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

20. Chapter 20 Hard Diplomacy

Chapter 20

Hard Diplomacy

We are going east. Maps that will help are: Rhûn Towns and Khand Topo.

Im gur period com /gallery/jHPlDU8

~o~

~o~o~o~

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When they made the turn above the small delta into the Rhun, Nag Kath was shocked. There would be no stopping horsed-troops in force from helping themselves to anything they wanted. Why in the world would they bother stealing wispy stalks from well armed Buhr riders when they could dance across the river down here and live large?

The place was beautiful. The lake, sea as defined here, was massive. He would test it several ways later but it was said to be slightly salty. Like fish of the ocean, local fish were right at home. Nag Kath fared the hoop merchants well and took Charlo at a gallop to the business district of Riavod.

He found an inn on the shore that catered to travelers. It was expensive but nice and full of people with nothing else to do than tell the handsome young man anything he wanted to know. That included where the Provost office was. He rented a room for a week and rode over what turned out to be only three blocks, presenting himself to the desk Sergeant saying he needed a word with the Marshal immediately.

"I am sure you do, boy, but he's a busy man."

In no mood to bandy excuses with officious clerks, Nag Kath walked down the hall and entered what he thought was the biggest room just in time to slam the door in the Sergeant's face. There was a Lieutenant sitting with a decorated Captain at a large table looking at notes. Nag Kath glared at the younger man and growled, "Out!"

The Captain stood and remonstrated, "See here!" He got no further when a beam of confusion made him forget the rest of his threat. The Lieutenant looked at his superior, decided these two could settle this themselves and joined the sergeant in the hall. Memory recovered, the Captain demanded, "What the devil do you think you're doing, boy?"

Nag Kath sat in the chair across from the Gondoran and said, "Within the month you can expect five hundred horse and fifteen-hundred, maybe two thousand Easterling infantry to cross the Celduin and start eating grapes."

The Captain was an instant from throwing the brat out the window but he knew he didn't have the troops to shovel the stables of such a force. The best he could manage was, "I am a Captain of Gondor!"

"I outrank you. My name is Nag Kath. I traveled to the Shire with King Elessar this spring and made for Dale when he went to Annúminas for the summer. There I conferred with Kings Bard and Thorin. They have orc activity on the northern border. It is a diversion for what the Thains thought was an attack on the grain harvest by the Usurper Frûnzar across the Redwater.

"Now I see their real purpose. By reliable accounts, Frûnzar stole most of the horses bred east of the sea and is massing forces out of his brother's reach. I think they are coming here." Nag Kath stood to reach in his pocket and pulled a token he never returned from the Dol Amroth adventure. Of course, the King knew nothing of this, but his man in Dorwinion was busy wrestling with expense ledgers and this was the time to set a new tone. He handed it to the Captain and sat down again.

The Captain remained standing and hollered, "Sarnt!"

The desk man should have retired five years ago but he came in spoiling for a fight with the snotty blonde kid. The Captain said, "This is Nag Kath. Get him anything he wants. You too, Fendülas. Dismissed!

"Kath of the Water?"

"Umhumm."

"I am Lenös Talfurmir. My brother was one of your surveyors. What do you need from me?"

"I am not sure. I just got here. How many solid men can you field at the river mouth?"

"Precious few. I've got a hundred good horse from Anorien and another fifty Rohan mercenaries. They work cheap. Foot? Three hundred at best, and that would mean pulling them from their fields in no mood to fight."

Nag Kath rubbed his chin, "Let us assume I am not completely wrong in this. They will fight or they will run. If they run, you'll need to pull people back further than the Lings want to chase them. I expect this Frûnzar fellow is looking for a capital and will expand after he makes a few examples."

Captain Talfurmir said plainly, "Let us assume you are not completely wrong. If so, the high end of your strength estimate puts them a hundred miles in from the sea. They can go no further unless they don't consolidate their takings."

"Captain Talfurmir, I need to know everything about the Bror and the pretender. My plan is to go see the Bror. If I can, I will convince him that he does not want his internal squabbles spilling into Gondor or Dale and destroying the balance his people have enjoyed since Erebor."

The Captain chewed on his moustache and said, "There are some folk who should be here. Let us say tomorrow afternoon. That will give me time to issue the … invitations."

Nag Kath appreciated the man's position and said, "Thank you. Sorry about coming in so strong but time is not on our side. What should I be doing between now and then?"

Talfurmir walked into the hall and spoke with his clerk for a minute. Returning to his chair he said, "Let us get you some eyes. I'm going to have a lad stop round your inn as soon as he can be found. He is an Easterling but not over-fond of how his family was treated. Sharp fellow. I wouldn't share anything strategic, but if I wanted to get the mood of the market place, I would ask him."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

The guide was cast in the same mold as Tumlen, small, dark curly hair, a noticer of things around him. Nag Kath was sketching in a chair on the seaside porch of the inn when he approached and gave a slight bow. The Elf looked up and said, "Good morning, young man. Have a seat."

Vegad looked around before sitting. Lings didn't generally mingle with westerners at the Sea Breeze Inn. But if this fellow said it was all right, it was. He wasn't a lad, more like sixteen with the beginnings of a beard and an earring of silver. He smiled showing a missing eye-tooth but he was otherwise unscarred.

Nag Kath reached his picture over so the young man could see it and said, "What's your name, my friend?"

"Vegad Druhamel, good sir."

"Pleasure. I am Nag Kath." The Elf went back to his drawing, mostly to see what Vegad did with nothing to do. He sat there patiently looking at the drawing and water, interested in how the artist captured colors with shade. Art where he was born was usually in vivid paints. After a few minutes, Nag Kath put the pad in his satchel and slung it over his shoulder as he stood saying, "Let us take a walk."

They had gone a hundred yards further south before Nag Kath said, "Are you from here, Vegad?"

"No, sir. My family came here when I was eight."

"How do you like it?"

"Better than Rhûbar. More to eat."

Nag Kath kept his eyes on the road and asked, "Do you have family now?"

"I have a little sister. Mother and father have joined our ancestors, Mr. Kath."

"I am sorry for your loss, Vegad. I know very little of your people. I would like to know more. Tell me, this lady in the stall, what is she selling?"

"That is gureeq. It is like wheat but grows in dryer soil. She sells it as it comes off the stalk or will grind it in that stone bowl to make flour. It keeps longer in the kernel."

Nag Kath wanted to know what the civilians thought. They would not be the first to know if there was trouble brewing but they would be far from the last. "Do the merchants here come every day?"

"Some, like her, are here every day. Some only come when they have finished goods to sell. They have to take which stalls are available that morning. Some come once a week, depending on the competition, sir"

"That makes sense. Where would I buy a horse?"

Vegad thought about more than came out, "They are rare. People either bring them or do without, mostly do without. I would ask at the stables in the Dorwinrim sectors, some blocks south. "

~o~

Nag Kath stopped to look at small brass charms hung on a dry branch. The vendor looked fast enough to catch anyone who snatched one on the way by. The Elf asked the man how much for one in the shape of a heart and was told it was four groats. He got one and put it in his pocket.

When they started walking again Nag Kath said, "I saw a number of people crossing the river this way. That is a hard ford. Is that where people usually come and go?"

Vegad stopped and looked at the Elf. "They are only coming this way now. And I suspect you know that."

"I do."

"What do you need of me, Mr. Kath?

"I am not quite sure yet. Has the provost office arranged for your pay?"

"They gave me a modest advance against your satisfaction."

Nag Kath turned left towards two fishing boats being repaired on the beach and sat in the sand. Vegad sat next to him. Sure they were out of listening range of any but other Elves, Nag Kath reached into his vest pocket and took out ten silvers. He slipped them into Vegad's palm. Looking out on the water the Elf said, "If anyone wants to know what you are doing, you are guiding a rich man's simpleton son around on holiday. I will ask many stupid questions of the people I meet. It is possible some will not appreciate that. Have you got someplace you and your sister can stay that will make you hard to find?"

"Several."

For the first time Nag Kath really looked the young man in the eyes with his pure Elf face. "I need you to tell me about Frûnzar."

"Third son of Telantish; now rotting these two years. He is smart, attractive to women and thinks he should have been first son. A good horseman. Men want to be praised by him and he wants high praise in return."

"Where does he stay?"

"In the Feeruld province upriver. He is from the capital but kept the Bror's summer home after the split."

Nag Kath asked, "What else might you have told me about where to get a horse?"

"There are many on the east side of the sea, not that they would sell you one."

"I thought as much. The Feeruld, is that where the mercenaries are from?"

Vegad had decided to be as helpful as he could. This Nag Kath was a dangerous fellow but those were nine more silvers than he had ever held at one time and he had no love for the Black Visitors. "They are where you find them but the Balchoth were mostly in that region."

Nag Kath tried to glue some of the parts in place. "And they didn't see eye-to-eye with the dead Bror, yes?"

"You know a great deal for a witless son."

"Not enough."

"Yes. They were the cavalry in the old days. When the war ended, their horses were put to the plow or eaten in the famines. They lost their voice in the council. They were waiting for someone with keys to closed doors."

"How does Frûnzar fit in with the Visitors?"

Vegad spit and touched his mouth twice. Then he looked at the Elf and said, "Not so witless at all."

Nag Kath scooped sand in his right palm. It began to glow silver. The he slowly poured it out so the little grains left trails of light trickling to ground. Vegad did not display any emotion but he never blinked once. The Elf said, "No, not so witless."

Vegad said, "Mr. Kath, I do what I must to care for Hillilea and me. I would like us to both stay alive. But burned in my mind are Visitors whipping my father bloody for lighting candles on Gelansor. I will help you if I can."

