened the school. I've got three students downstairs beetling away right now."

Nag Kath thanked Marie for his tea before saying, "I hope she is doing well."

"She is. She is!" Tim took one of dozens of scrap sketches lying around and wrote her address. Handing it to Nag Kath he said, "Please go visit her. I am sure she would like to see you. Her married name is Multö."

Marie sat in the third chair and listened to almost an hour of catching-up. Nag Kath talked about the wizards and the Huntsman and life in Dale. After a decent interval Tim asked, "Forgive me, old friend, but wasn't there some stickiness when you left?"

The Elf thought for a moment and said, "Less than I thought. I was trying to sneak through Ithilien when the King himself rode up. He welcomed me back and said I should present myself at the palace. You could have knocked me over with a feather! Now he wants me to work for him."

Marie had heard the stories about this fellow but wasn't expecting someone visiting on royal command who hobnobbed with wizards and ten-foot specters. Nag Kath begged pardon to make a couple more visits but they would all go out for a fine dinner soon. As he was leaving Tim mentioned, "Oh, it seems you are almost famous. One of your sketches sold for half a nipper last month, picture of a woman having dinner."

Nag Kath kept his face straight but that hurt.

~o~

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~o~

His next stop took a little more nerve. He dawdled checking the number and the blue building twice before knocking. The door swung wide open revealing a boy of about fifteen with a riot of curly black hair.

The Elf said, "Hello, I am Nag Kath and I am looking for Talereth. I was told she lives here."

The lad gave him a long look and said, "Wait here" before shutting the door.

Less than a minute later, the door swung wide again and Tal put her fingers over her open mouth the way she did when surprised. "Oh my goodness! I … I … come in! Make yourself at home." Pointing to a couch in the main room of a very nice home, "Ecthialladrin, this is Nag Kath!"

"I know mother. He told me."

Nag Kath thought with a name like that most young men would be surly. 'Orc Six' was no grand sobriquet but at least it was over quickly. His mother was not to be sassed, "Well then you had better go see what Mrs. Tippi has for our guest, hmmm?"

Ecthialladrin retreated down a hall while his ma arranged her dress. Nag Kath said, "I got your address from Mr. Tallazh. He is well."

"He is a dear man. He opened doors for us when we arrived. You have the nicest friends, Nag Kath." That was followed by her same intoxicating smile. The sentence was barely out when a maid arrived with a tray of finger-foods.

Nag Kath had no idea how a woman with Tal's appetite kept her figure after children. She was largely unchanged with traces of gray in her dark red hair. She asked, "When did you find you weren't banished?"

"Last week. I was traveling south in Ithilien and the King himself told me to come visit. I wasn't about to say no so here I am. I confess; of all the people I wanted to see, this was the visit that worried me most. Have you been well, Tal?"

She became very still before replying, "Yes. I married a wonderful man and have two lovely children. You met Ecc. My firstborn is a daughter. She is learning languages and I'll have you know, she is an artist." Nag Kath raised his eyebrow. Again, she put her fingers over her mouth before saying, "Too young for you, dear Nag. Now tell me about your adventures! I have told the last charge of the Revanthars so many times no one wants to hear it again."

He told her about the Wild Huntsman and the Elves. "I moved to Dale and met a lovely woman. We married and were very happy until she died last year. Eniece reminded me a bit of you." He became more serious, "That was when I decided to take Gandalf's advice to widen my horizons."

She said, "I am sorry Nag Kath. "Did Amiedes tell you Mrs. Skilleth died? A bit too fond of the barley spirits, she was. But feisty to the end! And before you ask; my healing ability did not amount to much. Swaddling rashes are about the limit of my skill." Looking at the sun level on the wall she said, "Ectilliad should be home any moment. I would love for you to meet him."

"I will, but I have to prepare for a trip to the seventh and an errand in the east. When I am back, we will have time to relive the Revanthars over dinner."

She kissed his cheek.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Nag Kath supposed he was now a citizen of two countries. Dale would always be special and he planned to return. Free and clear in Gondor would make that easier. And now he had something important to do. It would test many of the things he learned.

As a base of operation Nag Kath would buy homes in both Minas Tirith and Osgiliath that could double as his offices. He needed another Brenen, maybe two! To start he opened an account for a hundred of his cash Florin at the Royal Bank and executed a transfer of three of the four hundred Florin from Dale. It would take months to verify but he couldn't spend it there either.

Then he had estate agent Finad Duluthar scour the fourth level south of the prow for just the right place. He wanted a large, two or three story building where the ground floor could serve as a business and he would live above it. He was in no hurry. The place could need repair as long as it was sound with a stable and water close by.

A few days later the estate agent found the right place on the fourth level not far from the switchback. It set him back nine Florin. The home was bigger version of his first place in Dale with an open first floor. The second floor was the main room with another, outside entrance. The sleeping quarters were on the third with balconies. A block stable was fifty paces further west on the third-level. He sketched out what he wanted in the way of furniture and found firms that managed such things.

Each of the three stories had its own stone stove plus a smaller one on the second for cooking. Before the builders and decorators arrived, Nag Kath took the new-fangled ash screen out from under the stove on the first floor. In the space he slipped the mithril hair circlet and some cash before grouting rocks on the front of the slide to match the ones on the stove. Back in place, it would look like an older-style stove that one had to shovel the ashes out by hand.

~o~

It was time to visit Osgiliath again. He stayed in the same inn and visited the city works building, asking for the water manager. A young fellow came out and said Mr. Sepulvath was quite busy and would he like to make an appointment? Nag Kath replied, "This is a matter for Prince Faramir." The man disappeared into a warren of corridors and came back quickly to usher him through.

Mr. Sepulvath was a round, florid man with strands of jet black hair placed from one ear to the other as if they had been raked. Like other administrators Nag Kath knew, he had a key ring on a fine chain across his vest. The man rose to no great height and shook hands as his assistant closed the door.

Reseated, he said, "How can I be of assistance, sir?"

Nag Kath answered, "Thank you for seeing me on short notice." He pulled rank to get in but he would need this man's help beginning today and wanted to be on very good terms. "My name is Nag Kath and I am doing preliminary work to see if water from the headwaters of the Nuessan can be brought here to replace your current supply. It seems to have lost its Mordor taint. Please understand this is in early discussions and must remain confidential."

Sepulvath nodded his understand as Nag Kath continued, "I am seeking ways to get it here but then there is what to do with it."

The water manager could not contain his enthusiasm, "Mr. Kath! You are a blessed soul! How can my humble office help?"

This was going well, "Mr. Sepulvath, do you have a map of the current city supply?"

He did indeed and went to a large rack like Annas' cubbies but much deeper to withdraw a large rolled sheet showing the pipes in the city with dozens of erasures and additions. They studied it for a few minutes before Nag Kath asked, "If you could control the supply, where would you put the distribution tanks?"

Short, fat fingers pointed at four points east of the river. The western bank was a separate city and had been supplied somewhat weakly from the Mindolluin above Minas Tirith since ancient times. If there was enough, new water could be piped across the bridge.

It was time to spend some money. Nag Kath took a Florin from his pocket and gave it to the manager saying, "This is an official expense. I would like you to hire someone to work only on this project or do your work for the time you spend. This will take years, but I believe it will happen and when it does, there will be thirsts to slake. There is more where that came from."

He left the big rock out of the conversation. No reason to get the land speculators excited just yet. Before he left, Nag Kath asked the excited water manager to recommend an estate agent for his own residence in the city. He was assured Mr. Portrous was the man to see and got his address.

The woman at the property office said he was out with a client but would return after lunch. Nag Kath ate his own lunch and returned to explain he wanted the same sort of place as in Minas Tirith. Things were cheaper here so he wanted a place with its own stable. Riders would be coming and going all the time.

~o~

That night Nag Kath engaged in one of his best talents; acting the innocent lad wondering aloud about things drinkers could not but help but answer. There was a tavern about a quarter mile from the big rock. He tied Regalid to the post and went inside. The stew was inedible but the loaf was good the ale fair.

"Tell me, good sir, that large hill just past, it must be made of stout rock."

The good sir was probably in his forties and had the broken nose veins of a man who knew his ale. "Aye, it is a piece broken off from the mountain long ago, must be two hundred feet long."

The young man observed, "And now sheep graze at the base."

