The Godling Chronicles 02 - Of Gods And Elves

by Brian D. Anderson

  The party halted and Theopolou approached the gate. He placed his hand upon one of the handles. Suddenly the handle hissed and glowed with a pale, white light. Then, as if by command, the gate swung outward without a sound.

  “Magic,” whispered Gewey.

  Theopolou sniffed. “It is not magic.” His eyes fell on Kaylia. “If he is to be yours, then you should teach him properly.”

  Gewey could feel Kaylia's embarrassment. “I'm sorry,” he said. “I shouldn't have said anything.”

  “It is not your fault.” Kaylia lowered her eyes. “I have not told you enough about us. The moment we were bonded, I should have instructed you more about our ways.”

  Gewey was about to try to console her, but Theopolou held out his palm. Akakios moved in front of Gewey and Kaylia.

  “Wait for them to enter,” said Akakios. “Then follow me to your quarters.”

  Once Theopolou and the others were about fifty feet ahead, Akakios led them through the gate. Gewey sucked in his breath.

  A polished, solid white, marble path lay before him. Each stone was etched with an intricate golden inlay of elf ruins. The grounds were dotted with ancient willows and strong oaks, and wild flowers covered the area like a glorious carpet of color and splendor. Directly ahead, stood a ten foot tall, solid crystal statue of an elf maiden. Her arm held aloft an orb, surrounded by tiny vines of ivy. The sunlight struck the orb and it sparkled and split, causing rainbows of light to dance playfully. The craftsmanship was far beyond anything Gewey had ever imagined possible.

  What most impressed Gewey was the house... if such a structure could be called a house. The entire building was constructed from pure white marble and it stood three stories high, rising to an apex. Elaborate carvings of horses, wolves, bobcats, and many other animals Gewey did not recognize, decorated the facing. Not a speck of dirt blemished its beauty, and it showed no sign of weathering. A massive flight of stairs, wide as the entire house, led to a broad double door made from the same gleaming metal as the gates. Lining the front and supporting the lip of the high ceiling stood six massive columns, ten feet apart and as big around as a mature oak.

  As Theopolou and the others passed by the crystal statue, each stopped in turn and bowed their heads.

  “Come,” Akakios commanded.

  He led Gewey and Kaylia around the west end of the house where three small round buildings stood, lined up east to west from the side of the main house. They were crafted from smooth white stones and the roofs glittered with quartz tiles. The door was blond maple and had a silver doorknocker in the center.

  “All of the rooms are identical,” said Akakios. “Each is equipped with a shower, and food and fresh clothing will be brought right away.”

  They thanked Akakios. Kaylia took the room nearest the main house and Gewey the one just beside it. When Gewey opened the door, he felt the relief of cool air pour out. The room was large enough for four people, and well lit by the same strange orbs he had seen at the home of Kaphalos. The four of them hung from a silver chain near the wall. To his right was a single bed with fine linen sheets and a plump, round, comfortable-looking pillow. On his left stood a small, round, oak table with four chairs. A plush couch, with two brass tables on each end, sat at the far side of the room. But what caught Gewey's eye was the area between the table and the couch—the shower.

  Gewey nearly forgot to close the door behind him before he threw down his pack and stripped off his clothes. It looked much like the one he had used in Lord Ganflin's manor, only the fixture were a bit more elaborate and a small marble table held the soaps and bathing implements.

  Once inside the shower area he pulled the curtain around. Remembering the shock of the water from his first time, he carefully twisted the knobs. He lost himself in the feeling of steaming hot water pouring over his body. When he finished, he grabbed a towel which hung on the wall and stepped out. To his amazement a fresh set of clothes lay neatly on the bed, and a bowl of hot stew and fresh bread had been placed on the table. He had not heard anyone enter or move about.

  He dried off and donned the clothes that the elves had provided. They were simple tan pants and shirt, with a thin leather belt. The fabric was comfortable, fit nicely, and was highly durable. A pair of calfskin moccasins and cotton socks completed the ensemble. Gewey sat at the table and began to eat, when the door swung open. It was Linis.

  “You look very much the elf in those clothes,” remarked Linis, smiling.

  “This is what elves wear? I've never seen an elf dressed this way.”

  “Of course not.” Linis laughed. “This is what we wear at home while relaxing. Do you find it comfortable?”

  “Very.” In fact, the longer he wore the clothes the more he noticed they had certain properties. His skin felt cool and alive, and the moccasins hugged his feet to the point he barely noticed he wore them. “I'd love to know how they're made. The tailors back home would go crazy for this. The cobblers, too.”

  “I am sure they would,” said Linis. “You may find it is easier to sway the minds of the elf elders than to pry the secrets from our craftsmen. They are protective of their art.” He sat across from Gewey. “It may be some time before you can leave this room. Do you need anything? I can have it brought.”

  Gewey thought for a moment. “Some books would be nice. About the elves, if possible.”

  “I'm sure that can be arranged.”

  “Have you seen Kaylia?”

  Linis shook his head. “Not yet. I was going to see her after I came here. Do you have a message?”

  Gewey hated that he couldn't speak to her when she was just yards away. “No. I'll deliver it myself.”

  Linis frowned. “You must not leave this room. Give it to me and I'll convey it.”

