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

26. Chapter 26 Earned Family

Chapter 26

Earned Family

~o~

Making the pass of Cirith Ungol in late afternoon was like the sun rising in the west, less than a mile to the headwaters of the Nuessan. He was back. Nag Kath couldn't say home. He had at least two of those with friends he cherished.

About even with the waterfall to Gimli's cascade, he dismounted and let the animals graze on the first green grass they had seen in months. As he often did, Nag Kath sat on a mound and wrapped his arms around his knees. He was tired, no, a better word was weary. For the last eight years he had been deep in darkness, starting with the witchcraft in Dol Amroth. Then he lost Flor and the baby. He wondered if those were connected. Solace in Dale was short lived with the war on the river. The last three years were of his choosing but he felt he had been called. Nag Kath allowed himself a smile. 'Called' was too noble. He had been invited by the little man in the garden that never was and he accepted.

Those years followed even more of hard service building the aqueduct he could see stretch from his feet to the river. It was all worth it. But now it was time to start loving again. He would paint and listen to music. He would listen to stories shared with friends. And if Tal and Ardatha conspired to introduce lovely females, and they certainly would, he would be kind and caring.

His re-emersion into Gondor would have to be slower than usual. Nag Kath's head was filled with political, military and economic information that must be first shared with King Elessar and Reyald as the representative of the King of Dale. It was excellent news, but everyone else had to wait.

~o~

First he had to get there. It was getting dark when he reached the compound at the base of the cascade. By an odd chance, Kemandroth was there with two of the linemen. He stayed on as the chief of the inspection crew for the run between here and the Nuessan. Pieces occasionally fell off but they knew how to fix them quickly now. Better yet, Osgiliath still had fevers but none were from drinking swamp water. The water-men had trout with bread and ale made from real wheat! When the changeling left in the morning, Kemandroth was sure he didn't need a donkey.

They set a slow pace to Osgiliath. Even unloaded, Rosas was not built for speed. Nag Kath did not stop to see anyone. There would be plenty of time for that soon enough. Mostly he wanted to sleep in a real bed. Converting the orc to a man was a long, powerful spell, not particularly well done, that left the creature writhing in pain for hours. Nag Kath was bone tired. Gandalf probably had no more than tingling in his hands after purging him of the Uruk-hai. He would still trade his eleven months of torment for what Ghougash endured any day.

~o~

"Oh my goodness, hello Mr. Kath! Come in, come in! Gracious, can I get you a nice mug of tea?"

"Cool, thank you Turnlie. I hope you are well."

"Right as rain, sir. I'm glad I was here. Been looking after ma. She's been poorly of late." Turnlie lived-in when someone was here but she could stay where she wanted otherwise.

Nag Kath flopped in his favorite chair and took off his hat. Turnlie gasped. He had forgotten his first inch and a half of hair would be blonde by now and the rest coal black and braided into a little strands. Delemantesh's wife used a permanent dye for his Dunedain/Easterling charade. It stung the first day but it would not wash out in the rain. That was better than cutting off the tips of his ears and hoping they grew back.

"Oh, sorry Turnlie. I was in disguise."

"Gave me a turn, it did." She brought his tea and took a closer look at his clothes. "I'll just have Remund fetch water for a nice bath."

"That bad?"

"It is not my place to say, sir."

~o~

Clean in fresh clothes, Nag Kath wrote a note to Reyald hoping to describe his vacation with him and the King at their first convenience. Turnlie had the neighborhood handyman Remund take it to the sixth gate while her master fell face-first into his pillow.

Nag Kath had breakfast of real eggs for the first time in two years. Then he wandered down to the stables to check on Charlo and Rosas. Nepthand had them both in the main paddock since his annual lease had lapsed. As soon as a stall opened, he was first in line. And no, the stableman did not know anyone who needed the donkey. Next stop was the barber. Mr. Milldrake smiled and said, "I am guessing you want this a bit closer than usual, Nag Kath."

"Aye, Mill, take it back to the yellow." It would be shorter than when he got out of gaol, but still easier to explain than black on blonde.

The sixth gate guards let him through on sight. Loral opened the door and said, "Oh my, Mr. Kath. Her Ladyship will be so pleased. She took his hat with a minimum of staring and led him into the main room. As the maid went to tell Ardatha, Eniecia skipped out. He picked her up like a child and kissed her forehead. Now seventeen, the young woman was past such things but this was Uncle Nag, even if clipped like a spring goat.

The girl was the very image of her great grandmother Mrs. Borenne on the lake. Only a couple inches shorter than Eniece, she somehow escaped all of the burly Northmen in her blood. Some lucky boy would appreciate that one fine day. Ardatha was out a minute later and gave him a bear hug. She ran her fingers through his hair with a sideways smile. Then she turned to Loral and said, "Ambassador Conath is expecting us. I am not sure how long we'll be."

Their home was above the embassy so they only had to go down a long staircase to a discrete private door. Reyald's secretary came over and said her husband was in with the representative of Dorwinion. Polgash was a sweet fellow and important to Dale, but never brief. Her Ladyship smiled and said they would be fine in the sitting room. Ardatha explained they loved it here. She had not been a doyen in Dale on her brief visits but was making up for lost time. A genuine Princess, married to the heroic Ambassador, they cut fine figures in the capital of free peoples. She met Tal once a week to solve the problems men created. Shurran was learning architecture like his Uncle Nag. Vincenz of the aqueduct took private students and the lad had the best references. He also proved capable and was well along in his studies. Eniecia loved to read, and dance. She had lots of friends. They attended music and cultural events with appropriate chaperones. The acclaimed Catanard heroine Fullena Robertal had visited their class only last month! Nag Kath got the impression the girls' parents were not grooming child-brides for the market.

Reyald showed Polgash out of his office and the man stopped to say hello to her Ladyship. Reyald stayed by the door jamb. Waiting until the Dorwinrim collected his hat and stick, the Ambassador shook Nag Kath's hand in the Northman style and kissed his wife on the cheek. "Welcome back, old friend. We are expected upstairs." With that they made for the seventh gate. "I don't know if you heard; Prince Imrahil died in the spring. We did not attend the memorial but many from Minas Tirith and Ithilien went. That is the second ring hero gone in three years."

Nag Kath gave that a moment, "He was a noble man. I did not meet Elphir on my trip but the Prince said all three of his sons were lordly."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

King Aragorn was in his study and stood to accept their bows before shaking Nag Kath's hand himself. When they were seated and cool tea served he said, "I can only imagine the tales you have to tell, Nag Kath."

"Where do I begin, My Lord? The massing of troops from Khand and Rhûn was a contrivance of mine to infiltrate a warlord's realm in Mordor. He bore a ring of power."

Aragorn leaned back in his chair and grinned with his famous chin rub. "So; nothing to do with us?"

"I found an order of those like the little man I spoke of and we created a false embassy in Bror Dulgov's name to Yigresh as a cover. When we told Dulgov, he agreed to go along with the scheme and meet in state with the Khagan to make it look like they were coming for the ring. As far as Khand knew, they were discussing trade route and borders. They probably did. From there we conspired with the other Nûrnen warlords to destroy the Visitors and divide their lands."

Aragorn looked at the Conaths and everyone just smiled shaking their heads. Nag Kath spent nearly an hour explaining the set-up and trap. Overall, things went well. The Visitors were eliminated for a generation, moderate Hurms now controlled the Nûrnen, Easterlings were behaving themselves and had frightened the Assured into panic by camping on the border drinking tea.

Aragorn leaned over the low table and asked gravely, "What of the ring?"

The grin he got was on the upper scale of all Nag Kath grins. "You will enjoy this …"

"A Dwarf ring?!"

"Aye. I threw it in a lava pit beside Orodruin on the way back. Right now, only we four know. I saw the markings inside the band. If one of your scholars could quietly show me the Angerthas runes of likely bearers, I might recognize them."

They talked at least another half bell. Reyald and Ardatha floated a few questions knowing they would get the long version shortly. Aragorn asked if Nag Kath could come back to speak with his advisors since this crossed into aspects of trade and security across his realm. Finally the King wondered, "We have only scratched the surface of matters at hand. What is your greater sense of all this, my friend?"

The Elf did his own chin pinching as the King tried to imagine him with black, braided hair. Finally he said, "Humility, My Lord, humility after my own presumption. Most people here think only orcs lived in Mordor. By my count, men are fifteen thousand strong just around the lake, former slaves now free and trying to find their way. They are forming nations and said I am welcome back. Dulgov is ready for diplomatic relations now. If he makes friends with Yigresh; maybe him too.

"The world has changed, Sire. We think of Khand as a vast desert but with thirty five years of rain after the drought of Sauron, most of what I saw looks like Rohan. They grow their own food and horses and sheep. Merchant trains are everywhere. There are towns. It is not what I thought at all. They are joining the world of men. Sire, Mr. Tallazh said you had him gather as much military information as my poor head held after my change. I have seen the face of the new enemy. This lot was routed but will soon be replaced by others. Were I a Lord of the West, I would keep my ear to the rocks for signs that other relics of the dark ones are being dug from the abyss."

The King nodded gravely and said he would speak to the Ambassadors of Erebor and Rohan, less the news of the ring. They might be able to stand-down troops along the eastern borders. Finally Aragorn smiled saying, "I may tell Gimli. Those rings brought the Dwarves to ruin as surely as the nine. He will fume for a time but he will understand."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

The Conaths and their shorn step-father went back home for a leisurely lunch. Shurran was in class but Eniecia joined them and heard all about her grand-da's adventures, going to Mordor three times and living to tell the tale! Since none of the western armies were on a war-footing, Nag Kath was free to explain. This would not get far. Eniecia was a sweet child but also Thain-kin and a Countess of Dale. She knew to keep politics to herself. Now here was her Uncle Nag organizing wars in Mordor! The other girls could not claim that. He was to be there without fail for dinner three nights hence.

Nag Kath thought one more nap would restore him but the Bank was next to the switchback so he stopped to check his accounts. The main one had earned a little interest. Kathen Properties was accumulating rents. And the annuity account was paying out. That got his attention. He asked to see the distributions and there had been three silvers paid every month since a year ago May. Flor's signature was on the card next to each withdrawal.

The next day he felt fully rested. There were a few more stops he could take without risking the security of Gondor. Timalen was always up with the birds so he walked down to his home on the second level and knocked. Tim did as he always did and opened his arms wide for his old friend. Semi-retired, Marie had taken to sleeping-in so they walked down to his sculpture studio. Three men were chipping and chiseling on various sized rocks. Timalen walked over to one for a word and then came back out the door saying, "I can't work stone anymore without wheezing so I quit before it got bad. I'm painting again and have started etching copper plates."

"Haven't heard of that, Tim"

"It is like making wood blocks to dye cloth but much finer. You grave the surface, put ink on it and press it into the paper, make as many as you want. Zoullhad and Son make paper good enough to lay flat. I'll show you when we walk back. We'll have tea at the corner and let Marie get dressed."

Seated at a restaurant-by-day and tavern-by-night, Tim asked, "And what about you Nag? More adventures?"

"Fighting in Mordor."

Tim made a grim smile, "You have to stop that sort of thing! You are a great artist. You inspired me. What do we need to do to get you back on the path?"

Nag Kath genuinely appreciated his oldest friend being candid. He was right. The Elf's artistic growth stopped somewhere in Dale. Architecture was a form, but not mastery of expression. He humbly said, "I decided to do that on my way here. I showed you those watercolors from the Elves, maybe something like that. I have some extraordinary sketches of the Variag capital and folk there. I should have brought them."

Tim nodded that his point was taken, "Good man, Nag. Gondor is ready for the real you." Marie was still sleeping so the copper plates could wait. Nag Kath waved without going in and walked up to the fifth.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

"Hello Mrs. Tippi."

"Good morning Mr. Kath. You've changed your hair."

"Always at the forefront of style, Mrs. Tippi."

"Very good. I'll tell Mrs. Talereth you are here."

As the maid went down the hall, Ectillion came out of the kitchen for a hearty handshake. "Nag Kath, my friend. Been back long?"

"Just got here. I would never be forgiven if I didn't check-in with Tal."

"I know the feeling. Forgive me but I was just leaving to meet my board of counselors." He leaned in confidentially and added, "Old retired friends talking away from our wives. It is a regular group." With a wink he took his hat from the peg and strolled into the street.

Tal was out a minute later and offered her hands to kiss, "Oh you terrible man, coming before I have time to put on my face. Did you see Ecc?"

"Yes, he had a counselors meeting."

