Chapter 19
Ring Heroes Fade
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The next Thursday, October 18th in the diary, bells began tolling at sunrise. It took longer than Nag Kath thought but the King was legend. With more notice than for his father before him, ribbons were dyed purple and gray in the traditional colors of royal mourning. Spoiled young women thought it a shame to reserve purple for such dreary affairs but Bard was of the old ways. Usually Northmen buried their dead quickly but the Funeral was set for Sunday because Stonehelm would be attending, in state. Other kingdoms would send representatives for a memorial later. With the northern winter looming, the remembrance would be in mid-spring and the Thainmoot immediately afterwards.
Nag Kath qualified for what was informally called the 'second circle' of funerary protocol. The first was; family, high ministers, generals, had there been any, an assortment of the highest business leaders and such Thains or government representatives who could get here.
The second circle was comprised of; knights and high officers, the next tier of business and civic leaders, higher functionaries and a few folk who just had a lot of money. Brenen and Bard qualified several ways. These people were entitled to come to the funeral and wake afterwards and assorted other events including the coronation to be held at the memorial in spring. A broader third circle could come to the great hall for the funeral and coronation if they would get in. Everyone else could wave from their windows.
The first circle was largely occupied with succession. Bain was a grown man and his father's dying was expected. There was no need to show force as in a coup or against perceived weakness on the borders. Guards pulled double-shifts around the palace walls to keep well-wishers from stealing mementos.
Nag Kath went to the service and proclamation with Brenen and Nedille, Bard and Ros. He saw a number of people he knew but did not greet them. There would be time for that afterwards. Thorin Stonehelm was there with son Thror, Tombor and a few of his court. They nodded in passing. Their procession had arrived to the respect of Daleans the day before. The Dwarf Lord had not been here for twelve years and despite his stern countenance, he was glad to be so well received as a friend of Dale. Thorin met Prince Bain once in Erebor when Bard visited six years ago. The young man was polite and kept his mouth shut, traits Thorin dearly wished on first grandson Tordosh.
The Dwarves ability to stand or sit still served them well this day. Readings, dirges and the calling and answering of kingly observance took at least a bell and a half. Some of the privileged children shifted their weight from one foot to the other hoping to make it to the privy. Bard's father died in battle and did not get the farewell past kings had so this was new ground for all but the ancient. When the Magister finally closed the book, a sea of folk flooded out the main doors. Most of the first circle used private doors nearer the dais. The second circle was now invited to the reception hall which meant walking outside in a drizzle to the other end of the great hall. A ribbon on their coats got the five of them inside with only a cursory bow.
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That still put the Kathen team at the back of the reception line so they got a cup of warm, sweet wine before taking their place for condolences, handing the empty cups to attendants before reaching the bereaved. Nag Kath was in front of the five. Brenen and Bard knew the new King from militia practice but had never met the dowager Queen. King Bain was seated on the throne. The consort throne was empty, with a sizeable contingent of ladies wishing their backside was warming it. The Queen was now in a comfortable chair flanked by her daughters.
The line came to within about ten feet of the stepped dais as people nodded and received acknowledgment. With only a family of merchants to go, Queen Delatha saw Nag Kath and stood with a ladylike stretch. She had sat through this, the funeral and several meetings beforehand and it was time to unkink her back. Walking forward to greet the traders personally, she waited for Nag Kath and his family on the lip of the riser.
"Thank you for coming, Lord Kath."
"It is my privilege, My Lady. May I present my step-son Brenen and his wife Nedille. This is nephew Bard and his wife Ros."
She offered her hands to all with a smile saying, "Thank you for coming too. It warms my heart to see so many who cared for my husband." She didn't call him the King. There was a new King now. That same King walked over to shake hands with the Elf's unusual family after giving them time to bow. "Bren, Nedille, Bard and Ros, good of you to come. I am glad father left our lands in such good hands as the mothers of Dale." The ladies smiled but were not flustered.
As personal as that was, it was time for Captain Sternboldan and his brood waiting behind them to offer condolences so they bowed again and made for home.
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Nag Kath really hadn't unpacked. Most of the clothes he took were rags now. His sketch satchel hadn't seen much use, except waiting in the garden compound. He thumbed through those briefly and thought his eye was out. One would have thought with time to burn he might have done better work but the images seemed blurred – especially the flowers. He was usually good with flowers. The portrait of the old man in the compound was excellent. Good or bad, they were still part of his life's record so he slipped them into the hanging folio and went to get his bow tuned with new horn.
A week after, coming as no surprise, Tella curtsied before him and asked if she could introduce a visitor. Nag Kath granted it and she opened the door for Burry, his excellent wife and their middle son, Gorandar. Burry was at ease, as usual and so was Lola who had been here for most of the Syndolan parties. Gorandar was chip off the old block. Most Northmen were. It took Nag Kath three years to tell them apart. Burry announced in his sonorous baritone, "Good morning, Nag Kath. My son has something to tell you."
Gorander was a grown man, once married, and no wilting violet. He came forward and said, "Mr. Kath, Tella and I intend to marry."