"Gelansor?"

"The first new moon in July."

"So, what about this bandit prince and the Visitors?"

~o~

Vegad gave him chapter and verse about a sect among the Balchoth descendants who yearned for the days of favor by Sauron. They disdained farmers and townsmen and everything else the world had become, trading little pieces of this and that to fill the larder. Now, a genuine leader had emerged who could bend the knees of their central Khans if he could outmaneuver his brother. The difficulty was that first son was no fool and knew how to share with folk who appreciated it. Nag Kath listened carefully and interrupted with, "Now, what about those horses?"

"All I know is what people coming west tell me. The old Bror was raising Puklak horses along the eastern rim. The grazing is good there and he finally had farmers enough to raise and train them. Gold found its way to the right palms and over a week they were ridden to Feerold. There is poor grain there, but enough. Dale is across the river and they have fertile lands as far as a man can see."

Vegad's first error. He had no reason to praise dry fields so that must be the view of fleeing refugees who had not seen them either. But Frûnzar would certainly know the only grain for more than a week's loaves was already in the storehouses. So why the pretense of probes in the Buhrs?

Orcs!

Frûnzar had to make the orcs think they would get fed or they had no reason to keep the Thains busy on their borders and unable to come to Gondor's aid in Dorwinion.

"Vegad, come by my inn after dinner. Meanwhile, find a cozy place for your sister.

My dearest Durn,

I am in Riavod and enjoying the lovely seaside views. Thank you for recommending I visit.

There has been a change of plans; our guests will be coming here rather than to your home. It is shocking to think they would have us go through all that trouble and change their minds! I should think my hosts will have a difficult time entertaining such a large family. We are arranging their welcome as I write.

Of course, you and my son-in-law are always welcome to come with any of your friends. Please tell my family I love them as soon you can.

In appreciation, NK

~o~

After a light dinner, Nag Kath and Vegad strolled on the walk between the buildings and the shoreline. Unlike the great seas to the west, this one did not have large waves crashing and shifting the sand. They went to a place Vegad knew where successful Easterlings escaped their wives and chose a table not far from the kitchen door before ordering a middling local wine.

As arranged, Vegad said, "Please remember, Mr. Solvanth, the local wines are very potent."

"Nonsense! Nothing to a good red ale!"

"Of course, sir."

"Now, what is this business about Sauron? My father, bless his heart, danced on his black grave before he met my ma."

Other drinkers made the kinds of sounds they could hear over. Vegad said patiently, "It is nothing. Estimable persons think his memory has been sullied unjustly."

"Hughmmmph! We could never get our salt up north with Dark Lords about. I'll tell you this," Mr. Solvanth slurred his speech, "Just let one of those dougshs say otherwise and we will have words! Now, you're sure the horshes are good?! I don't want no fuzz-tailed nags, mind."

"Yes, Mr. Solvanth, prime Rhûn-bred, they are. Very sturdy."

The blonde man looked like he was having trouble focusing but he managed to say, "That's a good price. Too good. Wager they're stolen!"

"Oh no, sir. Sometimes our army friends across the river have more than they need."

The drunken merchant slurped his wine and glowered at the cup, "Where's next? I need a proper ale to take the taste from my mouth."

His long-suffering guide reminded him, "I think your friend said the Full Sail."

"Lead on, then! I can't tell one of these places from another." They walked into a pleasant night towards a darker part of the high street. Two men near the door dropped groats on the table and gave Solvanth a reasonable head-start.

Vegad said under his breath, "I dearly hope you know what you're doing, Mr. Kath."

"Me too." Then, much louder, "Hold a minute. I need to lose some of that wine." Nag Kath lurched into an alley and was followed by his loyal guide. The two men crept behind them and Vegad saw a flash of steel. Just then, a pulse of energy bathed in pale, yellow light swept by him making his head swim.

Nag Kath walked back towards the street and said sharply, "Where have you been? We've been waiting."

"One of them said in the blackness, "I … I'm not sure."

Their superior was not pleased. "When are you supposed to get back to the main army?"

The other fellow managed, "We leave in three days."

"Leave in the morning. When do we secure the ford?" There was no reading their faces but neither said a word. Nag Kath ordered impatiently, "Well, out with it! I need to prepare here."

The taller of the two said, "Day after Yegraph's Feast. Same as it's been."

Nag Kath relented, "Good work. Go get a cup of wine and forget this conversation." The two men said in unison, "Yes Gvordling" and sheathed their knives before wandering back into the street.

~o~

Vegad was glad he did not actually have to relieve himself or he would have. As if he had been asking directions to a pub, Nag Kath said, "That would have been better in your language. Can you tell where these two were from by their speech?"

After a moment finding his tongue Vegad muttered, "Feerold. Rebels from Feerold."

~o~

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~o~

Captain Talfurmir called the meeting to order. "Gentlemen, this is Mr. Kath of Minas Tirith and Osgiliath. Mr. Kath, these are; Mr. Sundermol, Captain of the local foot militia, Lieutenant Fendülas of the cavalry you've met. Captain Fenuldorn of the Rohirrim and Mayor Jurgantis. Mr. Kath has alarming tidings and we need to pay special attention." He nodded to the Elf.

"Sirs, none of this is expected or certain. I am also a citizen of Dale and was asked by King Bard to investigate orcs along the Iron Hills Road on my way to the eastern Thainholds. They seem to be out of old caves above Erebor and are definitely soldiers, but not in force. Orcs appear to be in league with Easterlings running drills along the east bank of the Redwater, again, not in real force. The harvest will be poor on either side of the river. The Thains are prepared to the extent they can be. I came here to circle the Usurper and make for Kugavod seeking an audience with the new Bror."

Jaws dropped, except the Talfurmir's. Nag Kath pulled a fierce fever from his brother the surveyor so the Captain knew this unassuming fellow had tricks he hadn't shown.

Nag Kath continued, "Here is the problem. I now believe the noise along the Redwater is a feint and they intend to ford above here in force, five hundred horse, three or four times that in infantry. I squeezed two spies last night and the attack is set for four weeks from today."

Mayor Jurgantis was ex-irregular from this district. His family had fought the same foe in the same places since no one kept records. He cleared his throat and said clearly, "We cannot pull the people back in time. I know a little of this Frûnzar and he is looking to create his own land if he cannot have theirs. What Mr. Kath said makes sense."

The Lieutenant observed, "My horse cannot do much until they land. The river is low now for lack of rain but getting infantry across is still no easy thing." He looked to the Rider of Rohan and asked, "Is there news of boats or barges on the eastern shore?"

The man shrugged his shoulders. The Mayor said, "If they launch barges where we can't see them now, the current won't get to our side until Tas Surren. The horses can cross above and swim. What we need are archers."

Nag Kath followed with, "Then my guess is that the horse will come first to secure the landing. I cannot help you much with defenses. You know the river and the bank. Now, more than ever, I need to talk to this Bror fellow and convince him that he doesn't need King Elessar as an enemy."

Men of the town would see to defenses. As they left, Captain Talfurmir said, "I got your letter off at first light. I know Durnaldar a little. I will send another asking him to watch for barges should he wander this way sightseeing. It is not their fight."

"Aye. Blessings be upon us, Captain."

~o~

Charlo was ready for exercise. He wasn't as ready for cold water. Pushed, most horses ford rivers well when they remember to swim. Then they made good time towards the traditional capital of Kugavod. For three days Nag Kath saw only farmers and the occasional merchant until the day before reaching the capital when he was met by a six-troop of lancers under the Bror's standard. Beardless blonde riders needed questioning so the company pulled to a halt and the Sergeant came forward saying in broken Westron, "You are far from home. What is your business?"

"I am on an errand to speak with Bror Dulgov."

"And why would he be interested in that?"

"My friends think we may have common purpose."

The man showed an assortment of brown teeth, "You have high friends."

"They think so."

"You will ride with us."

"I would be honored."

Whatever the troop was doing wasn't as important as escorting the westerling back to the capital. Other than stopping to water the horses and take relief, they pushed to the capital Kugavod in darkness. The gate was closed. A sentry on the battlement called down and was given a password. The gate squeaked open enough to let the horses through single file and Nag Kath found himself in a large courtyard lit by occasional torches mounted on stands away from the wooden stockade. Only the Sergeant dismounted and walked over to two men at a smaller gate. One of them went inside and everyone waited where they were.

After a few minutes a man in robes accompanied by two soldiers with torches came out with the sentry. The Sergeant whistled and the trooper next to Nag Kath said, "You come." Come he did and they rode to the small door before dismounting.

The man in robes said in good Westron, "Please come with me. Your horse and sword must remain." There was never any chance he would get close to any royal bearing arms so there was no reason to protest. The man and his two torchbearers led Nag Kath through a warren of hallways to a small room. One of the torches was used to light a candle. The robed man said, "Please, make yourself comfortable. We will tell the Bror you have come when he wakes. Stay here until then." They left and he heard the unmistakable sound of the lock clicking. It wasn't a prison cell. It was probably nicer than most people's homes. Nag Kath pulled off his boots and sat on the cot after blowing out the candle.

There was no window but he could tell it was probably mid-morning. Another man, in the same sort of robes as the first, unlocked the door and gestured for the Elf to follow between two sizeable guards. He was escorted through a different warren of halls with the light and furnishings getting better at each turn. When they reached an antechamber with an ornate tile floor, his minder turned and said in passable Westron, "I must now ask your business with the Bror and who has sent you."

"I come representing the governments of Dale, Gondor and the Dwarf Halls of the north. My business is difficulty the Bror's brother may cause between your land and theirs."

The man seemed to be repeating Nag Kath's statement before nodding and walking through an open door in front of them. He came out five minutes later and said, "This way."

