“As you were able to discover this on your own,” replied Theopolou, “that would now appear to be unnecessary.”
Theopolou bowed and left, Mohanisi just behind him.
“I noticed you did not mention Shivis Mol,” said Mohanisi.
“That is not for me,” said Theopolou, “and I think it would have done more harm than good. These people fear for their lands and family. It is enough that a vast army intends to wreak havoc. Should I tell them that their very souls are at stake as well?”
Mohanisi nodded with understanding. “The woman, Maybell, is here.”
“Good,” said Theopolou. “Gather the men. We leave as soon as I have spoken to her.”
Mohanisi led him through the manor to where Maybell waited, sitting on the edge of a bed. She had dimmed the lanterns and allowed the dark to surround her.
“You are Maybell?” Theopolou's voice was deep and soothing.
“Yes,” she replied weakly. “And you want to hear my story. You want to know what happened to Malstisos.”
“I do,” he replied, sitting down next to her. “My name is Theopolou. I am....”
“I know who you are,” she cut in. “And I know why you're here. But I don't know if what I can tell you will be of any help.”
“Whatever it is, I need to know,” said Theopolou
“You know, when I watched two brothers - real brothers mind you - fight to the death, I thought I had seen enough to break my heart in two.” The light from the crack in the door silhouetted Theopolou. “But when I saw someone as noble and kind as Malstisos slowly becoming dark and diseased...” A tear fell down her cheek. “I can't explain what happened.”
“Do your best,” said Theopolou.
Maybell recounted the events up to and including the duel between Grentos and Vadnaltis. “Once that happened, Malstisos withdrew,” she continued. “His mind and spirit grew darker with each day. At first I thought he was agonizing over what had happened, but soon it was clear to me there was more to it than that. He began muttering to himself, almost like he was arguing with some inner demon. I tried talking to him, but he either ignored me or became angry.”
“Do you think he went mad?” asked Theopolou.
“I did at first,” she replied. “But then strange things started to happen. Wherever we went I could see dark figures lurking about. Then Malstisos began disappearing for hours at a time. I thought he was only scouting or hunting until one night when we were camping just outside a small farm village. That’s when I saw him hiding behind a clump of bushes while talking to a black-cloaked figure. When I asked him about this he became angry - shouting and flailing his arms he was. I swear, I thought he was going to hurt me.”
Theopolou rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “This cloaked figure. Could you hear what it was saying?”
“No,” she replied. “I could only hear whispers. But after that I didn't question where he went.”
“Did he say or do anything else that would explain what was happening to him?”
She shook her head. “By the time we reached Althetas he had stopped talking to me altogether. But whatever is happening, I pray you can help him.” She covered her face and wept. “He was so good and kind.”
Theopolou placed his hand gently on her head. “If I can help him, I will. That he kept his word and delivered you safely means there may still be hope.”
“I'm sorry.” She choked back her sobs. “I wish I could tell you more.”
“You have told me enough.” He stood up. “If you wish, I can have you escorted to Valshara. Kaylia is there.”
“I would like that. Thank you.” Maybell stood and walked with Theopolou to the door. “May the gods keep you.”
Theopolou smiled and left.
Mohanisi was waiting outside. “Was she helpful?”
“I do not know,” he admitted. “What she said was strange. From what I know of him, Malstisos was strong-willed and noble. I cannot imagine what may have affected him in such a manner. But I intend to find out. Ready yourself to depart and meet me in my quarters in one hour.”
Alone, Theopolou pondered on what Maybell had said. Perhaps whatever corrupted the mind of Malstisos had affected the elves of the Steppes as well. If that were true, he would have to find a way to overcome it.
If he could not, this may very well be his final journey.
Chapter 26
For over three hours the council had been debating on what to do about King Halmara. Most of the southern rulers, with the exception of King Tredford, thought it would be best to negotiate rather than go to war. The others argued that the attempted assassination of King Lousis left them with no other choice. Ertik was to the point of utter frustration when the door flew open and King Lousis entered, assisted on either arm by a guard. His face was pale as he struggled to take each step, but the fire in his eyes said he was determined.
There was a moment of silence, then the hall erupted in applause and cheers. As Lousis took his seat he held up his hand to quiet the council.
“By the gods, we are grateful that you live, Your Highness,” said Prince Loniel.
This prompted another round of cheers.
“I'm grateful as well, Prince Loniel,” he replied, his voice matching the fire in his eyes. “I am told King Halmara and the snake Lord Sialo have fled. Also, that you have seen the wisdom of alliance against Angrääl. Though I wish it hadn't taken an attempt on my life to accomplish this.”
King Victis spoke. “We are all overjoyed that you have survived. And clearly Angrääl cannot be trusted. But many of us feel that King Halmara might have been deceived into doing you harm - if indeed it was even King Halmara at all. Is it possible that Sialo was acting alone? We would know the truth before we consider war against one of our own.”
“The truth is that he has fled,” said Lousis sternly. “The truth is that he allowed the murder of all the men and women in Valshara. That is enough for me to go to war. Those who do not have the stomach for it – well then, you have chosen your side.”
