Chapter 63
Harvién
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They packed light. There was a large supply of Lembas, carefully wrapped and stowed in the small compartment. Nag Kath brought a number of his drawings and papers stored in the leather art tubes that had served him so well. They had clothes and slickers against the weather. No courtly apparel was included. Nag Kath brought about one hundred fifty diamonds and a hundred Florin in gold. The rest were left with family and friends where they would matter. Neither of them knew what to expect. This had been a one-way trip for everyone except Cirdan's crew and they left no notes behind. After clearing the point sheltering Dol Amroth; Nag Kath said, "Well, my dear, now we follow your nose."
"What nonsense is that, husband?"
"You are the one called. I am only hoping to slip in as your servant."
They both grinned. The actual plan had been drawn well before and it was to round the point at Andrast and sail north-northwest as if making for the Grey Havens before veering due west into the deep sea. There was considerable doubt that the hints on the maps would be clear to them.
Least certain was the right of entry. This was not purely a voyage against waves and wind. Powers too great to imagine were said to decide access to the 'straight path'. The Lady Inariel might have a better chance since she was Half-Elven by legitimate and distinguished ancestry, her husband; considerably less so. The decision was made. If they were rebuffed, they would turn back. He would not fall into the sea to increase her chances and let her die in grief like her mother.
The Belegaer was the same as usual; choppy this time of year with swells from the northwest. Further from shore, waves rolled more than they broke so it was simply a matter of holding the prow into the surge and tacking to keep the direction. In the first three weeks they got several nasty soakings.
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The voyagers did not stop at Harlond. Supplies were sufficient. Rain had filled the barrel. It was time to go past the sight of land. Wind was mostly against. It would not have been possible for men needing sleep. Nag Kath and Inariel alternated in wakeful rest when it was calm but that is difficult on a rocking boat. Three days after the turn they headed into a winter storm. Swells came over the bow and they were glad of having had a deck put over the hull with gunwale ports to shed the water.
The sea calmed to its normal patterns and they tacked in tight zigzags towards familiar stars for another week. One surface current formed a pattern similar to the map for two days but then the waters got calmer as they entered thick mist. What wind there was helped. For three days they drifted west. If large swells were coming, they would not know in time. The stars were gone as well. Then the wind died altogether. For two days, in water no rougher than Lake Nennûrad, they went nowhere and hoped, wondering if the Valar or their servants were considering their petition. There was also the chance that there were no eyes on this part of the sea. Everyone coming should already be here.
On the third day, they took a risk. Nag Kath had never tried a spell for wind but he thought he had some of the skills on water so he borrowed a page from his old da Saruman and summoned a westerly breeze. Compared to the weather called by the powerful wizard it was a mere zephyr, but the boat started to move. Inariel unfurled full sail and they started forward listening to the little waves lapping against the hull. It was still another two days not being able to see more than fifty paces to any side or up but then they broke into bright sun and beheld the coast Nag Kath saw in Galadriel's mirror.
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From here, the boat was guided in a current towards a fair harbor quite like the Grey Havens. It was huge and splendid, though in a much smaller bay. The Daisy coasted towards a small wharf guided by unerring current and gently bumped the dock. Two Elves came from a building on the land-side of the pier and watched them tie Daisy to the cleats. The Kath's saw them walk over and one said in Sindarin, "Good day. Are you just in from Eldamar?"
Nag Kath replied, "Nay, sir. We are come from Middle-earth."
They looked at each other for a long moment and said, "A long trip on uncertain seas, sir, ma'am."
Inariel smiled a lovely Elf smile and agreed, "We have been some time coming but do not know where we are."
"This is the port of Alqualondë, young lady. This is most unusual. How are you here now?"
"My husband and I are just now called to the Undying Lands."
The second Elf saw no difficulty and said, "It was the custom of those arriving to go where their people live. Do you seek someone in particular?"
The Princess replied, "I am of Lord Elrond's house. Does he live nearby?"
"He lives in the foothills of Eldamar, about two hundred leagues south."
Nag Kath asked, "Forgive us, sir. We are quite young by your count of years. Who are the people of your fair city?"
The first Elf answered, "We are mostly of the Teleri under the lordship of King Olwë." People started coming from other buildings to look from a respectful distance. He continued, "Though, there are many bloods to be found in all of Aman."
Remembering the traditions of western sailors, Nag Kath asked, "May we disembark, sir?"
The second Elf said, "Oh, yes, certainly. Come, we should see the harbormaster."
~o~
Nag Kath and Inariel hopped off the boat and were glad to stretch their legs on stable ground. The two harbor men bracketed them on the short walk, passing several other boats or small ships moored closer to land. On the way, Inariel asked if this port served vessels of their own coast. Elf Two said, "Yes, but most Teleri are near the Calacirya River mouth where they are protected by the Isle of Erresëa to our southeast.
Five minutes later, they entered a pleasant building that would be dangerously close to the waterline in Middle-earth. It did not seem the worse for surges. At a small desk was an Elf who looked a bit like Nag Kath. Their second greeter walked over for a word and the Quendu rose to meet them saying, "Fingaron says you are just docked from Middle-earth."
Nag Kath replied, "Yes, sir. A long voyage."
"Are you alone?"
Inariel answered, "It is just the two of us. No other craft follow."
The harbormaster was here to see to safe dockage and transport. They seemed safe enough. There were no protocols about stragglers coming in from the east. They got here so the powers that allow such things would have given their blessing. The couple introduced themselves by name only and repeated that they would seek the lands of Lord Elrond. The relationship of the Princess was not asked or revealed.
That was by design. The Princess has royal blood of all three original Elvish clans in her veins, including the Teleri through both King Olwë and his brother King Thingol in Middle-earth. They had not always gotten along with each other or the Ñoldorin, though the bloodlines were quite tangled. Almost all of her royalty came from those born in Middle-earth and that might not count for much here either. The plan was to find her maternal grandfather who Gandalf said was a reasonable sort.
Being helpful, the harbormaster said, "That is a fair distance. You could sail most of it but his realm is inland. Have you given any thought how you will travel?"
Nag Kath admitted, "Nay, we had no idea what to expect. Your welcome has been most gracious. I suppose we will seek lodging for the night and perhaps you can direct us where we can purchase horses."
Harbormaster Tenguil thought a moment, not knowing if these castaways had any money or not and decided to send them to a modest inn where their purse would be discussed by the innkeeper. He said, "If you walk up the lane towards the tower, there are rooms at the White Jewel. They can tell you where to find mounts."