~o~

He was shown into a large hall and then into a smaller room on the other side where a large bald man with a heavy beard was sitting at a huge, plank table eating chicken. His clothes were heavy for the season and had ornate embroidery on the collar and cuffs but were otherwise ordinary. The fellow looked up and licked his fingers before saying in fair Westron, "You have traveled far. What can the Bror of the Rhûn do for august Lords of the West."

Nag Kath bowed deeply and said, "A small thorn in the toe, My Lord. Hardly worth troubling you."

"Untended thorns fester."

"Indeed."

"You are here about my brother, yes?"

"We are concerned he may not honor your lawful inheritance and seek lands controlled by friends of the true Bror."

"And what is that to me?"

"Nothing, if he fails."

The Bror wiped his mouth with his sleeve and took a slurp of something in a large, jeweled goblet. Collecting his thoughts he said, "And if he succeeds?"

Then your lands have old enemies again. Worse if one of them is your brother."

Dulgov wiped his face with a real napkin and observed, "I do not think the Thains of Dale stand to lose much after so little rain."

"Methinks south, Lord Bror. His troops are set to invest Dorwinion the day after Yegraph's Feast. He purposes to attack Gondor."

~o~

The Bror set aside any notion of banter. Putting his thumb and forefinger to either side of his mouth, he sent a piercing whistle through the air. Immediately, two more sentries came in the door Nag Kath had entered. The man told them something in their language and they disappeared. Then he swished whatever was in the goblet in his mouth and swallowed before rising and walking to his guest.

"If you are lying, it will take you a long time to die. What is your name?"

"Nag Kath, Lord Bror."

The man looked at the floor and back at his guest before shaking his head and saying to himself, "Too young."

A proud officer walked through the door receiving nods from both the interior guards and presented himself to the Bror on one knee. His liege said, "Rise." The man straightened up with his helmet under his arm.

"This foreigner says my confused brother thinks to cross the Kelduash and take land in Dorwinion. Why have I not heard of this from you?"

The officer blanched slightly but held his ground, "I cannot say, Excellency."

They were speaking in the common-tongue so this was for the benefit of the foreigner. The Bror turned to Nag Kath and ordered, "Explain why you claim this."

"Your unfortunate brother has been in league with orcs to the north, promising them food for harrying Dalish Thains. All the while, he masses troops in Feerold along with considerable horsemen so as not to be confined to your eastern lands. If the infantry is to cross fully armed, I would seek barges to follow the current to Tas Surren after the cavalry has forded to make safe the landing. The barges will either be there or they won't."

The Bror got very close to Nag Kath. That move usually had him tower over his own people but he had to speak up at the Elf, "And if you were me, you would destroy the barges?"

"I dare not presume to think as Bror of your people."

"And if you did?"

Nag Kath thought a little challenge would help, "I would get my horses back."

The Bror's face changed colors twice before he blurted to the officer, "You heard the man." Relieved to be out of Dulgov's withering stare, the officer nodded curtly and marched out the way he came.

"Mr. Kath, you will have to remain here until this is certain."

"Then I look forward to my stay, Lord Bror.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Nag Kath was led to a gate just outside of the palace and waited alone for quite a while until a man in ordinary clothes silently indicated he should follow. They walked past what seemed to be a proper gaol to a small, walled compound with four huts surrounding a well-kept garden of flowers and vegetables. It was fully a quarter mile from the Bror's headquarters. His hut was a single room with a chair, cot and basin. He thought this was the detention area for people who might have to be produced alive later.

Everything on Charlo was impounded but he still had his satchel with birch tooth twigs and spare undergarments. Surprisingly the little quill knife in his pocket had not been taken.

The Elf doodled pictures of the garden and what he could see of the river outlet into the Rhûn. Part of that exercise was looking for escape routes if needed. From here he could leave anytime if he only took the clothes on his back. The walls seemed stout but somehow not menacing. At dusk the fellow who led him here was admitted in the gate with hot food. It was the grain Vegad described with spices and goat butter along with mutton and a version of lennas greens. Without the meat there still enough to make a meal.

He slept that night which was unusual. He also dreamed softly and slept quite late. In the morning the couple returned with porridge and refilled his basin, which was also his drinking water. There was nothing to do in the hut, which was getting hot by mid-day. Nag Kath felt like he had slept for days and went outside to stretch. That wasn't necessary for Elves but it was a habit he formed in his conversion and helped him concentrate. Then he took his sketch pad into the garden.

~o~

On his count of day five, the servant also put food inside the hut opposite his. After the heat of the day on the fifth afternoon, an old man came out of his hut and said hello. He was old, bald and beardless but had good teeth and used them in an almost constant smile. There was more than a drop of Khandian blood there too which gave him an olive complexion in a contrast to the pasty Northmen and pale Nag Kath.

"Good day, young man."

"Good day to you, sir."

"You are newly arrived, yes?"

Nag Kath said, "Five days ago. I may be here some time."

"I have been nearby for two months." The man was wearing a flowing robe over a loose blouse and rather comfortable-looking trousers. Pointing at the sketch pad he said, "Are you writing your verses for Gelansor? I do mine by memory, but not as well as I did."

Nag Kath showed him the flowers and said, "No, sir. I am new to these lands and only just heard of Gelansor. I hope I have not caused offense."

The small man grinned, "There are few who remember now, but fewer who write, so I guessed."

The Elf smiled with, "I would offer you tea but I haven't any. You are welcome to join me for conversation. Please tell me of Gelansor."

"I have tea, of a sort. One does with what one has. Just a moment." The small man turned towards his hut and slowly but purposefully made his way back in the open door. A moment later he returned with a clay bowl. Nag Kath went inside his own hut for his only mug and was back before the older man made it through the garden.

As he poured, the fellow said, "I pinch the leaves in my basin and leave it in the sun. Close your eyes and imagine it is Telandren." He poured and sipped, savoring the taste before saying, "Those who still speak my name call me Orlo."

"I am called Nag Kath. It is a pleasure to meet you, Orlo. Two months is quite some time. I hope your former quarters were as pretty as this garden."

"It is a nice place, thought they have no notion of how to fillet the seehar fish correctly, northerners being what they are. Alas, my brother-in-law is Khan of Mistrand and it seems there were irregularities with tax receipts. I am visiting while the Bror's clackers check the ledgers."

"Oh dear, are you the Collector?"

"Heavens no. I am a retired boat-wright. But someone must come as the Bror's guest to guarantee fealty. The Khan's daughter is a foolish creature with a foolish husband, scarcely worthy of the Bror's hospitality." Nag Kath thought that the most graciously explained detention he ever heard. Orlo continued, "My wife is long past such cares and my own daughter, be she blessed by Those Named, is a simple girl and lives out of reach."

The Elf could hop the wall with the Bror's scalp if he wanted, but he was here for information and to support the more moderate eastern neighbor. Gently nudging he said, "I fear troubles with Bror's brother have brought me to this lovely garden."

Orlo took a sip of the weak tea and thought aloud, "Brothers can be trouble. I never had a brother. My sister made a good match all those years ago. She is a clever woman but did not produce an heir. The Khan's concubine did. He finds her silly and has my sister tell him stories."

Nag Kath admitted, "I have no brothers or sisters. But I have known many families where brothers live as friends."

"Yes, but everyone has to agree that no one gets all, else hard feelings stew. A man with two fish will give his brother one, but a man with two lands will not. It is a confusion."

Nag Kath gently steered, "Orlo, you said you live on a river."

"Yes, yes, an unlovely brown ditch that comes from a grudging desert. It silts the inlet and the fish, in their wisdom, breed vastly. I made boats to catch them when I moved more quickly."

The Elf added to the thread, "I forded a river on the northwest corner of the sea. My horse and I got a good soaking for our pains."

Orlo touched his chin with his finger and said, "Yes, that is a real river. I have not been there in a generation but I should imagine it is the same now."

Nag Kath fed-out a little more line, "Another man crossed when I did. He was riding a small, hairy horse but it swam well and did not shy at the water."

Orlo considered that, "Those are the horses bred along the eastern shore, above Kelepar. That is the grazing land of Rhûn. I have never owned a horse but those are said to be good-natured and easy to feed. I know more of boats. If you live on a sea, you must know boats." The old man brightened saying, "Of course, he could have easily taken a barge across the inlet of the sea like any number of merchants."

What little blood coloring Nag Kath's face drained into his stomach. Had he sent Dorwinion's paltry defense upriver while the enemy leisurely floated across the little bay? His circulation returned when Orlo continued, "Of course they have to pay the tax. His Excellency the Bror keeps good troops on the north bank, and the winds blow east this time of year. I had forgotten that.

"If you will excuse me, young Nag Kath. I should rest and finish my recitations. Perhaps if your business with the Bror's family is not completed, we can speak again."

"Until then, Mr. Orlo."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

After breakfast Nag Kath sat on the stoop sketching, mostly for lack of anything more interesting to do. He thought it might be some days before even fast riders could scout the Celduin for troops, horses or barges. There were not a lot of trees along the eastern bank within fifty miles of the river mouth so that amount of timber floating by would be plain to attentive or coerced farmers.

Orlo came out on his stoop to eat his breakfast and watched the gardener finish watering and weeding. Nag Kath walked over to the identical hut and sat next to him. "Good morning Mr. Orlo."

"Just Orlo, young Nag Kath. No news of the Usurper?"

That was a change. Anyone above ground knew of the squabble but the old boy had made only the most general references to tensions when they met. Nag Kath contemplated that and answered, "No, I think it may be some time. His Excellency has extended his courtesy until he can verify my own peoples' concerns."