"And goats! They climb up and eat the bushes. The ground around is too rocky to till."

In a voice that suggest only the most passing interest Nag Kath offered, "Not much return for the farmer then."

"That is old Enoch Farantie's land. He has plenty more."

~o~

The next morning, a young artist knocked on the door of the Farantie home a half mile north of the rock. The farmer's large dogs might have taken a piece out of a mannish visitor but they only circled and sniffed as the lad waited on the porch. An attractive woman in her thirties opened the door and looked at the tall, pale fellow and then at the dogs who had not made a sound. The visitor said, "Good morning ma'am. I am an artist and wanted to know if I could climb the large stone. I think a picture of Osgiliath from there would bring a few coppers."

Since he was still alive, he may as well come in. She showed Nag Kath to the main room where sat an elderly man in a comfortable chair. There was some art on his walls. The woman walked over to him and spoke in his ear. The gentleman noticed the vague shape in his hall. "What can I do for you, young man?"

"Good morning, Mr. Farantie. I came to ask permission to make paintings on top of your rock." Nag Kath had to repeat that after the man raised a hearing horn to his ear.

Farantie looked to what might be his granddaughter and said, "No, I don't mind." Then he gestured to the woman to come close and asked her a question before looking back to Nag Kath and saying, "You didn't have any trouble with those hounds?"

That earned him a grin, "Nay, Mr. Farantie. Dogs like me."

"Very well. You might see my sons or laborers out there too. Just tell them you spoke to me. Come back and let us see one of your pictures."

No one bothered him as he climbed the rock except two goats trying to pick his pockets. When they tried to steal the paper from the easel, a wargish bark sent them running for their lives. One sketch was back towards the mountains. Two others were of Osgiliath, one for the Faranties. Then he set his bubble level on the easel and found the point to the east that corresponded with his height. That was marked on the first sketch. Raising the front of the level with three sheets of paper he made another mark.

As he climbed in the saddle he thought the kindly Farantie family would get a fine sketch for the effort and a generous settlement for their rock.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Nag Kath had asked the King to think of an excuse for a diplomatic reception. That wasn't necessary. A conference of Free Peoples was scheduled in two weeks and Nag Kath was invited.

The renowned skills of many folk would be a benefit in bringing clean water to the river and this would be a chance to sound them out on generalities. Again, tailors had to be dissuaded from "Elvish Elements" but he needed court clothes for his new job.

Nag Kath walked into the reception room after most of the guests had arrived. There were ambassadors, wives, embassy staff and a number of the King's men, about fifty all tallied. He was not expecting to know any but that changed quickly. "Lord Kath!"

From across the room he saw Colonel Rosscranith. It had been some years since they laid eyes on each other. Nag Kath walked to him and shook his hand in the northern fashion. It is hard to squeeze a Northman into stately clothes but the Colonel cut a fine figure. The beauty here was that Rosscranith would introduce him fondly as a hale-fellow from Dale which avoided prevarications up-front.

Rosscranith was the new ambassador of Bard's court and liked Minas Tirith. Nag Kath said he might be here for a while and they must have some Dorwinion wine together. And if the Ambassador had mail service, he would love to send his royal step-daughter a letter. It is always nice to hit the red stripe on the first shot!

Rosscranith's wife Journa joined them a minute later. Nag Kath had never met her. Courtly dressmakers had a harder time with her Ladyship. Tall, broad-shouldered Northwomen always look like they are on the verge of splitting fine garments down the back. She was pleasant and seemed to like the posting here as well.

The Colonel caught the arm of Ambassador and Mrs. Fouringalas of Belfalas. That was technically part of the kingdom but the fiefs maintained diplomatic missions as if they were separate countries. Regions with no such status also had folk here to represent their constituents. The ambassador, as one would expect of a professional diplomat, was cordial and glad to meet Captain Kath. She looked at him strangely. He was not sure if he reminded her of someone or her vision was weak. His hair was over his ears for the occasion.

They were on the verge of another introduction when the herald announced the royal couple. Everyone in the room turned towards the entrance and bowed deeply. As they usually did, the King and Queen bowed as well. Lord Aragorn said, "Friends, thank you for coming tonight. It is always a pleasure to see you. Please be merry and make new friends."

This would have nothing to do with the aqueduct but Nag Kath excused himself and approached two Hobbit couples in their fine brocade vests and wooly feet. He bowed and introduced himself. They were Mr. and Mrs. Rembyl Higgenboth and Ambassador and Mrs. Lemuel Took. The Elf told them of his friends in Dale and knew some of them had family in the Shire. If the press of official duties wasn't overwhelming, perhaps they could enjoy a fine meal at leisure.

That is an offer few Hobbits refuse. Mr. Higgenboth gave him a card.

When Nag Kath turned, the King and Queen were approaching. He bowed and waited. Arwen looked just as she had and said, "Thank you for coming, Mr. Kath. It has been quite some time."

"Indeed, My Lady. Thank you for your gracious welcome." That could apply to tonight or generally.

"The King has told me of your ambitions. I think those worthy and wish you the best of success. There is much to consider, I am sure."

"There is, My Lady. Thankfully, I made pictures of your peoples' building history in Rivendell. I confess; most were in Quenya which I do not speak."

Arwen asked, "Think you to include such artifacts? That is most flattering, Mr. Kath."

"I hope to, My Lady. And please, Nag Kath is fine. My crude drawings are practical but ugly as a tumlg dog. Your folk make beautiful things with less material so there may be practical help as well."

"Then I am glad you have that tool." She had accepted Gandalf's explanation of Nag Kath's origins years before. That this creature had been admitted to Rivendell supported the contention.

He said with a smile, "Logass was a great help."

She wracked her memory before saying almost to herself, "Of course. They would be there now."

~o~

King Aragorn said, as arranged before, "Let us meet the Dwarvish Ambassador."

He followed the royal couple to a pair of Dwarf couples who bowed deeply. The King said, "Thank you for coming, my friends. Ambassador Tulinn, may I introduce Nag Kath who is recently visiting from Dale. Please enjoy yourselves."

That was all the King needed to say. For half an hour, Nag Kath and the four Dwarves regaled each other with stories of the north. This was a good fellow of an Elf, not snotty at all! They had come from Erebor after visiting Rohan two years ago and knew a few of the folk Nag Kath knew. He showed them the knife made by Master Golord. There was no reason to discuss building now. Ale would be had soon with his new friends.

It came as no surprise that other than the Queen, there were no Elves. The Silvans in the north were not really a country. It was said Arwen's two brothers were still in the east as was Legolas of the Woodland realm, but they came and went as they liked.

Nag Kath considered the party a huge success but there was one more pleasant surprise. Nag Kath said to a passing couple, "Mr. Maedos. How good to see you again."

Third son Davet was escorting his wife to the finger-foods. He stopped and cudgeled his brain for the memory. The Elf helped, "I am Nag Kath. I had the pleasure of drawing your honored father the Shurat some years ago."

The younger Maedos opened his mouth in an "O" before saying, "Oh yes, in the west. I thought you might have aged like the rest of us."

"Not yet."

Mrs. Maedos did not look the part of a diplomatic wife. She was small, dark and Dunnish, an Orthanc miner's wife in finery. Smiling looked like it took a great effort and Davet said, "Doussha, this is Mr. Kath who made the picture of father in the gallery."

She mumbled, "How nice to meet you."

Davet added with a fine grin, "I heard about the mayor's boy before we left long years ago. They will remember you better there than I did this evening."

"No casualties, I hope."

Mr. Maedos shook his head, "A few bumps and bruises."

Nag Kath said, "I may be much in the White City. When I am better established, perhaps we will meet again to hear of your lands."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Seeing Mr. Tallazh made him think of the College of Scholars. If anyone could find out how these massive buildings were created, it was them.

In his studies he found how many things were assembled but almost nothing about the sweat needed. There would have to be a market-town of workers, families, animals all needing to be fed and sheltered. Gondor did not have legions of orcs or slaves who would work until they dropped.

The word was out that the tall blonde man was a friend of King Aragorn so the clerk of the archives was helpful. After a few questions he was directed to Scholar Herolda, a tall, thin man in his forties with the red cap of tenure and thick spectacles.

"Thank you for seeing me, Scholar Heralda. I am Nag Kath and I was told you might be able to help me with questions about the ancients."