Nag Kath asked, "Can we moor our boat and things here for a time?"
"Of course. Just come get them when you are settled. What will you do with the boat?"
Inariel said, "It has served us well. When we leave, perhaps you could find a use for it."
The Harbormaster had not seen it but any craft capable of getting here was worth something. It would find a home. Thanked for graciousness both ways, the Kaths returned to the boat to get their essential bags and walked up to the White Jewel.
Elf two from the wharf observed, "Strange accents for both of them. They look familiar too, in different ways."
The first said, "Two more Ñoldorin, methinks. They had best go no further south than the other banished."
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The inn was different than they were used to as well. In western Middle-earth, inns are generally the second or higher stories over a tavern. The denizens of the tavern defined the quality of the inn. Here there was a respectable dining area with no one present and rooms went back or up. They approached a desk and were greeted by what back home would be a pretty young lady. She might be two thousand years old. The Quenda asked, "Good afternoon, how may we help?"
Nag Kath said, "We would like a room for the night and dinner, possibly a longer stay."
"She had no booking page. Just from knowing she said, "I have two rooms upstairs. The charge is two Delsui."
Nobody said anything about money. Even Easterlings took gold and silver Numenorean coins. Nag Kath said, "We have money of the east." He laid out two silvers.
She looked for a moment and said, "Another of those will serve." She got it and took them up the staircase to the third floor. It was small but had a window and smelled like it had never been dirty. Come to that, they hadn't smelled anything bad, even at low tide.
There were no bells. Elves know when to eat. They wandered back down at what seemed like dinnertime and were seated for a meal of fish, grain and altogether new greens. Tea came with it. Wine was extra.
So far, so good. No trolls had exploded out of pits to reclaim their brother orc. Inariel felt fine, so fine they tested the other guests' hearing after long, unromantic confinement on their tiny boat. The bed was very small too but there were comfortable chairs for rest afterwards, if they were so inclined.
~o~
After breaking their fast, both of them determined that porridge was what everyone ate in this world and any other worlds unknown to them. One could add honey from a small pot on the table. There was tea and also unique fruits that seemed very fresh in winter. At the desk, an Elf with rather shorter hair was on duty and Nag Kath asked him where they might buy horses. That was not a usual question but the nearest stable was several hundred paces further south and inland about that far. The Elf did not have the usual fawning smile of a concierge looking for a tip. Risking offense, Nag Kath put a silver on the counter and asked, "Do you see these often, sir?"
In this land, no one had to get close or far and squint. He said, "Every so often from people who came on the Swan Ships after the last war. Three of these are a bit more than two Delsui."
"How about one of these?" He put a nipper on the counter.
The clerk said, "Same as a quarter Fluren."
Nag Kath picked up the gold but left the silver with thanks as they made their way to the stables. Here; differences in doing business were smaller. Men or Elves working with horses have the same wares. The horses here were very nice but Inariel doubted they were any smarter than hers. At a smaller paddock they saw a half dozen promising animals where a Quendu in leathers was loading grain into the trough.
Our Elf asked, "Your pardon, we were told there might be three horses available here for purchase."
Nothing brown was spit between those white teeth but he was a tough horseman, and no error. He replied, "Just the horses?"
Nag Kath said, "We will need two with saddles and tack. The third is for light packs so a pannier saddle for him or her."
The stable boss thought they looked good for the money. The youngster was a strapping fellow with a queer accent. She was a lovely child, his daughter perhaps? They could do business. "Hmmm, let me see. I could let you have that bay, the chestnut and the brown gelding in the corner. Outfitted as you said, make it a Fluren and a half for all."
"That was probably a high offer to be negotiated. Nag Kath countered, "Trade the bay for the dapple and we have an understanding."
That was still a good deal for the stable master. These greenbottoms were not here to haggle. He nodded and said, "Give me an hour to get the pannier."
Nag Kath caught himself before reaching out to shake hands. They bowed and walked back towards the inn for sightseeing. The city was beautiful but seemed a bit sad. It was not as populated as it could be. Buildings back from the water's edge were sometimes empty. This was the site of the great Kinslaying, not that either knew. In Elvish places, the spirit of such things lingers.
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An hour later, they collected their horses. One saddle and tack was fairly new. The other was fairly old. The smaller was the better so that was Inariel's mount. The gelding got the packs. According to directions at the inn, they wanted to go south on the only road and then turn at the mountain pass. On the way out they agreed this would be a splendid place to visit when they had more time, but finding their feet was the first order of business.
It was not as cold as it would be in Middle-earth under the same stars. Here on the main road, there were quite a few travelers. Some had horses, some were on foot and others drove small wagons. Those seemed to be farmers. There were crops still in a few fields too. The Kath's fell in with two merchants who took silver pigs from the mines below Tirion up to Alqualondë for fine smithing.
They traveled with others about half the time for two weeks, always with places to stay and good food that kept getting cheaper as they got away from the Teleri capital. After a few days of that, they realized that many travelers stayed on account, if that was the right phrase, on the business of their Lord or people. Somehow the cost was settled later. Reaching the first gap in the imposing range of mountains that formed the spine of the island, they took the road heading further inland. Folk they met thought them queer but unthreatening.
~o~
Tirion was even larger then Alqualondë. The closest dubious comparison from their world might be Annúminas but with tan stones. There were elements of Khand too. Khand must have gotten them from this lot but Nag Kath had no idea how. If asked, he certainly knew more about the Easterlings than anyone in their world. This was a Ñoldorin city. The Princess had considerable of their blood. Nag Kath's was unmentionable but they kept both heritages quiet.
The couple took rooms at a very expensive lodge that also bought good answers to their questions. Lord Elrond and his followers were another ten day's hard ride south in the foothills of the Pelóri Mountains which split the entire length of the continent. Tirion was built on the only easy gap to the interior but was seldom used by Elves. The ones who lived there stayed there. That was also where many of the Valar and their servants dwelt.
The north-south road stayed busy. There was an inn at the end of the first day's ride with good hay and oats for hungry mounts. Four days later they passed the tallest mountain, Taniquetil, where the Vala Manwë and Varda were said to live in a magnificent palace in the clouds. It looked bloody cold.
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Two weeks out of Tirion, the scenery offered subtle similarities to Rivendell. It was nothing tangible, more of a feel. The innkeeper at the last stop before Lord Elrond's capital told them exactly where to turn.