"His Excellency is a considerate host. Wait here." Orlo rose with the help of a steadying hand on the roof post and went inside, returning a minute later with his water basin. Placing it in the sun, he crushed leaves from a pocket in his robe and floated them on the surface. Sitting in his place again he said, "We must not forget the little things, young Nag Kath."

"Orlo, you mentioned Gelansor. What is that?" Nag Kath just opened a large jar of learning that would take years to explore. He would be very glad he did, primarily because it gave great insight into his own life's work. It also hurried creeping time in the small compound.

Orlo began, "You are a stranger so I will start before my time. The Easterlings of the south sea are quite different from the north. We were all part of the Balchoth rising but deserts are different than woods. You see mostly Northmen in the woods." Orlo took a better look at Nag Kath's smooth face and continued, "You are no Northman either, but this may still apply.

"There are many ancient stories of our creation. It was said, some claim written, that great lords of power were imagined to shepherd feeble men, or Elves in their day. They lived in fertile lands of plenty without want. Even then they argued, just like his Excellency and his noble brother, causing ruin and pain.

"But out here, fanciful tales of green lands bearing fruits one can pick at will brought disdain. Legends of these creatures never included drought or watching babies choke on dust. Men of dry lands need their own lords and demons to explain our lot in life. Mind you, I am of Mistrand, which is paradise compared to the sands of Mordor. The dark lord was no friend of rain."

Nag Kath stayed motionless as Orlo put his finger on his chin again, "Now, where was I? Oh yes, Gelansor is the three days of the July new-moon when those of us who keep faith light candles through the night and offer prayers that our fields and women may be fertile. Now, your newer adherents sometimes write their own halting script for the occasion. Older fellows like myself recall the original verses so those spirits can find us. I fear I used my candle already."

"You are welcome to mine, if I have one."

"I have already found offerings in all four of the huts, forgive me."

"Apology accepted."

"Thank you."

Nag Kat probed gently, "It does not seem Frûnzar is a keeper of candles."

"No, he believes in himself, as one who would be Bror must."

"Does he not have supporters that wish for old ways?"

Orlo looked again at Nag Kath's face. His vision was not good and he only saw the same young man everyone else did, but that question gave him pause. "Well, if you are here I suppose you know enough to know more. The eastern bank of the Kurnug was where our Balchoth riders held sway, fierce and terrible men who carried the standard.

"They were warriors and favored of Sauron for centuries. They were also the first to die when the orcs of Mordor shriveled like peppers at the gate. Such of them as survived were left the worst lands and ate their horses after their children. Your people saw no need to chase enemies east of the sea or demand tribute where none grew. Wainriders, not the first but the renamed, sought seats at council but were denied. So they waited and schemed and finally found the son of a Bror, a son who would heed their petitions.

"Of course, that was not enough. As all from these lands, they reordered Those Named to their own purpose but could not replace the Dark One." Orlo changed to a more practical voice, "After centuries of favor by Sauron; that was a large gap to fill. Now, some claim congress with the dark lord's spirit and use that to exhort men to glories only graybeards remember."

The youngster played naïve, "I should think all wise men would avoid such association."

"They would! But their lives were better when they were servants of war. Now they are esteemed beneath farmers and peddlers."

Nag Kath pushed his luck, "There were many on the wrong side of history. I hope they do not have the ability to remake new dark lords."

Orlo showed emotion, "They try, summoning forces from remaining humors. These recent rascals claim to pull unclaimed powers from earth and sea. My own view is that they would make their livings hiding peas under clam shells in the market if they did not find employment exhorting hungry soldiers! Mordor probably has evil spirits remaining."

The Elf said thoughtfully, "Yes, I have not been everywhere but it seems most places have folk who claim congress with the dead or powers unavailable to everyday folk in exchange for a few groats. I personally know of an old woman who could take sickness away, thought it made her ill in the bargain."

"Houlars! Mistrand has one. She is a crafty old villain but she will heal a fever for coppers. That is a hard life, young Nag Kath. It wears them to skin and bone."

"I remember the woman being gaunt and in poor humor."

Orlo slapped his knee and chuckled in agreement.

Nag Kath became theatrically serious for his next foray, "There is tell of fell spirits that still live in hollows of old forests. You may not have seen those but there are places as big as this sea to the west filled with old and cunning trees. They are of no better temper."

"Forests, seas, deserts, they all have powers, some smarter than others. I was in the east when Sauron was slain. That seemed to be the end of all power, though it rained three years in a row, so that was good. I returned home. Fish found their way on deck and we prospered. But until I see my home again, I will make Rhub tea and wait patiently."

Orlo smiled and went back inside to say auspices.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

The eighth morning started exactly like the first. The gardener brought porridge and clean water but, as before, did not speak a word. Nag Kath wondered if his tongue had been removed.

Orlo claimed his breakfast and again sat on the stoop to eat it, watching the gardener. His hut faced east, presumably taken to avoid the afternoon sun. He did have to squint his eyes in the sunrise. Nag Kath sauntered over and offered him his floppy hat which the man politely declined before saying, "I do hope the clackers are making progress, young Nag Kath."

"I am sorry, Orlo. What is a clacker?"

"They are those who use the counting beads. Wait here." He carefully rose pushing his palm on the rude porch floor and returned holding a small wooden rack. It held eleven wooden balls sliding on each of twelve thin bamboo rods. Another rack strut was above center with several more balls. "You see, here is one." He slid a bead from the top of the rack to the bottom. "Two, three and so forth. When you get to twelve, you move the bead up here and start over."

The Elf said, "We do something like that with marks on a tablet or slate, though it is a count of ten for the change."

Orlo fingered his chin and thought, "I suppose all people must do something." The chin again, "Ten? Five does not divide ... this is much faster. When you push them around they make a clacking sound, like this." He placed them according to his count and showed it to Nag Kath saying, "There, now you can remember." He left it in-front of the confused Elf for quite a while before cautioning, "Clacker is not the preferred title for their earnest labors, should you share wine with one."

Changing the subject, Nag Kath asked, "Is today the end of Gelansor?"

"Yes, at sundown. After three nights, men will now bed their wives. I remember enjoying that. No spirit ever spoke to me, though. Some are more sensitive to their call. Others pretend favor. I have eaten well and have grandchildren who are smarter than their parents. That is enough. Yesterday's tea is drinkable. May I offer you a cup?"

"Thank you Orlo. It seems the Bror does not have many guests if it is just us."

Orlo poured an exact amount of the yellow liquid into Nag Kath's mug and the same for himself. He thought about the Bror's hospitality and said, "This is the best he has. Other places of confinement do not have gardens."

Orlo sipped his tea and muttered, "It seems you are making progress. The Bror usually lets people confined here leave alive."

"Have you been here before?"

"No, but I know some who have. We are not here for our own transgressions."

Nag Kath wondered that his case might be closer to judgment. If they had confirmed nothing useful, they would have come with swords drawn. With the 'Fast' he would be armed when he jumped the wall. It would bode better for defenders of Dorwinion too. Orlo said, "That is encouraging, young Nag Kath. I hope I will not be made an example to cheating Khans around the sea."

In the first Elf Lord face Orlo had seen, Nag Kath said, "I will need to leave shortly regardless of the outcome. I would be glad to release you as well."

"You are young and optimistic, as we should all be at your age. A man of my years can only return to his life. That would be short and uncomfortable without a favored leaving." Less in the tone of village Elder, Orlo said, "Two guards circle the compound taking one hundred and seventy paces each time. When they relieve themselves, it is behind the hut to the right. Remember in leaving, you can not always take the straight path."

Nag Kath was fairly sure that whatever path he took would be in a hurry if it came to that. "Thank you, Orlo. I worry that going without the Bror's leave might expose you to fury they cannot use on me."

"You might punch me in the mouth before you go to show I feebly tried to restrain you. Come and visit me someday when this business is settled. I hope to be back in Mistrand."

"What is the discrepancy between your honored brother-in-law's ledger and His Excellency's?"

"Four Florin and change, far beyond any but a Lord's ability to pay."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Orlo did not appear the next day. The changeling let him sleep. About midday, a soldier entered the compound looking around as if after a long search. Spotting the guest, he approached with a slight bow and said, "You will come with me." The Elf collected his satchel and followed the soldier out the gate.

He was taken to the same dining area before the same Bror who was eating again. The man said, "Sit." Nag Kath did so after bowing. "Much as I hate to admit it, my esteemed brother had been building barges on the river. Someone accidentally cut them from their moorings and they floated to the sea where will be found other uses for them." The Bror looked up and said, "Such things are not wasted in my kingdom.

"Now, we did not find the horses. Prints, yes. Hooves, no. What do you make of that?"

"They are upstream distracting Dale. If it were me, Lord Bror, I would ford the horses further upriver and ride them down to secure the barge landing in stealth. They would have to discourage merchants they found from telling tales."

"I agree. You seem uncannily knowledgeable for one of tender years."

"Not so tender, My Lord."

"Perhaps."

Nag Kath said respectfully, "If I may be so bold, this is a good time to let your friends in Gondor know that any incursion on that soil is not of your making."

"Again, we agree. My fellow Lord Kings, friends in western lands, need not be concerned that the rightful Bror of Rhûn is, as you said, a thorn in the toe."

Nag Kath chose his words carefully, "They may also be encouraged that the rightful Bror is the steel anvil for the hammer of friendship."

"That gives you seven days to share such glad tidings, Nag Kath. Much as I would keep that horse as a gift from your people, you will need him."

"Kingly acts deserve kingly praise, Lord Bror. Forgive my impertinence but I would like to make amends for certain tax irregularities by the Khan of Mistrand."