Nag Kath wondered why they all came over. Tella was his cook, not his daughter, and no spring chicken either. But the man was here to make this official so Nag Kath summoned such gravitas as he could and decreed, "I think that is marvelous! I insist that you let me host the reception!"
They would have married anyway and having the Elf throw the party was the spice on the fish. And speaking of spice on the fish; "Tella, do you intend to maintain your position in the household?"
"Oh yes, Mr. Kath. That is, if you don't mind my living elsewhere."
Mr. Kath couldn't think of many things he minded less. "When is the happy day?"
Lola took that one, "They thought to have a small ceremony on November fourteenth. The city will have settled down a bit."
That made sense on several levels. Second weddings were not grand affairs in Dale, for only slightly better reasons than second-hand fish. Exceptions were made for widowers. For a divorced journeyman and a spinster, despite her charms, a private ceremony was the standard. An unstated reason was that his live-in servant had been ill the past few mornings. He would need a new cook/housekeeper come spring.
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Lola was right, Dale settled-down quickly. Nag Kath sent a letter to Reyald that he had enough conditional approval to bring the family for the spring moot, also conditional that Rosscranith wasn't selling cabbages next week. His house would be available whenever they wanted it.
As it always does, the capital slowed down in October. The crops were in, the storm-shutters were repaired, firewood was stacked. In one of the rare leisure times in his life, Nag Kath experimented with Gandalf's firework powders. A large supply of something similar was said to have blown a hole in the Deeping Wall but that had been repaired by the time he saw it. For the first year at least, these would be fired from somewhere that would not burn.
Mr. Turn was long retired but his assistant still conducted party planning. Their firm was engaged both for Tella's wedding and the Syndolan Eve event. The Burrys were not the sort of folk who could engage his services by themselves. Nag Kath was impressed that the man put just as much effort and care into their preparations as he would for anyone else. It helped that the Elf was footing the bill but most of his work was spent with the couple themselves. They used the Mason's Guild Hall, since the Elf owned it, and he slipped out after his first ale.
Syndolan planning was remembrance. In the file was the very first guest list. Parts of later lists in Eniece's hand brought tears. Many of those names were gone or he had lost track. The longed-lived races like Dwarves and Hobbits had more survivors but their ranks had thinned as well.
This was bittersweet. He told Ardatha he would outlive everyone who loved him. Was part of what the Elves considered the gift of mortal life a shared experience of aging together? The life of loss did not linger. It was his condition and he liked meeting new people so that must compensate.
What made this party special was that people who had come to his first few Syndolan parties now brought adult children. One would have thought the young folk would associate with their own sort but this generation did not seem to (or perhaps couldn't afford to) entertain as much as the last.
Everything went well. So as not to abandon his guests, he hired an old soldier and his son to launch his fireworks from the jetty. There were six rockets designed to go up and explode in different colors. Two of them did exactly that. Three just exploded all at once and the second made a beeline towards a bait shack, thankfully incinerating before it arrived. There was no advanced notice but a sizeable number of people saw the last two go up.
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In February, Tella announced that she would start her confinement and did not expect to return. Ros found another, older cook/housekeeper through her contacts in the city. Lupa was all business at first but slowly warmed to her eccentric householder – no unrequited lusts with Lupa, who seemed mostly of far eastern bloods, though now several generations in Dale.
News from "upstairs" was spotty. King Bain made the usual public appearances. Nag Kath had no personal irons in the fire but he was lobbying for Reyald so he sent a note to Rosscranith who had not come to the party. Three few days he received a reply in the form of Rosscranith himself. The Colonel was now Lord Chancellor for King Bain II. Like his father, the new King retained several of his father's councilors among the new men. Lupa was at the market buying fish that vendors kept alive in troughs rather than letting them gape at buyers in a pile. The Colonel accepted a mug of tea and they both sat where everyone did in the chair and couch by the low table.
The big man started with, "Part of the delay in getting back to you was that I waited on mentioning Reyald to the King. I did yesterday and he agreed his uncle would be a good choice." He became serious, "Then there is the matter of his son."
King Bain II came from a family of girls. With the death of Bard II, the heir to the throne was Bard's full-sister's son Lord Carstors of the wedding portrait. He was in his mid-fifties and still happily married at his hunting lodge south of the lake with little interest in governing. Their union had been blessed with two daughters who were married with one daughter each. Bain's older sister had two daughters as well. She was now 37 and confided more children were not expected. The middle sister was a sweet but frail woman who never married.
When Bard acknowledged Ardatha as his Sister Princess, her children entered the succession which made Shurran second in line to the throne. Unless Bain had a son, the Kingship of Dale went through the unassuming teenager on the Redwater. His parents educated him and taught him country virtues but he had no notion of sharp-elbowed politics in the capital. Nag Kath wondered if he knew he was two hearts from the crown. Others certainly did. It was possible someone lower on the list would contest his mother's legitimacy, but being one of King Brand's only three grandsons was a powerful argument in his favor. More concerning was someone who might remove him for a better place in line. It had been tried only a generation before.
Rosscranith continued, "Perhaps an education in the White City would give the young man more grounding in affairs of state, don't you think?"
