“You can remove those,” Selena ordered.
Salmitaya sat across from Selena, her face expressionless, hands folded in her lap.
Selena told her about Yanti. “I promised you I would not allow you to be taken, and I will keep my word. But I need to know....”
“You need to know if he has someone near King Lousis,” Salmitaya cut in. “I would think he does. In fact, I'm certain of it. And if he says he is allied with King Halmara, I would think that is true as well. Yanti lies, but he mixes lies with truth. I also know that if you do not do as he requests, he will make good on his threats.”
“I will release his men,” said Selena sternly. “But I will not turn you over.”
Salmitaya shook head and chuckled softly. “If you do not, he will make good his threat. Lousis will die.”
“He may do that regardless,” Selena countered.
“No,” said Salmitaya, “He will hold to his agreement. At least until his men are away. By then you may be able to warn the king.”
“Why would Yanti care about a few hundred soldiers?” she asked.
“Who knows?” Salmitaya bowed her head. “But it is not out of a sense of responsibility to them, that much is certain. Whatever the reason, he is not one to bluff. If he says he will kill Lousis, you can count on it.”
Selena stood up and poured two cups of wine. Offering one to Salmitaya, she stared thoughtfully into the woman's eyes.
Salmitaya held the glass under her nose, savoring the sweet scent. She closed her eyes as the wine passed over her tongue. “I remember when I was a novice,” she said softly. “I would sneak away to the tavern to drink wine and listen to the musicians with my friends. We were always so afraid we’d get caught, but that just made it even more fun.” Her body now felt totally relaxed. She could almost hear the songs and laughter of her fellow novices. “Things were so much simpler then,” she added, her voice now a mere whisper. Her eyes were growing heavier and heavier. The wine glass slipped from her fingers, but the sound of it breaking as it struck the floor seemed distant. So very far away. Yes, that's what she wanted. To be far away.
Selena called the guard. “Have her body wrapped in linen and given to the captives when they are released.” She leaned down and pushed the hair away from Salmitaya's face.
“I'm sorry,” she said.
Chapter 23
For six days, the kings and queens of the twelve city states had been arriving. Only King Halmara was still absent. The presence of elves had caused more than a few nervous stares, especially as King Lousis made a point of greeting each new arrival with Theopolou and Ertik at his side. Co-existence with elves was common in most of the twelve cities, but only in certain areas - and never as welcome guests in the house of the king. But even the elves didn't cause so much of a stir as Ertik’s presence. As a representative from the High Lady of Valshara, speculation ran wild as to his reason for attending.
Theopolou spent his time exploring the king’s library and reading about the history of the twelve cities. Mohanisi spent most of his time with Linis, who was busy preparing to journey to Sharpstone. From time to time Theopolou would be approached by the kings and queens and asked about the goings on of the elves. Word had already spread about the battle in Valshara. Most could scarcely believe that human and elf had fought side by side. Theopolou politely answered their questions.
By the seventh day it was decided to proceed without King Halmara. That evening there would be a banquet, and in the morning the council would meet.
A few hours before the banquet, Theopolou returned to his quarters. The flood of questions had steadily increased until the very thought of another conversation caused him to cringe. As he settled into a plush chair and opened a book, there was a soft rap at the door.
He sighed and closed the book. “Come.”
It was Linis. “I want to speak to you before I leave for Sharpstone. Mohanisi is still exploring the city and says he will not be joining you for the banquet.”
“Your company is welcome,” said Theopolou, smiling. “I wish my presence at the banquet was also not required, for I would gladly join Mohanisi.” He raised an eyebrow. “Have you spoken to Lord Ganflin?”
“I have,” he replied, taking a seat beside Theopolou. “He is providing me with two dozen men and ten thousand in gold coin to aid Millet and Dina. He has already sent word to Lord Broin, and I hope to get his help as well.”
Theopolou nodded approvingly. “That is good. You should have enough to raise a sizable force.”
