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

55. Chapter 55 The Lady of Alas Forten

Chapter 55

The Lady of Alas Forten

~o~

Yellow Odar, smallest of the three, are the hardest to catch. Some folk claim they are smart. Some say it takes practice or patience. On his first full day there, Nag Kath actually managed to land a youngster but it was still too large to fry in a pan over a campfire. He took his modest catch back to the inn and asked if they could cook it for his dinner.

The following day, all hope of fishing swam away. The peach lady told her community of the healer. Two farmers were waiting in the lobby when he came downstairs for porridge and cream on peaches. One was a lass there on behalf of a neighbor-woman who had broken her leg a month back and hurt it again. Could the good doctor tend it for her? The second fellow was there representing the ailments of poor Mr. Cuumbs. The farmer had fallen and had the tremors something fierce! Could the gentleman come and save his life?

It turned out he could. First came the farmer with the palsy. The old boy had not been drinking and his hands were still shaking uncontrollably. Nag Kath had seen this before and told the man, "Close your eyes." Mr. Cuumbs did and received a silver gentling spell borrowed from the Elves into his back. It seemed to work right away. The good doctor cautioned, "Stay away from the ale. I'll be back to look in on you in a week.

Farmer Cuumbs said, "Sir, I do not have much to pay you. Will this be expensive?"

"No charge sir. You take care of yourself and I will see you anon."

The next patient was not so gentle. This was Mrs. Londreg and she had buried her fool of a husband twenty years ago. The girl who fetched the Elf would not get any closer to the house than the front steps. He knocked on the door and walked in to hear, "Who are you?"

"I am the doctor."

A knife was dropped on the floor. The woman rasped, "Broke my leg, hurts something awful."

With gentle bedside manner Nag Kath said, "I am going to pull these curtains open for a better look." He did, revealing a feisty old woman smoking a weed-pipe. She stared him up and down before hiking up her skirt to reveal an angry bruise about the middle of her shin. He felt it gently and applied a silver bone-knitting spell. She winced but did not jerk. The Elf rose and asked, "Who's the girl?"

"Neighbor, not too bright."

He walked out where the lass was waiting and told her, "Child, I need you get me some large rush stalks and a length of linen. Off you go." Then he sat on the stoop and waited half a bell until she returned running with supplies. He gave her a fiver and said she could go home. Walking inside he asked, "Have you got a long hose?"

"Second drawer down."

Nag Kath rummaged through the personal garments and found a linen hose of the type women wear in winter. He cut the foot off and slipped it over Mrs. Londreg's fracture. Then the Elf started holding the reed stalks together with the strips he ripped off the cloth. Fifteen minutes later, the splint was in place. He stood up and said, "I'll be back in a week. Do not walk on that." Going to his bag, the Elf took out a clay bottle with a cork stopper and said, "Make a strong tea with this and drink it twice a day."

Perhaps a day away would fool the yellow Odor into biting. Other anglers had no better luck so these must be the smart ones. By the fourth day he gave up on fish of the sea and fooled some trout in the river with disguised hooks.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Cantering back to his inn at dusk he saw two riders waiting out front. They recognized their man and stiffly swung out of the saddle. The older of the two said to him in a courtlier manner than expected, "Your pardon, sir. Are you the healer known to Amarond Lestimar?"

Nag Kath stopped and said, "I cannot place the name but I am indeed a healer. How can I help?"

"We have been sent on behalf of a lady of the region who is in dire need. Her physicians can do nothing more for her and are not even sure of the ailment. It came to our house's attention that you were nearby and we are here to ask you to attend her."

Nag Kath smiled and said, "In that case, step into my office." He walked to the last rays of sun on the side lawn and sat in the clover. Both riders followed after tying their horses to the guest rails.

The older man spoke first, "I am Tolanger Brittanal and this is my cousin Stepick Brittanal. The lady of whom we speak is of noble blood and we are charged to keep her situation private."

"I understand. Please continue Mr. Brittanal."

The rider added, "Two months ago she began having fainting spells and trouble remembering things. She needed more sleep and had no appetite."

"How old is the lady?"

Brittanal the younger answered, "She is forty two, sir."

Brittanal the elder continued, "The lady has a history of ague but seems young for her age. Alas, eighteen days ago, she fell into a deep sleep with shallow breathing and cold to the touch. And so she remained at first light this day."

The Elf said gravely, "I will have a care to keep this private, but you must tell me everything I might need to divine the trouble."

The cousins looked at each other. Their primary mission was to get the man on a horse at dawn tomorrow. If he needed to know things, so be it. The younger cousin this time; "She is the Princess Inariel Telcontar, daughter of the late King and sister of his Highness King Eldarion. Her mother was …"

Nag Kath interrupted, "I know the lady, and knew her parents, lo I am sorry to be without them. Her father was a dear friend to me. I lost track of the Princess some years back. Where is she now?"

Tolanger answered, "She is at her late husband's estate in Dudhrandir. It is a hard day's ride with a change of mounts in Zevalth. If you agree to this charge, we would need to leave with the sun."

"I accept, gladly." Looking over to their horses, "Will you need new mounts ere we leave?"

"Nay, good sir. These are tired but have only been ridden since noon. They should be fine that far back tomorrow. We left Alas Forten with a string of horses and another rider to care for them. Fresh mounts will be waiting at the change."

Stepick said sheepishly, "Forgive my manners, sir, but we don't even know your name."

"I am Nag Kath."

Tolanger looked at the healer's horse, "She should keep up just fine."

Nag Kath agreed, "You have a good eye. She is of your Lady's own Lossarnach stables and deserves more than a country doctor. Come, let us get you rooms and make plans for dinner. I know you are not her physicians but I need to learn all I can."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Nag Kath had a few chores. One was having the innkeeper's lad visit the two folk he was healing to let them know he had to leave but would return. And Mrs. Londreg was not to walk unless her house was burning. That evening he consulted several Elvish manuscripts on healing, which included portions written by his new patient's grandfather. He dropped them in his medicine kit and packed a saddlebag with a change of clothes. That was about all he could bring so he kept his room for another week and would leave A'mash here with the comforts of evening oats.

The three ate just before dawn and were on the road as soon as they could see. The longer leg would be the second through the Dudhrandir pass. Neither cousin spoke much when they rode single file but as the road widened, Nag Kath would ride next to one or the other. Tolanger noticed the finely tooled saddle on Nag Kath's Eliesse. "That is a fair saddle, Dr. Kath. From the north?"

"By a man of Rohan. They know their horses up there.