Queen Illirial spoke. “But Your Highness, surely you would rather not see us at war with each other? Would not a peaceful resolution with King Halmara be preferable?”
“While you contemplate peaceful solutions, Angrääl may be already moving against us,” Lousis countered. “I understand that the southern cities are dependent on trade with Skalhalis as well as Baltria, and the idea of losing that trade worries you. But King Halmara is not fit to rule. And either by his action, or inaction, he has made his intentions known. I will not allow him to sit on the throne after what he has done. He has brought shame to his house, and his kingdom.” Lousis struggled to his feet. “Those who are willing, you should begin to muster your armies.”
“What do you intend to do?” asked Prince Loniel.
“I intend to defeat King Halmara,” He sat back down. “Then I will do the same to this so-called Reborn King.” He looked to Ertik. “I am informed that you speak for both Valshara, and the elves.”
“This is true,” Ertik replied. “Lord Theopolou gave me that honor. He heads north with Mohanisi to speak to the elves of the Steppes.”
“Then I will need you to send word to Valshara,” said Lousis. “We will need all the help that Theopolou’s people can give.”
“I will go there myself as soon as possible,” said Ertik. “You will have whatever support you require.”
Lousis looked over the council carefully. “I will return to my chambers now. In one hour, those who are with me may join me there. Those who are not - you are free to leave my home.”
King Stanis spoke. “And should we not join you, will you make war on us as well?”
Lousis smiled. “I will not. Unless you provide support to King Halmara, you will remain unmolested by me. But know this. When Angrääl comes - and they certainly will - you stand alone.” He struggled to his feet and the guards rushed to his side. “You have one hour to discuss it. Ertik, as your mind is already set, I would have you joi
n me now.”
Ertik followed as the king carefully made his way from the chamber. They could hear the room erupt as the door slammed shut behind them.
“What do you think they will do?” asked Ertik.
“Most will not suffer Halmara to sit on the throne,” he replied. “They would eventually come to that conclusion anyway without my help. Of course, it would take them many weeks to do so. And if Halmara is bold enough to make an attempt on my life, then he obviously feels there is nothing the rest of them can do about it, and that he has the strength to keep them in line. It may also mean he is ready for war.”
“You think Angrääl has already sent an army?” asked Ertik.
The king shrugged. “I don't know. But if they haven't, they will soon enough. We must be ready.”
They wound their way back to the king’s bedchambers. Ertik was surprised to see how humbly the man lived. The walls were covered with paintings of past rulers of Althetas, each with an engraved gold placard fastened below stating their name and years they had ruled. The large mahogany bed was well made and comfortable, but simple in its design. A small, round glass-topped table and four chairs sat beside a picture window overlooking a well-tended garden. At the opposite end, a tall sturdy bookcase housed dozens of leather-bound tomes. A door on either side of the bed hung ajar, one revealing a shower, the other a closet filled with the king’s clothing.
Lousis dismissed the guards and walked carefully over to the table. He eased into a chair. Ertik took the seat opposite him.
“The southern rulers are not as bad as they seem,” said Lousis. “They fear for their people should trade cease. None would admit to it, but the Reborn King has already forced many of them to trade exclusively with Angrääl. His stranglehold on Baltria has forced them into it.”
“If that is the case, then what will you do?” asked Ertik.
“First, I will deal with Halmara. Then I will see to Baltria.”
“You intend to make war with Baltria?” asked Ertik.
“I hope not,” he replied. “But it may very well come to that. This war may begin here, but it will soon spread to all nations. We must find other allies. Baltria may not be as lost as we think. My understanding is that Angrääl has influenced the nobles and merchants there. If we can break that hold, then war will not be necessary. Of course, if Baltria is already under military control, then we will be forced to liberate it.”
“Do you have enough men?” asked Ertik.
“Alas, no,” admitted Lousis. “Even with all twelve kingdoms united we would be hard-pressed. The elves will be of great help, but we will need even more.”
“Then let us hope there are more rulers such as you who are not afraid to stand against the Reborn King.”
Lousis smiled. “Make no mistake, I am afraid. But I fear even more what would happen to my people should we fail.”
There was a knock at the door and Prince Loniel entered.
“I hope Your Highness doesn't mind,” said the Prince. “I grew tired of listening to the nobles bicker. My mind was set the moment you were poisoned.”
Lousis offered him a seat, which he gratefully accepted.
“How are things faring?” asked Lousis.
“As one might expect,” he replied with a shrug. “They speak of peaceful resolutions and are in fear of war. But I think most are more afraid of standing alone. And in light of recent events, they are now also in fear of what Angrääl may do to them.”
“So you think they will side with Althetas?” asked Ertik.
“I do,” Loniel replied. “At least, they will give what support they can. Most cities do not have the wealth of Althetas, and could raise no more than a few thousand soldiers at best.”
“It will be enough,” said Lousis. “It will have to be.”
A short time later the other kings and queens began entering in ones and twos. With only a few minutes to go until the stated hour was up, only King Victis had not yet arrived.
“It will be a blow to lose the Tarvansia Peninsula,” remarked Loniel.