“I hope to send for elves soon,” said Linis. “But I think it best to prepare the people of Sharpstone first. Most people along the Goodbranch have never seen an elf, and have only stories of the Great War to form their opinions.”
“I am certain you can ease their fears,” said Theopolou. “Let me know when the time comes, and I will send as many as can be spared.” He could see Linis’ expression darken. “What is it?”
Linis sat. “I have heard some disturbing news. The human woman, Maybell, has just arrived in the Temple of Ayliazarah here in Althetas. She was a priestess in Kaltinor and traveled with Gewey and Lee when I first met them. I am told she was accompanied by Malstisos.”
“I know of him,” said Theopolou. “His father and I fought together in the Great War.”
“He has left Althetas to go north to the Steppes.” Linis paused. “To face judgment.”
“For what purpose?” he asked, taken aback.
“I do not have enough information to say for certain,” said Linis. “But I think you should speak to Maybell.”
“I will send for her after the council meets.” Theopolou stood. “And you should not delay any longer, my friend.”
Linis got to his feet and sighed. “It seems I am ever traveling. But you are right. Every moment is precious. Farewell, Theopolou. May the Creator bless you.”
“And you,” he replied, smiling.
Once Linis left, Theopolou sat back down and tried to clear his mind. He felt age gathering upon him as he thumbed through the pages of his book. His journey to the Steppes weighed heavily on his mind, and the fact that Malstisos had gone there to face his judgment could well complicate matters. He put the book down and slipped into bed. A bit of sleep would do him good.
A few hours later he rose and dressed for the banquet. The king’s manor was vast, with a dining hall large enough to seat more than two hundred guests. Originally built just after the Great War, the building stood three stories high and was constructed from the hard black stone quarried in the lands just south of the Steppes. Though the décor was not elaborate, it suited the personality of Althetas and its people. Tapestries of great warships and valiant warriors hung on the walls of the larger rooms alongside huge paintings. There were also sculptures of various lords and heroes. The furniture was diverse, as one would expect from a port city; examples of styles from all over the world could be seen in every room. Theopolou even spotted a few tables and chairs of elf make. He had seen paintings of the original building, and knew that it was much smaller than what presently stood. He’d been told that each new king had added a little bit more to the manor during his reign.
The grounds were well tended and included dozens of small flower gardens. These were filled mostly with local flora, but here and there a flower from a distant land could be seen. A tall, wrought iron gate provided an imposing entrance, while matching railings with a manicured hedge running just inside of this surrounded the entire manor and grounds.
Theopolou contemplated the idea of skipping the banquet. Every moment he spent in idle conversation with the nobility of the Western Abyss made him anxious to depart for the Steppes. He wandered for a time, admiring the tapestries and sculptures, and though these were not as fine as those in his own home, he was nonetheless impressed at the talent of human hands.
He sighed. Attend he must.
When he finally arrived in the banquet hall, the polished oak double doors were open wide and the roo
m was already filled to capacity. Six long tables had been placed end to end and ran very nearly the full one hundred foot length of the room. To his left, a harpist played softly; the music carried over the voices, filling the hall. Three crystal chandeliers hung from the tall ceiling, while dozens of silver lanterns lined the walls. At the opposite end of the room a raised platform held another table that spanned the hall’s width. There, King Lousis, Ertik, and the other nobles were seated. He saw a few elves that had taken seats at the far right table, along with Lord Brasley Amnadon. Theopolou had only taken a few steps when a trumpet rang out.
“Lord Theopolou, Your Highness,” cried a herald stationed beside the door.
The room became silent as all eyes fell on him. He paused for a moment, then made his way to the king’s table where an empty seat at the monarch’s right side awaited him. Everyone rose and bowed. Theopolou returned the gesture before taking his seat.
“Our kitchen has been preparing a few elf dishes just for you and your people,” said Lousis cheerfully. “Though from what I've heard, The Frog's Wishbone may far outshine what I have to offer. Lord Ganflin prides himself on his elf cuisine.”
“Yes,” said Theopolou. “Linis has mentioned it. If ever I have the time I would like very much to explore your city.”