"I cannot say I have ever been. Belfalas soldiers usually stay here."

"This is a beautiful land too, Sergeant Brittanal. Are you in service now?"

"Yes sir, I have been Sergeant to Lord Kolland's household these past fourteen years."

Nag Kath's mind wandered back to Rohan. It was indeed beautiful, but only taken in large expanses. Small bits of ground were mostly dry grass and weeds but as a vista, it was breathtaking. He thought aloud, "Yes, I must return to the Mark one of these days."

~o~

They reached the headwaters of the Ardonun and shortly made the picturesque village of Zevalth. People with leisure came up for the hot springs and country inns. The Lady's men rode directly to a stable near the center of town. Trooper Petrandal had four horses saddled and ready. They left their mounts with the stableman and had a quick, waiting meal. Then all four rode down the trail. The rest of the trip was uneventful. They followed the stream as it gained strength into the lake country of Dudhrandir. Soft rain caught them for an hour but they were nearly dry when they reached the lady's estate, Alas Forten.

It was gorgeous. Perfectly manicured grounds gave way to vineyards and orchards on a gradual south slope. The late Lord must have been an important man. He had certainly married well. This was not a defensible home. If it was attacked, you would leave. In the style of the area it was only two stories, painted brilliant white with reddish tile roofing. Large windows looked over the south slope. Stepick and Petrandal took the horses while Tolanger and Nag Kath climbed the front steps of the mansion. The Elf brought his small medicine bag. Servants scattered to inform the house steward and physician before they reached the entry. Both men came forward to meet them in the hall.

A short man with gray hair and a long gray beard introduced himself, "Thank you for coming sir. My name is Philothor Tan-Kolvas, physician to the Princess. This is Lieutenant Khouphal, steward of the estate. I am so glad these fellows found you. I confess; this malady is beyond me. Come this way."

The healer, steward and Nag Kath walked up the wide staircase. Dr. Tan-Kolvas apologized, "I am sorry for my haste, good sir. We did not even know your name. One of the cook's mothers was helped by you some years back and she told her son of your presence here just ere he returned from a family visit."

"My name is Nag Kath and though your men were very discreet, I made them tell me who our patient is. It is twenty-five years since I saw her last."

Healer or not, Dr. Tan-Kolvas was prepared to refuse him access until he learned he was Lord Kath of the Fevers, something of legend among doctors. The steward, a military man, said nothing and remained at the top of the stairs as a tall, stern woman joined them. She was introduced as Miss Told, her Highness' lady's maid. They walked through to the bedchamber.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Yes, it was Inariel. As a Dunedain with much Elvish blood, her face could have been thirty five, though it seemed made of glass now. She had a little gray in her dark brown hair which was as long as when Nag Kath saw her last.

Nag Kath knelt next to her large bed and watched her breathing closely. He clicked open his little lock knife and held the blade to her mouth. It barely showed the moisture. Folding the knife he looked to the physician and said, "We have work to do." Turning to the maid, "I need a bowl of fresh water and clean towels." Miss Told turned and walked to the door asking her assistant to fetch the towels. She got the water basin in lady's dressing room next door.

When both arrived, Nag Kath washed his hands thoroughly and dried them. Kneeling back beside the princess he held her wrist gently and felt the pace and strength of her pulse. Then he pulled her eyelids back and looked into them for much longer than those present expected. Finally, risking disapproval, he placed his ear on her breast and listened to her heart. Pulling Elrond's book from his bag he flipped to a marked page and counted the patient's heartbeats.

At last he rose and sat at a small card table towards the far side of the lady's large bedchamber. The physician sat next to him. "Dr. Tan-Kolvas, I have never seen this, but it appears to be what the Elf-Lord Elrond called Agar lhîw. That is when a person who is half-Elven and half mannish is caught between the two bloodlines as they fight for primacy.

"It seems strange that your lady should fall to this because she is three of four parts Elvish on the Lady Arwen's side and Dunedain on her father's. If I am right, King Elessar's blood had had a fair helping of Elf and those combined humors are now killing her. Others with slightly more Elf blood had a choice."

Tan-Kolvas asked, "Then there is a remedy?"

"It has always been fatal, even in the care of fine Elvish healers."

Both men leaned back in their chairs and looked at the sleeping Princess. Their conversation could not be heard by the maid who was holding her Ladyship's hand and desperately worried. Her chambermaid joined the silent vigil.

Tan-Kolvas had been the house physician to the younger Lord Kolland since the man was commissioned and the care showed on every line of his face. Nag Kath spoke deliberately, "Dr. Tan-Kolvas, I don't know what you know of me, but my methods are of men, Elves and sorcerers. There is no cure known to the first two. The third may offer hope. It will be dangerous, but the princess will be dead in days if we do nothing. The Elf bit his lip slightly, "It will also be dangerous for me, whether it succeeds or not. Since we cannot ask her ladyship's permission, who can speak for her?"

"I can. She would approve. The princess is not a timid creature."

Nag Kath allowed himself a smile even with so grave a subject. "You said a mouthful, good doctor." The Elf took a deep breath and said, "I purpose to transfer some of my own Elf life spirit to the princess and confound the struggle in her blood. If I can break the deadlock, she will recover as an Elf, or Half-Elven like her grandfather.

"I have never tried a spell exactly like this. It will take a great deal out of me – maybe all. If I fall into the same state she is in now, lay me in bed, face-up and dribble honeyed-tea in my mouth to keep me from drying. And if the Princess wakes before me, please ask her to do the same thing I am about to demonstrate, but only until her hands start to glow! That is important. Pull them from me if she cannot do so herself. That should be enough to wake the ember. Are you ready?"

"Yes, Lord Kath. This is out of my ken, but it is time for courage and faith."

~o~

The two men went back to Inariel's bed. Nag Kath turned her so her head was near the edge where he could reach it kneeling. Then he placed his hands on either side of her face and kissed her forehead just like in the old stories. Raising his head, the Elf closed his eyes and began softly murmuring an incantation.

For a minute nothing happened. Then his hands, followed by his bare arms, began to glow dull silver. Moments later, the lady's face shone an orange/yellow color but changed to match Nag Kath's own silver. He started to tremble. All of the glowing stopped as Nag Kath's eyes rolled back in his head and he fell over on a blanket the chambermaid thought to bring for him. He was as he feared. Servants bore him to chambers down the hall and kept vigil on both patients.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Until late the next afternoon, the Lady Inariel's condition stayed the same. Then, as if breaking the surface after a deep dive, she took a long breath. Still fast asleep, her breathing gradually became normal. Some color returned but her face was still quite pale. Her chambermaid noticed and ran shouting in a forgivably undignified voice that her Ladyship was showing signs of life. The doctor, steward and head maid were there within minutes.