“Being that it has the most direct route to Baltria, it will make things far more difficult,” agreed Lousis.
Just then the door opened and an unhappy looking King Victis entered. “I am loathed to use force against King Halmara,” he stated. “But as the will of the council is against me...”
Queen Illirial spoke. “King Lousis. As you know, none of our kingdoms possess the wealth of Althetas, and this shall cut off our trade with Baltria. What can you do to ensure our people don't starve?”
“If I must, I will empty my treasury,” Lousis replied, allowing his gaze to meet each one of them in turn. “There are already lords and ladies in my city who are struggling against this growing threat. We will enlist their help as well. Once we deal with Halmara, then we will address Baltria.”
“So you will expand this war to include Baltria?” asked Victis, scowling.
“Naturally, I will try other means first,” said Lousis. “But we cannot allow a port of that size to be under Angrääl’s control.” He waved a dismissive hand. “However, that is a matter to be discussed once we have settled with Halmara. In the meantime, we must discover what is happening in Skalhalis. I will ask Ertik to send elf scouts there to see if they have armed for war.”
“I will do so at once,” said Ertik. “And I would suggest that you send more men to Valshara. One hundred can hold off a siege for a long time, but not indefinitely.”
“I agree,” said Lousis. “I intend to make Valshara our staging point.” He got to his feet. “I know that some of you do not have many soldiers to offer. That being so, all cities south of Althetas should retain whatever numbers are required to keep order in their own lands, and send the rest to Tarvansia. If Angrääl moves forces from Baltria, that is where they will strike first. The rest will join my forces in Valshara. Agreed?”
Gradually, all nodded in agreement.
For the next several hours they mapped out plans for troops and supplies. It was late in the afternoon before they decided to adjourn for the day. Lousis asked Victis to remain in his chambers once the others had left.
“Thank you, my friend,” said Lousis. “I know how difficult it was for you to make this decision.”
“King Halmara is my cousin,” Victis replied. “But in the end, there is no denying that you are right. He is not fit to rule. I have worried about the future of my land for some time, and I am not blind to what Angrääl has done. I can see what will become of us. But I still do not think we can prevail.”
“Then why did you join us?” asked Lousis.
Victis held his head high. “Because I am King of Tarvansia. My people will remain free for as long as I draw breath.” He moved to the door. “But I am tired, and I believe we have several more days of planning ahead of us.” Just as he was on the point of leaving, he paused. “I thank you for excluding me from the campaign against my cousin.”
Lousis smiled as the door closed. He changed into his night robe and slipped into bed. His body ached and his head was swimming. The battle of Valshara entered his thoughts. The sights and sounds of the dead and dying were still fresh in his memory. This would get worse. Much worse. He looked up at the portrait of his father, King Hersal, hanging on the wall close by. Hersal had ruled for fifty-two years. In all those years there had been only one border dispute and a few bands of marauding raiders that needed to be run out of the kingdom.
“What I would give to trade places,” he muttered before allowing himself drift off to sleep.
Chapter 27
For six days Lee had been chained, hands above his head, to a cold stone wall. At least, that’s how long he thought it had been. Not a morsel of food or drop of water had been offered during that time, and even with the strength of Saraf running through his veins, he was now beginning to weaken. Occasionally he would hear someone enter the small cell he was held in, but a blindfold had been kept over his eyes throughout, so he could not tell who it might
be. He did his best to concentrate on what was going on nearby, but the only sounds he heard were of various rodents scurrying about and the stomping of hard boots on stone floors.
His mind wandered to thoughts of Jacob. He refused to believe that he had been betrayed, though his captors had clearly wanted him to believe so. He would not fall prey to doubt and despair. In all probability his life would end soon, and he would need more than innuendo for his last moments to be filled with anger.
The door opened, and this time the footfalls were light and graceful, not the clumsy, plodding of a soldier. The scent of lilacs filled the air.
“So they have sent a woman to attend me,” said Lee. His mouth was so dry that every word was painful. “You can tell your master that his efforts to break me will fail. It is just as well that he kill me now and be done with it.”
He felt a cup touching his dry, cracked lips. The water poured down his throat. He moaned with relief in spite of himself.
“So what is it you intend to do?” he asked contemptuously. “Keep me alive so you can watch me suffer?” There was no response. “You fear to speak? It's just as well. Your words would only be lies.”
“I don't know what to say.” The voice was a soft whisper.
“Then say nothing,” he shot back. “Better next time they send a mute fool.”
There was a long silence, then he felt a cool rag gently cleaning the grime from his face.
He shook his head violently. “Do not touch me. Not unless it is a blade you carry.”
“Are you so anxious to die?” she asked.
The voice was familiar. Another trick, he told himself.
“Yes, my love.” She spoke as if she could read his thoughts. “It is me.” She lifted the cup to his lips again, but Lee turned his head away.
“Then remove my blindfold,” he commanded.
“I am forbidden,” she replied. “It was the only way they would allow me to see you.”
“I know you are lying. Penelope would not act with such cruelty.”
The Godling Chronicles : Bundle - Books 1-3 Page 93