The Bror stiffened a little and growled, "The weasel is light …" he adjusted his estimate "… three Florin! I would not be Bror long were it known I condone such larceny!"

That was cheaper than Orlo thought, "I should think three Florin a bargain for such gracious hospitality. I will settle the bill with my own funds after your Lordship has dismissed me."

Bror Dulgov was gracious, "It is the custom of our peoples that others may pay the debts of friends and family honorably. Your offer is accepted."

"If I may ask, My Lord, I am curious if your inquiries found any who claim congress with dead dark lords. My superiors would like to discourage that."

"As it happens, Mr. Kath, our fellows did speak with one such. Two officers will conduct you to him, or what is left of him. I will instruct them to share their findings." He nodded to a senior guard. "Please also take these letters to my friends in the west. I have not been as good a correspondent as I will be. Safe travels, young man."

Nag Kath bowed and was walked out to Charlo.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

It took three hard days to reach the barge site but it was only a few hours from his ford on the Celduin. Nag Kath presented his sealed letter from the Bror's scribe to the sentries who passed it unopened to a Lieutenant charged with burning bodies with barge-wood. He looked at it and said, "You are just in time." He pulled his head summoning a large, swarthy warrior armed with a whip and axe. In Rhunish he ordered, "Telugh, this man is authorized to ask questions of the dark prisoner. Fiel may be of use. Take both."

The Visitor was in a tent pitched well away from the headquarters, tied to a post, sitting in his own ordure. The inquisitor Fiel did not fit the usual description of a grim torturer. He seemed an ordinary soldier. Nag Kath looked in the flap first and asked him in Westron, "Has he shared anything useful?"

"Nay, but we asked about troops and timing. He raises the blood of fighters."

"Anything about sorcery?"

"He called it down on us for our blasphemy. Haven't seen any yet."

Nag Kath nodded and went inside alone.

~o~

The Visitor was a man of about thirty. He had been handsome. Lips were stuck together with dried blood so Nag Kath went back out for his canteen and a rag before returning to crouch beside the figure. The man was motionless but alert. Nag Kath wet the cloth to wipe the man's face and then slowly dribbled water in his mouth. Laying the canteen in plain view he began, "You are a Visitor of the Dark One, yes?"

The man looked at him with disgust and spat the precious water on Nag Kath's hand. The Elf had no experience extracting information by force and this fellow was now beyond inducement through pain. The threat of death was welcome. Nag Kath gave him a longer drink, sure that Fiel had teased him with the same or played the kindly gaoler for sympathy. Nag Kath only needed him able to move his tongue.

As with the two advance men in the alley, a pale pulse of energy left the Elf's hand towards the prisoner's face. The Visitor blinked. Nag Kath said softly, "I am sorry for your misfortune. I come from those we honor. Were there many men here?"

The man tried to resist but then swallowed for the first time in a day and rasped, "Horsemen and soldiers. Building, waiting."

"Yes, they do the work that is needed. When did the horsemen leave?"

The man was fighting blood oaths in training to resist unbelievers. Another pulse shook him and his eyes calmed. "Not long ago. I have not seen the sun to tell."

"Good, then they are away from the corrupt Bror. Rightful Bror Frûnzar is safe?"

The man nodded which earned him another drink. Nag Kath said in an other-worldly voice, "Dooshs kum dellor khazûn fuul." It had no effect. He tried again in Westron, "The Dark Lord honors the faithful."

The prisoner made a bare smile. Nag Kath asked him, "How may I praise your men to him?"

That hit a nerve but the spell was too strong, "Summon him," licking his lips, "summon him from the glyph."

"The pig soldiers may have already desecrated it."

"Rock … fifth rock from pit. He calls to us. Defend … claim …"

~o~

Nag Kath stalked out of the tent and said to the sentry, "No one goes in." He made his way over to the saw pit on the bank and relieved himself. Pretending to drop something, he came back up holding a flat stone about three by five inches with crude runes carved on one side. The Elf made a show of checking his trouser buttons and walked back to the hulking guard outside the tent saying, "I have what I need."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Nag Kath ran Charlo hard enough to make the river before dark with enough energy left to swim across. It took another hour in twilight to make Riavod which gave the magnificent horse a chance to catch his breath and dry off. Nag Kath took Charlo to the stable himself, rousting the stable-boy to ensure good care before carrying his bags into the inn. His bag had been searched. The confusion spell on the purse-pouch must have worked. Pausing only for a quick meal and tea, he walked to the provost office and told the sentry to find the Captain. Everyone on duty knew to make double-time as soon as the blonde man showed his face. The sentry unlocked the door to let Nag Kath enter and then left to tell his boss.

That took about twenty minutes so Nag Kath tried wakeful rest. Before discarding the thought, he hoped the Easterlings would give the Visitor a quick end. They are a practical people and would think no more of it than dousing a campfire.

Captain Talfurmir was in full uniform when he sat next to filthy, wet Elf. "Honestly didn't expect to see you again, Nag Kath. Why don't you talk first."

"Spent eight days as the Bror's guest. Wasn't so bad, really. Talked quite a bit with an old fellow from the south who told me about how the Balchoth settled the east and weren't rewarded for their pains. That's who's coming.

"The Bror destroyed the infantry on his land and scattered the barges. Here is where it gets touchy; he did not find his horses. I would not be surprised if they are either upstream waiting to ford or have already done so. Are merchants still arriving from the Dale Road?"

"Got some today. Nobody mentioned seeing two columns of Easterling cavalry."

Nag Kath nodded slowly, "Well, that's something. Any word from the Buhrs?"

"Not yet. If we get an answer, or help, it will come down the same road, and they will look for broken branches. Let me tell you of preparations here: I have the cavalry camped above where you forded. The Rohirrim complained until I reminded them they took the money. Word has been sent to Brilthen, my sister command. They are farmers too but if Easterlings are threatening in force, they know they are next. I don't know Captain Cestlend very well. He's new. The runners were to stay there until he says yes.

"We had a look across the inlet too in case they thought to barge from there. The wind is wrong if they use sails and the current is strong enough to float them in plain sight without oars. That's the Bror's territory. Unless he is acting the innocent, his brother will get no quarter there. Our friends visiting their families on the east bank are always watching."

~o~

Talfurmir worked down his list, "I've got twenty horse reminding the militia that training started yesterday. They don't like leaving their grapes. Those men are forming up now."

Nag Kath nodded and said, "You do your esteemed brother proud. I could not ask for more. In the morning, let us go up the river and look for the pinch if cavalry is coming this way. Of your infantry, how many are archers?"

"Not many. Fifty or sixty, but they're good with longbows. Cestlend should bring more. To the good, if those horses have to swim the river, they won't be armored."

"Then I won't keep you, Captain. Get some sleep and we'll see about slowing them down in the morning. They might not even know their foot soldiers aren't coming." Nag Kath smiled for the first time, "I have some surprises for them either way."

"Kath of the Water, when we have time for ale, I want to hear this story. I hope it is told for a hundred years."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

It rained that morning. This was not the season and it wasn't much of a storm, but everyone in uniform was miserable. Nag Kath wore his last set of clean clothes. Charlo was tired for the first time in his life. Riding back up the merchant road they saw a team of wagons plodding along under the King's peace with Lieutenant Fendülas behind them. The teamsters waved nervously.

This was Tas Surren where the river current swung to their side. Fording horsemen would know that. Talfurmir called to his cavalry chief, "Any riders from the north?"

"Nay, Captain. All quiet."

Talfurmir muttered, "I suppose that is good. Nag Kath, if I had five hundred cavalry without infantry or artillery support, I would cross them eight miles upstream. The river widens as the cliffs give way to mud banks for two miles. Below us, they can't get up the bank."

Fendülas called, "I sent a six-troop up there yesterday with orders to ride like the wind if shaggy horses start swimming west."

Talfurmir pinched his lips on his moustache and said, "Here is where we stop them. Lieutenant, have the men dig and spike trenches to either side of the road. Archers behind those, cross-firing up the road. Cavalry to the rear for the ones that make it through or to drive in if they make a stand." As an afterthought he shouted, "Have the riders dig pot holes while they wait."

The first infantrymen started arriving with spears in one hand and shovels in the other. Men with axes chopped and sharpened branches. Jurgantis was seeing to provisions. They would eat whatever he found. Tents were moved out of view. The weather cleared. Ominously, no more merchants appeared that day and none were allowed north. They grumbled but left and were told to keep their mouths shut. One lucky fellow sold his cargo of salted-pork then and there.

Nothing happened the next day except their woolens finally dried. One of the militias from the west bank of the Rhûn arrived to reinforce the local men. The pork and food brought from town was better than usual soldier's fare. Men waited and wished their love to families. If Easterlings were coming, those loved ones were only twenty miles away. The next morning was clear and fair. It was the day before the enemy infantry assault was scheduled. If Nag Kath was in charge and thought the foot soldiers would leave tomorrow, this is the day he would ford the cavalry.

A lonely wagon rolled up. The teamster and his son enjoyed a leisurely breakfast at dawn thinking to make the rest of the trip well before dinner. The drover looked at the soldiers and said in good humor, "Well change my underclothes if you aren't fearsome fellows!"

Sarn't Guilforn of the Fourth replied, "Hello Travid. What news from the road?"

"Nothing going up." Looking at the troopers, "I expect you know that."

Travid would have been in the militia call-up if he wasn't working. Lieutenant Fendülas said, "This is real, Travid. Easterling cavalry might be headed this way. If you and Benvier have your bows, settle your animals and fall-in." The man looked at his son, nodded and pulled his rig downstream with the other wagons. They were back shortly with their weapons. No other wagons came but Cestland's Dorwinions arrived hot and stinking. His archers better than doubled the men defending the trenches.