Whoever had been with her did as Nag Kath recommended and squeezed a small cloth dipped in honeyed tea about her mouth every hour. On the next serving, they thought they saw her lick her lips. It was soon dark and Miss Told took the vigil until dawn with Doctor Tan sharing time between the two invalids. Nag Kath was cold to the touch and no one could tell if he was alive by his pulse or breathing. If he hadn't described this state, they might have thought him dead. No one would have known, but this was almost what happened to him all those many times when he was changing from orc to Elf.

Accounts vary as to exactly when, but about an hour after dawn, the Princess blinked her eyes a few times and stretched like a cat with a small groan. The chambermaid had taken Miss Told's place. She was tired too and had been nodding towards sleep when she heard her Ladyship. Inariel looked at her face and smiled. "Why are you here so early, Amali?"

All Amali could do was cry. After a few moments she replied, "My Lady, you have been so very ill. And now you are returned!"

Inariel pulled herself up on her elbows until she was sitting against the headboard. Amali looked into the rejuvinated face smiling but then shifted to an expression of concern followed by wonder. Unbidden, she shifted to see the side of her Lady's head and exhaled hard. The Princess wanted answers. "Amali, tell me what is happening." It was said calmly, but she was the mistress of the house and her word was law.

Amali composed herself, "My Lady, you have been dire sick and unconscious for almost three weeks. We all thought you would die. Dr. Tan did everything he could. Aramond in the kitchen knew of a traveling healer close by and several of your house guard went to fetch him. He came and cured you."

Her ladyship felt like she had been hard used but was strangely exhilarated. The maid's face was still perplexed. "Well, what else?"

"Oh my Lady, he made you an Elf!"

~o~

The Lady Inariel's eyes widened. She froze for an instant and then swung her feet out of bed and walked to her dressing table mirror. Now it was her turn look in wonder. She ran her hands over her skin which was as smooth as the day she married. The gray in her hair was gone. Slowly, as if not sure she wanted confirmation, she pulled her hair behind her ears. They were just like her mother's.

"How is this possible?" she asked of the air. "Where is Dr. Tan-Kolvas?"

"He was up all night with you my lady and just retired an hour ago. I will fetch him."

"No, let him sleep. But have Miss Told and the Lieutenant come forthwith." Amali was a good athlete and fair sped through the room and down the stairs. Her ladyship started brushing her new hair.

Lady Inariel had managed to put on her dressing robe when Miss Told rounded the open door. The worried woman put her hands to her cheeks and cried, "Bless me!" She had been her Ladyship's personal attendant since the Princess was a betrothed, one of the last of the Minas Tirith contingent left on staff. She ran over and knelt with her hands folded as she had through so many other trials. Then she noticed the face, and the ears. "So it is true. My Lady, how do you feel?"

The Princess knitted her brows, an expression the Lady Arwen tried in vain to discourage, and said, "I feel better than I have in years. But I also feel like I just swam the Cloathus (an unpleasant swamp near the mouth of the Glenhir). "Be a dear and draw me a nice, hot bath. I want to face this new day properly." As Mrs. Told instructed her staff, the Princess added, "And then a hearty breakfast. I could eat a goose!" The Princess was not as dependent on her dressers as many noble ladies. Now, which of these drawers held her tooth powders?

~o~

After eating more than she or any other delicate flower of the court should, Lady Inariel went outside to look at the majestic vista from the front garden. As Amalie brought tea, her mistress asked, "Now, what of the healer? I take it he left while I slept?"

Amalie became grave. "Oh no, my Lady. He is near to dead. Dr. Tan said the healer thought it might kill him. He is lying in one of the guest rooms even now."

Inariel lifted her dress so she could dash up the garden steps into the house. A hall boy stared at her ears and heard. "Where is the healer?"

"The blue room, ma'am. I will take you."

Both of them strode purposely up the stairs to the guest wing of the mansion. Opening the door she saw another boy sitting vigil and blocking the sleeper's face. Laying her hand on the lad's shoulder he saw her, stood and bowed while she took his place on the stool. Princess Inariel turned the healer's chin to face her with a small, startled exhale then whispered, "Leave me with him. Let no one in."

As they left, she started to cry. It was him; the thoughtful, heroic Elf she had scorned to show all she was purer, the Elf she should have been, who just smiled with kindness and wit spoiling her childish gibes. And now he was dying to save her! She cried for him and for all she loved and all she had not done. It poured out of her for an hour. Miss Told waited as patiently as she could in the hall with Amalie. When her tears stopped, Inariel slowly stood and opened the door. Both women bowed low and did not meet her gaze when they rose. The Princess went to her chambers and looked out the window. No one followed her.

Was this really how things were meant to be? She wondered why there had to be so much pain. First her cherished father was gone after his long life. Then mother; following him in grief. Only four years later, her beloved husband; dying so young of a fever caught hunting the little roan deer near the river. And now; her father's dear friend dying just down the hall because of her.

Another tear was about to emerge. She fought it back. Inariel was not a petulant little Princess. She was a woman-grown and middle-aged before this morning. She never had children, not that she and Lord Kolland hadn't enjoyed trying. Life settled in on her. The White City seemed so far away. Her nephews and nieces hardly knew her. She had been left a life estate in Kolland's country home. It was peaceful here. It was where she would grow old.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

As she considered her world, Dr. Tan-Kolvis rose and dressed for the day. It was past the lunch hour so he ambled towards the kitchen hoping cook would take pity on him. Amalie rushed ten feet by before she realized who he was. Out of breath, she told him her Ladyship was awake and well.

"Child, I told you to fetch me if the Princess woke!"

"I'm sorry sir. Her Ladyship told me to let you sleep after your vigil."

To ease what must be only the latest of many shocks to the poor girl he told her; "Then you did correctly. Now, I must see your mistress straight away."

The doctor was long past trotting up stairs but he did hurry. Inariel's door was open. He knocked and seeing she was dressed, walked in, bowed, and waited to be noticed. The lady would not have kept him those extra moments but her thoughts were elsewhere. Then she turned and graciously nodded. He beamed, "I am so happy to see you restored, your Highness. His eyes were not as strong as in his youth, but he took on the same look of amazement as Amalie at just how restored her Ladyship was. She could be half her former age.

But her pretty face was sad. "I am sorry to not be as glad as you, but the poor man who gave me this gift is dying for it and leaves me in sorrow."