In a voice that sounded on the verge of coughing, Heralda replied, "Perhaps, my work has been on Numenorean and early Gondoran society."

"I seek information on large building projects. So far I have come across a great deal about techniques and which kings ordered the work but precious little on the people who labored, how many, where they lived and what they ate. In your research have you found those references?"

Again; the near cough, "As you said; precious little. I do not think the great men of the day thought it noteworthy."

Nag Kath explained that he was in Orthanc when the White Council archives were disbursed. "Many of them were lists or Purse records that bored the readers to tears. Perhaps the record of ordering five hundred pairs of boots matches the year a sewer was dug. Forgive me, I am clutching at straws."

Scholar Heralda asked, "This is the water project isn't it?" Without waiting for the answer he continued, "After the war my father caught a river-palsy. I will do what I can for you."

"Thank you. I am interested in anything on their building techniques. And forgive me for such a tawdry question but does your sponsor allow individual compensation? This is not intended to be a voluntary project."

In what could arguably be called a smile, Heralda answered, "I am sure the Gerandur Endowment will appreciate any help easing their burdens."

Nag Kath's card and a nipper somehow found themselves sliding across the table.

~o~

No matter how these investigations played, at the source they would have to move a lot of rock. And in the Fourth Age, that meant Dwarves. Nag Kath presented himself at the Embassy of Master Tulinn. He was told the Ambassador was in a meeting but should be free shortly. Knowing what he did about Dwarvish scheduling, Nag Kath sat in the reception room and studied his notes. Tulinn came out about an hour later and shook hands with the towering boy. Tulinn's assistant asked what he was drinking. Refusal would be an insult so he said whatever the Ambassador was having.

"Good day, Master Tulinn. I am working on a project to deliver water from Morgul Vale to Osgiliath. It will take great knowledge and skill in working mountain stone and I thought first of Durin's Folk. The first cascade would be along the lines of the Moria Stair Bridge. Would your people have an interest in such work?"

Tulinn lit a pipe of the best Shire leaf. As he shook the match out he said, "Considering who this is for, I have to be diplomatic. Our masons and cutters are occupied but there may be engineers in the great halls if Gondor can provide the men. You did not hear this from me but the King's dear friend Gimli of the Glittering Caves is the one to ask."

"Forgive me, Master Tulinn, I know very little of these caves."

"There are caverns leading away from Helm's Deep in Rohan. It is more extensive than men knew. Thanks to our alliance in the war, Dwarves have been ceded a colony there with our folk from Erebor and wandering Longbeards. It will eventually be as important as Erebor, perhaps even Khazad-Dûm in its day."

Tulinn took another puff and said more gravely, "Then there is the issue of you."

"You are well-informed, Ambassador. Both the Rohirrim and Durin's Folk seem to have taken my original condition in stride, though few know the details. This is important enough that I will defer to King Aragorn's choice of emissary. If I am chosen, I will go with goodwill and without fear."

The bowl exhausted, Tulinn placed the pipe on the table and added, "Speak with your King. For what it is worth, I will have a letter of introduction delivered to you shortly."

"Nag Kath grinned and sipped his ale, "And now for the important question. How do you get Rohan red in the White City?"

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

"Tulinn raised a good point, Nag Kath."

"I agree, Sire. I leave this entirely to you. Although, a letter from you to another member of your Fellowship worked well, even when I had scant words of my own."

King Aragorn smiled and conceded, "Very well. Go with my blessing. I will write a letter to go with the Ambassador's."

Nag Kath waited three days until Tulinn's letter arrived and then took Regalid at best speed up the Great West Road. It looked the same as the first time although he saw it much faster. There were now a few inns at stream crossings for oats and rest. He did stop at the hill where he spoke with the warags. On the afternoon of his seventh day out he rode to the gate of Edoras.

The way was shut. A guard called down, "What is your business?"

He shouted back, "I am here to visit my old friend and drink ale at the Falcon's Lair." That was good enough and a man below opened one of the two doors.

Edoras was still dreary. Nag Kath turned Regalid down the high street until he reached what was the Falcon's Lair. It was still a tavern now operating under the name of The Rose and Hare. Inside nobody knew of Dornlas. He retraced his steps up two blocks and tried in another bar. Several people knew him in here. One who had not punished the local ale too hard even knew where he lived.

The house was well kept with a small garden on the side. Good for Dornlas! It seemed to Nag Kath that he had been knocking on a lot of unexpected doors lately, this one a little less so. A lanky, bearded man opened and immediately recognized his friend. They shook hands in the manner of Rohirrim and Dornlas walked him into a pleasant main room saying, "I always knew you would come back. It is time for an ale!"

"You are right, my friend."

Dornlas walked over the kitchen corner and pulled two half pints from a house-cask. As he brought them over he asked, "When did you arrive, Nag Kath?"

"Just now. I am finally on my way to Helm's Deep, hoping it is not so dangerous these days."

"Probably not."

Just then, a pair of twin girls, Nag Kath guessed about fourteen, came from the back rooms and smiled timidly. Joining them was the face he drew so many years ago. Nag Kath stood, bowed and was about to thoroughly embarrass himself. Dornlas saw the crash coming, "Nag Kath, I would like you to meet my wife Annlie and my daughters Annulka and Torenne."

So, not Kateese, but not far from the tree. Annlie said, "Please, enjoy your ale." Then to the girls, "Be home before dinner. I need you to help with the fish." The twins bowed respectfully to both parents and delighted in visiting their friends, two doors up. Annlie walked to the guest and offered her hand.

Dornlas said, "Forgive me, wife. Nag Kath is the fellow who drew your sister. It is a short story with a happy ending."

The Elf managed, "I am pleased to meet you Annlie."

She said, "Please stay for dinner, if fish is fine."

"I love fish, thank you."

Nag Kath gave much the same version of his life he had in Minas Tirith. Dornlas and Annlie were fascinated. Having soldiered together, in a manner of speaking, Nag Kath spoke of the sword-work needed too. "And you, Dornlas? Life seems to be treating you well."

Dornlas held Annlie's hand in the chair next to his and said, "Yes, I have been fortunate. I came into a stake …" with a wink "… and bought a small shop. I sold that and bought a bigger one. Now I have a few and businesses in them. The girls are our only children and they are very fine indeed."

Nag Kath said, "No conversation of old times is complete without asking where others are now. First; Sergeant Matelars?"

"He just retired. His oldest is a corporal in the King's guard. Tall, tough fellow, perfect for the job."

"I think I remember him peeping around his mother's skirt."

Dornlas grinned, "He is over that now."

"Same King?

"Aye, and he's been a good 'un. He started late but he has a brood of kids now. The King has trouble with his back so he avoids long rides, but he is still hale and lordly."

"I should pay my respects. I don't remember him being over-fond of me but there are forms to observe."

Dornlas grinned, "It is so odd to hear you speak now. I keep expecting you to stop in mid-sentence thinking yourself done."

Nag Kath chuckled, "I am at the same stage of Sindarin. Now, tell me of Lord Altheras."

"Fraid your string ends there. He died five years ago and was buried at his home. The King had a large memorial here, biggest since Theoden's, they say. Do you still have his sword?"

"I do. But it is in Dale along with most of my things."

Annlie asked, "You were much there. Do you miss it?"

"At times. Thankfully, I make friends as I travel. Now, I need a little advice; I am here to visit the Dwarves of the Glittering Caves. What can you tell me of them?"

Dornlas said, "Never been there. Our people used the caves for storage and defense but nobody ever wanted to go in very far. The Dwarves are fair silly about them. It is said they go a mile through the mountain with jewels and silver. I do not know more than that. Dwarves are very closed-lipped about their holes in the ground."

Dinner was delicious. The girls were well-mannered and everyone retired shortly after dark. Nag Kath apologized for not knowing if he could stop on his way back.

~o~

Regalid got appreciative looks walking up the road to Great Hall of Meduseld. They know their horses in Rohan. Nag Kath tied him to the rail and climbed the stairs. Showing King Aragorn's letter got him to the door where he told another guard, who looked a lot like Matelars, his name and his business. The guard showed him inside and took the letter to the chamberlain. There was no one to ask so Nag Kath sat on the bench.