"I expect that has occurred to his parents, Davit. Reyald is a good man, with a good wife. They will represent his Highness with honor. You have your ears. How are conditions in the Buhrs and southward?"
"Quiet, how we like them. King Elessar was a bit embarrassed at how ill-prepared his vinelands were. I understand those positions will be reinforced."
The Elf blew across the top of his mug before taking a sip and asked, "For the ceremonies before the Thainmoot, has his Lordship invited a representative of Rhûn?"
Chancellor Rosscranith was not an easy man to surprise but that raised a furry eyebrow. He sipped his tea and admitted, "You think in terms most of us do not, Nag Kath. The answer is no, which is my fault. I keep fighting the old war."
Nag Kath leaned back on the couch and theorized, "The Bror has sons the same age as Lord Bain, men who were not even born at the siege of Erebor. At the party, to which I will still invite you, even though you are much too lordly now, a number of old friends brought their grown children. The kids do not have the same misgivings. If you think it will help, I can write a note with the official invitation. I got along tolerably well with the devil. You know the public better than me, but let us not forget that he settled fifteen hundred foot on his own soil or we would have fought that battle shooting backwards."
The soldier turned statesman ran that through his head and said, "The idea has merit. It cannot be done without Gondor. I would not put both sides in the same room without warning. If his Highness agrees, I will have riders take the proposal to the White City the day the roads clear."
Nag Kath's tea was at the perfect temperature for large sips. "You do not have to do this on my account. It just seems like a good idea. And I care less than most, but is his Highness considering making heirs of his own?"
"You and everyone else in the realm want to know that. I have no insights."
The Elf smiled, "If Durnaldar brings his younger daughter, put the King in iron underpants."
Rosscranith broke into a rare genuine laugh. Northmen can really laugh. Finishing his tea he mused, "I have heard she is fair. Not that a man in my humble station would rely on rumors, but it is said that one of Éomer's lasses might take the short ride to our fair city as well."
"Good! He is worthy of a fight! Maybe the Bror has an exotic female for the stew. Thank you for coming, my friend. Let me know if I can help." As the Chancellor rose to collect his coat Nag Kath said, "Oh, please give my best your lady wife and to Queen Delatha. I hope she is well."
That gave the Northman pause. "She has such grace that it is hard to tell, but she is lonely. Thirty-five years without peer does not leave one a wide circle of friends, a thousand acquaintances, yes, but not friends. I will convey your kind wishes."
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Thains and foreign dignitaries poured into Dale during the third week of April. Nature cooperated but this was still north enough that folk wore their warmest.
Official planning had started when Bard's condition was learned but its inception was thirty years before. Every king of free men had been replaced within a month of the fall of Barad Dûr. Éomer, Bard and Thorin because their Kings were slain. Aragorn because he won. Prince Faramir lost his da as well. Only Imrahil of Belfalas had been Lord at the time.
Now Bard was the first of the next lot to die. This was not only a remembrance of the man, it confirmed the way of life in the Fourth Age. King Bain now ruled and his brother lords would welcome him in their midst.
The international meeting would start with a repeat of Bain's investiture. The next three days had two two-hour plenary meetings scheduled at ten and two for large topics that crossed all borders. They would certainly run longer. Most of the Lords' time would be spent in smaller groups or private meetings.
This was also a family reunion. Elessar and Arwen had no children. They came from Gondor with Faramir and Éowyn who had two who stayed at home. It was unusual for Faramir the Steward to leave with Aragorn but this type of succession had not happened before. They thought it wise to present a united front.
Along the Anduin they would be joined by Éomer and his wife, Lothíriel, daughter of Imrahil. Their son Elfwine and/or daughter Éowyndl might come too. From the west, Lord Fanarbríl, Steward of Arnor, was coming in train with his retainers and half a dozen Hobbits of the Shire. King Thorin III would be here. He was a neighbor with several hundred Dwarves inside the walls and knew the place as well as most Daleans.
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There were two mystery guests. One was second son of Bror Dulgov of Rhûn. They had accepted the invitation sent after exhausted riders between Minas Tirith and Dale confirmed both countries' agreement. The second was Lord Fearnold of the Silvan Elves. He was coming with a small contingent and though it was not mentioned, only planned to stay for the investiture. That was just a partial list of Lords. They were coming in state with counselors, outriders, servants and considerably pageantry. Then there were merchants, mayors, businessmen and anyone with a dog in the fight. There would be a lot of business done here among those who had worked together for years and never met. Policy eventually becomes trade.
Prices for rooms soared. Merchants used to the best took basements for twice the price. The Thains arriving near the end of the investiture for their own moot knew where to stay if they didn't already own homes. As in Trum Dreng, people with fashionable or secure dwellings could be talked into staying with relatives for a fat purse.
Nag Kath got a letter from Ardatha as soon as the roads cleared that she was coming with Reyald, Shurran, Eniecia and their servant, Loral. Her elder daughter Haldiera was staying in Buhr Austar with her husband Gerruld and their two little ones. Gerruld was a subaltern in Conath's main force until he was promoted to Lieutenant by inheriting Reyald's troop. That also made Gerruld Librath Torrald's heir-apparent. He was a soldier with leadership talents and the dice landed his way. Their little boy was also in the royal succession. The Conaths would stay at Uncle Nag's house or their apartment inside the palace grounds until the Thainmoot ended. There was plenty of room.