This was not a secret place of hidden trails and illusion among the boulders. None of the complex was visible from the road but after only a few miles, ground opened onto the same sort of valley as Imladris. It was the next homely house and took another half bell at a good pace to reach the central courtyard. The way in was farmed fields rather than rock formations. An attendant tied their reins to a guest rail and another said, "Welcome to Harvién."
Nag Kath smiled a polite Elf smile, "Thank you. We have come seeking a few minutes of Lord Elrond's time."
Not many people came here unannounced and those were always known to the Lord's staff. The Quendu said neutrally, "Lord Elrond does not receive unscheduled guests."
Inariel suggested, "We are just here from Middle-earth and have tidings, sir."
That was more unexpected than they were. He told them to wait and loped up two flights of stairs. The complex was different but the main building was a near copy of Rivendell. The attendant walked into the station of the house steward and said, "Good afternoon, Lindir. A couple has just arrived from the north to see Lord Elrond, a young Quendu and a child. They have no appointment."
Linder did not look up and said, "You know the Lord does not receive unannounced guests."
"I do, sir, but they said they had just arrived from Middle-earth. It seemed worth mentioning."
Lindir looked up for that and walked to the window where he could see the courtyard. Turning back to the attendant he nodded slightly, "Thank you. I appreciate your noticing. Young, you say?"
"Quite. He is a strapping fellow. She is very fair. Curious accents."
The Steward considered that a moment and said, "I will let Lord Elrond know. He has told us to keep an ear to news of the east. Wait here."
~o~
Lindir walked up another flight of stairs and gave a slight bow to Elrond Half-Elven, son of Eärendil and of several great houses of Elves and men. Elrond looked up from his desk giving Lindir approval to speak. The steward said, "My Lord, two travelers have come from the direction of Tirion and asked leave to speak with you briefly … they said they are arrived from Middle-earth"
Elrond did the same as Linhir and walked to his window looking down on the travelers waiting by the hitch post. "I do not know them. Middle-earth?"
"I have not spoken to them, My Lord. Should I question them further?"
The Elf Lord shook his head slightly, "No, I am curious now. Please show them up."
~o~
His Steward hurried downstairs and walked to Nag Kath and Inariel with the slightest of bows which they returned more deeply. Linhir said simply, "If you will follow me. I caution you; Lord Elrond does not have much time."
Three flights of stairs would tire many visitors in the east but Elves climb easily. Lindir led them to Elrond who was still looking down on the horses and beyond. The Steward noticed the Lord's hands were behind his back which usually meant he was deep in concentration. Hearing them, the great Lord turned, waiting for their bows.
Nag Kath started, "Thank you for making time to see us My Lord. I am …"
Elrond interrupted, but not abrasively, "You are just come from the east?"
"Yes, sir. We docked in Alqualondë."
The Lord's stare would not rival Inariel's but he did his best when asking, "How many were on the ship?"
Inariel answered, "It was just my husband and me on a small boat, My Lord."
Nag Kath completed the thought, "And we will be the last."
This was not how Elrond thought this would play. He said more sternly, "Who are you?"
Our Elf answered, "I am Nag Kath. You may know of me from Gandalf."
Elrond thought a moment and said, "Yes, I do. We will deal with that presently. And you, child, you look familiar but I am sure we have never met."
"I am your granddaughter Inariel, My Lord." She bowed again.
~o~
The sun shone on him. Yes, a blend of Arwen and Aragorn. In disbelief, he walked to her and put his hands on either side of her face wondering, "How is this possible? I was told you were mortal."
"I was, grandfather." He looked at a ring he had given Arwen. She added, "When I was little I wrapped yarn around the back so it would not fall off."
Her husband added, "It is quite a tale, when you have more time, sir."
All other thoughts banished, the elegant Lord waved his hand to his study table and they sat. Another wave brought Linhir, who was told to see what the kitchen could manage before the evening meal. Then he leaned on the table and queried himself as much as them, "Again, how can this be?"
Inariel turned to Nag Kath who answered, "Agar lhîw caught her in her forty-second year. I only knew it from your own notes. With wizardry I was able to infuse my own line to break the impasse. To my good fortune, I fell in love with the Princess and we have been together since."
Elrond leaned forward, "Wizardry?"
"Yes sir. It was the only way I saw to transfer enough of myself into her. An Elvish draw would have only taken from her and been replaced by the same imbalance."
"Show me."
Nag Kath reached his hand over to Inariel who put her wrist in his palm. He sent a faint silver pulse from his arm to hers and gently kissed her hand when the spell was done. She was healthy so it should have had no real effect but they both felt some transfer.
The Elf master nodded, glad to see his earlier work had value. Then he brought the conversation to the present, "And why come now?"
Inariel replied, "With my change, the call of Valinor was killing me. We think that strengthened father's line to create the impasse. I had to try."
Elrond looked at the large changeling to say, "And you?"
"I have never felt the draw. I came with the one I love. We hope to make a life for ourselves here."
They talked an hour. Lord Elrond's scant education on Nag Kath had primarily come from Gimli. Alas, the Dwarf Lord died ten years before in honor, glad he came. He rested in Legolas' father's lands. Tea became dinner with an equal exchange of information about both worlds. Elrond was especially interested in what Nag Kath had learned about the old enemies and destroying dark remnants. Gimli had already told him about the mithril band.
By the middle of the meal it had not come up so Inariel ventured, "Grandfather, it is always a risk asking about those never seen, but what news of my uncles and grandmother?"
Elrond held his chin for that one before answering, "Elrohir is visiting your great grandmother and father in their home. Elladan planned to return here by the end of the week."
The Lord became graver, "Your grandmother never recovered her grace from torment at the hands of the orcs." A glimpse at the former Uruk-hai got no reaction. "She lives here in her own quarters, attended by caring retainers. I will take you to her when she is receiving."
As rehearsed, Inariel said, "Husband, we should get to our inn before full dark."
Her grand-da proclaimed, "I will not hear of it. You will stay with me."
That was planned too, but the changeling's reception might have gone much differently. Thus far, their luck was holding.
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The next morning as Lord Elrond finished what he postponed from the day before; the young couple was invited to explore the home amid curious glances from the household staff. The home and estate were like a huge Alas Forten. Ground was farmed communally, bounty was distributed and people knew their jobs. Warming her heart, two children of the homely house were fascinated by the newcomers.