Dr. Tan uttered a word one seldom uses before their betters and then added, "Oh, I do wish they had woken me. Nag Kath gave me instruction on how you were to revive him if he fell into stupor." If the good doctor had had more to say, he would have to run as fast as his mistress.

The Princess opened the blue room door, startling the boy who stood and bowed again. "Show me."

Dr. Tan instructed, "Boy, help me turn him so his head is just at the edge, good lad." Nag Kath did not weigh as much as they expected. After he was rearranged, the doctor knelt and said, "My lady, he requested you should do the same thing as he did to you. He put his hands like so. That was the important part, although he gave you a little kiss on the forehead after he looked at your face. Your hands should start to glow. When they do, you are to release them and he will begin his return."

The physician moved and Lady Inariel knelt as he had done. Her hands were smaller but she laid them on the Elf's temple and gently gave him a long kiss on the brow. It took a minute longer than Nag Kath's practiced touch but her hands did begin to emanate faint silver. Fingers felt attached to his face and she had to pull hard to take them away. It seemed an eternity, but only a few minutes later, Nag Kath took a breath. He was on his way back.

Inariel rose and looked kindly to her devoted physician. "Doctor, I need you to tell me what just happened."

~o~

They walked downstairs and sat at the end of the dining table. An attendant brought cool tea which both gladly accepted. It would take several days before she replaced the living waters in her new body.

Tan-Kolvas had rehearsed the story he hoped so very much to tell. "My lady, we were despondent. Do you remember when you started falling and fainting?"

"Yes, but not what came of it. I remember you treating me as if for another fever."

"Not quite three weeks ago you were near death and we were waiting for the worst. But you endured. I had done my sorry best. Aramond knew of a strange wandering healer who cared for his mother years ago and heard he was in the area when he visited her. When Aramond returned to service, he gave us straws to clutch. Nothing I tried was working so the Lieutenant ordered a troop of your household men to go forth and bring him to you.

"If I may be so bold, Your Ladyship was lucky. This fellow said you had a rare condition caused by your Elvish and mannish bloods in conflict with no care to the damage it might do you. He conjured sorcery to replace enough of your mannish line with his own Elvish life spirit to decide the contest in favor of your mother's people. But he also knew it might be the end of him, or near enough that only another Elf could bring him back. And now it seems the gamble has been won." Beaming with affection, "I am so happy for you, ma'am."

"Pray, old friend, how long will he sleep?"

"I do not know. After you started breathing again, if you woke this morning, a full day. I'm sorry but I do not know for sure." The old physician looked her in the eye and added, "He knew to look for that malady in your family."

"He was a friend to my father."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

At dawn the next morning, Nag Kath woke like he had too many times before and tried to stretch the pain out of his body. A man in the same shape would have said he was getting too old for this. It still hurt. He rose tenderly and exchanged his sleeping gown for his trousers. Wrapping the bed blanket over his shoulders, he walked barefoot down the servant's stairs and out the east door to a small stone bench overlooking the vineyard. The grounds were covered with dew but he did not mind. This was a quite a view.

He sat there for two hours breathing in rhythmic Elvish fashion to speed air to his blood. Every so often he would stretch or flex soreness from his muscles. Nag Kath could sit upright thought he was still very weak. This episode had been different. Something went wrong. It should not have taken so much from him. Maybe that's why it had always been fatal. The Elves knew better than to intervene.

Inside, a hall boy was replacing flowers. He saw his mistress uncommonly early for her and said, "Good morning, My Lady. You asked us to tell you about our guest. He is sitting in the east garden enjoying the morning."

"Thank you, Thoma, would you bring mugs of cool tea?" Her smile was so radiant Thoma entertained thoughts unbecoming his station. She was said to be the greatest beauty of the realm when she married twenty years ago. Thoma joined the household after the King died and by then, her cares were showing. He bowed and walked to the kitchen before his face betrayed his presumption. To Thoma's surprise, her ladyship waited where she was until he returned with the tea. In the fashion of the district, they were not served on a tray. Mugs had handles for a reason. She walked out to the bench, now dry with the rising sun.

The healer didn't hear her until she was only a few feet away. Neither of them knew just how quiet she had become. Nag Kath rose with a bow and smiled wanly. She said, "Please, sit." He did as she sat next to him and handed him a mug. "They told me what you did. Thank you." This was supposed to be easier. She had already cried her eyes out at his bedside. "I … I … oh dear, just look at me. Why, Nag Kath? Why did you risk so much? I know you were father's friend but I treated you awfully." A couple tears sneaked through. "You risked your life for me and I never showed you anything but disdain. Why?"

His smile broadened, "Ah, you have forgotten the flower."

One cannot cry and respond to something like that. She composed her face and tentatively asked, "The flower?"

"Yes. You must have been about five. I was reading on the Imladris bench by the diplomatic row. You came out with your governess. You saw me and picked a flower, a poppy I think, and brought it to me with the most beautiful smile I have yet seen. I will always remember how sweet you were."

She was about to apologize again but he kept going, "And let us not forget your painting lesson. Do you recall that?"

Doubt crossed her face, "I think so. That was you?"

"Sorry to say. You might have been nine and wanted to help. We made a terrible mess but you had such fun. You smiled then too." That memory finally brought out his farm-boy grin.

Her face became serious again, "But after that, I was very rude to you. On purpose. When I learned of your, um, creation I behaved very badly. I'm so sorry, I …"

He reached for her hands, "Please My Lady, you have been given a whole new life. Everything has changed. I know. It happened to me too. Can we not start completely fresh and leave mortal cares behind?"

For the first time she realized she was immortal. It was never planned but, like she thought of her cares earlier, plans don't always matter. "Yes, please, let it be so."

Nag Kath touched her cheek with the back of his fingertips, "And speaking of Elves, you wear it well, my Lady."

"My friends call me Inara."

"Inara, then. You are just as I remember you. Come, I must raid your pantry before I fade away."

~o~

They walked back to the east door. He was more spry than leaving so he loped upstairs for his clothes. His raid on the pantry quickly became several servants bringing cold dishes, tea and pastries to the formal dining table. One servant was Amarond who had recommended the Elf. Her Ladyship bestowed a dazzling smile on him. Dr. Tan-Kolvas, Miss Told and Lieutenant Khouphal joined them separately. Though it would never do for formal occasions, as the Princess withdrew from public life, she allowed her senior staff to sit with her.