~o~

An hour before dusk, Corporal Warno and his five men sped into camp. Fendülas walked out and heard, "They're coming. It was hard to count but I'd say closer to four hundred rather than five. Viggas got a better look."

Trooper Viggas said, "Half spears, half swords. Not many bows. They'll have to replace the strings in the dark. I stayed long enough to watch the first of them climb the bank. They were spread the whole length and I think a few went too far and are trapped in the canyon walls. I put them an hour away."

Talfurmir shouted, "We're in it now, lads. We've got angry Lings coming down the road. Everyone knows what to do. Hold your positions because we can't reform. Fight for your families."

Nag Kath said, "I will be watching." With that, he took his art tube up the hill. Sooner than Viggas thought, hooves thundered their way.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

In the encroaching darkness, a red comet shot drunkenly across the sky. The men of Dorwinion were startled but were told to expect the unexpected. Further north, horses and riders were unnerved. The comet is the ultimate disaster in Rhûn and here was one racing over their heads at what should be their moment of glory. Some men broke ranks and dismounted to offer contrition for man's faults. Officers screamed at them to ride or die. They got back in the saddle but the formation was now in shambles. As they approached, torches were lit by brave Dorwinens waiting alongside the road. Another comet of pure silver helped light them as Cestland's archers began pouring arrows into their flanks.

Ling officers in front sounded the charge to get past the barrage only to trip in the spiked ditches. Their next line followed them into the pits or pulled up as easy targets for the second and fire-at-will volleys. Allied cavalry closed in from beside the road to take those breaking through.

The enemy's second wave had to slow when the first stalled at the trenches and then looked back in horror as one hundred and twenty cavalry closed the trap from the north. The northern allied van engaged the last ranks of the Easterling cavalry until the Ling commander sounded the horn to press south hoping that reinforcing his forward column would let them punch through. They got the same treatment in the pot holes and ditches as arrows rained in from both sides.

Perhaps a dozen stragglers broke through the rear cavalry pincer and rode for their lives. Others crawled into the hills to be captured or die later. By torchlight, the Easterlings had one hundred forty dead or dying, ninety who might live and the rest captured or soon to be.

Nag Kath was sorry for the horses killed or that needed to be put down in the spike pits. Something like a hundred of them would be dinner for the next few nights. The rest charged off in all directions or milled about, neighing for solace.

~o~

As the Dorwinions secured their prisoners, Reyald, Edelbras, Thain Durnaldar and another officer rode up from behind the lines. The Thain called, "Permission to enter Gondor, sir."

Talfurmir smiled broadly and said, "Permission granted, Lords of Dale. Glad you could come."

Nag Kath walked up with his bow and bowed to the nobles. Reyald grinned and said, "There was no missing those rockets."

Nag Kath said, "Captain Talfurmir, may I introduce my son-in-law Reyald Conath, Lieutenant Freers of Fanüel and Mr. Edelbras, a gentleman of Dale."

The Captain said, "It is my pleasure, sirs. Truly."

Horses and men were screaming in pain so this was no time for chat. Talfurmir shouted, "Spears on the prisoners in circles. Hands and feet bound. Keep 'em quiet until we can see what we're doing."

Nag Kath walked over to a bleeding officer who hoped his uniform would not stand-out at night and said, "You, what's your name?"

"Captain Turradin Pen-Sollaag."

"Stand up, Captain." He did on a game leg.

The Elf said softly, "Which one's Frünzar?"

The officer nodded his head slightly to his left. The Elf looked over and saw a well-fitted knight breathing his last with a goose-quill arrow through his lung. He walked to the man and knelt beside him. "Anything you want said in your memory?"

The man smiled and shook his head. It was the last thing he ever did. Nag Kath stood and said to the other prisoners, "He will be returned to your lands with respect." Then to Captain Pen-Sollaag; "Tell your men hiding in the bushes that they should come out now and accept such mercy as their cooperation earns them. If we have to go get them tomorrow, we'll drag them back."

The Captain limped to the hill side of the road and shouted several sentences in their tongue. He nodded to Nag Kath and mustered some dignity, "There will be those who are wounded and cannot come. I hope you will show honor." The Elf said nothing.

~o~

The night took forever. Men and horses cried and suffered. At first light, one crew was assigned the unenviable job of dispatching horses beyond hope. They did the same for men, including some of their own. Most of the Easterlings in the hills came at their Captain's urging but a few held out for as long as it took. Dorwinion had fourteen dead and twice that many with serious wounds. One of Edelbras' men was killed and one of the Reyald's riders got a spear through the leg-bone and would be here two months at the minimum. Sarnt Tellig's arm was in a sling. Nag Kath spent the morning applying flesh-knitting and pain spells for wounded on both sides. By noon, everyone was where they were supposed to be.

Captain Sollaag was subordinate to Colonel Fôrsh who was in the back prisoner coffle. It was his job to ask for mercy and terms. That was awkward. The Bror would be in no hurry to get them back. The officers might wish they had died here. Some fell on their swords, including three dressed in black.

Captain Talfurmir had the King's authority to settle border skirmishes. This was bigger than that but who was going to complain? Nag Kath presented Edelbras and Talfurmir sealed letters from the Bror to their Lords explaining that he had settled with the infantry on his soil and begging pardon for any trouble rogue elements of his people had caused. It came with offers of reparation. Those who could walk or ride did so and the rest were loaded into wagons for the bumpy ride to Riavod.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Four days after the fight the Daleans and Nag Kath rode north. This was Gondor and they had things in hand. Weeks later, a letter from the Captain, whose career was ascendant as the hero of Riavod, said that prisoners were sent home across the inlet. The Bror would take three of them back for every horse returned. The rest of the shaggy beasts belonged to the victors or were sold to compensate the families of local casualties.

Before they left, Nag Kath gave the Captain a letter for the King of Gondor to include with his own dispatches. Sent quickly, it could probably be handed to Aragorn at the gap when he returned from Annúminas. Nag Kath's letter was written in Sindarin and included meaningless marks on a separate sheet.

Dearest High King Elessar Telcontar,

I hope this letter finds you well. It should come with dispatches from the excellent Captain Talfurmir who showed great leadership in our victory. I apologize for acting in your name. It was needed. I will leave accounts of the fighting to Talfurmir and only add that which I learned privately.

The men of Dale came to our aid and also performed superbly. They did not have to do that. Some of it was because I asked but the friendship between the two lands is strong. Expect a change in kingship there shortly.

Bror Dulgov is a reasonable sort. Now that his brother sleeps with his ancestors, the man may be open to diplomacy. He speaks decent Westron and you can make what you will of his letter to you.

Then there is the enclosed sheet. The rogue Easterlings were aligned with a cult or sect revering Sauron. I do not know how deep or widespread that fans into their society. They believe it and the Bror is actively discouraging the practice. The paper has a tracing from a stone thought by a low-ranking 'Visitor' to hold power. It is not Black Speech and the man spoke none. I send it your way in the event scholars can make sense of it. The rock itself is now gravel in the Rhûn.

I will keep my ears to the ground for similar tidings. That may take me south and east before we meet again.

With kindest regards, NK

~o~

King Aragorn was intercepted at the Gap of Rohan and read the correspondence from everyone else first. When he opened one end of Nag Kath's packet, an ounce of green/gray powder poured on his boot. Three matches were sealed in wax on the outside.

The messenger was told to burn it before being captured.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Non-combatants from the Dale train had been left two hours behind and they made their way into town the day after the battle to enjoy dinner and tastes of the exotic wine capital with the soldiers and townsmen. Even the logs and barges arrived at the river mouth over the next few days as gifts for plucky men willing to retrieve them. Unfortunately, horses and men floated down later.

The Dalean captains were in good humor on the way home. Soldiers always mourn for those lost or wounded but this had been a success on every level. The enemy had been crushed. An accommodating Bror had shown reason while removing the thorn from his toe. The informal alliance between Dale and The Reunited Kingdom came through in shining colors, probably to be strengthened as a result. Nag Kath did not know it yet but this was the first time he had used his gifts for leadership. He had been a warrior before, but only at need. The changeling deflected praise to his comrades but they all saw command in him, even if he didn't.

Edelbras said while riding, "It shows that cavalry is more than mounted men. They broke formation twice."

Durnaldar responded, "Aye, horse and man to know the measure of each other, like pick drills at speed. Lieutenant Freers, what think you to do with your shaggy mounts?"

Freers led thirty troopers from the Thainhold of Fändul, Queen Delatha's home. Durnaldar and Thain Conath thought the lands between theirs should be represented. Thain Fanüel risked thirty casualties to present a united Buhric force and chose well.

They were discussing fifty claimed horses in the rear of their train. The beasts were not natural cavalry mounts but they could draw wagons and happily ate any weed offered.

Freers said, "Plowing and pulling. They do not seem much bothered with the change of masters."

Reyald cried, "They did not care for those fireworks!" Edelbras just grinned, something he seldom did. Their own horses were spooked but in the hands of more experienced riders.

Nag Kath said, "When I had my last confrontation with Easterlings from their hard school, I was told they fear comets as harbingers of evil. I could not use it then but with notice, I thought to celebrate Syndolan early this year."

Durnaldar laughed, "Well timed. When did you learn to make them fly so close to their heads?"

Nag Kath finally grinned, "I didn't. Those were Gandalf's powders. Lord Aragorn liberated them from Orthanc a few months ago and I asked for a few. The wizard could make tiny packets inside the end that would burst at different times in different colors. I was relieved they rose high enough not to scald our own lads."

Edelbras said more seriously, "Twas your arrow put paid to the Usurper, like the Ling on the Dwarf Road, eh?"