"Hummph. Sit down. Back long?"

"Got here two days ago. Saw Ardatha yesterday but I've spent most of the time sleeping."

She knew that meant he had pushed himself but would let him explain later. "Life is good, Nag. Ecc can see far away but has trouble reading so I read to him often at night." She whispered, "I have half-spectacles." In her usual tone, "The children are fine. Ecc junior works at Ecc's old company. Ectilla draws pictures for children's books. People are spoiling their kids these days." Tal proceeded to tell her former love all of the provable gossip on the upper levels of the White City. He watched her face the whole time. She was a formidable woman, always had been.

As her ramble wound down she said, "Quiet as always, Nag. What have you been doing these two years?"

"I had to slay a dark Lord in Mordor."

She giggled and said, "No, I mean really." He sat stock still. "Oh."

Her expression showed deep care, "Nag, do we get you back? Have you gone so far that you can't have parties and shoot rockets and be with us?"

He grinned, partly to reassure her, "No, not too far. On my way back I decided to do just that. I'm going to take some time to do things I left behind. Timalen inspired me this very morning. You aren't rid of me yet."

Tal hated to pour water on that flame but this was better coming from her, "She's back."

"I know. The Bank showed me the payments."

She said softly, "That was sweet of you."

"We are not all dark Lords. And no one bargains for what they get with me."

Tal folded her hands in her lap saying, "I saw her three, four months ago. She looks good. I think there's a man, someone who doesn't need her stipend. You know how it is; it is hard to pretend so much water hasn't flowed under the bridge, but we talked for a minute and waved goodbye. It still seems so raw."

"I am sure I will run into her. Someone I need to visit next is Amiedes."

"Sorry, Nag. He died in the spring. His cold came back. Nouri said he was ready to go, made it to ninety. He loved you too." Tal started to cry. What was it about this creature that inspired such feeling? "Well, just look at me, weeping like a child! Teldamir is the King's Chancellor now. Your water men landed on their feet. It was the making of Ectilla too."

She set her face, "Now; what's this fuss about your statue?"

~o~

Nag Kath stopped at Tallazh's house on the third before returning home. What must be a great grandchild opened the door and stared up at the giant with hair like a dandelion. Nouri came out and smiled. Hugging was not a custom in their household but the emotion was there just the same. She had looked after her father for so many years. Through her quiet strength she said, "Hello Nag Kath. I am glad you have come. Would you like tea?

"Thank you, Nouri, I've had as much as I can hold today. I just wanted to pay my respects and wish you well."

"He liked you, you know. He told stories about you, though never so often that people weren't entertained. Are you back for a while?"

"I believe so, thought I will visit Dale. And sometimes my plans are not my own."

"Good. My nephew Teldamir works for the King now. I hope you see him."

"Probably the day after tomorrow."

"Oh, Amiedes left something for you. I'll just get it." She returned with a small box. Inside was the letter written by the tailor in Trum Dreng introducing Tal and Mrs. Skilleth. He could read it now.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

The Elf settled in. He visited Tim again to see his home studio and the copper plates. It was painstaking. Tim had a pair of spectacles made to make things seem very large and plowed tiny grooves in the soft metal where the ink shouldn't go. Nag Kath didn't remember seeing anything that looked like spectacle glass when he melted the Dwarf ring but it was said to be found on the other side of the mountain, a hard journey.

For the first week, he might dash off to the palace for reasons he couldn't say and then return to ordinary things. Dinner with the Conath's was always a pleasure. Shurran enjoyed his studies. Eniecia smiled but was still quite shy. Tal and Ecc had him up for dinner with two couples about their age. Suspicious of Tal's notorious matchmaking, he smiled thinking they might have to ask someone's daughter along for romance. His original friends were now pushing sixty or better.

Once the King's men were briefed, Nag Kath saddled up and visited Tumlen in Osgiliath. He was still in his twenties and a fine man. Business was good. Nag Kath transferred another hundred Florin into the southeast branch of Kathen Properties for Tum to buy more property. It was just sitting in the bank. He had half that much mortared under his downstairs stove.

The original house here had been rented so Nag Kath took a room in the Great River Inn and spent some time wandering the city for the first time as a tourist. The healing section where the old witch died was the smallest of three; two on this side and one in the west. He visited them all. No one seemed to be in the inductive healing business these days. Considering how that had gone, you probably had to know someone for an introduction. He was able to find an uncommon ingredient for Lembas that men occasionally used for liniment. A few people recognized him from the aqueduct but most did not know or care. Popular performers would be distraught. Nag Kath was glad to let someone else be famous. He did drop by to see Sepulvath who consulted on private water lines. The rotund water manager always had tea steeping and would organize another aqueduct reunion in the fall. He should have a statue too.

There were artists here, lots of them. Some painted, some sculpted. Some decorated homes by painting trailing flowers around door jambs and window frames. Those were painted on both sides of garden walls where real flowers grew in season. The Elf watched a young man use one brush to make the vine and leaves and others to draw petals or butterflies as he went rather than returning to do the other colors later. They spoke for a while and the fellow said the paint was pitch-based so it wouldn't wash off but it took at least a week to dry. Nag Kath got his card.

With more open space than Minas Tirith, restaurants often had patios bordering on the street that were boarded in winter. There was always some sort of festival or event. At one wine-house, men mortified their wives by singing Catanares out of tune. The place felt freer than the White City, fewer Kings glowering from tapestries, he supposed. Nag Kath thought about having Tum get him another house but liked the bustle of the inn. He even smiled at a young woman who looked his way.

Back home, Nag Kath took his easel to the very bench where he was accosted by the three soldiers. This was still the yarn and thread district. Women spent their time spinning or dying wool or plant threads waiting for buyers. He hadn't tried this for quite a while and forgot the way these paints drip at the wrong angle. The third attempt was fairly successful. An old crone, wrapped head to toe in dark woolens, was haggling with a younger woman in summer clothes. He hoped they wouldn't come to terms until he froze the image.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Before he knew it, it was militia time. Nag Kath taught boys the fundamentals of archery with cloth-tipped arrows. They were still dangerous little fellows, shooting each other's bottoms and using the toy bows for sword practice. The tykes couldn't take more than an hour at a time so he shot with the Reunited Second Infantry and rode in formation twice with Captain Bessandal's unit just like on the trip to the Shire.

~o~

It had to happen. Going up the first switchback after target practice he walked straight at Florice and a well-dressed man of about forty heading down to the market. He bowed and said, "Hello Flor."

She froze for a moment and then replied tentatively, "Hello Nag. Heard you were back."

The Elf introduced himself to the man who would certainly know who he was. The fellow shook hands confidently and said he was Wenyurd Ostourn. He also had the presence-of-mind to proudly say, "My militia days are over but I carried the pike for the Regald Line."

The Elf smiled and said, "I just volunteer teaching the little ones not to shoot each other. It does not always work."

Ostourn added, "Say, that's a Northman bow, isn't it?"

"Aye. It has seen hard service. I should probably get another if I can find one here."

"Can't help you there, Mr. Kath." Looking to his fair lady, "Shall we, my dear?"

~o~

On the way home he thought that could have gone worse. The woman had probably been dreading a public humiliation. Instead, Nag Kath and her new man talked pleasantly about bows and arrows. He was glad it amounted to so little as well. He told Tal and Ardatha as much over tea at one of the lordly restaurants on the fifth. The latest fashion was Dol Amroth cooking, without the big fish. He just had tea.

Ardatha sympathized, "Hard to take, Nag?"

"It gives me pause, but no. If the Rohirrim could forgive me, I can forgive her … a good habit for such as me."

"Do you miss her?"

Tal asked him the same three years ago. He said thoughtfully, "I miss being in love, all the little things that remind you of another. It is hard knowing I must say goodbye, like with your ma."

Always helpful, Tal asked, "Could you go to one of the Elvish cities to seek a wife?"

Nag smiled very slowly for that. "I have not learned the patience to gauge time the way they do."

Tal scolded, "Nag! You say something elegant that means little."

"Nay, my dear, it is considerable. Imagine this; you both rose today looking forward to talking about things that are changing, of life, interesting to you. Things must change even if only because they must end.

"Now imagine that Ardatha asks you what you are doing today and you say that you will be squashing acorns into Lembas patties for the next thousand years, just like you did the last thousand." He had a sip, warming to his subject, "I see the world as you do. I could not shop for a female in Lorien, fair though they are, and then say; 'Let us away to the world of men! We will see low Catanard and dine with friends. Bring a soft blanket on our picnic for I will take you in my arms!' Oh no, ladies, you both know I am not one to wait hundreds of years for such warmth."

He grinned. Tal knew the heat of his passion and Ardatha must have gleaned as much from her satisfied mother. More eloquently than he imagined, he just told them a great deal. Ardatha thought of Eniece, more daughter than mother in some ways. The love of his life, she had many chances to walk away on her own terms. She had a couple of times. When she chose him, she accepted that which was known and the unknowns that would certainly follow.

Tal, chief instigator in romance, thought to match him with someone as beautiful as he. There were few such women, even in Minas Tirith. Unlike with Eniece, Nag and Flor's love grew in confinement with no reasonable way out. Florice never made a decision in her life. As much as she loved him, and he her, and poor Helien most of all, when the pressure of what could never be overwhelmed her, Flor chose tragically and broke both of their hearts.

He said more gently, "You see, dearest Tal, I am best served by someone who is confident and has already lived some life, someone who can live just for the joy it brings." He touched her chin the way he did in Trum Dreng. "Please do not worry for me." Looking at Ardatha next, "Nor you, dearest daughter. I am finding my way."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Newly minted Kath of the Nûrnen needed a project. He had been at the core of the most important struggles in decades, deeper and darker than most men could imagine. Tal asked him herself if the mortal world would hold him. He was painting and sketching and doing lots of little things but his attention drifted. Riding Charlo helped. A return letter from Brenen helped. Turnlie singing as she cooked helped. He blessed them all.

Nag Kath visited Tim and tried his hand at carving the copper plates. His first effort was sorry. Timalen told him it was hard to think the opposite of what how the ink would appear. He often took his pad or water color easel down to the first. The north side where the switchback from the second level opened onto the first was a bleak wall of stone that only got summer light. He paced it at seventy feet long by twelve to perhaps twenty high at its highest along the switchback.

Walking past spawned a thought. The space against the wall was only used by merchants at occasional trade fairs. Nag Kath stared with his hands on his hips for several minutes and then ran two steps at a time up the short-cuts to the sixth level garden Flor liked so much. Those flowers and bushes were bare but in his mind's eye, he imagined just how it would look. That night he furiously sketched, throwing many pages over his shoulder until he had something to take to Tim on the morrow.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

"Let me get this straight; you are going to paint a garden on the side of the prow?"

Nag Kath nodded, "The whole thing, from end to end."

"Why?"

"Because it's ugly."

"I think that is brilliant. Who is going to pay for it?"

"Me."

"That's a lot of money, Nag."

"I'm rich. And expenses have been low lately. I settled with Rhun, Khand and Mordor for something under twenty Florin, after Dale paid me back for the fish."

"All right, I'm in. What do you need?"

"I need to get the paint formula from that young fellow in Osgiliath. The scaffolding and such will be left over from the aqueduct. Feel like a trip to see my statue?"

~o~

That afternoon Nag Kath paid a call on Teldamir. It had only been a couple weeks since the Mordor meeting but the man always gave him a hearty handshake. Teldamir was busy but the Elf only needed his blessing and the name of the city works manager. Ignoldon was busy too but when Kath of the Nûrnen, nee Water, came to call, he got all the time he wanted. A good number of his best men apprenticed on the aqueduct. When the Elf said he wanted to paint a garden on the rock next to the grain market, Ignoldon said it was fine with him and he would break the scaffolding out of storage.

Tim could ride but didn't do it often. He hired a nag from the first level paddock for two days that wasn't much faster than Rosas. They stopped by to see Tumlen who was having lunch with his lady. Artist and property manager had met several times at the Syndolan parties and got on well. Then they tracked down the wall decorator who was between jobs and at home.

Nag Kath was known as a builder but Tim was as famous as any artist in the land. The fellow's name was Feurgil and he was entirely self-taught. Single and living with his parents, he was all for selling the secrets of his pitch-paint recipe. He was also contracted to prepare them in bulk. It was better to buy ingredients in Osgiliath and mix them in Minas Tirith else they dry before use so Feurgil was hired full-time.