Nag Kath was still quite fatigued but explained the transformation of the Lady in more detail. The doctor was of the school of herbs, treatments and diet rather than the rare type who absorbed others' maladies at some cost to themselves. He was not overweight like many physicians so maybe he took his own advice. They talked of inconsequential things. The Lieutenant asked a few questions about his travels on the peninsula. Miss Told kept sneaking glances at her little Ina's ears. The lady's maid had never been beautiful and now her charge had been so twice.

After an hour, the Elf was drained. Dr. Tan asked, "Forgive my professional curiosity but how long will it take for you to fully recover, Nag Kath?

"Does it show? Yes, I fear so. This was harder than most shocks I've taken, but I should be myself in two or three days."

~o~

It could be said that every action we take determines all of the ones that follow, but some are easily identified as nexus points. The next sequence of events changed the fates of many.

Tolanger Brittanal and Petrandal came looking for Nag Kath in the main room. Petrandal approached, bowed and said, "Excuse me, my Lady. I wanted to tell Dr. Kath that the same horse he rode here will be ready for him tomorrow morning." Looking to the Elf, he added, "And thank you for your gift to our house."

The Princess wondered that he had to leave so soon, "Well said trooper, I thank you for your concern. And you, Sergeant, I haven't thanked you and your cousin properly for bringing me this lovely man. I am deeply grateful."

Brittanal almost blushed at such a high compliment and managed to say, "Thank you, My Lady. You gave us quite a scare. Welcome back." He bowed and began to leave but then looked at the sleepy Elf and added, "And thank you, sir. May the wind be to your back on your way to Rohan." Another bow and the two men walked toward the corridor.

Princess Inariel had been trained by her mother not to let her face betray bad tidings, but notice that Nag Kath would leave tomorrow and that he was going to the Mark? She had to think about this. Nag Kath stretched while rising and said, "My Lady, new friends of Alas Forten, my bed calls. I will see you soon." With a deep bow he trudged upstairs.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

On only her second night as an Elf she could easily see by the light of a half moon. And oh so quiet, barefoot, like her mother who no one else heard coming. Inariel knew. Perhaps a glimpse into what she would become.

Inariel silently closed the Elf's door behind her. Lifting his nightshirt, she gently sat astride his waist. Normally he could not be approached in stealth but he was still weak as a kitten. He woke and tried to rise with a 'Mumph' before the Princess pushed his shoulders back on the pillow and put her finger to her lips.

~o~

Not long afterwards, he sighed, "I must be in heaven."

She pulled her head from his chest and murmured, "I have wanted to do that for so long."

"Mmmmmm, I hope it was worth the wait."

With barely a breath she whispered, "Oh yes." Then she sat up on him and bit her lip slightly before saying, "Please, you must not think me wicked or wanton. It has been so long, and I have been so alone. I felt my life slipping away." Nag Kath thought she might cry. "And then you were suddenly here and I feel so alive."

He told her, "You have given me a gift beyond price." With a little smile, "Though it was unexpected."

"I don't blame you. After I …"

"Shhh, remember, we are starting fresh."

She confessed, "I had a terrible crush on you."

"Crush?"

"Girls who are desperately infatuated by young men can never say what they feel. So they usually say nothing or something wrong."

"Then I am flattered. Mmmmm, I wish I had known."

Her beautiful face became serious again. "But now I learn that you must go far away, perhaps never to return. This was my only chance. Please forgive me for taking it." Tears were starting to fall now. She had never forgotten the handsome knight off to slay dark lords, slain himself in service to their family. "Must you go?"

"Yes ... but not very far."

That brought her up short. "Not … Rohan?"

"Nargond. It's a little town …"

"I know where Nargond is."

"Ah, well, your men came for me so urgently that I left my patients and all my things there. My horse is probably still in Zevalth. And I MUST rescue poor A'mash."

It could not have taken her longer to say, "A'mash?"

"My mule. He will be missing me terribly. You will like A'mash." Then he broke into his most Nag Kath-ish grin.

The tears were gone. She glowed with an all too human smile, "Oh, you are terrible!" After a moment, "And what are your plans after leaving Nargond?"

"Hmmm, after I am sure my charges are healing, I was thinking of going to the Autumn Festival in Osgiliath. I haven't been in a few years and there is so much to see. But … I could be talked out of it."

"Do you mean you might want to, to be with me?"

"More than I can say."

Inariel laid her head back on the Elf's chest and murmured, "How long must you be gone?"

"Two days to get there. We came in one, but that was riding hard with a change of horses. Two days in town and two back. Call it a week if there's weather."

She pulled her head up so they were almost nose to nose, "I will miss you every moment you're away."

"You will come with me, of course."

She sat up again, "What, no, I have to … I have so much to do here."

"Oh, I don't know. You were asleep for three weeks and your people performed admirably." His face became more serious. "It is perfect. We can be alone. We can talk. There is a pretty little inn in Zevalth near a waterfall. You can see how I live. You might not even like me. By the time we reach Nargond, you might send me packing to the Autumn Festival with poor A'mash!"

She giggled. "I will come with you. Must we leave very early?"

"No. Six hour ride tomorrow. Five the next. I should think after a late breakfast. You might want to dress plainly."

"Well since we don't have to rise early …" her hand reached for him.

"Oh no you don't. I have to recover my Elvish spirit, not share it with beautiful, desirable, hungry, uhm, did I say beautiful, Elvish Princesses."

Rising as if on air, "I will see you then."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Her advisors ranged from concerned to aghast, except Miss Told. They thought she would be more distraught than any of them but she just smiled and said to have a good time. Miss Told had no affiliation with the fiefdom. She wasn't concerned with propriety. If this was the same Nag Kath who could slay trolls while invisible, the Princess was reasonably safe. She just knew that her little Ina was alive and going on a short pleasure trip with the handsome Lord who kissed her awake, just like in the stories. It was romantic.

The Princess laid down the law. She was going. Everyone there was to do their job and do it well until she returned. By the time Nag Kath wandered downstairs, everyone was smiling along with Miss Told.

At breakfast, Inariel appeared in a modest riding outfit. She had taken his suggestion to travel light. Her chestnut gelding still had a fair-sized bag behind the saddle but Nag Kath remembered hearing her wedding train was three wagons. Even more modest; Nag Kath's riding clothes had been laundered and his medical kit was tied to the saddlebag.

Trooper Stepick Brittanal stood at attention holding the reins to Nag Kath's horse. The Elf walked over and made a show of inspecting the belly strap while softly saying, "Slip a small horn in my bag. If you hear it, come running." He knew they would have men following and now they knew he knew.