Not long after, the chamberlain came out himself and asked if the visitor would follow him into the hall. They walked back where King Éomer was sitting at a long table with good sun. Nag Kath bowed and waited.

Éomer called, "You're back! Come, sit here." He pointed across the table from him. An attendant brought hot tea. "So, what brings you this way again?"

"I need a word with Gimli of the Glittering Caves and I brought Your Lordship a letter from King Aragorn."

"Then you haven't come to hunt our wargs?"

"Wrong season. Your Lady Sister asked me the same."

The King wrestled with a bread roll while saying, "That is a long ride to deliver a letter."

"Lord Aragorn and your brother-in-law are considering a water project that could benefit from Dwarvish craft. I am helping so I volunteered to come."

"Helm's Deep wasn't so good for your lot. Gimli will remember that well."

"That was for the better, My Lord."

King Eomer finished his bite and said, "Very well. You are welcome in my lands and I wish you success with the Dwarves."

"There is one service you could do me, King Éomer; I do not know if the Dwarves have their own entrance or if I go through the fortress."

"They have their own but you would never find it." The King looked to a steward standing by and the man brought paper and pencil. Eomer scribbled a note and said, "If you go through the Deep, this will get you to the caves. The Dwarves will decide past that."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Helm's Deep was a two day ride from Edoras in warm, dry weather. It must have been hell for the people fleeing on foot twenty years ago. The smaller gate was open but he did need to check with the sentries. They waved a Sergeant over who looked at the King's note before saying. "Welcome to Helm's Deep. That is a handsome horse. I'm afraid the caves are no place for him. If you will ride to the right about a hundred paces there is a small stable. Just tell them Sarnt Atlie said to bring him and they will do you right.

"Now, sir, you have walking to do. All the way around the fortress you will come to the rear door that takes you to a meadow along the Deeping Stream. Follow that to the cleft between two cliffs and you'll see a Dwarf door with their symbols outside. Just knock there." In a tone that suggested he didn't say it, "Might be a wait."

The door was mounted in a sheer rock face with a bell pull. He rang it. A few minutes later he rang it again. Perhaps ten minutes later a young Dwarf, whose beard was merely a foot long, opened the door and stared at him until his eyes adjusted to the sun. Nag Kath said, "Good afternoon, Sir Dwarf. I am Nag Kath and I seek an audience with the Lord of the Glittering Caves."

When the sentinel did not even blink Nag Kath added, "I have a letter for him from Elessar Telcontar of Gondor."

That got his attention. "Please wait here. I will tell my superiors." The heavy door shut with hardly a sound. An hour later, an older Dwarf opened the door and squinted in the sun until he saw Nag Kath. In a booming voice he said, "Come this way." Nag Kath hoisted his bag and followed in the long dark corridor.

For the first hundred paces it was just a mine shaft but then the tunnel opened towards a pale light. Clearing the mouth of the tunnel showed a vast chamber of many colored stones bathed in streams of light from holes in the mountain above. Erebor was all solid gray but this included almost pure white from where minerals had dripped from sharp spikes above to make dragon's teeth below.

Before long, they turned into a lower cavern after crossing an arched bridge over the Deeping Stream. Nag Kath asked his guide, "Tell me, Sir Dwarf, does this stream run deep into the mountain?"

"Aye."

So much for conversation. He followed silently for another ten minutes and was led to a series of chambers formed naturally in the porous rock. Nag Kath put his gaol cell out of mind with an effort. The guide poked his head into one of them and then waved the Elf inside.

Seated at a large, low table was Gimli, Lord of the Glittering Caves. Nag Kath walked to twelve feet away and bowed deeply. The Dwarf put aside his sheaf of papers and looked up at his guest, finally saying, "I am told you have a letter for me."

"I have two, Your Lordship. May I present them?" The Dwarf nodded and Nag Kath laid them on the table. Gimli read the envelopes and opened Ambassador Tulinn's first. It was a single sheet. Gimli chuckled and set it aside. The King's was several pages and written, he supposed, in the common-tongue. That took a few minutes for the Lord to read twice.

Looking up again Gimli growled, "How is it that no one has killed you?"

Lords did not intimidate Nag Kath. "It must be my charming personality."

The Dwarf Lord slowly but surely went from scowl to smile to a hearty laugh. "Very well, we will proceed on that assumption. Have a seat." Gandalf probably gave Nag Kath a passing grade with Gimli before sailing.

A chair tall enough for Nag Kath had already been placed at the end of the table. Nag Kath sat and waited. The Dwarf shooed two attendants away and packed leaf into a long-stemmed clay pipe much like Gandalf used. The smoke dissipated quickly. Even small rooms in a cave have a breeze. "So, you were one of the Uruks that tried to kill me."

"I was."

"Didn't work out so well for your lot."

Nag Kath gave the Lord his first taste of the grin, "Bad management."

Gimli puffed, "Hmmmm, I suppose so."

The Elf took the initiative, "Then I became as you see. I have healed, fought, loved, lost and served. A good life, I reckon."

Gimli took another puff, "King Aragorn says you are here to ask a favor for his land. That matters a great deal to me, but why you?"

"It was my idea. The King and Prince bade me bring fresh water from the mountain to Osgiliath because of plagues. Some of the work begs the finest craftsmen in stone for labors we have not seen in many a day. I rode here for your counsel."

The Dwarf Lord said gruffly, "Well, you've got courage."

"In addition to my charming personality. I also have rough sketches of how I see the craft needed to divert the stream. They are based on the Moria Stair and the penstocks of Orthanc. Would you like to see them?"

"I suppose so."

~o~

They went through the drawings in some detail. The Dwarf Lord often reviewed plans for the constant working in his new fief but had never seen this sort of accuracy and detail. They beetled through two dozen sheets for almost two bells. Nag Kath made small changes or highlighted points for the Lord's opinion. When his pencil broke he pulled his quill-knife to sharpen it. Then he handed it to Gimli saying, "This was crafted by your Master Golord of Dale. The blade is Elvish. The case is mithril/steel from Khâzad-dûm."

Gimli held it and marveled at the balance of the tiny knife. He decided then and there that Nag Kath, whatever he had been, was a worthy man today. No one would have insisted on such care without passion. Free peoples need passion. He handed the knife back asking, "What can I do to help my friend Aragorn?"

Nag Kath had prepared his response, "We need an engineer, or team of engineers to come assess the work needed to carve away a pool edge and stair-step a quantity of water to this basin here. From there I expect we will need to build a stone pool with a gate to an aqueduct that will run about ten leagues. Any help on bridges would also be appreciated because we have to span several ravines of middling consequence."

Pointing to a different drawing, "I want to know the best way to get the water from here to here, including; men, time and skill. In short, Lord Gimli, I would like your best man to come behold this work and lend his counsel."

Nag Kath looked at his host rather sheepishly and added, "And I would enjoy seeing your home while I am here. Your realm is extraordinary."

Gimli laughed, "Ha! I knew it! You are not an Elf at all! Yes, you will be my guest for a time. And I will grant your request, though I need to see who is best for your needs."

For two days Nag Kath followed a terse, grumpy Dwarf through the nooks and crannies of the Glittering Caves. To the horror of all, the Elf swam in the clear, freezing water to explore how they reflected light back to the surface. For the next two days his guide was replaced by Thurgin who had done some of the building of bridges and walkways around these jagged rocks. Nag Kath sketched quite a bit and his new guide was fascinated at how he captured just the area he wanted in perspective. Dwarvish design and art is generally presented at right angles. Radagast's house would have driven them to distraction.

On the fifth day Nag Kath attended Lord Gimli. This time the Dwarf rose to shake his hand. "Thurgin says you have been more help to him than the other way around."

The grin, "We have enjoyed each other's company. I have always gotten along well with Durin's Folk. Elves consider me undignified and Rohan red is my personal favorite."

"MUHAAW! Come, sit down. I will tell you my decision." Once seated, the Lord explained, "Thurgin has agreed to come to Minas Tirith this autumn when the walkway on our Fundir chamber is complete."

The Dwarf Lord reloaded his pipe. Like with Gandalf, all talking ceased until it was correct. With the first acceptable puff he said, "And I will come with him. If this is to be a joint effort for the Fourth Age, I would see my old friends to the south."

Sliding two letters to Nag Kath he continued, "Take those home and we will meet again soon. Is there anything else?"