"Fraid so. Taking him alive would have made things complicated with his brother. They really should teach these eastern potentates not to wear the only clean uniform."

~o~

Reyald wore a small smile thinking of his strange father-in-law. In battle he was the most dangerous man alive with a combination of speed, intelligence and audacity. Then he could switch to discussing toy fireworks with the same degree of concentration. He prioritized, but whatever he did got his full attention. Reyald was also thinking of Thain Durnaldar's where were certain to be found celebrations. If he could keep Durnaldar's amorous daughter off the Elf, he would invite her to visit Buhr Austar to meet the rest of the family. There would be nothing like a young woman to liven his beloved brother's outlook, though the man seemed content.

Nauthauja was indeed ready. Durnaldar sent a fast rider north before making camp the night before. One of his troopers would have to stay in Riavod with the other wounded until his broken leg mended but the rest were heroes returned from combat! Folk from across the Celduin were invited. It was now more likely than ever that they would be proper Daleans after the next Thainmoot.

Tilli was cordial to Nag Kath but at learning he had been married to Reyald's wife's mother (Ardatha being almost as old as her own doddering father!), the young beauty decided she would wait for a dashing Prince, thank you very much. That did not bode well for Torrold's chances but he knew nothing of the plot. Everyone else in the Buhr was more than cordial. There wasn't a bag of jerky left in the larder when the soldiers of Dale, Fanüel and Austar waved goodbye. No matter. This was the stuff of songs sung wherever men of good will were met for a hundred years.

Thain Fändul put out the feedbag too. His thirty riders were his best, but only as many as asked for by his brother Thains. Now well into his fifties, he had only daughters, one of whose sons returned with laurels this day. Old tensions among the eastern Buhrs were long past, which was why marriages among them dwindled as modern girls dreamed of more exciting lands.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Buhr Austar had also been notified their returning warriors would arrive the following day. Leaving at dawn put them into town just after lunch where folk threw flowers and brought sweet cakes to their riders. If any men had been waiting to propose to their sweetheart, this was the time. Troopers with family and Edelbras' men stayed in town and the rest rode to the Thain's holdings just northwest. They would have a smaller celebration there tonight and come back to town tomorrow for the speeches. After eating their way up the Redwater, most men just wanted to sleep in a real bed.

Ardatha gave Nag Kath a smile that said they would catch-up after she and Reyald celebrated alone. Her two younger children were entertained by the gleeful Thain. Torrold sat next to Nag Kath on the porch steps and put his mug on the planks. He commanded the local men watching their own lands. They both looked across to the stable barracks and listened to the men choose between celebrating and sleeping.

Nag Kath said without altering his gaze, "You are in trouble now, my friend. Your brother thinks to bring Tilli of Durnaldar up here for courtship."

Torrold did not move his head either, "He and Ardatha have been at that for years. Between us, and a dozen people who also know, I've had a friend in town for some time. She is mother to two girls of passing fathers and considered beneath my parents' standards. After da is gone …" He looked at Nag Kath for this, "… and I hope he lives as long as he wants, I will take her to wife." He grinned as broadly as Nag Kath might ever imagine saying, "So Tilli will have to find someone her own age to flutter those famous eyelashes at!"

"Good for you, Torrold. Are the daughters included?"

"Oh yes. I would have no one suffer for this. Their husbands are townsmen and militia both, but not considered successors here."

There was a stillness that begged the question; who would follow? Reyald, if he lived longer, and then Reyald's boy Shurran. Nag Kath was first to speak, "There is plenty of room in Dale or even Minas Tirith for the sister to the King of the Northmen. They don't need money. I was thinking of ambassador now that Rosscranith is put to pasture."

Torrold said, "I have thought that too. It is strange the way ages play in this pageant. I am now fifty, still fit and strong. I wouldn't have to last as long as my da to make someone wait here with little to do." He looked Nag Kath in the eyes, "And if traveling Elves steal all the thunder from our brave troopers, there is not much future in that either."

"I suppose so. None of this was planned. I have a knack for finding the oddest things and living to tell the tale."

Torrold grinned again, "Did you really send Syndolan rockets over their heads?"

"Weak efforts by Gandalf's standards. I still have enough powder for a couple parties."

Torrold put his hand on the Elf's knee and said, "I'll join the men for one last mug and call it a night. Thank you for your kindness, and for looking after my little brother. He is dear to me."

The tall Northman walked towards the light of the stable.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Ardatha was in a good mood the next morning. The Elf was sensitive to women who enjoyed their evenings, something about being a water spirit, he supposed. She joined third-da Nag who spent the night in a comfortable chair on the porch. "Breakfast is almost ready, Nag."

Lost in thought, he looked up at his step-daughter and smiled. "Sorry, I was wondering about events to the south. It is strange how it all went."

"I shouldn't think so. Good soldiers did what good soldiers do."

"I spent a week as a guest of the Bror. Never tell your father but he looked a lot like Conath when we first met, big, bluff fellow, broad as a beer cask."

Ardatha said tartly, "He does not enjoy such esteem on this side of the river."

"The world is changing, daughter, for the better, but with change comes upset. There are people there, and probably in our lands too, who long for the return of darkness. Common threats unite us. Adherents find themselves in worse straits than when sorcery reigned. There are probably hill brats who will join from boredom. I hope they fail. But I am the only one left who can stop them, so either their powers must not grow or mine must. That does not sit well with me, beloved daughter. I was of the darkness. I cannot go back"

She whispered, "I think of mother often. She could never have loved you if you were a dark lord. I am sorry for your last marriage, and for the baby."

"I must say goodbye to all I love at some time. Perhaps that is why real Elves are not often close to men. Unless killed by battle or injury, they manage because their society lives on. I hope it takes me a long time not to care about my mortal friends. I like caring." He grinned, "And I like women. That is not very Elvish of me."

~o~

Ardatha put a piece of long-grass in her teeth and looked at the paddock. "Speaking of women, Reyald told me he invited Durnaldar and his folk up for, what did he call it, a strategic conference."

Nag Kath nodded, "He said he would."

She teased, "I will put an end to that in due course." Nag Kath looked at her quizzically. "Torrold is spoken for. The woman is like mother. We are hard on mothers who cannot resist men's needs." Ardatha looked in the Elf's eyes and said, "Of course I know, silly. I am a daughter of Lake Town. We don't raise fools. Now, if someone else would just tell Reyald. I think even dear Conath knows."

"Invite her to dinner tomorrow."

Ardatha pretended to be shocked by raising her hand to her mouth. "Leave it to you! First you ride into the Ling capital with nothing but your cod. And now you put Austar in confusion!"

She bit her lip and said, "I will have Reyald invite her and her daughters' families. It is time he did something useful for a change."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

The feast went well. A number of soldiers and more than a few townsmen found that two or more nights of celebrating made them ill. Nag Kath did not offer to cure their distress. After most people had arrived, Reyald Conath, in his dress uniform, led an anxious woman through the front door by the hand. She and Ardatha were the same age, height and shape after children so one of the Princess' dresses was pressed into service.

Reyald led the woman to the old Thain who was holding court near the beer table. The fearless Captain had to clear his throat twice but then said in a lordly voice, "Father, may I introduce Gerda Santaviig." The woman bowed and smiled.

Conath looked away from his cronies and asked forcefully, "You not old Corporal Santaviig's girl are you? Good man." He remembered nothing of his and Haditha's distain after her first unwelcome child.

"I am indeed, Thain Conath."

"Well, I have family scattered about the room. Go say hello."

She blinked a couple times as the old man returned to his story. Then she smiled and went looking for another family member. She found him.

Ardatha and Reyald approached the couple after a few minutes. She kissed them both. Reyald took a small silver box out of his pocket and said, "Nag Kath gave us these when we married. We never got around to setting them. It seems they need better owners." They were the two diamonds.

The younger son was not so sure about his royal wife's request to give the stones away like a Hobbit's mathom, gifts given again and again. She knew the Elf wouldn't care so when he walked by she said, "Nag Kath, this is Gerda."

He expected this was the mystery woman and he bowed graciously. Ardatha, ever the Lake-girl said, "We gave them your diamonds. Hope you don't mind."

Nag Kath said, "I'd forgotten about those." To Torrold and Gerda, "I hope they bring you good fortune."

As other guests, primarily women, joined their circle, Ardatha felt the need to keep the conversation flowing so she asked, "Wherever did you get those Nag?"

"From the troll-hoard in the Iron Hills. There were several dozen and I picked the two that matched the closest. Eniece got the ruby you have now."

No one, not even his forward step-daughter, was ready for that. She and the Conath brothers had even better Nag Kath stories but everyone else thought he was being silly. Wasn't this pretty fellow an artist or something?

The Elf himself failed to notice the collective inhale and walked over to Edelbras. His men would be leaving tomorrow. Nag Kath would stay here a while longer so he asked him to take a pair of letters to Dale for him. Edelbras knew the royals might need him soon and would not be any later than necessary, even as other sang his praises. He was a King's man.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

As things settled in Austar, Nag Kath got to spend time with Ardatha's younger children; Shurran and Eniecia. They were rapt with Uncle Nag's stories, especially now that there were fresh ones to support the old yarns. Before they knew it, it was harvest. The barley came in late this year, slightly better than to the south but only just worth reaping. Nag Kath participated in militia training and taught archery to the youngsters. They were a dangerous lot when their attention strayed so he used arrows with cloth wrapped around the tips. This was Shurran's first year with the adults and he was a fair shot with the bow.

Gerda lived in town and now Torrold was openly seen with her. Conath never did recall her scandals among the growing list of things he forgot. When his elder son asked his permission to marry, he said, "Splendid. Nice girl."