~o~

It was a pretty day. The leaves were changing. The couple's pace gave their mounts plenty of time to rest. Cook packed a veritable feast for their midday snack. As her Ladyship discovered, Nag Kath did not eat much and never meat. She didn't eat hers to respect his sensibilities and did not miss it as much as she thought.

A few hours before sundown they reached Zevalth. This high; the trees were exploding with color. The village could not have had more than eighty families, most of whom earned their living serving tourists coming up from the lake region for the air and mineral springs. Physicians often told patients to soak their cares away.

There were several inns. Unusually, they had small cabins for each guest rather than a larger building for all of them. It was more private for those here discretely and also let folk visit the mineral pools on their own schedule. Nag Kath and Inariel stopped at the central stable. With a whistle, Eliesse came trotting from the far side and whinnied. The Princess gushed, "Oh Nag Kath, she's lovely."

"She's one of yours. I think from the Rohan stock King Eomer gave your father." Inariel had nothing else to say and smiled with her eyes at this kind man. They checked into one of the inns and went to the mineral baths before a delicious trout dinner.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Ladies of high station were expected to marry and produce their husband's heirs. Pleasure was optional, and not well explained. Inariel had learned to enjoy intimacy with the Lord when he was home, but it was brief and only in the most conventional manner. Nag Kath suspected as much by her urgency the night before. Tonight they took a very long time. The next day the Princess was thoroughly distracted at breakfast, which he thoroughly enjoyed. A pleasant ride in fair weather brought them to Nag Kath's inn bathed in sunlight. Now on Eliesse, he wondered if the Lady's men would take their horse home.

There was some risk the Princess would be recognized. She had only been here once, traveling in state, but she looked just like she did then. The greater chance was that someone from Dol Amroth would be berthed here. Elves were so rare now that everyone would see the Elf, not the Lady. For the first time as an adult she wore one of her mother's hair circlets.

The innkeeper's son who made coppers running errands for guests was on the stoop when they arrived. He quickly ran down to them, bowed and said, "Welcome back to the Dor-en-Ernil, Dr. Kath. Hope you had a pleasant trip."

"Thank you, Tevin. Is it too late for lunch?"

"I'll see what cook can manage." He took Inariel's bag and hefted it inside. Nag Kath followed with his satchel.

Cook managed a crusty pie with vegetables, cheese and chicken. Nag Kath avoided the chicken but all else was good. He was pleased to see that country fare suited her Ladyship, judging by the damage she did hers. They went upstairs to his room. Her bags were on a stand and well away from the bag he left behind. Princess Inariel walked to the bed and was put in mind of last night. With a dreamy smile she wandered towards his bag but then stopped, unable to remember why she had gone that way. Back at the bed, she did not even remember she had forgotten.

Nag Kath watched quietly. Sitting next to her he looked in her eyes and said, "Natosch."

She felt no different and laughed saying, "Whatever is that?"

"Do you remember walking over to my bag?"

She shook her head, "No, I came in and sat down."

"I just released you from a spell of confusion I placed on that bag. Anyone who comes near it will forget why they are there."

"No, I'm sure I came in and sat down."

Nag Kath said evenly, "I thought in your new form it might not affect you but, I confess, I waited to see. It is one of my better spells."

She did not doubt him. She had scolded him as a girl and assumed he was the insouciant traveler he cultivated. But she learned later this was a powerful creature with strengths of men, Elves and wizards.

"We should check on grouchy Mrs. Londreg and then have a care for poor Mr. Cuumbs."

~o~

Nag Kath had Tevin water the horses but leave them outside. He tied his medical kit to the back of his saddle and they rode a little further towards town before turning right down a farm lane.

His patient had done exactly as he said. She was sitting on the porch with her leg in the splint resting on a pillow. To the dismay of respectable neighbors, she was smoking a small clay pipe with northern leaf. "Hello, Nag Kath!"

"Hello, Mrs. Londreg. It is a fair day."

"Not when you're trussed-up like a chicken. When can I walk again?"

Nag Kath took his kit and a small parcel Tevin handed him at the inn. They walked up on the porch. "Same as I told you last, at least another three weeks. You cracked it again for not doing that the first time."

"I know, I know. Who's this? She's too pretty for around here!"

"This is …" They hadn't talked about traveling incognito.

Her Ladyship took charge, "I am Inara. Pleased to meet you."

Nag Kath unwrapped his parcel and placed a stout bottle with a cork stopper on the table next to his patient.

"Oh bless you, Dr. Kath! I take back most of the things I said!"

He put on his doctor face and pronounced, "All right. Let's have a look." Gently unwrapping the cloth around the wooden slats exposed the long sock just over her knee. He slowly rolled that down towards her foot and looked at the break. The bruising and swelling was down as much as it should be. Nag Kath took a similar length of cloth from his kit bag and rewrapped her leg just as it had been.

"Well, Mrs. Londreg. It looks like you will live another day. When you can move in another month …"

"Three weeks! Already been one."

"In a month, be sure not to favor it so it gets weaker than your left leg." He went back to his Nag Kath smile, "You are going to be just fine."

He and Inariel rose and climbed on their horses as the old lady relit her pipe.

He proclaimed, "Come! Time for more introductions!"

~o~

Like Zevalth and many towns in Belfalas, there was a common paddock to serve the immediate area. They rode there and dismounted. Nag Kath quietly untied his saddlebag flap and got a handful of oats. Then he honked through his nose. Almost instantly, a gray jack mule hurried around the stall wall and ran to them. Nag Kath poured the oats into Inariel's palm saying, "My Lady, this is A'mash. He is not clever, but he can be bribed."

She cooed, "Oh, aren't you adorable!" A'mash thought so too but his main concern was that tiny handful of grain. Gone in a slurp, he reached his muzzle over the railing to touch noses. He wasn't quite that adorable but she rubbed his ear.

Nag Kath told him, "I'll wager you thought I'd left you forever! There's a good fellow."

As soon as Tevin saw them arrive at the paddock, he ran from the inn with a gaunt young woman. The lad huffed, "Dr. Kath, this is Enideth and she's powerful worried."

The woman was fretful but waited until she was introduced. "Dr. Kath, bless me, you are here! My mistress is in labor too soon and the babe has not turned. Mrs. Quarrles is in town with another birth. Oh, can you please help her?"

"Of course." He and Inariel climbed on their horses, Nag Kath offered the woman his hand to pull her up. She looked like he must have when he had to ride Vandery all those years ago.

She said, "Tevin knows the way. I'll be along directly."

With that, Nag Kath hoisted the lad on the front of his saddle and got directions back towards Mrs. Londreg's house but to turn left instead of right. Not a half mile from the inn was a lovely little house of what must be rather prosperous farmers. Most of the crops were in for the year but there were still fall flowers in bloom.