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Prince Voranush was among the first of the dignitaries to arrive. He had a modest train of six outriders and two counselors, dressed very differently than the last time Easterlings visited Dale. They came quietly and stayed in a Rhûnish family's compound near the docks. It would mean daily hikes up the hill for the meetings and functions but it was secure and private. The day they rode in, Nag Kath received a note asking if the Elf might visit him for tea tomorrow. Nag Kath had no official role but he had talked with Rosscranith after the invitation was sanctioned. Both men agreed this was likely and that Nag Kath should enjoy his visit.
The Elf was shown into a modest home with a beautiful interior of both Dalish and Rhûnish styles. They fit together well. A steward brought him to the main room where two men were sitting already sipping tea. Both rose and greeted him. One was an older fellow with close-cropped gray hair and matching beard rather than the usual tight braids.
Nag Kath knew the Prince to be about 29. He was a good-looking fellow with a scar down his left cheek. It was not disfiguring and made him seem rather dashing. Nag Kath would not mention it, but he looked a deal more like his dead uncle than his stout da.
The Prince said in heavily accented but good Westron, "Ah, Lord Kath, how good of you to come. This is Minister Caoulish, an expert in diplomacy. Please take a seat." His bottom had not hit the cushion before delicious smelling tea was served by a woman who said nothing and did not make eye contact. She was gone in a blink.
Second son Voranush was perfect for the role of observer. As Nag Kath would find later, the Bror had three sons of one wife and no concubines. That was in the western tradition of one-at-a-time. First son had probably seen to the rebel infantry at the river before moving upstream to inquire about shaggy horses.
"Father was much impressed by you, Lord Kath. If your hand was in the invitation to our family, I thank you for that as well."
"You are welcome, My Lord, Minister. It seemed time to look ahead."
Caoulish said in perfect Westron, "It was a fortunate turn of events, just the sort of thing to make us realize we have much in common."
It really was. The only principal who didn't come out smelling like flowers was dead. The Bror reigned supreme. Borders were secure. The battle brought Dale and Gondor closer and Rohan won laurels as well. The Bror accepted three of his men back for every horse. The animals remaining were worth about the cost of defense. No money could replace the men lost or severely wounded but their families would not want.
Nag Kath was fairly sure the Minister was the Bror's ears. There would be no shaking him to talk with the Prince privately. The young man accepted that. Voranush said, "My reason for asking you here is that you and my father understood one another. Few men in his experience share his … humor. I was hoping, if it does not betray confidence, if you could explain what the assembled Lords might expect, or, not want to happen in this most fragile time."
The Elf looked both men in the eyes and said, "No, My Lord, counselor, I have no trouble sharing what little I know. But I would ask a modest favor in return. Since you are the guests, I will start. I believe you are in a strong position. Your father, rightful Bror of Rhûn, could have more easily waved goodbye from the bank than destroy his ill-advised brother's army. That is both the perception and the truth known to wise men of the west; a powerful combination."
Caoulish agreed, "We appreciate that right action should be honored."
"Gentlemen, I believe that His Highness need do no more than be earnest in his conversations. Do not demand anything. Do not require anything. Show these men that you are as reasonable as his Excellency and listen carefully.
"I would add that among the Lords present are important men of business. If your people grow, mine or create things of value, there will be no faster way to open our lands than trade. All governments have high ministers interested in such things. I humbly suggest your esteemed father invites some to your enlightened capital to discuss possibilities in comfort."
The Prince looked at Nag Kath saying, "I believe my honored father would consider that favorably."
Minister Caoulish agreed, "We had discussed impressions mattering greatly after so many years of misunderstanding."
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Nag Kath now raised the second half of the agreement, "There is more. I believe this is more important but should not, perhaps, come to all ears on this visit. The Usurper Frûnzal was in league with those who yearn for the dark past."
Caoulish asked, "Forgive my interruption but there is something I must know before we go further; was it you on the Dwarf Road all those years ago?"
"Yes, Counselor, it was."
The two men looked at each other again and Caoulish said, "Lord Kath, the men you dispatched then are likely the fathers and uncles of the riders crossing the Khelduish. They were our fiercest soldiers when we are allied with the Dark Lord. Loss and disfavor has made them bitter."
Nag Kath sympathized, "They are not alone, friend counselor. If claims of congress with dark powers are possible, we have a mutual and terrible enemy. This is known to high councils. An understanding that we will work together against those seeking to resurrect Sauron will get you further than farmers or traders."
Nag Kath pulled a small sheet of paper from his pocket. On it were four of the eight runes from the glyph. "Have either of you gentlemen seen writing like this before?"
The Prince looked closely but his face registered nothing. Caoulish looked longer and said, "Chey symbols, of the Wain-riders. East of Khand."
The changeling said, "I cannot say I know of it." Civilized maps were blank in that direction.
Caoulish said softly, "Few do. Not even Those Named go there."