Nag Kath had a task to perform alone. In a meadow towards the farms were three small headstones in Hobbit fashion. Nag Kath walked over, head bowed, and read the inscriptions. Bilbo died only a few years after arriving. That was expected. Frodo died at the age of seventy-six, young for a Halfling but not one who had been stabbed by a Morgul blade. The changeling took a measure of pride in having ended its former owner's legacy. Sam made it another twelve years after he arrived. Each had been honored. The Elf didn't cry. This wasn't a visit in mourning. He did gaze on the small graves for quite a while. Then he walked towards the stream bank and planted several of his Coloma seeds. They weren't a Hobbit fruit, but the little people loved growing things. One day they would give nutrition and shade for folk who might visit this special place.
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On their second morning here, they broke their fast with Elrond. Before finishing, a retainer approached and whispered in the Lord's ear. Elrond put his napkin on the table and said, "This seems a good time for you to meet your grandmother, Inariel. Both of you; come this way."
He led them down a corridor that hugged the hillside with windows looking over the fields. That let onto an exterior staircase that gradually worked down to a building set apart from the main home. A chambermaid opened the door and the three passed inside.
After another turn they came to a very large room that seemed to be a complete home with few inside walls and no kitchen. In one corner was a mannish bed with dressers and cabinets. Across from it was a loom and sewing table used for tapestry. Near the entry door was a sitting area to catch the eastern sun through glass windows. The fourth corner was open, as if waiting for the right use.
A lovely woman with long, golden hair was sitting at her dressing table, unaware she had company. Her female retainer, who, in the land where people aged and ate too much would have been a tough old lady's maid, bowed to her Lord and touched her Ladyship's shoulder.
Celebrian slowly rose to greet her guests across the room. They approached her until the two youngsters bowed deeply from twenty feet away. Elrond said rather formally, "Dear wife, I have brought your granddaughter Inariel just come from eastern lands."
The woman gave a vague smile but could not focus. Her husband continued, "And this is Nag Ka …"
Upon seeing him, Celebrían's skin turned gray as she seemed to grow to eight feet tall the way Gandalf did in shadow. She raised her right hand and howled, shooting a spray of power and fire at the three. The blast intended for Nag Kath glanced of his warding spell into Elrond and Inara. Elrond was hit hardest and flung against the far wall next to the door. Inariel took less energy but was still spun ten feet away.
The changeling raised his own hand and put the orc-removal spell on his attacker with all the strength he possessed. Lady Celebrían screamed like a wounded animal as his magic overcame her spent effort. Nag Kath held the spell as he approached her writhing in mid-air. A nauseating black miasma emanated from neck and surrounded her until vanishing into the room. He cautiously got closer and caught her when he ended the spell so she fell into his arms, nearly a repeat of Tanûerv of Thân zîrân.
By now, Inariel was standing and Lord Elrond was limping back. His left arm was broken above the elbow. Nag Kath slipped his charge onto the sewing-table face down pushing the work and implements on the floor. Elrond joined the Kaths and watched as the Elf passed his quill knife over her neck until the blade turned faint blue. The changeling turned to the reddened lady's maid and commanded, "Water, towels." He then turned to Inariel who was pouring a pitcher of tea over her head to douse her smoldering hair, "Dear, can you see if there a yarn-puller in that mess?" The chambermaid found the long tweezers-tool before Inara and set it next to her mistress while the lady's maid brought the basin and towels.
Elrond showed astounding patience watching Nag Kath pass his hands above Celebrían's body making her pale and cold. She showed no pulse or breath. Then he used his quill-knife to cut a small incision in the back of her neck and pulled the flesh apart. The surgeon delicately probed the cut with the knife, searching until he hit something hard. Then he used the tweezers to extract a small, bloody object. It sizzled when he swished it in the basin revealing a gold coin. Nag Kath dropped it in the water along with the tweezers and commanded sternly, "No one touches that!" That done; he passed his hands over the prostrate Lady again, bringing her breath and color back. Inariel finished by applying healing on the wound which sealed almost instantly.
It was only then Nag Kath turned to Elrond asking, "Did you see the black mist surrounding her?
"I did."
"That was a remnant of Morgoth. I have removed it from others just as Sauron was removed from me. It was bound to that nipper."
Inariel squeezed the tea out of her hair and smiled to let him know she was not seriously hurt. Elrond was supporting his bad arm with the good. Nag Kath said, "Sir, I should have a look at that."
"First things first, Mr. Kath."
Nag Kath asked the attendants to help him take their Lady to her bed. Elrond and Inariel followed. The changeling said to the lady's worried husband, "She will sleep for a time. I cannot tell after long years of fear and doubt but, with luck and love, she may be herself again. I will need to test her in a few days."
He smiled at Inariel, "My dear, you were superb." He kissed her red, sooty cheek. "I am a lucky fellow. And now, sir, that arm."
Elrond felt his wife's pulse with the good hand. He was still the senior healer in the room. Celebrían had gone from white to pale. The Lord removed his robe and pulled at his blouse with a wince. Nag Kath sliced the sleeve up to the shoulder and cut it away. The upper bone was broken but not coming through the skin. Elrond never saw his arm stretched and set but the Lord grimaced in pain and surprise. Nag Kath said as if it happened every day, "I will need to splint that."
Inariel took charge, "Let me attend grandfather, husband. See to your other patient."
Elrond allowed his granddaughter to secure and sling his arm but he would not leave Celebrían's bed. Nag Kath and Inariel sat as well allowing the lady's maid to clip and brush the burns out of her hair. Elrond leaned back in the chair and said to the young couple, "Morgoth! Are you sure?"
Nag Kath answered, "A spirit of pure black. Sauron has a green tint. I should imagine in My Lady's torment that cursed coin was placed in her neck. She moved away. Sauron was destroyed. The coin retained enough power to prey on her mind causing grief and confusion." The changeling took her wrist and felt the pulse. "She will wake in another day."
Inariel looked at the maids, "When she wakes, My Lady will feel unclean both inside and out. I suggest a hot bath and a mild purge."
By then, the house was alerted. Lindir sat by Elrond's side. Nag Kath and Inariel stayed the day but returned to the main house for dinner and sleep. He would be tired for a few days. Lord Elrond sat vigil holding his wife's hand, willing it to wake. For six hundred years she had been lost in madness. If the changeling was right and she could come back to him, he would be patient and hopeful.