"No, Lord Gimli, other than to thank you for seeing me. One of my personal goals is to meet the surviving members of the Fellowship. Gandalf was my mentor and said that would be good for me. I have met Legolas's father thrice, but the son was never in the Woodland realm at the same time. And I understand tall people are forbidden the Shire."

"Hughmmf! You may not be bound by that. Men are not allowed. You are not a man. It is a picky detail but you have sound references. Let us build your waterway first."

~o~

There was one last piece of excitement. Returning to the Helm's Deep stables he found Regalid anxious. That was not like him. He inquired of the stableman who ruefully admitted the admirable horse had been used at stud with a female some of the officers thought a suitable match. Tonight was to be their second mating.

One does not use someone else's horse for such tasks on the sly. The purity and control of bloodlines, reputation of breeders and the value of the progeny can matter a great deal. Stableman Theonandar was following instructions from above, but that might not avoid a punch in the mouth. Nag Kath laughed heartily and said, "Then someone owes me a room and a meal tonight. Now, let us have a look at the lucky girl."

Regalid was still jumpy the next morning but they rode out the gate after Nag Kath enjoyed a roaring good time with the Provost Marshal. He was not aware of the horse romance but glad to make amends for a few senior men. As usual, the stew was untouchable but the bread was excellent.

~o~

Nag Kath presented himself at Minas Tirith as soon as he arrived now knowing the right word in the right ear at the palace gate avoided huddling with the supplicants. He had to wait an hour but the King walked into the main waiting room himself to take him back to his office. Aragorn scanned Gimli's letter and muttered, "Nag Kath, whatever else you are, you are a fine salesman. I suppose this means the cat is out of the bag."

"I hope not too soon, Sire. The long, tedious part will be laying the chute. Mountain work could be done anytime. Architect Finenbrad was going to tell you that in his retirement he has contracted to find and train four men who can do the long-sight work to bring that ditch into the town at slightly less than level.

"Forgive me if this is also premature but do you know the big rock just east of the city?"

"Indeed."

"We need it. Running the water to the top will give enough pressure for both sides of the river. I have inquired discretely to keep the speculators from buying it or nearby land and driving up the price, but it is important. I also have an ally in the water manager on the east bank. Pieces are falling into place."

Just as he had marveled at creating a genuine artist from the orc changeling so long ago, the King wondered at what he had become. "Good work, Nag Kath. What comes next?"

"Men."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Nag Kath wondered about the home in Minas Tirith as he rode to Osgiliath. It was probably unnecessary since he would be mostly on the east side of the river. On the other hand; what else was he going to do with his money?

There was good news in Osgiliath. Mr. Pourtous was as good as his recommendation and found the perfect place, a warehouse on the north end of the city near the road to the Morgul Vale with a small barn and stable and a large house on the other side. It was unoccupied and filthy but he only saw the potential. Almost eight Florin changed hands and the estate agent recommended a man to make the property what Nag Kath wanted.

He liked Osgiliath. Minas Tirith was beautiful, filled with living lore. This place was a beehive. Like Dale, a few older families re-claimed their heritage but everyone else was newly arrived. You were what you became. It had its pretensions. One restaurant offered "Elvish" food. Nag Kath didn't think it all that Elvish but it was very tasty and might take a few stone off the round lords of commerce.

Now for one of his most important personnel choices; he needed another Brenen. The new place would not be ready for weeks so he took a month's lodging at one of the nicest inns on the northeast side. The Great River Inn catered to well-heeled and, according to Manager Sepulvath, sometimes fussy, visitors. They were often from the south of town which in a city this large was further than many folk wanted to negotiate after a few ales. Women seemed younger than their men. Acting the man of leisure, Nag Kath kept his eye on lads trying to pocket a few coppers by running errands.

Several seemed promising. One was a small, dark boy with bright blue eyes who was popular with local business men sending messages. Nag Kath called him over to his porch table while the boy was between assignments. "What's your name, lad?"

"Tumlen, sir"

"Tumlen, I need a few things. I would like you to find me a packet of Khandian tea, a dozen pencils, two common shirts, and a second-hand compass. Do you know what that is?"

"No, sir."

"It looks like a pair of scissors but it holds in position to measure distances on a map." He pantomimed the motion.

"Like a circle cutter, sir?"

"Just so. Maybe this long." Nag Kath handed him a silver tenth, far more than the items would cost and a tip for the errand. He specified second-hand to see if the boy knew where to find out-of-the-way things. If he saw the kid again, with change, Tumlen would pass the first test. "Off you go, then."

By lunch Tumlen was back with all of the items and added something to his resume by saying, "The circler was at a shop that sells items for families of passed relatives. I hope it is what you want." It was, but that didn't matter as much as that the lad found it. "Here is your change, sir." With that he offered a handful of coppers.

Nag Kath told him, "Keep it. I might need a few more things later. Will you be here late this afternoon?"

With a beaming, freckled smile he said, "I will make a point of it, sir."

After an inconspicuous test that the boy could read and count, the southern division of Kathen Properties added its first employee. Tumlen was to help the builders at the home on the corner of Vu Rethal and Emerald Lane until further notice. He was to also learn the names and reputations of masons, trenchers, clay pipe makers and a few others. The boy would not attract attention.

~o~

Other than delivering Gimli's letter to Tulinn, Nag Kath hadn't mentioned the Lord's visit to anyone except the King. Once the builders were set about their tasks, Nag Kath rode out to Minas Ithil and met the bridge crew. They were nearly done and it was fine work. Durambyn was long back in Emyn Arnen and Heinieth was in charge. The engineer was a practical fellow. Duranbyn was a good boss but had a city to build for his Prince and unlikely to retire anytime soon. Nag Kath explained most of what had transpired and asked if the man had ever considered other opportunities, ones that might last up to a decade of independent contracts.

Heinieth took a long pull of his ale and smiled. The bridge would be done in three weeks, weather permitting. That would now include three weeks of keeping his mouth shut. Deal done, Nag Kath headed towards Emyn Arnen to brief the Prince. He gave Regalid's lead to the groom and was announced to the chamberlain who came out a few minutes later to say Prince Faramir was engaged but he would try to squeeze something in by tea. That was, of course, acceptable and Nag Kath would return then after eating at the chamberlain's recommended inn. There was only one in this beautiful but out-of-the-way place.

~o~

"Hello, Nag Kath."

With a bow, "Your Lordship."

"You have been busy."

"Yes, sir. I thought it was time to keep you abreast. This shouldn't take long."

"I have time. Can I interest you in a cup of wine?"

"Thank you, sir." They sat in chairs around a low table in the Prince's study and waited until the attendant brought a pitcher with fine silver cups. Nag Kath raised his glass, "To health. Have you spoken with the King about my efforts?"

"Not in person. We have both been much occupied."

Nag Kath told the Prince the major points of his preparations, including stealing Durambyn's assistant. "The most important thing on this side of the river will be securing the rights for a path to Osgiliath. I do not know if you can command it, or buy it or it is already yours. Men will need to start surveying fairly soon on official business."

Faramir thought for a moment and said, "Most of it belongs to the fief. It is only where you start seeing farms that the land is free-held."

"Your Highness can expect guests shortly. Lord Gimli is coming himself with Dwarvish craftsmen to consider getting water from the north side of the massif to the west. May I recommend Heinieth's first job after the bridge is constructing a compound for Gimli's noble visit and as headquarters when folk start chipping rocks?"

Faramir agreed, "Good idea, and I'll tell Durambyn about needing a new assistant. I should go out there myself. Let us do that tomorrow. Now, what do I need to do about your expenses?"

"My understanding with Lord Aragorn was that I would personally pay the first hundred Florin in seed money and your Lordships would manage the rest if this is practical. That keeps me from waiting in Purse offices with receipts."

As with the King, Prince Faramir was speechless for a moment. The Prince was well-off but that was a lot of money. He ventured, "Are you sure?"

"I count myself fortunate, My Lord."

~o~

The next morning, the Prince, Nag Kath and six outriders made a comfortable pace to the base of the Düathin massif after collecting Heinieth. Two troopers watched the horses while the other seven men hiked to the pool. Even late in the season the flows were strong. Hopefully it moved fast enough to not freeze in a bad winter. That would be a time of year when the Anduin was drinkable.