First came the planning. Nag Kath rented the space next to Tim's sculpting works and had Feurgil tack sheets of paper over an entire wall. They used those as grids for his master sheet of the garden. This was how most landscape painters did things. The Elf hadn't, but there would be no doing this by eye. Feurgil and Nag Kath transferred the grids from the master over the next week and then took another week coloring them in with ordinary paints, often changing colors and even whole sheets if the original idea failed.

While they were busy, four former water men were hired to erect scaffolding and a tent awning as high as the mural would go. Feurgil explained the pitch paint would not run with water but it would get gummy and never dry right. The work would have to be protected from rain and snow the whole time layers were going on. In Dale they would have to wait until spring but here, it would dry in two or three weeks.

Feurgil had to find enough ingredients to make large batches of white and blue paint because the image was mostly sky. Nag Kath hired a wagon to fetch supplies from the river. The same four men then washed and brushed the wall. Spikes were hammered into the stone at both ends so strings could be stretched between them as the guides to recreate the drawing grids. Folk wandered by and stared but then went about their business. This was the most commercial of commercial districts so none of the gentle society was ever within shouting distance.

~o~

All the while, Nag Kath kept seeing the Conath's for dinner, or Tal and Ardatha for tea at the little restaurant where they held court. Shurran occasionally came down to look at the project. The two of them were growing closer. Nag Kath wondered if he would stay here or return to Dale. There would be work for architects in both places. Eniecia still enjoyed her friends and learning but she was quiet at meals. Nag Kath asked Shurran on one of his visits if she was well. Like older brothers are required to do, he said she was just being moody but too old for him to pull her pigtails.

Nag Kath received a notice from the new Prince Elphir of Dol Amroth's scribe that he, as a knight of the Principality, would have his name carved in a new monument near the commercial district. There must be a hundred of those being sent but what made this interesting was the messenger was Caladrion, son of Durnalath. He had shown true colors in fighting Umbar pirates. The new Ambassador was also a respected Marine and brought him as his aide. Cal, as he was called, couldn't stay long but they agreed they would see more of each other when the embassy staff was settled.

~o~

It was time to draw! Tim showed Feurgil how to take the single sheets of paper from the shop wall and enlarge them to scale on the side of the prow. Self taught or no, that took Feurgil no time to learn. Nag Kath made a few changes as they went and drew the lower segments where the flowers would go. Most of the top would be sky with clouds. It took eight days to charcoal-in the main lines, just in time to quit for the first snow storm of the year. It did not amount to much but it was a good time to rest and let the young man visit his family.

Nag Kath had other important responsibilities as well. Syndolan invitations were already sent. Folk were engaged for food, music and beverages. Nag Kath had to use the last of his firework powder in time for Feurgil to take them to Tumlen for the barge in Osgiliath.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

A week before the party, a terrible row was barely contained above the Embassy of Dale.

"What you suggest is impossible! I will not have you even thinking such a thing!"

"I don't care, mother. I love him. I always have. We are meant for each other! Can't you see?"

"No, not at all! You will put this foolishness out of your mind."

Eniecia was crying, "I cannot. It is all I think about. You married for love. Can you not understand?"

"This is different. You cannot be in love with your grandfather! Such things are not done. You haven't told him …" Ardatha was beside herself. What had the child done? Her shy, beautiful daughter was smitten by the handsome, heroic Elf who happened to be Ardatha's step-father. After he bared his soul at the café, innocent Eniecia was not going to fill the bill.

Eniecia stood silently as Ardatha shook her head. The Princess composed herself and restarted her question, "Have you told him this?"

"I dare not, mother. But how could he not know?"

Mother doubted that. Reyald said he was a brilliant strategist. He was very sensitive to his woman's needs. But he was famously witless when it came to women who were interested in him. Ardatha said firmly but not meanly, "You are confined to the house. We will tell your friends you are indisposed until we cure you of this madness."

Her daughter trudged to her room bearing the weight of the world.

~o~

Reyald walked upstairs after a hard day of diplomacy. His wife was sitting in the main room with her hands clenched, face grim. "What is it darling bride? You look like you just fought a dragon."

When she looked up and said nothing, he knew it was serious. Usually a servant would be here if he wanted tea or something stronger. Cook and Loral were in the kitchen, pretending they weren't listening to every word. The Ambassador sat down. Ardatha spoke softly and evenly, "Our daughter has announced she is in love with Nag Kath, says she always has been."

Reyald was quiet for a few moments before saying, "And what does he have to say about that?"

"He doesn't know. This is from our child's own brain."

The man sighed, "Well, there's that."

"The silly girl said she has been mooning over the man for years. It is why she is so quiet around him."

"What do you need from me, dear wife?"

"Comfort her. I need to talk to Nag."

~o~

Ardatha had been sitting in the main room of Nag Kath's house for an hour before he walked-in covered in charcoal and paint smears. She rose for her hug but he offered a peck on the cheek so she wouldn't be coated in dust. She was not here to chat. He gave Turnlie the look that there must be something she needed at the market and the cook excused herself. "What is it, dear daughter?"

Ardatha was not the sort to hem or haw, "Eniecia says she is in love with you and always will be."

"Hmmm, be right back." He trotted up the stairs and was back in a minute, barefoot with a clean shirt and trousers. "And how long has this eternal match gone on?"

Both of them sat down but he immediately rose and poured a mug of cold tea. Ardatha said, "Years, evidently. That's why the child never says anything when you visit."

"Can't you just tell her I am evil?" She just looked at him. He might be Sauron, but what was that to young love? He said softly, "What must I do?"

She sat for the longest time. What was there? Other than being cruel, which she knew he would not do, this would just have to go away. Finally she took in a large breath before saying, "I'm not sure, Nag."

"I could talk to her. How much does she know about me?"

"Most of it. It doesn't matter. Your disguise is that you are what you seem. Her grandmother loved you. How bad can you be?"

"Does she love anyone else?"

"No."

"I suppose I could disappear for a couple years."

That was less absurd from him than almost anyone else. Ardatha considered it for a moment and said, "We will talk to her. If needs be, I am glad you will as well."

He asked, "Have you spoken with Tal? She is very clever about such things."

"I just learned and walked down here. We have our weekly tea Thursday morning. I am not sure I am ready for that. Nag, Eniecia is confined to the residence. If she comes here, be sweet and bring her home, else she wanders where she shouldn't."

The determined woman showed herself out.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Stealing rings from fell lords was child's play compared to not hurting his granddaughter's feelings. The Elf wracked his brain for signs the girl was infatuated. She was quiet and polite, no glances, no Tilli feet. Poor Ardatha and Reyald!

Whatever they needed, he would do. Until then, Feurgil should have started the sky blue paint. That was the hardest color to mix and most of the mural. Every bit of dye they found was not enough but should last two weeks. Tim painted the browns for stems and trees. Fuergil got the sky and clouds from the scaffold. Nag Kath did greens and the colored flowers. People stopped to watch. Soldiers slowed for a look. With the scaffolding in the way, they might be repairmen plugging leaks. It looked like one could just walk onto the path. They decided to paint a white picket fence along the bottom to keep people from getting flat noses. Two days before Syndolan Eve they quit work for a week. Nag Kath had things to do at the house. Tim had paying business to complete. Fuergil would stay for the party and then go home.

Still nothing from Ardatha. She and Reyald would be at the King's party. That was part of his job. The last time Nag Kath threw one of these, their children came down by themselves. It was too late to plan around that. His job was to buy the ale and break-up fights.

Everything went fine. Inviting Dwarves to come was always easy but Hobbits were getting hard to find. The same musicians came from the last time and they helped people sing with the lyrics Nag Kath wrote years ago. Tumlen and Annlie surprised them. Turnlie put them in Flor's old room. Tal and Ecc arrived at their usual time. He was a gem. The man who made Talereth happy was the best of men. As usual, he and Tal sat bundled on the porch waiting for the King's fireworks. Ecc was telling old stories to old friends inside. She rocked her feet forward and back asking, "Have you heard from Ardatha?"

"Not since she was here. I've missed our dinners."

Tal sighed, "Poor thing."

"Which one?"

"Eniecia, of course. Ardatha is tough as leather."

"She will think of something. You got over me. Eniecia will."

Tal giggled and said, "That wasn't easy but there are plenty of fish in the lake."

Nag Kath looked her in the eyes, "You will tell me if I need to do something intelligent, won't you?"

She rose to get warm inside, "Of course. We can't leave things like that to chance."

The Syndolan songs were sung again. Musicians retuned their instruments at the request of folk who wanted to sing Catanales, all the rage, it seemed. At the conclusion of the Lament for Osour, a beautiful voice near the front door held the phrase just a moment longer. Nag Kath looked over and saw Caladrion. He wasn't needed for rubbing shoulders on the seventh and took the Elf up on his invitation.

Nag Kath was standing with Tal and Ecc, who fancied himself a singer and was enjoying himself. When the young man arrived, his host clapped him on the shoulder and said, "I should have hoped someone from your land would do that song justice!"

"Nay, I am the weak sister compared to the best."

"Good enough for here! Caladrion, these are Ectelliad and Talereth Toroldinar, two of my oldest friends. Ecc, Tal, this is Caladrion Ivandred who is seconded from Dol Amroth with the Ambassador. Glad you could come."

"Thank you for inviting me. There was another gathering on the sixth but I could not imagine it being as merry as yours, especially after our Elvish adventure!"

The Toroldinars insisted on the full story of that little escapade which, as usual, escaped Nag Kath's telling. The Elf introduced Cal to people his own age and the young man stayed another hour before saying good night.

After the ten-bell, people started collecting their wraps and making for bed. As Tal and Ecc were saying goodbye, she said, "Nice young man."

"Cal? Yes, he is the nephew of Thain Durnaldar. His cousin is marrying Elfwine in the summer, or so I am told."

Tal looked at him, her husband and Nag Kath again before sighing, "You two are as thick as slurry." They could only agree and said goodnight.

The mural was coming along. Yellow paints would not dry so they had to scrape them off and try a new batch. Overall, there was progress. People of the first level north of the prow showed interest as it started to look like a picture.

A week later, the painting was complete. There had still not been any official interest or comment. Nag Kath did it for the people who walked by every day so that was all the same to him. He gave Feurgil four nippers which was an astonishing amount of money for the young man. Tim would keep him in mind for future work. Altogether the project cost almost three Florin. The artists cleverly hid their chops in the mural for others to find if they looked.

They had to leave the awning up for another few weeks but after the scaffolding was removed, small crowds of merchants and tradesmen gathered round during the day. None of them had ever seen the sixth level garden. By purest chance, King Elessar was leaving for his farm in Lossarnach that morning and saw a group before he turned for the gate. He trotted over with six of his troopers. It had been a very long time since an artist had done other than carve stern men frowning at the horizon. Folk in the throng bowed deeply and one shouted, "Thank you for a fair garden in winter, Lord King!" Everyone cheered the same and he fared them well as he joined his larger escort. Now, who might have done this?

~o~

Ethorlad, Ambassador of Rohan, was the purest of Rohirrim in every way, wise in knowing their rugged sensibilities did not always play well in diplomatic circles. Here in Minas Tirith almost three years, his wife Jourwyn minded the female side of things gracefully and occasionally attended Tal's little klatches. Wouldn't it be lovely if Rohan would host a party for diplomatic families, a few staff and friends? It could be less formal than the recent royal function and help the new representatives from Dol Amroth, Anfalas and Arnor ease into the White City. Odd that so many new folk came all at once! Invitations went out for the fifteenth of January.

The Dwarves would come in force. They love parties and were closer to Rohan in outlook than many mannish nations. Captain and Mrs. Vertandigir, newly arrived from Dol Amroth, were delighted and would come with their ten year-old son and their aide. Ambassador Featherstaff of the Shire always loved a gathering and would bring small presents for everyone, even though told that wasn't necessary. He and his wife would also introduce the new folk from Arnor personally. And one could always count on Ambassador Polgash of Dorwinion and his lovely wife Fuscia for good company. Chamberlain Vestule and his family would represent Prince Faramir and Lady Éowyn of Ithilien.

Kath of Mordor was not invited, needed or wanted, even though he had done all of the diplomatic work among the former enemies. Those who knew kept that quiet. He was in Osgiliath anyway and knew nothing of the affair.

The Conath's brought lovesick Eniecia with Ecc and Tal as guests. The Toroldinars knew half the room already and were always the perfect examples of White City folk. Lady Jourwyn was accorded a wonderful hostess. Everyone had a fine time. Mr. Polgash supplied a small cask of private-reserve red wine, Fourth Age 26 if you must know, to the enjoyment of many.