He, Tevin and the Princess hurried up the short steps to the porch and entered without knocking. The farmer, a tall, thin fellow, was standing in an inside door jamb. "You the doc? My wife's in here."

Tevin waited in the main room as the Elves kept going. Inside was a woman in bed on her back writhing and groaning in pain. Next to her was a younger woman who was holding her hand for comfort but crying against the likely outcome. Healer Kath walked up and demanded, "Who are you?"

"Pati, milord."

"Pati, I want a bowl of the cleanest water you can find and some clean towels. Off you go!"

The girl fair sped to the main room and was back with water. The farmer brought in some surprisingly white towels. Nag Kath rinsed his hands and sat on the bed next to the stricken mother. Without any regard for propriety, he lifted her smock and put both hands on the woman's abdomen. She was weak after hours of labor but still moaned in alarm seeing him and from the firm pressure he applied.

His hands slowly shone a dull silver. Under them the woman's belly had a faint yellow tinge. Slowly, a slight movement inside her followed his right hand like a spoon tracking a load-stone under parchment. His face was a picture in concentration. The woman grimaced as Pati wiped her brow with one of the towels.

The Elf seemed to be making progress. Then he looked to Inariel who had been standing quietly and said, "The baby's almost turned. I need you to bring it forth." He shifted around to the woman's head and put his hands on her temples and jaw, just as he did for the Princess only a few days before.

Princess Inariel Elessar, once a spoiled child, was a woman now and the daughter of Elessar, King of Gondor. His strength showed through her. She removed her jacket, untied her cuffs and rolled the sleeves back to her elbows. Rinsing her hands, she went to the foot of the bed and waited. Nag Kath was reducing the woman's pain enough for her to force the child from her very soon. Sure enough, a tiny head appeared. The royal midwife gently received it as its mother strained with new energy. Shortly after, her Highness was holding a perfect baby girl.

~o~

No one expected what came next. Inariel's bare arms emitted a deep orange glow that traveled through her hands and illuminated the newborn. It caused the babe no distress and was over in a few seconds. Everyone saw it. Pati cut and tied the cord. Then the Princess kissed the babe's forehead and put her in her mother's waiting arms.

The mother seemed to be fine. She would hurt like never before when the pain spell weakened but there was no continued bleeding and her face had returned to what must be a Rohan red to match her hair. The Elves walked into the main room followed by the proud father to find Enideth sitting at the kitchen table with Tevin.

Nag Kath said to the man, "She had a very difficult delivery but it seems all is well now. Was this her first?"

"Aye. And a long time comin'."

"No strain or heavy lifting. Treat her like a Princess." He didn't notice his stock, doctor phrase said in the presence of a Princess. "I would like to come back tomorrow morning to check on them both."

"That glow, is the babe sound?"

"Just a little Elvish spell. She is fine."

The man grinned from ear-to-ear, "I can't thank you enough. You too, miss. You just tell me your charge and I'll get it right now."

Nag Kath put his hand on the man's shoulder, which was almost as high as his own and said, "There is no charge. Love her and care for her and we are doubly blessed. We'll see you in the morning."

~o~

He and Inariel walked off the porch but he took her elbow and led her past the horses towards a small brook. Twenty yards from the house, she felt she would be ill and went ash white. The feeling passed and they continued to the bank.

She wobbled a little but regained her balance and looked at him. As if every next word was a sentence of its own she asked, "Would you mind telling me what just happened?"

"Let's sit you down first." If he hadn't caught her, she would have folded into the grass.

He sat next to her, "I can't be sure but I think we just found out why you recovered so fast, why I nearly died, the lifespan of the new child and a complication in the succession for the crown of Gondor. Where would you like to start?"

She blinked and tried to regain her focus.

He continued, "Very well. I had hoped the spell I used in Alas Forten would replace enough of your Dunedain life spirit with my Elvish to win the day for your mother's people. It did not. It completely replaced your father's line and took all I had. You woke in a day fully healed because you are full-Elven. I am only just now well.

He looked at the brook, "But your father's essence was not dissipated. It remained in your flesh. When you delivered the child, it passed to her. Besides me, was the babe the first person you touched since your transformation?"

Inariel nodded slowly.

"I think you just brought your own sister into the world, in a manner of speaking."

She felt strong enough to ask, "How is that possible? No, wait. What does it mean for the child?"

"Well, I'm still not certain. I think she will look like her parents but may live 200 years. And though not by blood, she became your father's daughter as you became mine, I suppose." There was a thought. "I did not think to unclaimed life spirit, but I had to take the risk to save you and I would do it again every time."

Inariel kept nodding and finally said, "Thank you, I am glad to be here." Then she looked at her hands as if for the first time.

Even with no one else to hear he said quietly, "We should keep this to ourselves. Should your brother's line falter, as happened to the kings before the stewards, I would not be surprised if men would elevate her or her progeny just as Aragorn was raised from far-away Arnor. There are men who would use that to their advantage and others who would do anything to stop it. And now, what of you, my dear? This must all be a terrible shock."

Inariel looked back to the farmhouse and then to him. Offering a wan smile she said, "Life will be interesting with you, Nag Kath. Now I'm hungry again."

He helped her to her feet and they walked back to the horses. Even with her new immortal balance, she was still disoriented and shuffled the whole way holding his hand.

"My Lady, have I told you how magnificent you were?"

"Hmmm?"

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

Nag Kath was prepared to help her on the horse but she swung into the saddle before he expected. She managed to ride fairly well too. It was only getting off that she lost her balance and stumbled backwards into his arms. Tevin had to walk back but a tenner made that very much worth the effort.

The Elf had expected to ask the kitchen to order up more food but the Princess trudged directly upstairs until she paused. Nag Kath carried her from the landing and laid her in bed.

It had taken Nag Kath almost three years to not need sleep, and he still slept when he had extended himself magically. Inariel had come to Elvendom by a much different route. She would have to write her own story. Her Ladyship was a heavy sleeper. Nag Kath undressed her to her undergarments and pulled the covers up around her chin. Then he walked over to the chair near his bag and kept vigil.

It turned out to be just a long cat nap. She woke a little before sunset with her hair in all directions. Were Nag Kath a proper lady's maid, he would have bound it before she retired. The Princess licked her teeth and squinted before sitting up in bed. Seeing him she asked, "Do you show all the girls such a good time?"

"Only royalty."

"Does this happen to you often, Nag Kath?"

"This was a first, but I still surprise myself."