Just then a servant approached and whispered in the king’s ear.
“It would seem that King Halmara has arrived,” announced Lousis, a look of concern on his face. “Along with a representative from Angrääl.”
“Will you receive this representative?” asked Theopolou.
“If he travels with King Halmara then I have little choice,” Lousis replied angrily. “To deny him entrance would be seen as an insult. Skalhalis is an important port, and nearly as large as Althetas. And King Halmara carries much influence within the council.”
“Prepare them a seat,” Lousis ordered the servant. “And show them in. Then have quarters prepared.”
The servant scurried off.
“So it would seem Angrääl is making no secret of their intent,” said Theopolou.
“It could be worse than you think,” said Lousis. “Valshara is within King Halmara’s borders. If he took part in the siege, then this council meeting may well be a useless gesture. The cities to the south will certainly side with Skalhalis, leaving the coast split in two. Then we will be caught between the elves of the Steppes and Skalhalis.”
“I hope to sway the elves there from their present course once my business here is concluded,” said Theopolou. “If I am successful, then the situation will not be as dire.”
“And if you fail...” Lousis' words faded as two figures stepped inside the hall.
The first was dressed in a fine blue silk shirt, open at the neck with silver ruffles, matching trousers, and polished black leather boots. A golden scabbard hung from a black belt. The hilt of the sword was interlaced with gold and ivory and crowned with a blue sapphire. His short, sandy blond hair was oiled and combed back neatly. Though clearly a man of some years, his tan skin and stout build gave him a somewhat youthful appearance.
At his side was a short, thin man dressed in a plain, black cotton robe tied in at the waist with a slender white rope. Theopolou guessed him to be in his early thirties, yet his jet-black hair was already thinning. Though not strong in stature, his piercing blue eyes were striking, even from across the room. This, together with his confident strides gave him a commanding presence. He followed close behind as they approached the table.
King Lousis stood up and bowed. “King Halmara. I welcome you.”
Halmara smiled. “Thank you, my old friend. I have missed your company.” He stepped aside and motioned toward his companion. “I present Lord Sialo Magrifal, Ambassador of Angrääl and servant of the Reborn King.”
“You dress oddly for a lord,” remarked Lousis. “Do you not?”
“If my attire offends your highness, I will change,” said Sialo, bowing low.
“Not at all,” Lousis replied. “Please, be welcome. A place has been set for you both. My home is at your disposal.”
They bowed and took their seats at the far left end of the table.
“I think I will be glad to have you in the council tomorrow,” said Lousis quietly to his right. “Your support will be crucial.”
“Naturally, I will help if I can,” Theopolou replied. “Though my experience of dealing with humans is quite limited, I am still well-versed in the nuances of diplomacy.”
Lousis lifted his cup. “A skill I will need in abundance. As for me, I have never enjoyed the subterfuge and misdirection of the nobles. My father was the politician. I am far too plain spoken for my own good.”
Theopolou laughed quietly. “I regard that as an admirable trait. I may speak the language of politics, but I prefer the simple truth.”
Lousis chuckled. “I doubt we'll hear much of that tomorrow.”
After another hour had passed, Theopolou excused himself from the banquet. He could feel the eyes of Sialo Magrifal following him as he walked out of the hall. Two elves immediately jumped up and accompanied him to his room, insisting that they guard his door. At first he’d protested, but seeing their determination, eventually relented. They wished for this business to be done. With every day that passed, the Dark Knight's grip on his kin would strengthen.
The darkness closed in as Theopolou allowed himself to drift into a dreamless slumber. His final thoughts were of Sialo Magrifal.
He knew beyond doubt that the man’s arrival was a bad omen.
Chapter 24
Theopolou was wakened at dawn by Mohanisi arriving at his door.
“What did you think of the city?” asked Theopolou.
“Humans have come a long way,” he said approvingly. “Their skills at building are more advanced than I would have guessed. In fact, many of the temples are quite stunning.”
“And the people?” he asked.