When Nag Kath got back from the river there was a letter waiting in Eniecia's flawless handwriting.

Dearest Uncle Nag,

Please forgive me for my lamentable inattention to my loving grandfather. I have not been myself but all is right now. My studies go well. With work I will start new classes in March. We all hope to see you for dinner again when your schedule permits.

With all best wishes, dutiful Eniecia

He put the letter on the table and asked, "Turnlie, do you remember who delivered this?"

"Fortain from Ambassador Conath's, Mr. Kath." Ardatha, more like. Good! Hopefully the girl was over her infatuation. He would not know it for a while but the new aide from Belfalas made quite an impression.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

There were two large stirrings for royal watchers in the year 32. The first was the wedding of Prince Elfwine, heir to the throne of Rohan, and Tilleth, daughter of Thain Durnaldar of Nauthauja. This was not a strategic marriage in the old sense. With only three countries left in the free world, there weren't a lot of treaties left to sign. Dynastic unions were still fashionable in the provinces and among lords of commerce. The couple was marrying for love after an almost three year courtship on the second of June. King Éomer and Queen Lothíriel liked the young woman and that carried the day.

The other news was that Bain of Dale would wed Xondra, daughter of Beatru Manzanard of Dale. This marriage had no strategic value at all, but the two had known each other for years and it was time to tie the knot. Her family was at the top of Dalish society from both the cavalry and business. Xondra was a lovely and loving young lady, friend to Brenen's younger girl. Those nuptials were set for the following spring.

~o~

For reasons unknown to Nag Kath, he was invited to the Rohan wedding. This would be the largest gathering of nobles in Middle-earth since Bard's memorial. It would also be cramped. The City of Dale could accommodate quite a few lords but Edoras was a rough wooden fort. Perhaps they had time to build quarters, for it was a sure bet Arwen and Aragorn wouldn't not be bunking with Dornlas. Shurran came down to Uncle Nag's house with a question on architecture. Turnlie gave them both tea and started preparing the evening meal. Nag Kath said, "Have you heard your cousin is getting married?"

"Mother has known for a while. I hope they have a half-dozen boys."

The Elf teased, "You don't want to be King?"

"Not really, though I would be better at it than I thought when we came here. He gave his grandfather a knowing look, "No accident; that."

"When you shoo the pigeons away, you look a lot like the statue of grand-da Brand in Girion's Courtyard."

Shurran smiled and pointed at his face, "It's the nose. I would have to let the beard grow out."

The young man was nineteen now and kept his beard and his hair in the White City fashion. He was also maturing into his legacy. Nearly as tall as his father and still growing, he had the size and strength you expect from your Northmen. As a guest in Gondor militia training, he handled all of his weapons well and could ride like the wind. Nag Kath thought his parents underestimated the boy back in Buhr Austar but they now knew he had just developed slowly.

Shurran said, "Haven't seen you for dinner in a while."

"Invite me."

"Thursday, then?"

"Gladly. How is your sister?"

Shurran gave that a little thought before answering, a bit like Uncle Nag that way, "She was off her feed for a few months but now she dances about the house humming Catanales. She is a good dancer."

"Good, I was worried."

Shurran smiled, "She said she wanted to be a performer for historical dance pageants. Mother reminded her that those ladies don't always enjoy the best reputations."

Nag Kath smiled remembering the fifth-level clubs, "I like dancers. But Eniecia is a Princess, no Countess. I suppose there are things they can't do before the right marriage. Elfwine is taken. Are you all going to the wedding?"

"Oh yes. Da needs to meet King Bain. I am sure Torrold and Gerda will come with him, not sure about Haldiera with her little ones. I may go home. Great grandmother must be lonely and old Conath is failing."

Uncle Nag said, "I will go with you then. I have a few things to attend on the way. Then there is Brenen's side of the family and no one can get him on a horse. Stay the winter for your cousin's wedding in the spring. That is convenient if you have things to fill the time."

Shur nodded, "It is. I do not know if the royals will attend that in force with two trips north after Prince Imrahil's farewell last spring. King Bain may want it that way. He can introduce Xondra in Rohan without stealing too much thunder.

Nag Kath veered slightly, "And how about you, Count Shurran? Any Princesses lined out your door?"

"Not yet. We keep that side of things quiet. Around here, what foreigner isn't some sort of penniless lord? Friends always introduce me to friends but I haven't done much about it. I am not sure where I will be in three years. And you? Ma or Tal plotting?"

"Always, but lately I think they have been sentries."

Shurran rubbed his chin, "Protecting your reputation from dancers?"

"Umhum."

The young man grinned, "Then I think you are off the hook, grand-da, thrown over for someone new."

"So I don't have to skulk in Mordor?"

"Not any more. Come for dinner and see."

~o~

Dinner was pleasant. Eniecia spoke more than Uncle Nag had ever heard before. Her animation made him realize just how beautiful she would be. Reyald and Ardatha seemed to be at ease so they could line-through this chapter on their ledger slate. Looking at his granddaughter made him think again of the picture of the queen in the magistry. When the conversation lagged he asked, "Reyald, Ardatha, have you ever been to the little courtroom in the palace, the one just off the corridor from the staff offices?"

Reyald was the more frequent palace guest so he answered, "I have not, Nag. We usually visit on the other side."

"You should see it. That was where I was interrogated. There is a painting in the room of a King of Gondor, and his wife. I don't know who. Her face is the very image of Ardatha's grandmother and now Eniecia in her turn."

Eniecia asked softly, "She is just like me, grandfather?"

"Very close. That is why I am an artist. I saw it again a few months ago. After all those years, the image stayed true in my mind. It made me wonder of the gift of mortal life, that maybe some people are so special they keep returning so everyone is the better for their presence."

Ardatha's first thought was that comparing her romantic young daughter to a timeless beauty might not be the way to quash the girl's ardor, but as she chewed she wondered if sometimes she took her step-father too lightly. How could he not think differently than everyone else? He must already know more than they could imagine.

The Princess dabbed her lips with the cloth and said, "With the King and Queen's leave, we will make a point of visiting."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Minas Tirith was collecting a sizeable contingent of wedding guests. Dol Amroth had several blood ties to the couple. Queen Lothíriel was the sister of Prince Elphir and first cousin to Prince Faramir. Éowyn was Elfwine's aunt so the young man was bracketed on both sides. If Lady Durnalath came, she was aunt to Tilli and her son Caladrion was already here.

The Dol Amroth contingent arrived first, having allowed for weather they did not get. That gave them ten days to take their leisure in the White City. Their train included Elphir himself, his wife Fortunal and their son Alphros. With them were Durnalath and her husband Captain Legorn Ivandred, a highly-decorated Marine. When word reached Emyn Arnen, Faramir and Éowyn came sooner than expected with their daughter to enjoy the company from the coast and prepare for the ride north.

~o~

This would not be one of King Aragorn's sprints. All counted there were something like thirty eight guests, almost that many servants or aides and sixty troopers watching anything that moved. Wagons carried tents, food and lordly apparel. Not all were seasoned horse travelers or used to roughing-it like their ranger Liege. That was not a problem for the riders of Buhr Austar. Of all of her friends, Eniecia was the only horsewoman. Uncle Nag joined the family and a retainer from the embassy staff at the gate as the rest of the train trickled down from the upper levels.

It was Nag Kath's habit not to greet everyone at once. This would probably be a ten or eleven day trip. Nods and smiles would be enough until there was time for hellos and he usually made some people nervous. He did know quite a few of the troopers so when he wasn't riding with the family, he joined the flanking scouts to pass the time. The first night was not an ideal campsite so most people stayed in their tents balming sores and reminding themselves they were too old for this sort of thing.

The following afternoon while Nag Kath and Shurran were scouting gullies for little more than ground squirrels, Caladrion rode alongside the Conaths and introduced his parents. The young man knew them from the ministers' gala and Reyald knew her from home. It was understood that she held no blame for the witchcraft and the Conaths were now on the best of terms with her brother, Thain Durnaldar.

Captain Ivandred's reputation as a soldier was known among those who matter. Dol Amroth was still fighting pirates along the coast even while the rest of the Reunited Kingdom was enjoying the Peace of the King. There was considerable Dunedain in the man. Eniecia smiled at first but looked like she had been bitten by the Mouth of Sauron when the young aide talked only with the grown-ups. The sun shined on her face when he said, "And it is a pleasure to see you again, Lady Eniecia. I hope your journey is fair and free of incident."

She had still never said more than 'hello' to the young man but the lass hummed Catanales the rest of the day.

~o~

When the outriders were recalled, Nag Kath and Shurran found the other Conaths in folding chairs outside their tent waiting for dinner. Travelers were welcome to cook their own food but the quartermaster of Gondor would have much better than stew for this noble cortege. When cookie rang the bell, servants lined-up to take food to their masters. A few of those masters were among them including former rangers King Aragorn and Prince Faramir. Both men carried their plates and forks while wandering through the campsite saying hello, starting with the Ambassador of Dale.

Everyone rose and bowed. Lord Aragorn finished chewing and muttered, "This is good." More loudly he said, "Pray, be seated. One can count on our friends from Dale to handle the road."

Faramir called across the fire, "Good to see you again, Nag Kath. It has been a while."

"Not since before I left for the east, My Lord." Both knew they would talk about that later.

Reyald stepped forward and said, "My Lords, may I introduce my children, Shurran and Eniecia." He left out the Lord and Lady. These men knew exactly who and what they were. They shook hands and were glad to meet them. Lady Éowyn walked through camp looking for her husband and joined them for another round of introductions. She walked up to Eniecia and looked at her face very closely saying, "I cannot help but think I have seen you before, child. The King stepped forward with a glimmer of recognition.

Faramir solved the riddle, "In the magistry, the old picture of King Turambal and Queen Nepthat. I used to hide in there when I was a lad. Young lady, he could have painted you in her place."

The Lady of Dale smiled demurely saying, "I hope to see it. Folk tell me I am the image of my great-grandmother as well."

Faramir turned to Shurran, "Thank you for riding the sides. We are going where such horsemanship is appreciated."

"Thank you, My Lord."

Éowyn stated plainly, "Of course, My Lords, in Dale as in Rohan, we teach the young 'uns to ride before they talk."

Shurran smiled and followed with, "Yes, but only after we learn the bow."

It was then they realized the strapping lad was a great, great grandson of the man who put the arrow through Smaug. Aragorn came a step closer and said, "Yes, I see it. I met the Bowman and Bain and Brand in their times."

Ardatha asked Éowyn, "Is that one of your daughters riding by your side?"

"Lilleth, she is fourteen and this is her first trip to my birthplace. It is fortunate that so many of the next generation can come."

Her husband said, "Aye, except for you ladies and Nag Kath here, we are all getting older." Over the course of the ride and for years to come, Ardatha and Éowyn had a special bond as horsewomen of the plains.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

The next day was uneventful. The best campsite was not as far as they could have pushed but a broken wagon spoke settled the matter. With time to pitch the tents in good light, cooks made a sumptious meal that could be enjoyed in a large open area half-surrounding a roaring fire.

The Ivandred family walked over where the Conaths were chatting with several other travelers. Nag Kath did not know they knew each other and started introductions when Reyald cut him short, "We are far ahead of you Nag. I know Caladrion from their mission and we met the Captain earlier and her Ladyship from the Buhrs."

Caladrion clapped the Elf on the shoulder and said, "Will we be bearding any scholars in the Meduseld?"

Nag Kath laughed and said, "Nay, sir. There are no idle stargazers among the horse-lords."

Eniecia asked meekly, "How is it you know each other, grandfather?"

Uncle Nag replied, "We met in Dol Amroth six, no seven, years ago, when I visited Lady Durnalath, he was kind enough to show me around his fair city."

Caladrion gave them a short, humorous version of infiltrating the Sindarin library in the Old Quarter that Nag Kath hadn't mentioned to them either. Then Nag Kath said something that nearly voided his status as honorary grandfather, "Caladrion came to the Syndolan party and wouldn't you know it, he sang the Lament for Osour!"

They might have gotten away with it but Shurran, secretly proud of his sister, exclaimed, "Really? Eniecia dances the Rising Water Spirit."

To the girl's horror, it would not do unless the two of would play that for the folk gathered around the fire enjoying an ale. Both of them pleaded their best excuses to no avail. Captain Ivandred was a fair baritone, enjoyed the musical form and could fill in on the low end where he thought his tenor son might have trouble.