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At high-night, Lord Elrond of Harvién looked out to the moonlight and thought afar to Celebrían's mother, Galadriel. She should come here. It was important. It was good. Please come.
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Inariel and Nag Kath sat in one of the lovely side gardens waiting for the visitors to arrive. Celebrían was truly meeting her family for the first time in six hundred years. A dozen riders arrived a quarter-bell before. Thinking that would be time enough to reach the main rooms, the Kaths started climbing the stairs when a tall figure rounded into the garden from the courtyard and stopped. He had long white hair with no beard. His face was unlined yet not at all young.
Nag Kath looked at the face quite a while before crying, "Gandalf, is it really you?"
The wizard grinned and came for an embrace, "It is, dear boy. It is. I wondered that you might make it here."
The Elf drew away and said, "Gandalf, this is my wife, Inariel Telcontar."
The man drew closer to her for a good look and said, "Yes, yes, I see them both." Then to the couple, "Come, the others are already upstairs."
There would be no mistaking the four people standing in the main room. Two were warriors, lightly armored despite the peace. Another Elf was nearly as tall as Nag Kath with silver hair and penetrating gray eyes. The fourth was a vision of grace with long blonde hair. As they approached, Gandalf deputized as host proclaiming, "Friends, allow me to introduce my old student Nag Kath and this lovely woman is Inariel. Inariel, these are your great grandparents and your uncles."
Galadriel approached and put her hands on either side of Inariel's face as Elrond had saying, "I never saw this, not once. We must become great friends." She smiled at Nag Kath knowing the story was coming. Celeborn and his grandsons gathered around moments later to greet them. Twin Elrohir said with joy, "Father was right to send us these superb tidings!"
With gravity beyond her tender years, Inariel countered, "Thank you uncle, we are but a line in the pageant unfolding." With that she cast her gaze up the stairs where Elrond was leading his Lady Wife, hand held high in the old-style. She was radiant and steady on her feet.
Elves would tell you they are never stunned, but the family and Orórin were slack-jawed nonetheless. They quickly gathered for a larger, longer scrum, leaving Gandalf and Nag Kath watching. The wizard asked softly, "This is your doing?"
"Umhumm."
Elrond stepped back and said, "Let us go to the reception room where some of your questions can be answered." Galadriel glanced at Nag Kath again more intensely. The party trooped down the hall where chairs had been arranged in something of a circle. The Lord and Lady of the house took the head and everyone else sorted themselves, still talking excitedly until Elrond cleared his throat loudly enough for attention. "Thank you all for coming so far so fast. There are two sets of tidings today, both good. I have asked Nag Kath to start since he has a hand in both."
~o~
This was planned in advance to make order of such a volume of information. As he always did, the Elf started slowly and softly, "Thank you, My Lord. I suspect you all know something of me from Gandalf so I will be brief."
Orórin interrupted, "And stories from Gimli as well!"
Nag Kath said mostly to himself, "Ah, dear Gimli, I wish he was here too." Then louder to the group, "I started life as one of Saruman's Uruks and was changed to the form you see when the One Ring was destroyed. Better minds than mine are not sure how, but I also inherited some of Saruman's sorcery. Gandalf saw that early on."
Gandalf, Nag Kath would have to remember he was Orórin here, chuckled and added, "Aye, had to take a bit more orc out of him, and none too gently either."
The Elf smiled at him saying, "We will come back to that in a minute. Much of my time in Middle-earth has been spent finding and destroying remnants of the dark ones but I have also been a builder and mostly a healer. Not long ago, I was called to attend a woman who was in dire straits."
Inariel said, "That would be me. I developed Agar lhîw as grandfather described. With sorcery and Elvish medicine, Nag Kath was able to tilt the balance to mother's side. It returned not long ago. My coming here seems to have restored me and I am happy to meet all of you."
Nag Kath beamed, "As luck would have it, we fell in love and have been together fourteen years."
"Fifteen."
"Fifteen years."
The group had not expected magic. Celeborn ventured, "Why did you come here now, child?"
Inariel replied, "With my changing, the draw of the Undying Lands was killing me. We loved our home and families but I would not have survived another attack."
Elrohir asked, "And your ship had no trouble with the shoals and tides?"
Nag Kath answered, "We saw rough seas for two weeks but then dead calm in heavy mist, as if waiting in judgment. I borrowed some of Middle-earth's air to nudge us into the light of Alqualondë."
Elrond took command, "They arrived here and I am very glad they did." He looked at his wife who seemed serene even knowing how her story would unfold. "After two days, I took them to meet Inariel's grandmother. Celebrían became a terrible gray specter and threw a bolt of flame and power at us. Inariel and I were thrown to the back wall and singed along with Fillisha and Rohirie. I will let Nag Kath explain."
The changeling looked at the relatives who were gaping again. "I protected myself with a warding spell. When My Lady's power was spent, I hit her with the same spell Gandalf used on me all those many years ago. A second spell brought her nearly to death so I could remove a small coin planted in her neck that held the spirit of Morgoth."
Elrond handed his son Elladan a small iron box with the nipper along with a warning not to touch. Against the solemnity, Nag Kath smiled and said, "That is the bad news. The good news is, My Lady?"
Celebrían was tearing but did not cry, "Yes, the good news is that I am returned to you. It may be some time before I can put the doubts and fears from my mind, but I am … I am back with my family." She managed to smile as well.
Galadriel leaned back in her chair gripping the armrests and murmured softly, "Morgoth!"
The changeling answered, "Yes ma'am. I removed almost the same specter from a young woman in the kingdom of Thân zîrân. If Gimli told you the story of the mithril band, she was possessed the same way."
~o~
Elrohir did not care for orcs, reconstructed or otherwise, and asked tersely, "Why did you take mother near to death?"
Nag Kath held his chin for that, "I believe that coin feeds on living flesh. I did not want it to restore itself, or kill her in defeat, so I took My Lady to the barest signs of life. Then she was given back her vitality and Inariel repaired the incision."
Celeborn asked firmly, "Why did the coin attack?"
"I think it takes one to know one, sir. I showed my Lord Elrond some of the magic of Inara's healing. Residue tends to linger about one for a time, that and I have fought Morgoth and Sauron before. It must have seen me as a threat and defended itself."
Elrond had been waiting to know this since the attack and wanted those present to hear the response, "Nag Kath, you said your powers are not strong and yet you swatted Morgoth like a gnat."