She lay on her side and he joined her with his chest to her back. Tenderly he told her, "I hope you do not send me packing to Osgiliath with A'mash because I am falling hopelessly in love with you."

She rolled over and put her hand on his face. "Let's eat."

~o~

Inariel was dressed in a few minutes and they walked downstairs. With a ten-copper in his pocket, Tevin was waiting by the desk. The other guests carried their own bags so the healer was the man to serve. He walked up to the couple and said, "Beggin' your pardon, Dr. Kath, Miss Inara, but I took the liberty of telling Mr. Cuumbs you'se birthin' farmer Leavon's new girl. He said his palsy is much better and not to come by, unless you want to."

Nag Kath said, "Thank you Tevin." He was of two minds. No matter how many times he told people he did not need payment, a few would decide they were on the mend and avoid the last visit in case he brought a bill. Mr. Cuumbs seemed a likely candidate. With a lovely new patient waiting for dinner, he would take the man at his word.

They were seated immediately. The summer tourists were back in Dol Amroth so the Dor-en-Ernil was winding towards their slow season. You ate what they served here but it was good. The red Odar were running in deeper waters and cook had gotten a few that morning.

When they were alone, Inariel murmured, "You said I was magnificent."

"Yes. I wasn't sure you heard. And you were."

"She is a beautiful baby. They all are. Do you have children, Nag Kath?"

"I never had a child of my blood, but I have been a stepfather a few times. They told me I was good at it. I like children, though I do not know that I can have them."

She looked at the fine porcelain wine cup and said, "I was too stunned to say anything when you told me about the orange glow. Now that I have slept on it, I like the idea that part of my father survived. He was the greatest of men. My brother has three children. Millicend has two. Two of those five are boys with grandsons now too. Dorthans and I tried but it was not to be. We took it well. Now, perhaps, well, I don't know."

Nag Kath had been mulling this since he saw the glow and thought he should fill some gaps. "I have so much to tell you. Perhaps I should start with the color. I was given a gift as a healer to see that different races have their own life colors. Elves are silver. Men are yellow. Dwarves red. Orcs are a greenish black. I am not sure but I think the orange is Dunedain, a strong yellow for a strong race of men. That was the color I saw go to the babe."

Inariel looked concerned, "And she will be fine?"

"I think so. She took it well. We will have a closer look tomorrow. Apart from that; today we learned you are a healer. That child came to you very easily. Your grandfather was a legend among healers and your mother had gifts there too. Your father had the healing hands of the King. By blood, you may be the greatest healer Middle-Earth has ever known. Someday you will put poor me to shame."

"You said you were falling in love with me."

"Already fallen."

The Princess calculated, "Good, then you are exactly where I want you." Changing the topic slightly, "I think Auntie Inara and Uncle Nag should visit the child every few years."

"That occurred to me."

They said nothing for a few minutes. Then she rose without a word and took him by the hand towards the staircase. Seeing their serving woman he asked Inara, "Would you excuse me a moment?" and walked over to her. A moment later he was back.

Inariel said, "Thank you for thinking of them. They are good, loyal men out there in the bushes, thought I think Stepick does not like fish."

Nag Kath grinned, "My Lady's hearing is much improved."

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~

They woke early. Princess Inariel liked to sleep-in but the Elf in her was emerging and they usually greet the dawn. He held her chastely while she slept. After a light breakfast, they walked from the inn to the farmhouse.

Mr. Leaven was splitting wood out front. He saw the couple coming and shouted, "Good morning!" Sinking the axe into the stump, he walked forward to shake hands. "I'm sorry, we weren't rightly introduced. I am Delthandir Leaven."

The Princess said, "This is Nag Kath and I am Inara."

Nag Kath added, "That sounds like a northern name."

Mr. Leaven wiped his brow with a handkerchief and said, "Yep. There is some history there." He started walking back towards the house. Over his shoulder he asked, "I don't care much for tea but Enedith just made it hot. Want some?"

Nag Kath answered, "Yes, thank you. But first I should check on the missus and your new daughter. Forgive me, what is your wife's name?"

"Beksa. It's short for something pretty long. It will serve. Come in."

Enedith was in the kitchen and curtsied when the couple walked inside. She was a hired woman who lived in a small room on the other side of the home from the Leaven's bedroom. Pati walked from where she had been tending Bekas and curtsied as well. They would later find she was a cousin of some sort who arrived after a young buck took advantage and then dishonored their betrothal by leaving on another man's horse. Pati was a comely young woman, on the short side with flaxen hair. Nag Kath thought her fiancé a fool. Pati worked for room and board, thought that was thought to be temporary. The Elvish couple did not know if they afford a nursemaid but Mrs. Leaven preferred to nourish the child herself.

Beksa Leaven was sitting in bed suckling her daughter. She was much recovered, thought still weak. "Please excuse me for not rising."

Inariel smiled and said, "That is understandable. How are you today?"

"A bit sore, but I'll be fit soon enough."

Nag Kath took charge, "With your permission, ma'am. I would like to make sure you and the child are fine." Mrs. Leaven nodded. Inariel held the baby as Nag Kath felt the mother's pulse, forehead and felt points in her neck. He asked some personal questions. Satisfied that she was on the mend, he turned to his Lady's bundle and said, "Now, let's have a look at you."

Laying the child on the bed, he unwrapped her swaddling clothes and felt her life-signs thoroughly. The girl could not see but was aware and voiced no complaint. Nag Kath covered her and handed her to her father who had been standing by. He seemed delighted. Pati brought the tea.

Nag Kath told them both, "I am glad we came in time. Have you thought of a name?"

Farmer Leaven looked at his wife and said, "These are Nag Kaff and Inara. I think Inara is a fine name." Beksa agreed with a smile and it was done.

The Princess blushed as much as an Elf can, "I am greatly honored. This was the first child I have helped into the world. Would you mind terribly if Uncle Nag and Auntie Inara come to visit her every so often? It would mean a great deal to us." Nag Kath could not have scripted that any better. This Princess would be a force in her new form. He looked at her proudly knowing he made the right decision. They said their goodbyes and walked hand-in-hand back to the inn.

There wasn't any reason to stay. Nag Kath had been most concerned about Mr. Cuumbs who said he was healed. Mrs. Londreg had her bottle of barley wine and the baby was fine. Nag Kath paid at the inn with a few extra coppers for Tevin and they were on their way.

~o~

After a chaste night of letting Inariel rest, Nag Kath had some ideas for Zevalth. So did Her Ladyship.

~o~

~o~o~o~

~o~