Everyone around the fire, with the notable exception of Queen Arwen, was lustily hooting for the young people to play. Faramir's daughter was a singer too but did not practice Catanales and was very shy. She drank in every nuance of the fair older girl. Eniecia said to Shurran through gritted teeth, "My revenge will be pitiless." He smiled knowing he would survive.

~o~

In this rustic opera, a solo female dancer opens the second act as the blossoming of a water flower and finishes as it closes for the night. With no musicians, she raised her arms from a crouch almost as if stretching after long rest. Then she began to circle around a small area of the clearing gradually opening and turning in full bloom until retracting those motions into the stillness of her compact form. She delicately returned to rest near the feet of the man who ended the crush on her clueless grandfather.

The dance was the prelude to the Lament as the young hero bemoans the closing of the flower as his loss of innocence. He sings of wishing she had stayed but knows he must carry on. The Captain had a wonderful time singing a low harmony to the delight of his lovely wife. A few of the Belfalas aides and servants handled bits of the chorus.

All acclaimed it a tremendous success! Caladrion took his father's hand on one side and the glowing Eniecia's hand on the other for a theatrical bow to the royal assembly. The young woman told her mother she wanted to be a historical dancer. That would not be possible at her station in life, but this was awfully close, maybe better. The handsome tenor kissed her hand before she floated back to her honored family.

~o~

They made better time the next day. People were getting used to saddle-sores and this was where the road started to flatten away from the foothills. With fewer gullies and hiding places along the side, troopers could handle all the scouting. Two riders pulled alongside Nag Kath and greeted him warmly. He knew they were Prince Elphir, brother of the man he had saved in Dol Amroth and his son Alphros. Nag Kath had wondered that they hadn't met before, either there or on the trail, but he suspected the man's Lady Wife was one of those discomforted by travel and trail food.

The august gentlemen introduced themselves and thanked him for his service to their family. These folk were as pure Dunedain as existed anywhere but Arnor, much older than they looked. Having both the Prince and heir make the trip was of great moment. Nag Kath said, "It is nice you can visit your Lady Sister."

Elphir considered that and added, "And for a more joyous event than father's funeral. Elfwine did not come for that. I haven't seen him since he was a lad."

Nag Kath agreed, "He is a man grown now. I know the bride too. She is very fair."

Alphos nodded, "Her aunt travels with us, a fair lady herself." He grinned, "I wonder if her husband and son will serenade us again? Your granddaughter is a lovely creature."

With a Nag Kath grin, "That came as a surprise. I am still not sure if she is radiant or furious, same color of female in either form."

They spoke for quite some time. Out of earshot, the Elf answered questions about the lord brother's treatment, explaining it had been tried before. Mrs. Hürna had settled-in nicely as a Lady of the Galador and sometimes healed expensive maladies among the gentry. Good for her!

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Six days out they crossed the Mering Stream and everyone knew everyone. Nag Kath even had a few minutes with Queen Arwen. She asked about Mordor and the Dwarf ring. In one of the only times he ever saw her smile, she admitted that the King had not mentioned its destruction to anyone but her and Faramir. Dale knew too but they could keep a secret with Thorin Stonehelm on their doorstep. He had enough gold. He might even be coming to the wedding. Gimli would certainly attend.

Three days from Edoras a curious thing happened. Nag Kath heard a cry from the past that made his hair stand. People who had a view of both said his and the Queen's heads turned east like helmets on a stand. He looked at her, she nodded and he took Charlo at a full run to just under a ridge about two hundred paces from the road. Arwen said something in Elvish to King Aragorn and he ordered the right flank to dismount and nock arrows. The left flankers were atliers.

Nag Kath slowed when he reached the point on the rise where he could be seen from the other side and walked the horse up sideways so he could pull off the hill and retreat instantly. Reaching the top, he scanned the horizon for a few minutes before returning at a gallop and giving the barest shake of his head to the royals. They were underway in five minutes.

Reyald raised his eyebrow and was told, "Thought we heard wolves." For the next two days, the right flank scouts were bolstered and Nag Kath took both watches.

~o~

The following day they reached the river plain of the Snowbourne in sight of the fortress of Edoras. Folk of Arnor, the Shire and up-and-coming Dunland had arrived the day before after crossing the Isen. They collected Lord Gimli and his entourage on the way and were regaled with stories of his first meeting with Éomer.

As Nag Kath knew; space was at a premium. Like the Hobbit parties, large tents were erected for the guards and folk stayed in private homes with obliging residents. As soon as the Conaths were settled, Nag Kath took Shurran down to Dornlas' house. He and Annlie were both home and the Elf collected his usual Rohan arm-shake. Shurran was introduced simply as Shurran and they went in for a half-pint.

"Great to see you, Nag. You two need a place to stay?"

"I do. Looks a bit cramped up the hill." Shurran nodded to take a little of the strain off his folks.

Annlie brought the ale and sat with them. She announced, Torenne finally married her trooper. It took forever for him to ask but they've been together almost a year."

Nag Kath raised his mug and toasted the happy couple. Dornlas asked, "Now, how do you know this rascal, Shurran?"

"He's my grandfather. I'm on the Dale side of the family."

Most folk would have dropped their jaws but Dornlas had been regularly informed. He just grinned and said, "We got Dale aplenty. Thain Durnaldar arrived fully a week ago with his brood. King Bain got here yesterday with his intended not a bell after, all the folk from over the Gap."

Shurran added, "We brought the lot from Dol Amroth and Minas Tirith."

Annlie smiled sweetly, "Don't know where they'll put them all. Is fish good for both of you?"

Nag Kath thought and said, "We should probably go back up in a bit to see if we are needed. I doubt it, but if we aren't back when you have to start, we'll fend for ourselves. Dorn, got some old business; I heard wargs on the way here."

"We heard some too. A few horses near the Entwash haven't come home. Did you bring them with you?"

"They aren't mine, but I'm sure to get a roasting from King Éomer."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

The next morning was three days before the wedding. Today, leaders splintered-off into small reunions to discuss matters of state. Since Reyald was consulting with Bain and his interior ministers, Ardatha talked with Eniecia about her trip. After the fist-clenching dance recital, she was having a lovely time and had made several new friends among the guest families. People didn't treat her like a little girl. At seventeen, she wasn't. Shurran would eat here and wait for Reyald to return. Nag Kath moseyed back to Dornlas' and told him about Mordor. One didn't get stories like that from anyone else.

The next day was also divided by region and age but for merriment. Shurran was invited to Prince Elfwine's groomsmen's dinner. He had met Tilli once when they were both small but being almost neighbors made him almost family, that and he was easy to like. All of the young men got along well, told slightly embarrassing stories and, surprisingly, did not punish the ale very hard.

Then came the day before the wedding. Nag Kath figured if any of the nobles wanted him, they were waiting until after the couple was hitched. It wasn't like renting the Mason's Guild Hall and having to clear out the next day. The Conaths were dining at Thain Durnaldar's residence so he knocked and was shown to a fair-sized hall in what was usually the arms ministry.

This was an old-time reunion of the Dorwinion campaign! They relived the engagement to mixed fascination and boredom, depending on the listeners. Tilli was lovely and seemed quite calm. Her brother and sister enjoyed the trip. Eniecia was excited for a woman not much older than her. One concern was that Torrold and Gerda did not come. Thain Conath might have needed them more. Reyald wished he could go home. He had said his farewells knowing this was likely. That did not make it easier.

Nag Kath thought they might have more to discuss so he bade them good night. As he rose, Tilli said, "I will see you to the door." Walking just outside she paused first then confessed, "I hope you forgave my forward behavior before the battle, Lord Kath. Please do not think me un-virtuous. I cannot imagine what you must have thought."

In other words, she was worried he might let something slip tomorrow, of all days. He smiled and said, "There was nothing to forgive and I do not think you indiscrete. As to the last, I hope you can imagine what I though. I am a great believer in desire. You have it. Tomorrow night, drag your man under the covers until he realizes his extraordinary good fortune."

She gave him the slightest hint of a smile and they wished each other good night.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Weddings in Rohan are like everywhere else except much shorter. If anyone had something to say, they had better get it out beforehand. There are few readings, brief guest comments and the celebration starts directly afterwards so you don't keep the guests waiting. Rohan doesn't have a lot of servants either so troopers carried out the tables and benches as soon as the congregants cheered the wedded couple.

Nag Kath saw King Bain with his fiancé and walked over to bow. "Please accept my best wishes for a long happy life together, My Lord." That was gratefully received. The Elf did not recognize the young woman but she was very much of a type with those in Dale. He did say he accepted their invitation and looked forward to seeing all of his friends. Xondra was a confident lady and thanked him for that too before asking after his friends.

"Well, I know a number of folk in his Lordship's service and my son is Brenen who has uncounted grandchildren." She held her hand over her mouth before saying she had long known his two girls and that they were invited. Nag Kath left thinking the King had done very well for himself. During that quiet interlude, the rest of the great hall was a frenzy of well-wishing and ale consumption. There were toasts and honors and more toasts in rapid succession. Then the royals seemed to vanish except for Éomer, Éowyn and Faramir. Alphros of Dol Amroth was in demand as well but since he was already married, the ladies knew better.

Gimli was in good form. When Nag Kath went by, the Dwarf did not mention the ale drinking contest in this very hall, which was fine by the Elf. Shurran had attracted a few lovelies but he also excused himself to give his best to his King and future Queen. Ardatha was asleep on her feet. Reyald took her and their wide-eyed daughter back to their quarters for well deserved rest.

~o~

The day after the wedding Nag Kath got his summons. He approached the reception room to the side of the throne dais earlier than the scheduled eleven-bell along with several lords he had spoken with just last night. This was new to them too so the meeting must have just been organized, perhaps not for his information at all.

As folk trickled in, the Elf found Gimli sitting alone in a corner. After their initial encounter, the Dwarf had always been fulsome and hearty but today he seemed introspective. Nag Kath pulled him from his reverie with, "Good morning, My Lord. A groat for your thoughts."

"Ah, Nag Kath. Did you have a good time last night?"

"I did. I especially enjoyed all of the young people seeing two of their own tie the knot. My grandson and granddaughter both met folk their own age."

"You're not so old yourself."

"Thirty eight. The same age as Lord Alphros."

"It might be a moment before the others come. Sit with me, Nag Kath." The Elf did. "Aragorn told me about the ring."

Nag Kath betrayed no emotion, "He said you deserved to know."

"And you tossed it into Mount Doom?"

"Such as is left of it."

"I want you to know I do not hold that against you. Some may, but those rings always brought dragons or war or Balrogs, something foul for having grasped too much. I don't suppose you knew which one it was?"

"Nay, sir. I did see the markings but they weren't from your runes. Possibly they were Sauron's mockery of Durin's script. I only got a glimpse. If your scholars knew how they were engraved, I might recognize a match."

Gimli looked around the room as Éomer and Faramir entered saying, "We can worry about that later. I need to decide a few things myself first. Thank you for your pains."

As it happened, Nag Kath was the first speaker. He was asked to give a full account of his adventure in the east. He did not include the ring or the orc/man. The Mordor stories were interesting but most of the folk in the room were interested in Rhûn and Khand. They asked quite a few questions; answers to which revealed a good deal more sorcery than most in the room knew him to have. No one wondered about the warags.

The general theme of the group was whether to make overtures to the eastern rulers regarding trade and official cessation of hostilities, perhaps even embassies. When asked his opinion, Nag Kath said he thought they were ready but that both rulers should be approached in plain sight of the other.

When Aragorn asked if there was anything else he wanted to add, his ability to surprise shone through; "Do not forget the northern orcs for consultation."

There was an instant din in the room as people laughed or were outraged or insulted. Éomer was lord here and pounded a small hammer on the table. All were quiet and looked to him as he said, "Would you explain that, Lord Kath?"

"Aye, King Éomer. It is five years now that we negotiated for them to stop aiding the Easterling rebels. Of all the groups, they were the most reasonable."

Someone in the room cried, "That is because you deal with your own!"

The King banged his hammer again, "Pray, continue."

"I am not inviting them for Syndolan dinner, but I think it would pay to keep a close eye."

The Daleans would hear more. Their lands were closer to the northern wastes than most here. Gimli was clearly waiting too. His fief was the Glittering Caves but they were under the lordship of Erebor and that was the orcs back garden. Nag Kath gave his next remark considerable thought. "There is still dark sorcery there. The threat in Mordor was real. I killed a Barrow-wight changed to flesh the same year, long after the One Ring was unmade. The Wild Huntsman may still patrol Dunland along the Mournshaws."