That was it. He could have done it years ago.

By September it was time for Nag Kath to go. The family wished they could keep him for luck but understood. His bags packed for tomorrow, Ardatha joined him in his 'office', the two chairs on the front porch after dinner. They were quiet for the longest time. Finally she said, "We will probably join you in the spring. Torrold will stay. Reyald agreed that it is time for a change. You said change is for the better. I hope so.

"If the King, young or old, thinks we would be good representatives for Dale, I would like to see the White City. We'll go as citizens if not. It is a safe journey nowadays. I have a cousin in Edoras to visit. We'll take Shurran and Eniecia."

He said, "I think that is wise. You should spend some time with your grandmother. She is stronger than the Thain but cannot last forever. I may travel with you. It is time for me to visit Lorien. The fairest of Elven places is just off the road and yet ten thousand leagues away. I have been putting that off, telling myself I wasn't ready. The Elf-keepers will be there now and they know me."

She kissed him goodnight knowing he would be gone with the sunrise.

This was familiar road. Nag Kath stopped both at the Iron Hills and Buhr Wenjan turning the corner. There had been no orc trouble. There was no sign of them on the long stretch between mountain ranges. There wasn't much sign of anyone else either except Dwarf trains taking their goods to Erebor or over the Misty Mountains into Arnor.

~o~

Nag Kath did not stop at Erebor this time, thinking that he might be this way again soon depending on how the orc bribe went. No news was good news and he hadn't heard a word from the capital. With the King's precarious health, they had other worries.

Charlo's stable was paid up by the year so he handed the reins to the stable hand and carried his bags up the switchback. The door was unlocked. Nearing dinner, Tella was humming something out of key and making her own meal. Nag Kath shut the door loud enough so she would not be surprised when he was standing behind her. Stealth was not always a virtue.

"Oh, Mr. Kath. It is good to see you. I can just add a few greens."

"Thank you, Tella. How are you?"

"Fit as a fiddle, Mr. Kath." Without taking her eyes from her delicate art she said, "You's a hero and all! Lads coming back from your troop got ribbons from the Prince hisself."

"They fought bravely. What news of home?"

She had reached a point where things could cook untended so she turned and wiped her hands on the apron. "Well, Brenen's got another grandchild on the way. Sarn't Burry had a bad cough but he's better now. My friend Yosie got married, again. And the builders had to fix a leak in the guest room."

"How about in the city?"

Tella became more serious, "Talk is; the King is poorly, but you knew that. Prince Bain has been out and about. I suppose that's coming. Crops were poor to fair but the vegetables were fine. I laid in a stock of wheat even if the price was sky high. Oh, and two wagons of dead fish were taken to Erebor, thought what Dwarves will do with stinking fish is beyond me sir."

"They might have already been dried."

"Maybe. It rained that week."

"And what have you done with yourself, Tella. I know you like pageants in the park."

"Saw two of those with Yosie and her beau. Sarn't Burry's son came too. He is a nice fellow. They couldn't find your arrow the first time so I had to go back. It's on the mantle."

He walked over to make a show of admiring the warped target shaft. It reminded him to order more after nearly emptying his quiver at the Celduin.

"Thank you Tella. Now, what's for dinner?"

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Nag Kath made the rounds. One of his first trips was to see Edelbras. The man didn't have an official office but someone in the palace could find him so he left a note at the gate and expected to hear back shortly.

Brenen was just fine but had not started his regimen of horse riding, a little trouble with his back, he said. Bard and Ros were the same as always. She asked after Tella, probably not knowing of the woman's romantic needs. There were no calls of yearning in the Elf's wakeful rest last night so hopefully that was going well too.

So soon after militia training, most people would have to get in line for arrows from Fridar (the younger) but he got them within a week. People whispered. Mortals do not know that when you whisper about Elves, they can hear you. It was like the first Easterling battle; awe and relief.

That afternoon there was a return note from Edelbras, or possibly Rosscranith. It looked like the Colonel's hand and he had never actually seen Edelbras' script. It asked him to present himself at eleven tomorrow.

~o~

Eleven was the hour of the King. Going back in memory, his scheduled appearances with the King, Queen or both were almost all right there. That called for good clothes and a clear head.

The guards opened the gate before he got close, nodding as he thanked them. The doorman did the same. An attendant walked him to the same pretty little room he had originally drawn Lord and Lady Carstors, the ill-placed armor long gone.

Rosscranith and Edelbras were sitting together over tea with a pair of functionaries he did not recognize. All four rose to shake hands and he was introduced to the two others before they left. Sitting at their end of the table he said, "Good to be back."

Rosscranith cleared his throat, "Glad to have you back. Good work to the east." A servant brought him tea and vanished. "We netted some surprising fish on that cast."

Nag Kath could tell from the steam that the tea need a few minutes so he asked, "And in the north?" He grinned, "My cook said they got two wagons of stinking fish with their grain."

Rosscranith chuckled. "They were dry, but mostly haakun whisker-fish. Not one of my favorites."

Edelbras said, "They took it. They sent a troop to the border and one ugly rascal who spoke a bit of the common-tongue approached with a white flag. The Dwarves were on him like stoats around a rat as he croaked, "The Lugnash accepts your offer." That was all he said so they let him go. We piled the food at the border and that was that."

Rosscranith looked at his successor and back to Nag Kath. "It is time to reacquaint you with the royals." The two men of Dale rose and walked to the receiving area with the Elf two steps behind. Guards at the doors offered no interference. They went to the windowed study where he had usually met the King and Queen and found her with her son having more tea.

The three men bowed to both and the Prince rose to shake hands. Nag Kath had not seen him for two or three years before he left so that would be at least twelve years ago. The young man was now 28 and favored his mother, making him pretty rather than handsome. The Elf could appreciate the difference. He was clean-shaven. Her Highness was serene. Cares showed on her face but it was the sort of face that could handle them gracefully. She must be sixty now.

The Prince said in voice like his father's, "Gentlemen, please be seated. Mr. Kath. The kingdom is again in your debt. I am sorry my father cannot be here to thank you himself." That was probably hard to say. The King was a strong family man and saw to more of his children's upbringing than most merchants.

Queen Delatha added, "And thank your friends for including my brother's men in defending our allies. It was good for the eastern Thainholds to act in concert."

"You are welcome, My Lady. I had the pleasure of meeting your brother and his family on the way home. Your nephew showed great bravery."

Bain said, "The King is indisposed at the moment. I have been entrusted with handling more of the day-to-day matters. Mr. Kath, we are particularly interested in your exchanges with the new Bror Dulgov."

The Prince spoke for the realm. Nag Kath would give him what he wanted, "My Lord, I put the man at about fifty and very much in the Northman style of their peoples rather than the smaller, slimmer folk towards Khand. He speaks the common tongue rather well, though I do not know if his letter to your Lord Father was written or dictated."

Bain listened patiently, a habit learned from both his parents. "And you killed the Prince yourself?"

"I did, My Lord. I wanted his men to surrender quickly and for the Bror to take back the prisoners leaderless, else he might not take them at all." The Prince nodded so Nag Kath continued, "Of particular interest to me was that the pretender was in league with elements of their older Balchoth warriors who are committed to raising dark powers, restoring the days of their dominion. Some are fervent. Some are just there for the food.

"Now, I cannot prove a word of this, but I have heard of similar notions among Southrons. The Bror will use this to persecute survivors. Some will bury their beliefs from sight. Others will seek congress with those of like views among free-peoples. Regardless, I see an opportunity for both your esteemed father and for the Lords of Gondor to improve relations with the now supreme Bror of Rhûn."

Rosscranith and Edelbras stayed quiet. The prince held his chin in his fingers and said, "I will consider what you have said, Mr. Kath. I hope we can speak again soon. It might be better if …"

The Steward entered through a private door. That could only happen in rare conditions. Bain rose to speak quietly with the man, nodded a few times and returned to the seated group. "Lord Kath, my father would like a word."

The Elf rose quickly, bowed to her Highness and followed the Prince wordlessly down a corridor and through another door the guard opened upon seeing them.

~o~

Bard lay on his back in bed. His face was colorless. The unquestioned ruler of Dale for thirty three years motioned with his hand for the Elf to come close. Prince Bain watched by the door. Nag Kath approached and bowed. Bard said, in much less than his usual volume, "I have never really thanked, thanked, you for all … you have done." He coughed like he might never stop but then recovered and continued. "You, you might think you are of no people, but you are … are of all peoples. Care for them, my friend. Care for them." The monarch smiled slightly and nodded. The audience was complete. Nag Kath bowed again, stepped back and turned as he had been taught before accompanying the Prince to the reception room. The Queen looked at her son carefully but his face showed her it was not time yet.

Bain said, "Thank you, gentlemen. The seated men rose and all three bowed before returning to the main corridor.

~o~

Nag Kath asked a favor, "Colonel, Mr. Edelbras, I know this is a terrible time for routine staffing matters but my son-in-law Reyald Conath is considering greener pastures." Nag Kath knew he and Edelbras got on well and both had seen the mettle of the other. "When the ambassadorship to the court of Gondor expires, I humbly put his name forward as the next envoy."

Rosscranith was not a man to let the King's condition affect his judgment. "So noted. The next term ends in a year. A hero of the only fight worth having lately, married to a King's aunt helps the case. I can't make any promises but he will be near the top of the list."

"Captain Reyald plans to come to here with his family next spring for the Thainmoot and stay through the season. That would give you a chance to talk with him at length."

"Done. Let us know what else you need." The big man turned to go but stopped and said, "There may be new faces here soon. If we aren't available, ask for Lümell at the gate." The new King might want men of his own.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~