“Not what I expected.” He took a seat. “Though some are clearly not accepting of us, in large they are very hospitable and kind, particularly Lord Ganflin. Have you met him?”
Theopolou shook his head. “Not yet. Though I am sure I will soon enough.”
“I heard from the others that a representative of Angrääl has arrived,” said Mohanisi. “How do you think this will affect the council?”
“Not well. We may be fighting on two fronts if my mission to the Steppes fails. King Lousis believes the cities south of Skalhalis will rally to King Halmara’s banner. And it is quite possible that he was involved in the siege of Valshara.”
There was a knock at the door and a young servant boy entered.
“King Lousis summons you to the council, Lord Theopolou,” said the boy timidly.
“Very well,” said Theopolou. “Wait for me outside.”
He rose to his feet. “Go to the Temple of Ayliazarah,” he told Mohanisi. “There you will find a woman named Maybell. I need you to bring her here. Tell her you are a friend of Linis and she will come.”
Mohanisi nodded. “I will do as you request. I wish you fortune today.”
Mohanisi left and Theopolou got dressed. The servant boy then led him through the labyrinth of corridors to the east end of the manor where they came to a broad oak door guarded by two soldiers. The soldiers snapped to attention as Theopolou opened the door and entered the room. He glanced around. The council chamber was a fifty-foot square hall. The walls on both left and right were covered with carved reliefs of various ships and sea creatures. At the far end stood a dozen pedestals with marble busts, each bearing a gold crown. The center of the room was dominated by a round table with fifteen chairs evenly spaced around it. The kings and queens had already arrived. Ertik was seated at the left hand side of King Lousis and Theopolou's chair stood empty at his right.
“Ah, Lord Theopolou,” called Lousis. “Now we can begin.”
Theopolou took his seat and looked out over the table.
Lousis stood. “My lords and ladies, this is Lo
rd Theopolou. As many of you know, he is here to represent the elf nations. You have been introduced to Ertik, representing the Order of Amon Dähl.” He raised his arm in a grand sweeping motion. “These are the rulers of the western kingdoms. Starting to my right, King Stanis of Calderia, King Tredford of Yuledan, Queen Lilian of Farthing, King Brääl of Maiden Shore, Queen Fasheil of Lamitia, King Halmara of Skalhalis, Lord Sialo Magrifal, ambassador of Angrääl, King Victis of Tarvansia, Prince Loniel of Sieren Bay, King Jeris of Wisterton, Queen Illirial of the Saraf's Jewel , and King Tranton of Red Cliff. On behalf of all the kings and queens of the twelve cities, we bid you welcome.” He took his seat. “I think you all know by now why I have called this council.”
“I hope it’s to explain why your soldiers have invaded my land and taken possession of what is rightfully mine,” said King Halmara.
Ertik stiffened and turned red with anger. But a glance from Lousis kept him silent.
“Surely, you do not refer to the liberation of Valshara?” Lousis countered. “We merely came to the aid of a friend in need. A friend who had been set upon by the forces of Angrääl. Forces who marched on your borders long before my men arrived.”
“Then perhaps this has all been big a mistake,” Sialo Magrifal interjected. “We were asked by our dear friend and ally, King Halmara, to expel those residing illegally in Valshara. According to King Halmara they were in clear violation of his law.”
This was more than Ertik could stand. He shot up out of his seat. “You lie! Our temple has stood for thousands of years unmolested. You murdered my people out of revenge. Revenge your master could not exact after he was expelled from Amon Dähl for his betrayal.”
Lousis grabbed Ertik's arm and pulled him back into his seat.
“This is who the High Lady sends to speak on her behalf?” mocked Sialo. “You should learn to govern your passion when in the presence of your betters.”
“Ertik may have spoken out of turn,” said Lousis. “But he speaks the truth. And I would remind Lord Sialo that no question has been posed to him, yet he chose to speak - in the presence of his betters.” This brought a round of soft laughter.
The Godling Chronicles : Bundle - Books 1-3 Page 91