The Elf followed the thread, "Are these associated with Sauron?"
The Minister thought about that but seemed to relax a little, "I do not think so, perhaps his servants. The orcs did not show this. Warriors of that region sometimes had this …" pointing to one of the four, "on their shields. Traders brought them back from burials to sell in the bazaar."
Caoulish took a sip of tea and continued in the same reasonable tone, "Such magiks, if there are any, would be from the south, perhaps Mordor itself."
The Elf said with quiet assurance, "I do not exist. You have but to nod and I will attend."
The men of Rhûn did not have to look at each other. Caoulish said softly, Let it be so, Mr. Kath."
The all rose and shook hands, not an Easterling custom. As he made for the door Prince Voranush said, "Thank you again, Mr. Kath. We are in your debt."
A bell rang and Nag Kath asked, "Oh, speaking of debts, was the old fellow I stayed with in Kugavod sent home?"
This time they did look at each other but when neither had an answer the Elf added, "This was in settling the Khan of Mistrand's obligations."
Caoulish shook his head before saying, "The Khan of Mistrand died two years ago. With no heirs, his position was filled by an administrator from the capital. Should I enquire, Mr. Kath?"
"I probably misunderstood him, Minister. Enjoy your stay."
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Nag Kath bowed at the door. Before him were the Kings and Queens of Gondor and Rohan with Prince Faramir and Lady Éowyn of Ithilien. King Elessar said, "Thank you for coming, Nag Kath. Please have a seat." They were sitting in no real order around a dining table that could seat as many as sixteen. It would see hard use this week. The Elf sat next to Faramir and the two shook hands.
Aragorn said, "Hard fight on the Celduin. You brought honor to many houses."
Nag Kath replied, "Thank you, My Lords and Ladies. Captain Talfurmir showed fine colors, as did your Fenuldorn, Lord Éomer."
The King of the Reunited Kingdom continued, "Before the conference, we would like your assessment of the incursion."
The Elf started slowly, "It might have worked. I traveled with a dozen of the late King's best to investigate reports of orc troops along the Iron Hills Road and Easterlings along the Redwater."
King Éomer could not resist, "See any wargs?"
"Just one, sir."
Arwen asked "I, for one, would be very interested in hearing that tale, Nag Kath." It was the first time she had used his name in his presence.
"Yes, ma'am. I spotted a brigade of about one hundred thirty soldier orcs with swords and bucklers traipsing behind the Iron Hills and confronted them. The Anglachor, that's a Colonel, had a warg with him."
The Master of the Mark had started this so he asked, "You faced a brigade with a squad?"
"It was just me, Lord Éomer. Stealing sheep and making footprints made no sense. I told the Anglachor not to treat with the Easterlings. He said there was famine in their land and they had been promised spoils from the Redwater campaign. I convinced him that the crops would fail this year and offered food if they went home. Their Lugnash took the deal and that was the last anyone has heard from them."
Éowyn, who had slain her share of orcs, said, "A hundred to one? They weren't that hungry."
Nag Kath gave the grin that proved to Arwen that he was not really an Elf saying, "I puffed up like Gandalf and spoke in echos. The orc chief was a reasonable sort. We sat for a few minutes before he sought shelter from the sun. I think they already suspected the Usurper of deception since they had marched the northern fields themselves. Easterling cavalry was making the same ruckus along the river, not fighting but riding to and fro to make it seem there were many. The idea was to keep Dalish allies on their own borders before hurrying south to attack Dorwinion in strength. Looking back, I think that was more to fool his brother."
Faramir said in his soft voice, "And then you went to the Bror?"
"Yes sir. I went south to skirt the rebel holdings and there I learned the Usurper had stolen most of his brother's horses, not something the Bror wanted widely known. With cavalry, the winelands would be easier to take than fighting at home. I rode to Kugavad for an audience and told the Bror we were preparing for the rebels on our side and he could put paid to the threat by cleaning up on his. He got the infantry but not the cavalry since they were making noise up the Redwater.
"My Lords and Ladies, I apologize for representing your authority without leave." No one took exception, "I spoke with the Rhûnic Prince and his Minister two days ago and told them that their ruler's decision to stop the attack on their soil would be appreciated in high councils.
Even among this august group, Elessar Telcontar might have secrets. Before going any further Nag Kath asked him, "My Lord, did you receive my letter?"
The King said to all, "Nag Kath sent me a tracing of a stone from the battlefield between the Bror and his brother. It had markings not known to our scholars."
Taking that as ascent, the Elf continued, "The rebel Prince was in league with a sect of Sayers who yearn for the days of Dark Lords. They call themselves the Visitors. I interrogated one at the infantry battlefield in Rhûn. He did not understand the Black Speech. I convinced him to tell me how to praise his men to the Darkness and he told me where he had hidden a small stone with ancient runes. The Bror's man said they were quite old
Lady Lothíriel, daughter of Prince Imrahil, was no stranger to armies of the east. She delicately folded her hands on the table and said to Nag Kath, "He did not tell you that willingly."
The slightest smile formed on the corners of the Elf's mouth, "I borrowed the confusion spell I learned healing your esteemed brother."