Back at the base, Nag Kath showed the Prince and engineer where he thought the dam would go but he would defer to the Dwarves. They knew water and rock better than anyone in Middle-Earth. Back at the landing, the Elf aimed his longest bubble level at Osgiliath to give Faramir a feel for the slope-to-run. No different than the meanest farm ditch, the hard part would be keeping a gradual flow across uneven ground.

After the Prince rode home, Nag Kath and Heineith talked about where to put the settlement. Nag Kath also gave him three Florin; one for him and two for the job. The engineer grinned and was sure the bridge workers would stay on.

~o~

Minas Tirith beckoned. Nag Kath always knew he needed expert help, he just didn't know what kind. That was becoming clearer now. In the city he visited the best businessman he knew.

Mr. Tallazh clapped his hands together and the Elf was shown to the same chair. Nag Kath handed him the box of lucky tea. Once settled, Nag Kath said, "It is poor payment for the favor I must ask, Amiedes. I need a manager, someone who knows business, payments, the cost of goods and shipping. I was hoping you might know of someone with references."

His wise friend said, "As it happens, I do. My grandson cannot rise far in my old family business now that I am retired. I think he would be open to new employment. This project will take many years, will it not?"

"It will if it is approved. In about a year, the Lords of Gondor have to decide if they are willing to pay the bill. I have a scholar looking into practical aspects of great works of antiquity. My best guess is that we will need a huge moving town for workers and families. They may come from here. They may come from Harad with their Mûmikils. Dwarf masters will craft the water stair.

"I need someone who can keep track of all, work with the Purse and issue orders that will be obeyed. Does your grandson have gravitas?"

"Oh yes. But you should decide for yourself. Come to dinner in two night's time."

~o~

Except for the eyes, Granthor Teldamir looked nothing like his grand-da. Tall and Gondoran, he shook hand as the family was seated. His mother was the woman Nag Kath met on his first visit. No water ditches were discussed but Nag Kath asked a few conversational business questions, mostly about getting people to do what you want. He got the right answers.

Work on the home was complete and they did a good job. Wandering through the bottom room Nag Kath realized he was lonely. Furious work and planning had taken his mind off Eniece. She was now gone a year. Some of the sting was helped by a return letter from Ardatha through the Colonel. The Thain was showing his age. Torrold would take his place but he never married so her children were the line of succession. There were opportunities in the court of Dale with Nag Kath's ascension. Her son was now of an age that she and Reyald would discuss visiting. His bank approval was in the same packet.

Granthor Teldamir would be just fine. With Nag Kath's permission, Tallazh had already briefed him on the project. The man had an enormous amount of work to do. He would oversee everyone Nag Kath wanted to put on the payroll, renew acquaintances with folk in the Purse, travel quite a bit and see to the money. That described what he did now and his family was used to it. Untangling himself from the mercantile business would take two weeks.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Something else that would take two weeks was the arrival of Gimli, Lord of the Glittering Caves. This was a state event even though the Caves were under the Overlordship of Thorin Stonehelm with only 300 Dwarves in residence. Gimli was a hero of Minas Tirith for his bravery against orcs, Haradrim and, especially, Umbar mercenaries.

Nag Kath was in the east much of that time but he made certain he was there when sixteen Dwarves arrived on ponies with half that many pack animals. The Mithril intarsia gates swung open as horns announced their arrival. Aragorn, a name only used by friends like Gimli, and his knights joined the lordly procession just inside and proclaimed them true friends of Gondor. Since the flower season was past, folk threw little bits of colored paper as the stout folk made their way to accolades. A few mugs of ale made their way to thirsty riders as well.

The Dwarves would be here three days to rest and feast before making for Osgiliath. Gimli had not seen the bridge. His memories of the city were utter ruin. Nag Kath thought it better not to attend a party commemorating the destruction of his original folk. There would be plenty of time for conversation when they got to the rocks.

The King decided to come. He hadn't seen the massif except from the plain and wanted a better look. That would overwhelm Heinieth's little encampment. Prince Faramir joined them in Osgiliath to more colored paper and fanfares.

Now it was time for business. Nag Kath introduced Heinieth to the Dwarves and the two of them briefly went over the sketches. Then the party rode and climbed to the pool so they could see what the Elf was thinking. Thurgin watched carefully but kept his opinions to himself until he saw the idea to empty the pool from the western side. With confidence he shouted over the din of the waterfall, "My Lord Gimli, what Nag Kath proposes is much like the quench supply at the Nâin forge, only larger.

Glorand the second engineer agreed, "Aye. It is further down but there is more water to work with. Nag Kath, how much of this flow do you need?"

The Elf yelled back, "No more than half, but I would like more down the face and make those decisions in the collection pool."

Gimli, like most Dwarves, was comfortable standing on the edge of sheer cliffs. He peered over the edge and they returned to the horses. When they could hear at speaking volumes, the Dwarf Lord asked his two builders, "Well, what say you?"

Thurgin said, "If it were me, I would just let it all slide down the face with a larger pool at the bottom. They need to route the flow across the face, but they have to do that in either case. All that has to be done then is dam the side of the pool leading back to the river and hammer a gate over there, much easier to make a bigger pool below on flat ground."

Glorand said, "I think so too. No reason to get too precise on the side of a cliff. Men of Gondor will have to do this work and they are not used to such heights."

Conditions met, Gimli said, "Lord Aragorn and Lord Faramir, staunch friends both, your plan has favor. Engineer Thurgin will stay here over the winter and help with this and as much as he can with the chute going west. Let your fine city be free of poxes!"

Aragorn cried, "Thank you kind sir. We shall name this wonder the Gimli Cascade!"

The Lord of the Glittering Caves said, "First let us see if it works! Mu,Ha!"

Then they all went back to Osgiliath. No one even looked in the little hospitality compound. Thurgin and an assistant hidden in the Dwarf company would be there quite a bit along with workers and surveyors fairly soon so it wasn't a complete waste. On the way back Nag Kath had Tumlen rent a nice home for the Dwarvish Engineers and find a servant to cook and clean when they needed to get away from the mountain.

Back in Minas Tirith was more feasting and feting before the now fourteen Dwarves made their way home. Gimli had other business here but this was a good excuse to see his dear friends and help the King and Prince announce this lifesaving project. And as Lord Gimli said; now it had better work.

Within the week, Nag Kath had his first meeting of the 'worker bees'. Officially the Aqueduct Council, they met in the big room of Osgiliath. When fourteen were assembled he started slowly, "Gentlemen, we are embarked on a great work, something not seen in nearly a thousand years. I believe in finding the right people and letting them do what they do best. Granthor Teldamir will be the master of resources. His job will be to get men and materials where we need them. For the time being, I am funding everything but we will exhaust that soon enough and then he will manage our Lord's contributions.

"Turbun Heinieth is chief engineer. He and his assistants will supervise building all of this. I expect their number to grow and for men to distinguish themselves along the way. Master Thurgin and his capable assistant …" this with a nod to the younger Dwarf "… Fordosh will design the flow in the rocks from the waterfall.

"Tumlen Gespath will be here and his job is to find what you need and run messages in Osgiliath. This will be our headquarters." Neither Tum nor Fordosh expected to be more than flies on the wall and were honored to be mentioned. Nag Kath continued, "If you haven't met, this is Manager Sepulvath. He is in charge of the water once it gets here. He will have to reinforce ancient piping in Osgiliath and will work with some of you from that big rock in.

"Architect Finenbrad, to my left, is currently training the long-range surveyors and he will have a hand in their assignments. Four men are presently about two …?"

Finenbrad said, "Maybe three."

"Three weeks from joining the project. They will eventually report to Mr. Heinlieth or me. Expect more folk shortly. We will need managers and cooks and people to make camps. As we speak, King Aragorn is exploring getting Mûmikils and their handlers up here for the heavy work."

Teldamir spoke, "I told the Lords we will need at least two hundred men in the field in spring. Next year will be chiefly learning where to put this thing and counting the materials. We will also be building roads, shelters, barges and stockpiling many things for use the following spring. Think of those men as soldiers needing boots and shelter and rations to keep them fit."

Nag Kath grinned, "And now, about me. Contrary to common belief, I am not a dark lord in disguise." Some of the men in the room chuckled. Others were not relieved at all. Several here today saw the Elf turn silver in the cursed river.