"It was just a residual spirit, a snare forgotten in the forest. The Dwarf ring was like that and Ar-Balkumagân's stone held great power even after he was killed."
Celeborn furrowed his brow in question, "Ar-Balkumagân, the King of Numenor? He was deposed by one of the faithful."
"Aye, sir. He was your Witch-King of Angmar. A powerful sorcerer brought into Sauron's service. Of all the wounds I have taken in my halting career, the only scars I still bear are where the shards of that rock exploded into my shins."
The group talked until Elrond said, "We can discuss until we are famished. Let us take nourishment and continue afterwards."
Inariel interrupted as everyone was standing, "Grandfather, before dinner, Nag Kath and I would like to present gifts we have long held."
Grand-da smiled and nodded. Inara removed the white bag from Nag Kath's satchel and unwrapped the circlet that sat under his stove. Handing it Galadriel she smiled, "I believe this belonged to your sister-in-law, My Lady."
The Elvish Sorceress looked at the Princess for a few moments before examining the tiara. She found Orestë's mark inside the band. Then she put it in her lap and closing her eyes barely saying, "Thank you, my child."
Nag Kath pulled a twisted tan crystal out of his pocket and handed it to Orórin saying, "Radagast became one with his forests. I think he would have wanted you to have this."
Gandalf silently accepted the staff-end, wishing it could light.
Not to be outdone, Inariel took a larger box from Nat Kath's satchel and presented it to Lord Elrond saying, "We thought you might like this for your library. We could not read it, but it is very old."
Elrond opened the case and froze. Nag Kath added, "The Elf-keepers thought it was a failed language for the Valar to talk to Elves. Not even Logass could make sense of it."
The Lord lowered the case so the others could see. The older Elves and Gandalf were silent. Finally, Celeborn managed, "Children, where did you get this?"
The changeling answered, "There were advantages of being the last in Middle-earth who could smell a troll-hoard."
Questions lasted well into the evening. Finally Nag Kath said, "I can tell you, but showing is better. Will you let me share my story?"
Most heads nodded. The Elf slipped up to their quarters and brought back his large folio. It was less than a quarter of the former size but was still Nag Kath's life history. He sat on the floor and took them through from the beginning. There was Gandalf trying to light the Eregion pipe-weed and Radagast, birds, lovers and wives, Gimli's Cascade, secret lands and flowers. There were eastern retreats and men of those lands, not at all as the firstborn imagined them.
Nag Kath mentioned Orlo as leader of the resistance in Sauron's lands but only as a dream in the cavern of ice. The Elf had a few riddles to solve first. His draft of Aragorn and Arwen was near the bottom of the sheaves. Nag Kath handed it to Lady Celebrían and said, "We would like you to have this."
She closed her eyes and nodded.
After a couple hours everyone had a better understanding of the newest Quendu. Inariel sat by patiently. She had seen these before but the presentation varied with the audience. Inara liked watching the faces.
~o~
~o~o~o~
~o~
The next day the senior Elves and Orórin met privately. Celeborn began gravely, "Tensions have risen greatly with Naitë Mélamar and Farnëmar in just the last year. Merchants have been harassed and some have not returned. Cirdan has the same tidings on the coast. The neutral gardhs (provinces) remain so, but they are wary of their borders as well. Elrohir, can you share your news?"
The twin nodded and said, "Thank you grandfather. The rulers are enflaming their subjects against us, and any who are recently returned from Middle-earth. Those sentiments are strong in the armies and militias as well. Naitë increases its permanent soldiery."
Elrond surmised as much from travelers in this land as well. He looked at Gandalf, "You have different sources, old friend. What do your ears tell you?"
"I have heard the same, but have not been in the south for two years. May I suggest we sent our newest Elf Nag Kath to those places. He has a nose for mischief, especially magical mischief."
None of the lords were comfortable. The changeling had given them a great gift in restoring her Ladyship, but he was fresh off the boat. They were even less comfortable with the mention of magic. Gandalf, Orórin again, being in the area was telling. Galadriel, one of the strongest sorceresses of Elvendom, looked at him and agreed with reservations, "Yes, if you think that is wise. We will benefit from an unbiased view."
Her concurrence was all the others needed. With a show of nods, she continued, "Orórin, please make the arrangements in your own fashion."
~o~
For the next few days, most of the activity was family around the restored Celebrían. Most of those included Inariel with her husband about half the time. That left opportunities for Gandalf and Nag Kath to talk about the latter's checkered career. Gimli had spoken highly of the young Elf but had only heard a fraction of his deeds, mostly as they pertained to Gimli's own extraordinary life. A few days after arriving, Galadriel joined them for a practical discussion of magic. Nag Kath described the difference in summoning powers but the end result in healing was similar. He used wizard-sorcery, primarily, because it was easier to focus and had more applications for the maladies of men like fevers and lung disorders. Orórin saw Elrond walk by and excused himself to join him, leaving the great Sorceress and new Elf alone.
She probed gently, "You were there when Elrond spoke to me, yes?"
He was puzzled for a moment before saying, "No, but I felt it. Voice or meaning I could not tell. Were you speaking from afar?"
"Yes. I never used the stones."
"I am sorry, My Lady, stones?"
Galadriel appraised him and said, "The Palantiri, the seeing stones. Those were of the Numenoreans."
"That is craft unknown to me. There were things that were never shared as I made my way in the world of men, for understandable reasons. Arwen suspected I was Sauron escaped yet again." He brightened, "It was fortunate that Gandalf was able to hear and join us." The tiniest shadow crossed her exquisite face. No one had really explained why Orórin was here for a family reunion. This was not the time or place to ask.
In different combinations, everyone met everyone according to their interests. One group was the Lord and Lady of the house, their sons and the Kath's. Elrohir was reserved near the changeling but Elladan asked heartily, "Back to that nasty nipper, Nag Kath, it was placed in mother's neck?"
"Aye, Elladan. That is where the dark ones mark their property." He showed the little 'six' tattoo on the same place of his neck, the only trace of his former life.
Celebrian wondered, "Indeed, but I was taken long after Morgoth was banished."
Elrond leaned in for this. He had the same question. Nag Kath expanded, "When the mithril band was dented some of his power escaped, passing to a very short list of sorcerers. It kept some alive when the Witch-stone was smashed. I think that the coin might have taken strength. Let us hope we never know."