Lady Arwen knew more about dark powers than all combined. "Where does this leave us?"
Everyone looked at Nag Kath. He spoke matter-of-factly, "I see three unknowns: One is that they are using symbols of past glory that hold no power. Two is that these are runes of when Sauron held Mordor many years ago. If he is destroyed, again, there is no power. Three is that they hope to summon or nurture the next dark lord and return to favor. The Witch-King still has many he condemned to living death awaiting his call. I killed one a week after we parted, Sire.
"Someone knows. Against the wrath of the Bror, he is either on the run or well disguised. I suggested to the young Prince that commerce is the way to make friends in the west and would let us converse about our common enemy. Whether he likes it or not, we are on the same side."
Faramir laughed and lightly hit the ball of his fist on the table. "Was there anything else to help with our councils, Nag Kath of the Water?"
The Elf leaned on the table with his elbows and again flashed his obscene grin, "The Easterlings are cheap. We bribed the orcs to betray them with something under two Florin in wheat and whisker-fish. If the would-be Bror of Dorwinion had bought the same fish first, I would have never crossed the Celduin."
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Nag Kath had no official part in the conference but old friends and people who wanted specific information sought his input. By all accounts, the Easterlings surprised everyone by being reasonable and polite. Nag Kath expected Aragorn spoke with Thorin Stonehelm and perhaps a few others about orcs. A deputation of merchants planned to visit Kugavad at the Bror's convenience.
Thain Peregrin Took and his wife Diamond were among the Hobbits visiting. He enquired after Nag Kath and was invited to dinner at the Elf's home with the Brightens brothers, their wives, children and Mr. and Mrs. Barleycroth, a very respectable couple. It being past the five-bell, ale and wine were served. Nag Kath told them about the Barrow-wight that had changed into a fish-monster and the Bombadils.
One must not think Lordly councils are limited to Lordly councils. Reliable sources said that there was only one real fight among the outriders when the troopers from Arnor insulted horses of Rohan. You can say anything you want about the riders but not their horses. The instigators spent the rest of the week shoveling.
Of greater import, this was the best chance for eligible ladies of high birth to meet future husbands. King Bain was nearly thirty so lovelies tried getting invited to any number of soirees, dinners, entertainments and hunts that week. A few of them floated near the dashing Prince of Rhûn until someone at his compound loaned him a Northman wedding ring to show he was not available, at least, not for a first wife.
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This was never more intense than when the Lordly conference was ending and the Thains finished trickling in for their moot. A celebration at the Great Hall was scheduled for the last night with the Thains invited. Old Zandro of Celduin Village brought his daughter along. She was a plump, pleasant young lady with a good sense of humor.
Everyone wanted to come but planners kept plenty of elbow room. High Lords didn't need everyone getting too close. Reyald and Ardatha arrived with Nag Kath fashionably late.
Aragorn and his Lady were often apart for duty or conversation at such events. The King saw Nag Kath above the crowd and walked over to say hello. "King Elessar, may I present my daughter and son-in-law Ardatha and Reyald Conath."
The King shook their hands. Nag Kath had told him of his family here but it was another thing to actually see it. As if one King wasn't enough, Bain fled a flock of admirers and kissed his favorite aunt on the cheek. To Aragorn he said, "You may be seeing a lot of them. Major Conath will be our next ambassador to the White City."
Aragorn shook his hand again and said he would look forward to receiving his credentials before walking over for a word with Thorin. Reyald asked King Bain, "My Lord, how fares your mother?"
"She is well, but begged off tonight to dine with her brother. I will give her your best." Turning to Ardatha, "I am sure she would like to see you." The man excused himself to another corner of the room but called an attendant over to have an invitation issued on behalf of the dowager Queen.
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By themselves again, Reyald looked at his wife and said with a smile, "The interview went well. I suppose I'd better learn what to do."
Nag Kath said, "You won't leave until late summer. I know a few people who can help."
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Among the young ladies at the reception was Tilli of Nauthauja. She was dressed to perfection and exquisite, but not pleased. Was she to be paraded like a prize filly at the fair? Her handsome father guided her through the throng, managing introductions to many who mattered, including her liege. No magic flew when their eyes met. While Durnaldar was talking with two gentlemen of Dorwinion, Tilli walked over to the high windows and looked at possible storm clouds covering the stars.
"I hope those can hold off for a few days." It was offered by a tall, good-looking young man gazing at the same horizon. He had long, ginger hair in the fashion of Rohan but unlike everyone else from that land, he was dressed in city clothes rather than light armor.
She thought he must be one of the scribes or clerks these kings keep about. The man was fair and gracious so she smiled back saying, "We just got here. I hope they can wait two weeks. You are leaving my lands soon, good sir. I hope your stay was enjoyable."
"It was. I hadn't been here since I was fourteen."
"She curtsied and held her hand out in the way of modern women, "I am Tilli."
"Pleased to meet you, Tilli. I am called Elfwine."
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_~ / ~ / ~ / ~ / ~-_
It rained when the Thains went home. Those who hadn't already pledged their fealty to the new King did so. Mugs were raised, deals were done and one young lady was invited to the Riddermark.