"I will be chief architect and share the vision. I am not perfect either. No one here has done this before. We will make mistakes. When you think you need help, ask. When you are wrong, admit it. Any of you can approach me at any time. Have passion and courage and we will do a great thing our children's children will proud to see."

There was one task that seemed nothing at the time. Finenbrad had an abscess on his calf that scraped raw after riding for the first time in months. Nag Kath saw him limping when the other men left and had him pull his boot while Tumlen brought a clean cloth and water.

To the architect's embarrassment, the Elf clicked his little knife and sliced into the sore to drain the wound. Then he grasped Finenbrad's ankle and they watched his hand glow silver before returning to its usual color. That was a good start but the wound needed dressing. "Tumlen, where are the healing shops in town?"

Tumlen turned white. May Eru save and bless us! He mumbled, "The closest is four blocks east of the inn. Shall I go fetch something?" Anything was a good enough reason to get out of there.

"Nay, it is better if I look myself. See if you can find Mr. Finenbrad something to eat."

Osgiliath was so large that there was no one central district for anything. Nag Kath would learn there were three areas where healers of varying abilities clustered. He needed a simple poultice of athelas and huren root which should be available anywhere but had to be fresh. The third shop he saw had supplies. On his way back he noticed another healer's shop with similar herbs that also offered inductive healing. That was not common. The 'closed' sign in a small window was written in a Dalish hand. It was probably nothing so he took the weeds back to the ailing architect.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Before the snows fell, the surveyors had already done good work. Certand Lemdarin was the one who had some survey work before and took charge in the field since Finenbrad's role was advisory. Materials were stockpiled to reinforce the road and camp sites were laid-out near spur roads or likely docking places for barges.

Nag Kath stayed with the Dwarves near the waterfall for much of the time since they would do the design but leave while work was in process. Fordosh had a fair hand. Nag Kath freely shared his drawing techniques, something that others might have jealously guarded. Building the pool below would come before tons of water was dumped on the workmen.

~o~

Snows came early and heavy this year. Unlike Dale, which always had miserable winters, Gondor often saw little snow and manageable temperatures. Not this year, so Nag Kath went back to Minas Tirith. When he arrived he found a pile of letters under the door slot. Two were from Brenen and Ardatha courtesy of Colonel Rosscranith's shuttle. He read them many times.

One, in a perfumed envelope, was a note from Tal that he should join her and her husband and a few friends for dinner in only four day's time. The letter had been there a week. Nag Kath dashed off a reply that he would be delighted and had a local lad run it across the prow for a groat.

In the meantime, he visited Sylveth Multö, nee Quastille. Now sixty, she did not look that much older. And as Tim said, her husband looked just like her. Both were happy. She deserved that, even if it took too long.

He was warmly invited in for tea. At his first sip, both Nag Kath and Sylveth remembered his first taste of the drink and his dropping the cup with a black curse-word at burning his lips. He had come unannounced at ten thirty and by noon they had lunch together. It was good to see her again. Master Quastille had a stroke in his sleep. Nag Kath told them about his art and how that became a waterpath. It seems Broughtur Multö bought and rented property so they talked about that a while. They would see each other again.

Nag Kath also dropped in on Tim and Marie. This time he went downstairs and met the students. One was good, one fair and one rich. At lunch, Tim chided him for not preparing his Syndolan Eve party! Nag Kath had not even thought of that. Tim was correct, of course. His big house on the fourth was made for festivities. Marie went home but the artists walked up to survey the possibilities. Yes, the tradition would continue!

Tal's invitation said six but at the bell he was the last to arrive. Mrs. Tippi opened the door and let him in without a word. Not three steps inside his hand was firmly shaken by Ectellion Toroldinar. There was no wondering where his son got the curly black hair. The man reminded Nag Kath of Rogad, the guardi chief in Trum Dreng. He was shorter than his wife, stocky and fit with a soldier's face. His warmth was genuine. Since Tal would certainly have told him of their experience, that was water over the dam.

His first introduction was to Ectilla, the older daughter. She was a pleasing blend of her parents' different looks with better manners than her brother who was skulking by the finger-foods. "Mr. Kath, please let me tell you how much I admire your work."

"Thank you. I did not know any of it survived."

"I have only seen a few things."

"Let us hope they do not lose value now that I am back. I should introduce you to my friend Timalen Brushta."

"Oh, he is your friend? We met at one of his showings two years back. Very imaginative!"

That could mean anything when describing art. Tal joined them with Nag Kath kissing her hands. Mother and daughter introduced him to seven other guests. Included were Ferd and Bridgeth Comsairs of the merchants league and Hermad and Florice Murgrander, he being chief agent of the Furrier's Cooperative. Mrs. Murgrander was beautiful. They both looked at him quite a bit.

Dinner was edible. Tal, as threatened, retold the last charge of the Revanthars now that she had corroboration. He explained how he stuffed Gandalf's match powder into a tea mug and lit them with a fuse made of drawing paper. Tal also insisted he tell the tale of the Wild Huntsman. Nag Kath was not sure he wanted to divulge that much of his power so he offered an edited version concentrating on the Bilbo-like escape.

Most of his conversation was about the water-path. They knew about that. He did not say he was in charge but there was plenty else to explain. Folk around the table agreed that if the water was safe, it was high time to stop those poxes in the basin!

As he was leaving, Tal took him aside and asked if now that his mourning period was over, would he like romantic introductions? She knew some respectable ladies. He had not really thought of that. And there was the notion of a mourning period. As strangely as he measured time, he had not considered short-lived men had to limit their grief or lose too much life in the waiting. His year was over, just as hers had been when they met.

He said he would let her know when his time was more his own. On the walk home he also thought that might be Tal's way of saying she was happy with her choice and he should not keep a candle burning. It was what he had wanted for her.

~o~

Nag Kath did not have to do much to organize his Syndolan Party. Sylveth knew a man who did that professionally. Mr. Fobe came to his home and agreed this was perfect for a fine event. Tables, chairs, crockery and festive ornaments were ordered. Syndolan pipers were hired, though the man explained the best of them had been booked years in advance. This trio had not been together long but were good and available. Food was arranged.

Nag Kath sat with pencil and paper to see who he knew. The King and Queen were invited first, though they would certainly not come. The same went for the Prince and Lady Éowyn. Among the commoners were the Hobbits (always a must for the discerning host), his Dwarf friends and engineers, many of the water crew and their families. Tal and Tim and the Multö's must come. He had met a few neighbors so they went on the list. Rosscranith might come along with members of Mr. Tallazh's family. He stopped at forty three names on his list and wrote the invitations himself.

Winter offered a brief respite so he shuttled between here and Osgiliath twice. They had to rent a warfside go-down near his compound to store the bits and pieces Teldamir was ordering. Tumlen stayed busy with that and also managed to find a husband and wife Dwarf team of cook and tusdar (houseman in the common tongue) for the Engineers. They traveled with them between here and at the waterfall to make their lives easier. There were still quite a few Longbeards who lived abroad with men. Not all of Durin's folk loved caves.

Party day arrived. It was accounted a great success. A scholar of parties would explain that Nag Kath's events went well because everyone was a friend. Fifth-level galas never had Dwarves singing Syndolan songs or Hobbits dancing with tall folk. Tal and Ect came and danced themselves. She tall and elegant, he short and muscular. They cut a fine figure together. Ectilla came with them and talked with Tim and Marie most of the night.

Rosscranith and his bride came. He knew these events from Dale and would not have missed it. His mission here would end next summer but he expected to have his term renewed. Could he take any messages back home with him?

The King set off fireworks at nine so everyone walked outside to watch. All agreed they were a sight to see. Nag Kath wished he had learned more about Gandalf's craft in Orthanc. He had seen the best and last of the green and silver rockets in Middle-earth. Part of Mr. Fobe's service was a crew of cleaners the next morning. The damage was not so bad. White City revelers were easier on plates than Dalelanders. Nag Kath drank his tea and flexed his toes in the rug. Another year had started.

Nag Kath wondered what he had gotten himself into. Cooperation was an excellent idea when the King and Prince surprised him with armed troops. It still seemed so. This was a noble project. It was too late to bow-out now. He began to understand the value of his gifts. They were still weak and ill-defined but save Radagast, he might be the last creature in Middle-Earth who could tell the water was no longer tainted by Mordor. How many years of poxes and plagues would have passed for someone to take that risk?