He passed into his Elf-Lord visage, "Three years ago I passed the Dead Marshes. Those soldiers should have rotted. Something preserves them, keeps them from peace. All these things were closely tied to the Witch-King of Angmar. My Lady Éowyn killed him with her own hand but his spells last, even after Sauron's have turned to ash. The orcs will be the first to know if dark powers rise where we cannot see. I think we could bribe them to tell us. The dark ones have done them no favors, but they are more likely to remember that when they aren't hungry."

As noisy as the room was after his first opinion, it was quiet as the grave now. Obviously, there was only one person who could undertake such an embassy. King Éomer said, "Thank you for coming, Lord Kath. I hope you can stay as we consider your counsel."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Four days later, King Aragorn and his train made for Annúminas with the Arnor contingent and the Hobbits. The King did not go last year because of the succession in Belfalas. The Gondor contingent left shortly after but family from Dol Amroth stayed several more weeks before returning to Minas Tirith. Nag Kath wondered why they just didn't have a ship waiting at the Greyflood harbor.

He and Shurran traveled north with King Bain and Thain Durnaldar as far as the Celebrant. The King's entourage of twenty pressed on but Nag Kath parked his grandson at the same inn as on the way down and went to Caras Galadhon for another look at the mirror. He was challenged and admitted the same as before but then almost completely forgotten. There was no sign of elf-keepers either.

He brought a bag of the fine river silt craftsmen use for polishing metal and gave the mirror a good shining before cleaning the grit and adding water. Nothing came. He got no sense of power from the bowl. Had he used the last of it with Elvish magic in decline? He would try again but he would not make a special trip.

With grand-da visiting the Elves, Shurran managed to eat mutton two days in a row. Northmen need their meat. The Drimrill Dale and Gladden marshes were the worst footing of the trip so they took their time and ate Nag Kath's counterfeit Lembas. Shurran would have to get used to that because they stayed at the entrance of Rosghobel for eight days hoping for a glimpse of Radagast.

Shurran noticed differences in the Elf. In town and with people he was friendly and sometimes seemed a little dim, some said shy. In the wild he was something else. Nothing escaped him. He never dropped anything, he moved without breaking sticks, he sometimes stopped dead still for a few moments listening to things no one else could hear. When he didn't hear any wizards, they doubled-back to the Old Forest Road and headed for Dale.

Mid-July was a glorious time to see the city. Not as hot as the southern lands, flowers did not need to hide in the daytime. Shurran could have used his family apartments inside the palace gates but he elected to stay with Uncle Nag, at least for a little while.

Uncle Nag made his usual visits. Brenen and his family were exactly as he left them. So were Bard and Burry. Tella and Gorander had another baby boy. On their third day after making town, they both rode to see Mrs. Borenne at her home on the Lake.

She was frail and needed a cane after a fall in the winter. The woman said she was getting better and might not need it soon. She marveled at her great grandson, such a fine man now! The old lady was still sharp and asked about everyone in the family. Nag Kath gave her a sketch of them drawn at one of the camps on the road to Edoras. Even she saw her resemblance with her sweet Eniecia, now a woman. The boys would make for Buhr Austar before long but planned to be back well ahead of winter.

Before riding back, they strolled to the tower rebuilt in the same place where Bard slew Smaug all those years ago. Up top they imagined the angle and the shot needed to hit a creature that large and fast with only a tiny target, a shot that changed the world.

Back in town, Shurran wrote a note to the King letting him know he was here and at his Lord's command. He sent a separate letter to Queen Delatha wishing her well. When they dropped the letters, the gate guard allowed them to go to Shurran's family apartments. He rummaged through his things but except for socks, he had outgrown all of his clothes. Ransacking Reyald's dresser yielded better.

Uncle Nag realized that the lad didn't have a privy pot to his name. For the next week he walked him around the better shops of Dale for fitted clothes, boots, kit and other things a young gentleman about town would be expected to own. Ros found them another cook. Shurran also renewed his acquaintance with Brenen's son Gerrulth the jeweler. After three weeks of repeating old stories, they made for the Buhr using the Dwarf Road. This was high season for merchants and they occasionally had to wait for wagons to avoid stamping through the marches.

~o~

Thain Conath's lodge was north of town so they stopped there first. Torrold and Gerda came out to greet them. She was as welcome as a good woman should be and had gently taken the household reins. The servants were the same, if a little slower. In the main room, Field Conath, Thain of Buhr Austar was sleeping in his favorite chair with his cane by his feet. Seeing him so peaceful, the two stepped lightly trying not to wake him until Torrold firmly gripped his shoulder saying, "Look da, Shurran and Nag are come to see you!"

The old boy shook his head and grinned. They doubted he could see that far but he said, "Good lads, both of them. Come here and tell me of your adventures!" He dozed-off a couple times so they just kept the story going for Torrold and Gerda. When the Thain woke, he enjoyed it until dozing again. He did not seem to be in pain. At eighty four, the man thought he had a good run.

A runner was sent to Shurran's sister Haldiera's home in town, Eniece and Nag Kath's in another life, and returned saying they would be out tomorrow with their children. Gerda and cook would see to fine meals. Gerda's daughters and their families would visit the next day or perhaps the one after that. There was no rush. Uncle Nag would be here a month and Shurran might stay the winter. Everyone marveled at how much the young man had grown and how much he looked like his da, Torrold too since they were hard to tell apart except for Reyald's broken nose.

Days passed pleasantly. The Thain told the tale of Nag Kath missing the target but forgot it was Reyald's wedding, not Torrold's. Haldiera's boy was now eight and looked like a proper Northman. Mother and daughter did too so great grandmother Borenne only reappeared every so often.

Two weeks after they arrived, the old Thain had a fit of laughter when one of the grandchildren told a funny story. He had a hard time getting his wind afterwards and needed help back to his room. It was a large space near the kitchen since he stopped using the stairs years ago. Gerda settled him in and he wished her a good evening. The next morning Brende took him his tea at the usual time.

She returned to the main room a minute later still holding the mug.

~o~

The old Thain wouldn't have wanted his funeral to be too dignified. He was buried next to his dear Hadista in the little plot overlooking the meadow. That was followed by a wake that ran through most of the beer in town but without any fights. Then the family rode back to the lodge and had a quiet meal. Shurran debated in Rohan if he should return to Minas Tirith or come here. He could not have been more right.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Good afternoon, Your Highness."

"Hello Nag Kath. I am sorry about Thain Conath, though I am glad he had a long, happy life. His lands are in excellent hands."

"Thank you, Sire."

King Bain was sitting with Chancellor Rosscranith and a Dwarf Lord in his personal office. It was the first time Nag Kath had been in the room. The Lord of Dale said, "Please, have a seat." The Elf did and poured himself a mug of cool tea.

The King said, "Nag Kath, may I present Prince Frór."

"I am honored, my Lord."

The Dwarf replied in a low, rich voice, "The honor is mine, Mr. Kath. My father thinks highly of your audacity."

"A habit I have not been able to break, sir."

Bain said with a small smile, "Speaking of same; you raised some eyebrows in Rohan."

Rosscranith added, "You did that with the Easterlings too. That seems to be working. What think you of the north?

That the Dwarf was here meant this was important, and that Stonehelm probably knew more than he had mentioned. Nag Kath eased into the subject, "There are things I know, suspect and those beyond me. In my travels I have found remaining sorceries, most amount to little." One of those was the Dwarf ring. "But the blackest seem to follow the Witch-King in his long predations to the south; Dunland, the Dead Marshes and the Barrow Downs. They may simply be losing power too slowly to detect. They may also be fed by residual humors not tied to the rings.

"Were I a dark servant, biding my time and accumulating power, Angmar is away from prying eyes. Who of us knows what the fell Lord left behind? What I do know is that the orcs will be the first to sense the rise of darkness. It did them no favors the last time. Men of the west have the strong hand now. If that strong hand also makes their lives easier with the occasional wagon of whisker-fish, it will be harder for the enemy to seduce them."

Frór asked, "How do you know they would not play us false?"

The Elf responded, "I expect that, Master Dwarf. But knowing folk reward those who report such sorceries, the hard part will be parsing genuine news from the rubbish."

The King asked, "You seek alliances?"

Nag Kath smiled, "Simply to bribe the spies. But I only know of one band and they are east of the crescent. We also need ears on the front porch nearer Fornost. Elessar Telcontar will certainly be interested."

Ever practical, Rosscranith wondered aloud, "What needs to be done?"

The Elf knew this was the question they had planned from the outset. "Nothing complex, sirs. I would take a wagon-load of food to the same place as last time with a note we wish to parlay. I can speak their tongue but I cannot write it. I expect they cannot either but we can make ourselves understood. If they accept the offer to meet, I suppose that makes me the negotiator."

He grinned his worst grin, "Sire, might you know where we can find a wagon of dried hakuun fish?"

~o~

King Bain's quartermaster happened to know a few fishermen and the wagon was taken to the Iron Hills Road. Nag Kath told the soldiers to stack the crates under a gaudy, red tent. With the whisker-fish was a note he crafted in the common-tongue with pictures of orcs and men meeting, his way of specifying no more than six guards should accompany the negotiator. If the Lugnash agreed, bringing a shield back to the site meant they should return two weeks later to negotiate. Nag Kath picked an area three leagues to the east that could not be surrounded in stealth.

Bringing the load and waiting in the cold to see what happened was no trooper's favorite assignment. They could not see at night and nothing would happen in the day, but three days after they piled the food on the ground, it was gone and a buckler shield was left behind. The orc in charge of the party had enough authority to agree to a council. Whether anyone showed was another matter.

~o~

Two weeks later, a full moon, Nag Kath rode up with six men. One of them was Shurran. That was a needless risk but he was a soldier of Dale and his fathers had done braver things in the service of the King. They camped out in the open so as not to be trapped if a large force came with menace. The horses were kept saddled.

That night they made a large campfire and cooked half a pig. Nag Kath winced at the smell but it would be mouthwatering to orcs who would certainly approach from downwind. About the nine-bell a harsh voice called out in Westron, "You, talk?"

Nag Kath rose and cupped his hands around his mouth and in the Black Speech shouted, "We come to parlay." There is simply no way to project that language and not sound threatening. The men were prepared. He followed with, "Approach and be recognized."

There was a company several hundred paces away but only the leader and six soldier-orcs came within the light of the fire. Orcs have no problem with fire. Only sunlight vexes them. The Elf said, "I am Nag Kath. We have dealt before."

Usually; the larger the orc, the higher the rank, but one of the shorter ones came a few steps closer and said in the Black Tongue, "I am Ghoushorr, Captain of Lugnash Khuundur."

The troopers stood ready. Their horses were upwind but still nervous. Nag Kath told the Captain, "Sit, we will talk here." The men watched for hand signals because they would not understand anything said. The orc Captain turned to his guards and grunted. The negotiators sat close by the fire and the guards sat ten feet behind them with their swords at the ready.

The Captain said, "We are here. What do you say?"

"We wish to reward our friends who showed such good sense five seasons before. We offer a full wagon of fish in exchange for news if dark lords return to take your lands."

"There are none."

The Elf said, "Good. Do you know of Angmar?"

"No. Gundar orcs there. They stay or we fight them."

Nag Kath appeared to consider that carefully, "Would Khuundur like a full wagon of fish every season to watch for dark usurpers who would steal his land?"

Not Dukks players; these northern orcs. The captain immediately betrayed his position, "Two wagons!"

His expressions would not mean anything to these creatures but Nag Kath acted shocked at the exorbitance and turned to Shurran. "Shur, do we have the authority to give these hard bargainers a Florin's worth of whisker-fish?

In the same solemn tones Caladrion used in flummoxing the scholars of Dol Amroth Shurran replied, "Only if they throw in tribute women, Uncle Nag." One of the troopers stifled a laugh.

As if thoroughly defeated by the better negotiator, the Elf said, "Two wagons, yes, but for that, we want to know of other clans also. If they have dark servants, you will need help or they will take your lands. Bad for us. Bad for you."

His diplomacy a success, Ghoushorr grunted, "We agree."

Nag Kath broke into a grin and called, "Boys, let us share our meal!" The troopers thought this the most revolting part of the hair-brained scheme but they stood slowly and handed portions of the pre-cut pig to the orcs around the fire. Dry fish will keep you alive but this; this was orc heaven. As was always said of him; Uncle Nag knew how to throw a party!