Reyald and his family just stayed at Nag Kath's with plans to make for Gondor in August. They could leave anytime but Reyald did not want to push the current ambassador whose brief ended that fall. Shurran liked visiting Brenen's son's jewelry shop and learned useful craft.
Eniecia was a quiet girl. She was friendly with a cheerful outlook but did not put herself forward. Eniecia also favored Eniece, a good thing for girls. She certainly had a future in Minas Tirith or anywhere else she landed. The lass devoured the few books Nag Kath had here and helped the servants with the large dinners now needed. Reyald already knew Rosscranith and they got on well. He could not get better advice than from the lordly Northman. Edelbras now ran the guardi. He knew the secrets.
One of the nicest parts of their stay was that Ardatha often visited Queen Delatha. Now that her son wore the crown, the dowager thought she might travel home next summer. Delatha had only been there twice in her long marriage and a spot of country life might put her at ease. Ardatha and her family also spent considerable time with her grandmother Mrs. Borenne on the lake. That was bittersweet.
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In late July, the family gathered around the table to look at Nag Kath's picture archive. He seldom looked himself but the teenagers wanted to see all of the impossible places and people he had drawn. People believed his tall tales … but they didn't. Suddenly, there was the Wild Huntsman glowering for all time. There was the water project they would see themselves shortly. Kings, Queens, Hobbits, Gandalf fussing with his pipe.
Two later pictures he pulled after the youngsters wandered off seemed unfinished. They were of Orlo at his hut and another sketch of his hut from behind the cucumber patch looking into the lilies. They were not up to his standards but part of the archive so he didn't throw them away.
There wasn't much keeping him here so he decided to guide the family to Gondor in three weeks. He knew the road. Nag Kath asked for one delay along the river while he explored Lorien. There was no guarantee he could find it or get in, or that he would be able to leave, but if they could amuse themselves for a week along the road, Nag Kath might add one more answer.
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Merchant trains still kept to the Great River across the Old Forest Road. Bold souls could stay to the eastern edge of Mirkwood and cut the distance but the trail was indifferently maintained and not everyone was friendly. Loral was in her forties and not an experienced rider so the smooth road was better. For reasons Nag Kath didn't share, they camped by the western forest's edge at noon and stayed the rest of the day.
The weather held fair except for a two hard summer hailstorms. The first they watched from one of the inns now dotting the road. The other caught them by surprise and they dried their clothes at the next inn. Five days later, they reached the Celebrant coming from the Misty Mountains. There was an inn there too! A generation after the war; folk were traveling in safety.
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Nag Kath promised to be back within a week and took Charlo into the forest of Lorien. There was a clear path but as sure as he was of anything, the way to get to Caras Galadhon would seem impossible to the untrained eye. The Elf had directions from friends in the Woodland Realm. He would need instincts as well.
A day up the path he felt he had gone too far. Turning Charlo back, he saw a pair of rocks to his left that looked like one rock going west. Nag Kath dismounted and led the horse on the faintest of tracks towards them. Beyond the rocks it became a path.
Another hour and he saw the magnificent Mallorns reach for the sky. Unlike Rivendell, this place was alive. There was still deterioration of the handmade things but the trees might live another age. The Elf, hopefully among Elves, dismounted and slowly walked Charlo to keep someone from sending an arrow his way before asking.
A central grouping of trees, perhaps a half mile across was cleared from the rest of the forest. It was surrounded by a moat that had seen hard fighting in the war. Caras Galadhon was attacked three times before Dol Guldur, stronghold of the enemy, was finally crushed.
They crept to a stone bridge directly on the road with a gate left open. Two steps inside he heard in Westron, "That is far enough." Nag Kath scratched Charlo's muzzle to let him know things were fine, though, that remained to be seen.
Two Silvan Elves came down from the gate and approached, one with an arrow nocked. Nag Kath remained motionless save rubbing his horse. When they saw he was an Elf, with hair purposefully past his ears, the one slipped the arrow back in his quiver and they both came to within ten feet. Nag Kath bowed in their fashion and they returned the courtesy.
The Elf who had not had an arrow ready said, "We have not seen you before, friend. Who visits us this day?"
"I am known as Nag Kath and only come in passing." When that did not sway he added, "I was told the way here by Lord Fearnold this spring."
The first responded, "He is known to us. Come this way."
They crossed the bridge. Nag Kath was in awe of the grandeur. It was Minas Tirith made of trees. Little flets were tucked in the rising branches, some natural, some sculpted in the living wood like lily pads.
Even in high summer it was cool below the canopy. His escorts said nothing. Other Elves stopped what they were doing to watch him lead the handsome horse across the grass.
Winding their way up the path, they reached a handful of ohtars who had been observing. His guards spoke in Silvan to the others and one of them said in Sindarin, "You are still here. The Undying Lands have not drawn you away?"
"An invitation has not been extended."
They had to consider that a few moments. It was time to seek a higher opinion. One of them climbed a spiral staircase up a tree to the right with astonishing speed. He came back about five minutes later but no one said a thing. Charlo started grazing. Nag Kath hoped this was not sacred grass.