Elrohir ventured his first comment directly to the changeling, "We found mother in torment with a grave and poisoned wound. Rescue was a terrible fight with the loss of good fellows, but in looking back, we should have died there. It was too easy." He stared at Nag Kath, "Too easy."
That got the first real Elf-Lord comment by the changeling, "Sauron or the Witch-King tried to make her a spy in your house. She moved. The dark ones were destroyed. The coin waited, preying on her mind and spirit, waiting for instruction, waiting for its master."
Elrond said with a tinge of regret, "And My Lady's obvious wounds got all of my attention while I failed to notice the little one."
"Do not think of yourself too meanly, My Lord. It is my habit to blunder in and stir the hornets for lack of a considered plan. I get lucky." He turned to Celebrían, "Ma'am, both of the ladies I helped made full recoveries. There are treatments for ordering your thoughts, some of them learned after I was frozen. I would be glad to show you when you are ready."
She looked at Elrond and they both agreed. Elrohir said gravely, "There is still that filthy coin. We have no Orodruin to melt it."
His father reassured, "We will find a way, my son. Your grandmother will take it with her when she leaves."
As the Elves went inside, Nag Kath took Gandalf to the Hobbit headstones and told him about the division-fruit seeds. They sat in the grass in silence for at least half a bell. The wizard finally said, "Take good care of Celebrían. Curing her ordeal will take time and understanding. What of your other healing Nag Kath?"
"I am not sure old friend. Pulling bog-fevers will not bring many coppers from the immortal. I am good with birthing, though Inariel is better."
Gandalf/Orórin considered that and said, "When you are settled, you should travel south and see the great healers there. I will give you their names and lands."
Nag Kath considered, "Settling is another matter. Let me be sure Inariel does not relapse. Then I will travel. Are the lands below just like the ones above?"
The wizard said, "They are more alike than different. You will see in your own time, my friend." Gandalf left in the morning without saying where he was going.
~o~
~o~o~o~
~o~
Galadriel and Celeborn rode the next day with their escort for their fief directly south of Elrond's, some fifty leagues away. The Kaths got a standing invitation to visit. The twins stayed. They wanted to be close to their mother and had taken a shine to their baby niece.
Inariel was blossoming. She liked being an Elf better than being a Princess, though she was both here. She explored the vast homely house with its nooks and hideaways, often returning with Nag Kath. Lady Celebrían moved into Elrond's quarters, not wanting to be reminded of the room where she spent hundreds of years in confusion. It worked its way into a conversation that perhaps the Kaths should take the isolated space, needing sleep. When one of the household couples entered their joining, they needed more sleep. The young couple stayed close to Harvién for the next four months. Her strength improved well past her original transformation. They celebrated anonymously by staying in the little inn where they got directions to Harvién for dinner and cup of wine.
With her mended, The Elf considered Gandalf's suggestion to go south to meet the great healers. He had already spent considerable time with Elrond gaining insight into the subtleties of medicine. His style had always been to plow into emergencies with force. The Lord used the slightest touch and herbs. They discussed Frodo's wound and battlefield injuries. There was always more to learn.
~o~
As spring beckoned, Nag Kath started fishing with Elladan, though the warrior was more of a hunter. Nag Kath would shoot with him but not at animals. One afternoon trying to outsmart fish, the changeling told him of Gandalf's (Elladan thought of him as Gandalf too) suggestion to visit other noted healers below them. The Quendu replied, "Yes, those are respected names, along with father's. Elrohir and I traveled quite a bit when we arrived. Remember that folk who are more recently arrived are not always esteemed in older gardhs."
Nag Kath teased, "And here I thought everyone was the same."
Elladan took him seriously, "No, when we came from the summoning informs a great deal. Some returned and stayed. They largely live west of the Pelori. There are those who tried to return but could not. Father is of several lines, plus men and Maiar." The young Lord grinned, "The least favored were the Ñoldorin who returned to Middle-earth to recapture the stolen Silmarils causing great bloodshed among their kin. Though she did not bear arms, Grandmother was only just pardoned by the Valar for service in the Ring War."
Gandalf; you trickster!
Nag Kath realized he had been set-up as surely as when Tal connived his introduction to Florice. Wizard or otherwise, the old Maia cleaned messes for the Valar. In his less exalted way, that described Nag Kath's job in Middle-earth. Gandalf saw potential and pressed him into service. The old boy told him in Orthanc that a wizard is always exactly where he intends to be. How did he happen to be on the short road between Galadriel and Elrond and neither of them knew? One thing was certain; he didn't recommend Nag Kath travel south to pull rotten teeth.
The newest Elf should have figured this out himself long before. Those who were here for thousands of years were not waiting for interlopers to share their land any more than the Dorwinrim were tending gardens for Easterlings. The last and most powerful Elvish lords of Middle-earth arrived little more than a century ago, a blink to these people.
Gently pressed, Elladan explained when Galadriel returned with her battle-hardened troops after defending Lorien from orcs, they joined Celeborn's retainers and soon settled unoccupied lands to their east. Meliath of Naitë Mélamar on that border mobilized his much larger but untested militia to push them back into the mountains and got thrashed for his pains.
Elladan's skill was in and he pulled several large trout. When he rose to go, Nag Kath said he wanted to stay a while longer and meditate. The changeling put his chin on his knees and watched him leave. Yes, it was all becoming clearer. He had gone from knowing almost nothing in Middle-earth to knowing more than anyone. Here he had to start again.
Later, Nag Kath told Inariel what he learned and what he guessed. She was very quiet before kissing him gently and saying, "You will not charge off unprepared, my warrior knight. Let us learn what we can. Do these lords do more than complain?"
"Elladan said not often, but they are noisier lately. Perhaps that is Gandalf's interest. He would not bother if all they did was insult each other's parents. That is a touchy subject hereabouts. I will see if there are any maps or histories newer than the Second Age."
Nag Kath looked in the library and asked many questions of the resident scholar. There were no maps but he was able to draw his own from reliable accounts. It was time to ask Elrond.
The Lord listened to the brief report and gave his grandson-in-law a knowing gaze. "I think you are correct. It is not the habit of Elves to spy on one another but we hear from merchants that both Farnëmar and Naitë Mélamar are increasingly hostile to recent arrivals and those who helped them."
Nag Kath asked, "Forgive me but why? There is more than enough land."