As the orcs wiped the grease on their coats, Nag Kath told them how to send word through the Dwarvish post directly behind the Lonely Mountain, that the messenger should wear white and what to shout. They should send someone who spoke the common tongue. That would become a favored position in their ranks and worth practicing. He was also specific that they did not need false witness to appear they were earning their fish. No news was good news. When something important happened, they would bring one of the copper medallions he gave them so all knew it was from the Lugnash. With what he thought he heard of the Captain's troops and the Colonel's behind the Iron Hills, Nag Kath put the clan's overall strength at around two thousand fighters.

Business concluded, Nag Kath invited their guests to take the carcass back to the soldiers waiting in the bush. Troopers stoked the fire high and no one slept a wink.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

There is a certain exhilaration that comes with surviving a dangerous assignment. These men were all volunteers, King's Men of the professional army. Nag Kath explained his conversation on the way home. Another wagon of dried fish would be brought before the snows with a roasted pig thrown in for good measure.

They stopped at Erebor first. In Dwarvish realms, one is taken through the ranks. From soldier to sergeant to officers to Frór took five escorts. The crown prince was sitting with his father in the King's private room. Nag Kath bowed and waited the proper distance from Thorin III. He was nearing two hundred years old which was still prime for these long-lived folk. The King called, "Approach." When the Elf reached the table he added, "You are surprisingly alive, Nag Kath. We have terms?"

"After a fashion, My Lord. The best hope is that nothing comes from this."

"I understand you lost the charm I gave you."

How did he know that? "I did, sir. It was used to trick the head of the Visitor cult. It may be a while before they trouble your borders again."

"And it was lost in losing another treasure of my Kingdom?!" That was asked in furor he could barely contain. So, the word was out.

No matter to the Elf, "Aye, Lord King. Men and metal met their ends in Mordor."

Frór did not seem to be expecting this. He glanced at his father to gauge the direction of the exchange. Thorin shouted, "Think you to destroy precious heirlooms of my people?!"

Such an outburst from a King would shrink most people in fear but not the last Uruk-hai. He said in his Elf Lord voice, "Aye, any of Sauron's rings and, if need be, the hands that bear them, unless you think such rings will have grown wholesome after long confinement in Barad Dûr."

A hundred oaths nearly spat from the bearded mouth after such an outrage. All Thorin could manage was, "Leave! You are forbidden Erebor in my lifetime." The Elf bowed deeply and made for the door.

On the short ride to Dale Nag Kath did not dampen the soldiers' spirits. They had done their jobs and done them well. Rosscranith's sensibilities would not need to be spared.

"Kicked you out, did he?"

"Like a bead-peddler, Davet. It might have been worse but Frór was sitting there and we were successful. Is it wise to have the orcs send word through their north garrison now?"

Rosscranith considered that. "Nothing for it. Good work. King Elessar should know. I'll have a messenger waiting for your letter with one or two of ours. When I get the opening, I will confer with Frór. It was said Thorin was a good son but as King, he has been difficult. He works his people very hard." Muttering under his breath, "Greedy dougsh!"

~o~

In Sindarin;

My dear King Elessar,

My embassy to the northern orcs was successful. They accepted terms, though it remains to be seen if they honor them. They are at odds with their kin inside the Angmar Crescent making them more likely to mention if foes can summon dark forces. Their counterparts on the Fornost side will have to be contacted separately.

My report to Stonehelm went poorly. He berated me for destroying the ring. I gather from wiser men he is falling into Dragon Sickness. It makes me all the gladder he will never wear the band. Who knows what new malice Sauron imbued in it while in his care? The King did not interfere with the quest; methinks to learn more of orcs still in Khazad Dûm.

I am now forbidden the Dwarf realm and hope this does not cast a pall on your dealings. For what it is worth; the orcs get two wagons of fish and a roast pig every year for their supposed eyes on dark restoration. NK

Practical men would examine current affairs. Nag Kath was starting to think like an immortal. This might be the first crack in the post-war alliance. Imhrahil and Bard were dead but replaced by sons very like them. Thorin could live another hundred years and those lords wielded absolute authority. How might this affect the Glittering Caves or the Dwarvish enclaves to the west?

Aragorn would have the same conversation with his learned folk. The more Nag Kath knew of the King, and of himself, the more he noticed they thought alike. Consider the aqueduct; almost every man involved was worried about cost. The Elf and King considered the outcome first. Aragorn decreed it would be done and saw it through. Nag Kath never ask the final expense because it did not matter.

How Stonehelm learned of the ring's unmaking hardly mattered either. The story was going to get out and Nag Kath would do as he had every time. He hoped it would not harm his friendship with Gimli. His Dwarf friends would probably never learn or care; especially if Thorin was driving his own like orcs.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

The next day Shurran collected some clothes at the tailors and stopped to look at the large statue of Brand glowering in the square. It was a striking resemblance. People wandering by looked at both before going about their business. When he got home, he told grand-da, "Nag, I would like to see Lord Carstors."

That would be the Carstors of the pivotal wedding portrait. Brand had three children. His older daughter bore Lord Carstors at nineteen during Brand's long time as heir-apparent. His son Bard II was eight years younger than his sister. He took the throne at Brand's death in the Ring War and was father to the current King Bain II, reliably thought to have been conceived on the day of Carstor's wedding. Ardatha was born at the start of Brand's regency as old Bain I entered a five year decline. Her son was Shurran. There were thirty-seven years between the oldest and youngest of Brand's three grandsons.

Shurran, in his fine hand, wrote a letter to his cousin who lived at his hunting estate on the west side of the Long Lake. When it arrived, it took the household a few hours to discover who the young man was. That settled, Lord Carstors wrote a reply himself saying he and his staff were welcome to visit for as long he liked. He wasn't sure what the lad wanted but Devoran Carstors was a kindly fellow and liked company.

~o~

Lord Shurran's staff turned out to be reliable Uncle Nag. New clothes were stuffed into saddlebags and the two took the Merchant's Road south. The Count's property was about five miles south of the Forest River mouth after it cleared the marshes. They owned three miles of lake frontage and a swath about that wide going west another four miles towards Mirkwood. The road actually ran across his lands with a royal easement.

Lord Carstors estate was well away from traffic and the commercial lake property that paid his bills. Climbing slightly after turning right, they arrived at a beautiful group of homes that had considerable Elvish influence, both for the buildings and the grounds. The largest of them was a two-story house with banks of real glass windows overlooking the lake. A groom was there before they dismounted to take the reins and bags.

Nag Kath and Shurran visted Mrs. Bourenne on the way and rode at a good pace to get here before the sun went down. Still, they took a moment to appreciate the place. A liveried servant took them to a very comfortable room getting the last of the western light. Carstors rose from reading and walked over with a hearty smile.

His Lordship was actually expecting other guests today but he adjusted quickly and said, "You must be my cousin Shurran Conath." They shook hands. Then he looked to the Elf and within a few seconds recognized him as the Elvish artist who captured him and his beloved wife on their wedding day. Nag Kath offered his name in case the man had forgotten. He had or he would have attached considerably more importance to the itinerant portraitist from later deeds. Carstors said, "Now how is it that you two know each other?"

Shurran replied, "Nag Kath is my grandfather, Lord Carstors. It is a long and happy story."

"Splendid! Let me just get Tillith and perhaps a glass of wine to savor the sunset." The man nodded to the servant who brought them in and showed his guests to comfortable chairs around a low, polished wooden table. They hadn't even sat before a pleasant, matronly woman came in to receive bows. Royalty first, Carstors said, "My dear, this is my cousin Shurran Conath of Buhr Austar. And by a tale yet to be told, this is his grandfather Nag Kath who captured us on our wedding day."

She focused on his face for a moment and put her hand over her mouth before removing it and saying, "Yes, yes it is you. Oh my, that was quite an eventful day for everyone, wasn't it?"

The Elf modestly said, "Yes, My Lady. A day of many beginnings."

She said, "Please, take your seats. Lord Shurran, your things have been taken to your rooms."

Shurran smiled and said, "Lord isn't necessary, ma'am."

Carstors laughed and said, "Quite right! I'm Dev and this is Lil."

Wine arrived in a beaker with exquisite glazed cups that looked Elvish. Lord and Lady Carstors were well set-up. Nag Kath had a rough count of five interior servants not including whoever was cooking and a bunch more keeping up the grounds. Three miles of lakefront along the main road with tenant farmers will do that for you.

When they were seated, Carstors asked, "Shurran, how old are you?"

"Nineteen, Dev. Father took the embassy to Minas Tirith three years ago so I have been there until Nag and I returned to Dale this summer after Elfwine's wedding."

The elegant man said, "Heard about that. And sorry to hear about your third grandfather. I only met him once but he seemed a merry sort."

"Aye sir, and with a long life well lived."

Lil excused herself to prepare for guests yet to arrive after telling the men not to stand. Carstors knew a great deal about Dale from his retreat. His younger daughter and her family lived in their home in Dale but there was plenty of room for his and Lil's occasional visits. He had also heard many variations of the Nag Kath stories and assumed at least one of each was mostly true. The creature had settled the Lings right proper twice. The man took a sip of a truly superb wine and said, "I would imagine you would like a little history on your visit, young man."

Shurran only needed to smile. His Lordship continued, "Well, the day we met your spare grandfather defined our lands today and completed the old ways for much the better. Brand was a hard man. Future King Bard was only eleven when I arrived as second heir, and a full ten years before Brand finally got the crown, thought he had been regent five years through poor old Bain's dotage."

He had another delicate sip of the red wine and said, "With no more sons likely, the suspicious King worried others might seek to elevate me. He looked knowingly at Nag Kath and added, "That seems to be a theme in court life here. My father, a wise and patient man, thought to remove his family from such intrigues and we returned here where he was Thain of what used to be South Lake. At his death, that was folded into the crown but these personal lands are ours in perpetuity for either male or female heirs, which is good because our family throws mostly girls. We went to the city for important events but Brand's spies must have assured the man I was no threat."

Carstors looked into the last of the sun and cleared his throat for a more difficult part of his narrative, "Then came the Easterlings. I was subaltern to Prince Bard at the gates when Brand was slain, and Dain beside him. We routed them, thanks to events in Mordor, and King Bard took the crown. He was a good and decent man, telling me I could live where I wanted and marry who I wanted. But wouldn't you know it, I was happy right here! I met my true love and raised two fine girls. I am still next in line, with you, Shurran, behind me. Hopefully our new King will add a few heirs of his own. Don't know the girl."

Shurran said, "I had not heard much of Brand, the man. Grandmother kept her opinions to herself. To me, he has always been the fierce warrior under pigeon droppings."

Carstors had a hearty laugh, "Serves him right! Both of you; follow me." He rose a bit awkwardly but walked well to an alcove in the room with the wedding portrait. He said more softly, "We took your advice, Nag Kath, and kept it from sunlight. Both of us look at it every day."

Nag Kath said, "If you have time, Dev, I should make one of you now to go alongside."

Carstors took one of Nag Kath's hands with both of his and said, "Oh, would you?! I can't think of anything more splendid. I hope you both can stay for a while. We should probably go where the lamps are being lit since the Urbans and my daughter's family will be here any time now." The man poked his head into the hall and a servant was there instantly, "Cardel, please take these gentlemen to their rooms to dress for dinner." To his guests he said, "We eat late, on the seven-bell, but there will be good company and more of that Dorwinion 25 beforehand."

~o~

The rooms were small but had real glass windows and everything needed; fresh water, clean towels, even tooth twigs with the bark removed. Tomorrow Nag Kath promised himself a nice walk around the grounds.

Both guests left their rooms after hearing a clear chime at what must be the six-half bell. At the foot of the stairs was a lovely old water-clock, the kind that slowly fills a counterbalanced cup. When it fills to the right level, the cup drops to empty the water and rings the bell. When a second cup empties, it rings the louder hour-bell. Nag Kath had seen them being made in the Khandian capital and this one had a rune on the beam-weight in that script.

They made their way into the main room and were introduced to second cousin Lillith and her husband Maurid Vontris. The woman favored her mother, a good thing. He was from local gentry and had smooth hands to prove it. Neither said much. As Shurran was searching for something eloquent, Lil introduced Captain and Mrs. Urban. Recognition took a few moments but the Captain was the poor young trooper who had to carry the Northman's head wrapped in a jacket after the Lings attacked on the Dwarf Road all those years ago. Neither of them said anything until his wife, not a woman to be left in silence, sounded, "It seems you two know each other. You can tell us all about it at table."