Not long after, an Elf in the mold of Fearnold walked down and approached. Nag Kath bowed and the Elf did the same. His host crossed his arms and said slowly, "You are known to me, Nag Kath. What brings you here?"
"Curiosity mostly, but also whispers of troubles, Lord Elf."
The leader nodded and his men disbursed. "Walk with me, Nag Kath. You can leave your horse here."
Nag Kath dropped the reins and they climbed the staired-Mallorn two levels to a large flat area that reminded him of a frog pad. Except for the extraordinary care, it also reminded him of the little forts children make in the branches of oak trees. The leader sat on a stool and gestured for his guest to do the same before saying, "You have a good reputation in the northern Halls. Their views are similar to ours."
The changeling replied, "That was generous of them, Lord …"
"Gilfandros. And not Lord."
"Lord Fearnold came to the King of Dale's investiture this spring and we spoke briefly."
"What do you hope to do while you are here, Nag Kath?"
"Not much, Gilfandros. If you have a library I should like a look. I have healing skills and always want to improve those, or can lend aid if needed. With your permission, I should also like to draw your city. Mostly I wanted to come. It might not be long before these places are closed to such as me."
The leader said nothing so Nag Kath continued, "I told your ohtar of small troubles too. A sect of Easterlings wishes for the dark days. They have been destroyed by arms but that never gets the root. I may be in these lands for long years. It is probably nothing, but if you catch the scent of unclean sorcery, please know you have friends among men of good will."
The fellow held his chin in hand and said, "I had not heard. Those were born of Maiar, or even Valar in their time. We are ever mindful, Nag Kath. As to books, there is nothing here. It was all taken by Celeborn when he left. My people are returning to the forests that nurture us. We hold in memory that which we cherish."
"I respect your choice, Gilfandros. Are there any of the Ñoldor left?"
"No. Thranduil's son was here a few seasons ago but I have lost track. He, like you, is much among men, Dwarves also."
"Then I will take no more of your time. Thank you for your courtesy and for the chance to visit this lovely place."
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_~ / ~ / ~ / ~ / ~-_
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Nag Kath climbed down the stairs and collected Charlo. Gilfandros said he could sleep in a small hollow that was unclaimed. No one else spoke to him though many peered. Dinner was Lembas and so was breakfast. He spent the next day sketching. Late in the afternoon he heard a rasping voice say, "Orc Six."
Logass was standing not five feet away. "Good day, Master Logass. I wondered if your people were here."
"Just me and my wife. These Elves remain so we are not really needed."
"It is good to see you just the same. These folk sing well but I have not heard stories. I was sorry to hear there are no secret volumes."
"Hugghm. No. All gone. Do you still pursue healing ways?"
"I do, but just for men. I have been disappointed by how little I can do for ailments that linger."
Logass held his own pointed chin, "Ask the mirror. You are of water."
"Galadriel's Mirror?"
"The same."
Nag Kath shook his head, "I thought she would have taken that first among all possessions."
Logass shook his head too, "Can't. It is set in rock. It might only work here. I will show you." The chief keeper led Nag Kath along a twisted path somewhat downwards among the massive Mallorn roots. Elves along the way noticed him but few looked at Logass.
Light did not penetrate far. Logass climbed on a step and looked down on a silver dish set in an altar of stone. "Hugghm. These Elves never wash anything. Give me a cloth."
Nag Kath rummaged in his satchel for a rag that was not very clean and handed it to the keeper who then rubbed the dull plating of a shallow bowl anchored to the pedestal. The Elf poured some of his canteen water in to help with the shining and then refilled it at a rivulet not twenty feet away.
"Hugghm. The Elves here now do not have your powers so they do not bother. Pour your water in and then several more. Nag Kath did so as Logass stood down and away from the mirror.
Frodo's account was more about his emotions than specifics but this was a seeing tool for the most powerful sorceress of Elfkind. After the third canteen-full, Nag Kath peeped in the bowl and then back over to the keeper. "What am I looking for?"
"How would I know?"
Nag Kath leaned over the basin again and saw nothing. After a few minutes he touched the side of the bowl and his hand glowed silver. Pulling it away he began to see outlines.
There were faces. Some were Elves. He wondered if they were spirits of those who lived here. The last face was a handsome man with raven hair and white skin. He might be attractive to women but there was no living warmth at all. Like the other images, the face was not in focus. If that was a true face, he was looking over Nag Kath's shoulder. The image became a fist driving into water. He did not … was not supposed to … recognize it, but the pattern of Orlo's tea leaves swirled in his mind for an instant. Then the mirror was clear.
It seemed only a few seconds but when he looked about, Logass was sitting on a rock near the rivulet. "Logass, how long was I gazing?"
"Not long, two or three minutes."
"I saw faces, frozen in time. It felt as if they were all long past, but not my past."
"Hugghm. I expect you are tired of Lembas, Orc Six."
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Back at the small keeper's quarters, the Elf quickly sketched the last face in the mirror. He seemed more important than the rest. He thanked his hosts and left at dawn, making the inn before dark.