Elrond allowed himself a grim smile, "It is not about the land. It is about pedigree. Everyone here has something over the others, usually amounting to little. Lindareth of Farnëmar was of the Ñoldor who did not leave in the Doom and objected to King Finarfin's return. Finarfin is Galadriel's father. Naitë Mélamar splintered from the Teleri in Alqualondë. The two southern fiefs, they would tell you realms, do not like each other very much, but politics makes for strange bedfellows."
The changeling tossed a serious question on the table, "What are their military dispositions, particularly along the borders?"
"Fair to good. Traders have seen militias training. They have far more ohtars than my little gardh and Galadriel and Celeborn's combined. Thranduil to the south still has an army but he is not threatened."
"Is it time to worry, sir?"
Elrond nodded, "Yes."
Nag Kath finished with, "I will speak to Inariel. She is wise beyond her years. If it is right that I should go, I need to know everything, right down to what they eat on their porridge."
~o~
Inariel teased, "Perhaps I should have sent you packing with A'mash." When he didn't notice, she sat next to him and said gently, "Must you leave?"
Nag Kath snapped from his reverie and smiled, "So it seems. I cannot read these people like back home but I think you grand-da was a party to Gandalf's sleight-of-hand. He is worried. If Gandalf is involved, I wonder that there is sorcery in the air. There are not a lot of wizards for hire in these lands. The situation is tailor-made for me."
Inariel leaned her head on his shoulder, "Speaking of tailors, you will need to look the part."
He chuckled, "Yes, Elvish elements at last. I'll need something for high councils and the rest modest wear. An itinerant healer is a good disguise and itinerant portraitist at need. Shultö is too handsome a horse for my station, but I may need his speed."
She pressed, "When?"
"Several weeks at least. First I need to know where these places are and who runs them, and if there are any friends. Legolas referred me to a healer who was actually Lebennin's quiet-man. I will only approach these two after observation."
Inariel wondered, "Will you go alone?"
"Have to … Can't have exiled lordlings hanging about while I try to look humble. I do wish I could take Elladan. He would be tough in a scrap and knows the path."
The first part of Nag Kath's preparation was a visit to the firewood stack. After some rooting he found stout oak fence rail and apoke-shaved it to a serviceable practice sword.
His next trip was to the library. There were no current maps. When everyone is two millennia old, they know the way. Grudgingly forgiven for his ignorance, the archivist helped him improve his map showing the rivers of southern Eldamar and the borders of the different gardhs along with their rulers. The place was big. From here to Thranduil's northern border was fully two hundred leagues. Roads were graded and rivers bridged to shame Middle-earth, but Nag Kath was still on a horse and the good ones go as far and as fast in either land.
The history and personalities were no less confusing than when Gandalf tried to explain this in Orthanc. There were three sets of Elves; those who returned in the Third Age, those who came much sooner and those who didn't care. The recent arrivals, like Elves of every age in Middle-earth, built their strongholds in the mountain forests. Those were maintained in their lords' absence by retainers for thousands of years.
Elrond's neighbor to the east was in the neutral camp and had no trouble with the learned Lord taking the foothills. Galadriel's parents were the Ñoldorin Lords of Tirion but she had lands here with Celeborn who was of the Sindar. Their fief was five times the size of Elrond's. Arriving en masse, her people took loosely-claimed lands to their northeast along the Rainduin (Wandering) River. Deciding that was not in his interests, Meliath of Naitë Mélamar to the east tried to enforce his own feeble claims by mobilizing his militias to push them back to the mountains. What he hadn't realized was that the new citizens were Galadriel's army, freshly off successfully defending Lorien from the orcs of Dol Goldur. They quickly organized and dealt Meliath a humiliating, if not especially bloody lesson on keeping one's forces sharp.
The most curious place on the map was the area separating Meliath's and Galadriel's southern borders. It was also unclaimed, after a fashion. An area roughly the size of Galadriel and Celeborn's fief had been governed by a noble family who fought and died-out thousands of years before. Folk living there did not see the need to replace them. They generally disliked Meliath and spurned his overtures to join his attack, which only smeared salt in Meliath's wounded pride.
Moving south, the land of Farnëmar below the Randuin was ruled by Lindareth, the Ñoldor who did not leave to avenge the Silmarils. He was a conservative Elf of the Light but until lately had not been as vitriolic as the unpopular Teleri Meliath. He also might owe some allegiance to Galadriel's parents as ostensible Lords of the Ñoldorin, but they had disagreed and Lindareth moved south. This far from home, he looked to his realm first.
Another river south were the lands of Thranduil. Those had also been under the stewardship of retainers as his people sailed over to a more southerly port in the Third Age. He arrived with the bulk of his army. No one contested his assumption of lordship so far south of the gap to the west where the Valar and Vanyar Elves lived. His neutral neighbor along the coast had no interest in the foothills. They got along well.
~o~
Nag Kath thought was most interesting fief was at the mouth where the Randuin and Athradduin formed one of the few natural harbors on these smooth coasts. A settlement like Mithlond was governed by Cirdan, the great mariner Elf. He had another above Alqualondë and was welcome most places. Cirdan was one of the oldest and wisest Elves in the world. That said; Meliath and Lindareth did not forgive him for importing all these pestilential refugees from the swamps of Middle-earth.
The next morning, folk were surprised to find the changeling on the east lawn practicing slow swords. Several Elves joined Inariel silently watching as he went through the agonizingly deliberate motions with complete concentration. Nag Kath knew they were there but paid no heed. He was going into the maw. He needed to be a warrior again. Clothes were made. Gold and diamonds were sewn into Nag Kath's rough saddle. He spent time drawing people and memories of the northern cities to leave in his art tube should anyone ask where he was from. Elves who had been to the capitals of the southern Caliquendi (Elves of Light) were asked where to go and where to hide.
Three days later, Elladan and a pair of infantry sergeants reported to slow swords with their beaters. The Elves had similar precision drills that had fallen out of use an age ago. As much as he tried, Elladan could not get Elrohir to join them. Some days, as many as twenty people gathered to discretely watch.
Nag Kath got lessons in seeming to be an Alqualondë Elf. Linhir and one of his aides worked on his posture and demeanor with a brave attempt to cure his unplaceable accent before he left. Nag Kath also spent considerable time with Elrond's chiefs of staff for the cavalry and army. Except for a palace guard, they were all militias now, but hardened soldiers in their former lives.
~o~
~o~o~o~
~o~