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Spring of year two, year 22 of the Fourth Age, saw the aqueduct start in earnest. Dwarf Master Thurgin and his assistant Fordosh spent most of their time at the comfortable outpost below the waterfall and seemed to like it. Oddly, they did not drink much beer there, though what they did in Osgiliath was their business.

Granthor Teldamir shuttled between Osgiliath and Minas Tirith. His job was to see how much this would cost in time and money. If it was approved, he would have primary financial stewardship. That looked increasingly likely. King Aragorn had ordered Minas Morgul torn to rubble. He could find the men to bring clean water.

Finenbrad's surveyors worked through the winter when possible. Certand was the fellow who had done this before so he became the supervisor. They added three former soldiers to make camp, cook and leave them free to spot elevations. In the summer they split into two crews.

Everyone thought of the project as three parts. For the long span in the middle, the job was easier since the aqueduct could follow the road and the river. There were hills but no mountains or valleys. The surveyors set their heights from the rock and worked back towards the waterfall.

The hard parts would be either end. Dead level from the top of the rock to the city was about three miles. That span would have to be raised above the flood plain. Fortunately, materials could be barged along the Neussan from wherever they were found. The prevailing design was to run the chute supported by arches like a bridge.

To the east, rock had to be moved to get the waterfall pool to dump on the west face. From there it would have to be routed down another hundred feet fairly quickly to reach the level of the road. The Dwarves were working on that. Nag Kath spent most of his time with them since they would leave before the work at the waterfall started.

Most of year two was spent making it easy for year three. The main road was reinforced with a frontage along the river to teams of horses could pull barges upstream. Spur roads were built from docks sunk into the Nuessan. Logs were cut in Cair Andros and floated down for camps, storehouses, barges and supports. Livestock was raised and penned along the route. Grain was moved to storehouses. Vegetables were prized so many folk in Osgiliath and Ithilien raised them as a cash crop. Farmers clamored for property along the formerly cursed river.

Nag Kath's idea of a private residence in Osgiliath was doomed from the start. It was just more space for everyone coming and going. He took his waking rest in a chair. There were never less than five horses in the stable. Once a month he was in Minas Tirith to consult with Teldamir or, occasionally, the King, including in August when the Dwarf Engineers went home. Aragorn held a banquet in their honor and proclaimed them heroes of his realm. Nag Kath was proud to call them friends.

In mid-October, posts had been driven every quarter mile for the entire length and marked for height. They knew where the aqueduct was going to go. With the first snow, Nag Kath was ready for a break. For all his supposed influence from air-wizard Saruman, he was a poor reader of weather. Men with sore knees were more reliable. Old knees were predicting a storm so he went to Minas Tirith to relax. And yes, Mr. Fobe would be glad to organize this year's Syndolan Eve party.

In preparing, Nag Kath hired Deltra who worked every day before the gala cleaning and cooking. After that, she came twice a week or when he was in town. Nag Kath also saw friends. All of them played matchmaker. He did not have the time or attention for that, though he did appreciate their thinking of him. One of his special treasures was letters from Brenen and Ardatha. The news did not change much but he read them many times and usually replied the same day.

In March of year three, Nag Kath met Teldamir for lunch with Mr. Tallazh. Somehow the Elf thought that Lords Aragorn and Faramir would consider the feasibility of the project and then decide whether to proceed. Everyone but Nag Kath knew the King would see it through as soon as he saw the Elf glowing silver in the suspect river. At Nag Kath's count, he had spent ninety three Florin, not including the houses and other personal things after being reimbursed by the crown for the Farantie rock easement.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Spring was mild this year. The trouble with mild springs is those are the years that tend to flood with snow melt. A fever broke out in April that killed three hundred in Osgiliath and sickened many more. Not many water men were working close to the city and they got their water from the Nuessan but most of them knew someone who was ill or worse. Nag Kath spent the first two months healing until he collapsed. It was a harsh reminder of how important this work was.

When the fever abated, it was time to move dirt. Two Mûmikils and their birth-handlers marched along the eastern side of the Anduin. These beasts were females, much smaller than the males seen a generation ago and less likely to rages. Each of them had ten dedicated men to feed, house, clean and watch them at all times. Another eighty Haradrim came with them as laborers.

Several thousand citizens of the White City lined the western bank to watch their progress. It seemed the rare beasts were from the deep south of the country while the east produced the soldiers. In the dark days, the Easterlings demanded Mûmikils as tribute. These days, southern men made their own deals.

The huge animals' primary job this year was loading and storing materials coming upriver in a steady stream of barges or sailing craft. A large supply of the soil that can be mixed with gravel and water for mortar was sent from the desert. That had to be kept dry. By late May, almost five hundred men were toiling between Osgiliath and the Morgul Vale. Haradrim worked separately from the men of Gondor but when they crossed paths, they got along. Very few of either folk were old enough to remember much about the war.

Heinlieth now had four primary assistants who were that in name only. They had their own area to work and enough authority to only need to meet about every other week at alternating sites. Vensin Xangorand was the Engineer in charge of the main line about five miles from the city. Since this was the flattest and closest to both the road and the river, he built a trial trench of three hundred feet using different design, build techniques and materials.

There were five possibilities. Nag Kath did not know there was a bet when he was called to choose. Everyone's favorite was a lackluster third and a dark-horse invented by one of the diggers was selected. It was said up to three Florin changed hands that day. The digger got a bonus and a promotion.

In August the Mûmikils were reassigned to start carrying logs from the river along the route. Their handlers fiercely protected them and insisted they not be overloaded. They effortlessly dragged several trees at a time and never seemed to mind. It took a crew of ten just to bring them fodder and other things they liked to eat. Gondorans spoiled them with carrots or other roots found in the digging.

Winter seemed to be coming early this year if old knees are reliable. The Haradrim had intended to return south and come back in spring but thought better of it when camps were built with stoves and good food. For many men of both the west and south, this was better than home. About a hundred Gondorans stayed in camp as well. Most of the rest lived in Osgiliath or Minas Tirith and would not have far to travel.

~o~

Year four, year 24 of the Fourth Age, was dry with no serious disease and good footing. In late April, two more Mumikils were brought with their crew of ten men each. Thinking the war far enough past, King Aragorn had them travel on the west side of the river and visit the White City. Some folk hid under their beds but the children were delighted to be able to touch the gentle giants and offer them hay that the creatures accepted with their tactile noses.

Nag Kath plied the road between the city and the waterfall and also spent time with Teldamir. Special items had to be brought or made now that they had a better idea of quantity and size. He would also spend some days just working in the sun on the most basic tasks to give him a feel for the pace.

~o~

It was time to start working back from the rock. Engineer Forshbrand had an idea to erect stone pillars every twenty feet and build an arched wooden frame between them. Men on scaffolds then mortared rocks in place to form the permanent arch with keystones and build courses up to form the water chute. He built five of them and then moved the wood under the first to the sixth. It was slow and dangerous at first but by the end of the season they could add a pillar every two days.

There were problems too. A landslide killed four men and injured a dozen. Prince Faramir came to console the wounded and give cheer to all. It was the policy that disabled men would receive two year's pay or the same money would go the family of those who died. Deaths were seldom but men lost hands and legs in such heavy work. These were not orcs or slaves who were worked until they dropped.

One of the more interesting meetings Nag Kath had that year was with Manager Sepulvath and representatives of West Osgiliath. Their difficulty was that the water would have to cross the river lower than the bridge, low enough that it would be hit by ship masts. They decided on a plan to attach an open metal chute to the bridge with a draw arm to raise it at the center arch at certain times or when a ship came along willing to pay a toll. The supply for the west would be the middle of three arms splaying from the rock. Crews were already surveying those paths for both smaller arches and large stone holding tanks for pressure and to strain out sediment.

Towards the end of year four, Nag Kath had turned over most of the work to the engineers. Architecture was now more adjustments to designs in progress than new work. He still had to finish the waterfall designs. Master Thurgen had done that but the exact measurements would depend on how high the trench actually made it up the hill.

That gave Nag Kath more time in Minas Tirith …

… which changed his life considerably.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~