The soldiers thought to themselves; probably not all, or even most, with ladies present. Nag Kath managed, "Captain, Mrs. Urban, this is Shurran. Ma'am, he is the grandson of the lady your husband and I once escorted to the Buhr's." Since her face didn't go white, Nag Kath and Shur assumed she hadn't heard most of that either. One of Reyald's favorite stories was of Ardatha, at half-term carrying Haldiera, trying to recognize the head on the stump.

Dinner was graceful. Mrs. Urban was oblivious to her husband's subtle eye movements not to pursue military history during the main course. The two old soldiers were able to shift that story to the Dorwinion invasion where Nag Kath fought beside Shurran's father. For his part, Shurran told stories of Minas Tirith and the royal wedding this summer. It is hard to go wrong discussing the marriage of Princesses at dinner with ladies. Nag Kath thought he might be as good a diplomat as his da.

Mrs. Vondris was pushing thirty. At times she had a far-away look in her eye but then quickly came back to the conversation with a lovely, soft voice. Her husband was a squire of some sort with property just south of Carstor's on the lakefront. They lived in a large home two hundred paces from this one during summer and fall hunting seasons but returned to the lake when the weather turned. He was perhaps ten years older than her and they had a four-year old daughter playing with her governess two doors over.

In the company of military men, civilians sometimes feel the need to stress the importance of their own contributions. That was fine. He seemed an agreeable man. It was Nag Kath's policy to be an excellent dinner guest and make people comfortable. He figured he would live forever so he could listen attentively to just about anything for a couple hours. Most of the interest was in the young Lord anyway. They needed to marry this one off! Alas, the fisherwomen of the South Lake did not have the right pedigrees. He simply must visit sister Lilac when he got back to Dale for introductions. Brenen's ladies knew every eligible girl in town and were probably already conniving.

~o~

It was likely this dinner would be repeated at least once more over the long, country weekend so they were not pressed to exhaust every available topic. The Vondris' left after dinner but not before little Tallath came in to wish grand-da and grandmother good night. The child reminded Nag Kath of Meaglie, the farmer's daughter, just west of Orthanc. She curtsied to the strangers with a shy smile and hugged her nanna before servants led them home by torchlight.

The Urbans were staying here in the big house so the hosts and their four guests went back to the comfortable room with the portrait for another cup of wine. A bit more at ease, the Captain said to Shurran, "Do your parents like the White City?"

"They do, sir. They went back after the wedding with Prince Faramir. Nag Kath and I continued here to visit family, though this meeting wasn't planned."

Urban said gently, "Sorry about the Thain. He treated us fair at his lodge. I was very junior at the time but we got as good as he had." Nag Kath wondered about that. Troopers and Captains come from different folk. Urban must have shown considerable skill to retire as an officer.

Shurran put him at ease, "We were there. He died in his sleep and rests next to his beloved wife." The young man smiled and looked at Uncle Nag, "Last thing he said to you was a chiding for missing the target!"

Captain Urban said softly, "Not by much, I dare say." He remembered the Elf spitting that Ling like it was yesterday.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Carstors told them they had the run of the place and he liked to sleep late so Nag Kath dressed at first light and wandered out into the dew. It was getting cold. He visited the stables. Those were luxurious as well. The Urbans arrived by carriage. Their horses, Nag Kath's and Shurran's were on one side of the barn with another half dozen in stalls against the far wall. The Carstors had a two and a four-wheeled carriage plus all the saddles and tack one might need.

A room off to one side held considerable hunting gear for beaters, riders and an area for dressing game. The bows and arrows were kept in the house away from the damp. The next building over kenneled the hounds. They had been quiet during the night but gave the Elf a boisterous greeting as their first visitor that day. That was usually the man who fed them so their enthusiasm was understandable. There were two large protection dogs loose at night but they didn't seem interested in anyone who looked like they were guests. Dogs generally weren't aggressive towards Elves but not overly submissive either. Cats treated them with the same distain they showed everyone.

Carstors said he didn't hunt as much as he used to. Nag Kath guessed it was the game hip he showed rising from his chair. He could offer relief and made a mental note to ask. Back at the house, Lil was up and about seeing to the perfection of her home. The woman enjoyed helping the cooks and did much of the baking herself. The household also canned jellies and produce in waxed, glazed jars in season both for taste and when they were snowed-in place.

The Elf saw her at the clock and after bowing and bidding her a good day said, "I saw these being made in Khand. The makers fire the bowl with a wire through the side. Then they fill it with water and measure the flow into an exact bowl to judge the size of the catch-cups."

She brightened even more and said, "Oh yes!" Opening the door under the stand she produced another clay bowl saying, "This came with it. On Syndolan and high summer, Cardel measures it and adjusts the little weight if needed. If it doesn't betray any great secrets, Nag Kath, Khand is quite some ways off."

"Indeed my Lady. I was there for diplomacy." He supposed fomenting wars counted broadly but it included some measure of peace afterwards.

She gave him a canny glance and concluded with, "This is a very clever device. I am sure its makers were folk of great craft."

~o~

Breakfast was a banquet. Even declining meat, Nag Kath's plate was piled high. New apples had been squeezed into pulp served in tea mugs. Carstors was still a thin man but he punished his eggs and sausage like a trooper at mess. The Urbans came down a little later at no risk of missing the fare.

Carstors held court; "In his day, father would fill the hall with guests before fowling or hunting deer. Sometimes we would go after turkeys and occasional boar, thought both are too smart to be caught by noisy townsmen after a night of wine." Urban and Shurran were hunters too and they told of merry gatherings in their times.

It was unusual for Nag Kath to mention sorcery. He only showed it at need, even among friends. If he wanted something in another room, he rose and fetched it. He didn't cloud vendors' minds for a better price. And the fast was only for danger. Nag Kath even surprised himself when he said, "The Huntsman said the same. He traveled with eight huge wolf-hounds. His guests would hunt and then return to his halls for feasting. I wonder what happened to him."

Mrs. Urban thought it might be someone they knew and asked, "Which Huntsman is this, Nag Kath?"

"One of the Maiar, an immortal patrolling the Mournshaws." With a smile, "He came to hunt me but we reached an understanding. Good thing; that. He stands as tall as the ceiling."

For a moment, no one breathed. Shurran had seen the sketch and Captain Urban knew the Elf was more than he seemed. There wasn't much unsaid about him over the decades but most people dismissed it at the time and it was quickly old gossip. The ladies were too cultured to declare him a boor and hoped someone else would make the next comment. Urban obliged, "The Wild Huntsman?"

"Aye, Captain. He said he was Maia to Oromë. I wondered that his quest had not ended with the ring but he was still in Dunland. Dev; that was only a few months before we met. I was there five years ago with King Elessar. The Huntsman knew him as a Dunedain ranger and they did not care for each other so we tried not to wake his hounds. Like yours, they find the prey. Next time I am there I will see if he remains."

It was a good thing breakfast was over because there aren't many conversations that could follow.

There were no scheduled activities at the Carstors' estate this weekend. Guests did as they liked. Nag Kath asked if he could browse through the bookcase in the pleasant room they first visited with good morning light. Shurran and the Urbans walked off their breakfasts.

Dev read occasionally. Like most libraries of the wealthy in Dale, there were more shelves than books. Impossibly rare; volumes and manuscripts were spread thin. Owners often included works in tongues they did not even speak to fill the space. In the collection was one of the Elvish documents the scholars sold from Nag Kath's Orthanc gleanings. He chuckled thinking he would keep that to himself.

~o~

There were two works of note. In the same fine leather box was another sheet with pictures of the three Elf rings from different angles with notes and measurements, perhaps the study made by the smith for casting. The original would have been written in Quenya so this was probably a much later copy. Gandalf said Elves updated everything because their languages changed so often among the sunderings.

The second was a thin book by the Elf Lord Elrond on healing. It seemed to be a rough draft with corrections or entire pages lined-through and referenced to pages at the back of the bound volume. This was priceless. The most famous of all healers must have taken the completed version with him because there was nothing like this in Rivendell. It would take a long time to make sense of what Elrond meant to keep and then copy that precisely.

Nag Kath was poring over the text so intently he didn't hear Carstors approaching on the soft Khandian carpet until the man said, "You seem to have found something interesting, Nag Kath."

The Elf looked up from the table and said in awe, "A treasure, sir. A treasure."

The man walked around the table to read the book right side-up and lamented, "Glad someone can make sense of that. What does it say?"

"It is a book on Elvish medicine by the greatest of their healers. He was the lord of Rivendell and the father of Queen Arwen. This looks like his notes that were condensed later, but still the only work of its kind on this side of the great sea." Nag Kath smiled, "I confess, my Elvish is not very good."

"You seem very much an Elf to me."

Nag Kath smiled again at having explained this so fruitlessly but he kept trying, "I am only part Elf and just turned thirty seven years old. A man had to teach me what little I know."

He flipped the single sheet with the rings and said, "This is interesting too. The ring in the middle was Gandalf's. He let me wear it once. He said it was losing its power now that the One Ring was destroyed but it was still a thing of beauty. This one belongs to Elrond, who wrote this healing text and the other is worn by Galadriel of Lorien.

"That reminds me, I am a healer, of sorts. Would you like me to look at that sore hip?"

"Yes! It is worse now that the weather is turning." They shut the doors so Carstors could lower his trousers privately and Nag Kath applied a deep bone spell. He explained it could not repair much damage but it would feel better for a few weeks. Another application in two days would increase that. It only took a minute and then the Lord of the South Lake walked across the room and back, pronouncing it improved.

The Elf said, "We may have missed the best light but if the weather holds, would you and Lil like to sit for that second portrait about the ten-bell tomorrow?"

"That would be just fine. Thank you for that and my leg."

"Glad to help. I will try to copy this work without being in the way."

Carstors waved his hand casually saying, "Oh, just keep it. I can't read a word."

"Are you sure, Dev? This is beyond price."

Dev chuckled, "By my count, you've saved me from having to be King three times. Now THAT is a gift beyond price."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Dinner was just the houseguests and the Carstors. The Vondris' would join them again tomorrow night. Dev and Shurran talked more about the succession. It was complicated. Kings of the Northmen had been refined from rude clans of the forests but kept many laws passed down from those chieftains. Only a man could rule. Grandsons borne of the King's daughters were in line but not great grandsons borne of a daughter's daughter unless there was Lordship on the father's side. There could be challenges at the investiture, thought that hadn't been done since well before Girion. Of course, if the challenger arrived with a much larger army, he made his own rules.

Carstors also explained the paperwork of succession. That was all within the last four hundred years since even fewer Northmen than now could read. Shurran said that Eniece, Nag Kath's first wife, and King Brand had signed what were called the Articles of Union which was considered better than half of the marriage process since it dealt in property rights. Those disappeared when the strategic opportunity overcame Brand's lust.

Dev said, "That was Brand, for you. He always treated me well to my face but father knew of his mistrustful nature so the King didn't see my face very often. He was fifty, I think, when he was crowned, but he ruled the land when Bain, the first Bain, became senile. I remembered Bain as a kindly old cove, wandering about the palace under a pile of robes, talking to anyone or himself when alone. It was not all bad, though. Brand was a fair to good King and kept our forces fit when the Lings came in force.

"Mother died in childbirth when I was thirteen and father was killed getting people inside the gates, not a week before Brand himself was slain. I was a junior officer to Bard on the right. When we broke out of Erebor, ours was the task of flanking the Easterlings where the orcs dropped but we could not rescue the center before their front line fell. Brand and Dain both led from the front."

Shurran's folk weren't there. The Thainholds harried the Easterlings on their way to Dale and inflicted more serious damage on the retreat. Fast riders were sent along both roads to warn everyone that Sauron's allies were making for the capital. Even those few days' notice saved many.

~o~

The next day was cold and rainy but the light was good enough for Elf eyes to draw the second picture. Nag Kath put the first alongside his paper to keep them similar. The first showed the young couple's optimism for life together. The second showed their optimism fulfilled. Even he thought it remarkable.

That opened the dinner conversation but the ladies quickly shifted back to Shurran's prospects for matrimony. Da's diplomatic skills shone-through and he was convincingly bashful enough to avoid any direct entanglements, even floating a vague understanding his parents had to the south with a count of some sort. The young Lord would follow-up with cousin Lilac in Dale. For a subject and successor of the King, he knew little of the capital. And as congenial as Uncle Nag was, Shurran neither wanted to be in the way nor depend on the Elf for introductions. Chances were good that Brenen and Bard's broods knew most of the same people Lilac did.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~