  Gewey flashed a mischievous grin. “I don't need to leave this room to deliver my message. I agreed to stay here and I will. But where my spirit travels is my business.”

  Linis burst out with laughter. “I sometimes forget what you are, and what you're capable of. Mind that you keep it to yourself. Once the elders are told about you, many are likely to fear you. Give them no more reason than you must to do so.”

  “I was wondering,” said Gewey. “The gate. How did it open?”

  “By the same means you gain strength when you use the power of the earth,” Linis replied. “We can create tools and objects that can harness the flow just as you do. It is said that in ancient times the elves created things of such power that they could upend the very earth, moving entire mountains.”

  Gewey’s eyes widened at the thought. “Incredible. Have you ever seen such a device?”

  Linis shook his head, as sadness washed over him. “No, I have not. No one has in many generations. The wisdom and knowledge of our forefathers was said to rival that of the Gods. But I fear we will never regain what we have lost. ”

  “Maybe together we can rediscover the secret.”

  Linis forced a smile. “Perhaps. I fear I will not live to see such a thing.”

  “Don't say that,” said Gewey. “We're all going to make it through this alive. I swear.”

  Linis furled his brow. “Never make a promise you cannot keep. Besides, I have no fear of death. It comes to us all... except perhaps, to you.”

  “I may be a God, but I am not immortal. Whatever I am, I'm part of this world, just as you are.” He stood and turned his back. “What bothers me is that if I am bound to earth as a human, I may have a human lifespan. Kaylia could live for four or five-hundred more years.”

  Realization washed over Linis. “You're afraid that if you complete your bond she will only live a human lifetime.”

  Gewey nodded and lowered his head.

  “Your fears are justified,” said Linis. “But certainly that should compel you to value the time you will have.” He stood and placed his hand on Gewey's shoulder. “Do not dwell on it. You and she are the first to have such a bond. It could be that if you have a human life, it may be extended to that of an elf
. And there is the possibility that you may not die at all, and the two of you will live together forever. Whatever the case, there is nothing to be done.”

  “You’re right.” Gewey sighed. “But sometimes it's hard not to think about it.”

  Linis gave Gewey's shoulder a light squeeze. “I'll have the books sent. Perhaps that can occupy your thoughts.”

  Gewey turned and smiled. “I'd appreciate it.”

  Linis left and Gewey lay on the bed and closed his eyes. He reached out with his mind, hoping to touch Kaylia's, but found that it was difficult, as if something was blocking him. He looked in his pack, retrieved a small flask of jawas tea and took a long drought. At once he felt its affects. His body and mind relaxed and his breathing deepened. He reached out, but again he was unable to make contact. It was as if a wall blocked his way. He tried a few more times but with the same result. Frustrated, he got up and began pacing the room.

  The desire to leave the room and ask Kaylia if she had experienced the same thing was nearly unbearable. But he knew it would cause trouble. Instead, he busied himself by unpacking his things, and polishing and oiling his sword at the edge of the bed. The weapon never seemed to need care, but he enjoyed it all the same. Simply by holding it, he felt the throbbing pulse of the earth.

  He closed his eyes allowing the flow to move through him. More and more he opened himself until every fiber of his being was saturated.

  “Stop this!” cried a loud, deep voice. Theopolou stood at the door, fury in his eyes.

  Gewey released the power. Immediately he longed to hold it again.

  “You must not do that again,” said Theopolou slamming the door behind him. “Why?” asked Gewey. “What can it hurt?”

  “Fool,” the elf grumbled. “You expose yourself when you draw that much power.”

  Gewey got to his feet. “I don't understand.”

  “Then understand that should an elder be nearby and you draw that much of the flow, you will not need to tell anyone what you are.” Theopolou sat at the table and motioned for Gewey to do the same.

  Gewey, irritated by his inability to contact Kaylia, resisted. “I'll stand.”

  “You tried to contact Kaylia through your bond,” said Theopolou. “Did you not?”

  Shocked, Gewey sat. “How did you—”

  “I know everything that happens within these walls,” he said. “And though another elder may not be as sensitive as I am within my house, they will know that you are not as you seem if you do that again. You are fortunate no one has arrived.”

  Gewey nodded but still felt angered. “Why can't I contact Kaylia? It's as if I'm being blocked. And why is it you can feel when I use the power, but your guards did not?”

  Theopolou's mouth tightened. “I am not inclined to be your instructor, but I suppose this time I must be.” He folded his hands on the table and leaned forward. “As far as your inability to spirit travel, I prevented it. I cannot risk you accidentally ruining my plans. And as for why I can feel you using the flow, it is a trait of my race. As we age, we become more sensitive. Seekers develop this ability, which is why Linis can feel it, but it would come naturally with time.” Theopolou stood. “That is all you need know. Any further instruction will be from Kaylia, or perhaps Linis.” He walked to the door. “Do not be a fool and try that again, or we will be undone.”

  Gewey felt like an ignorant child. He sat in silence. When he first left home with Lee, he had been rebuked many times, but this time it struck home all too keenly. He had thought his experiences had matured him, but now he questioned himself and his worth. There was so much he didn't know.

  The door opened and Akakios entered, carrying an armload of books. “Linis sent these.” He placed them on the table. “Mostly children’s stories, but Linis thought it best for you to learn our culture from the beginning.”

  “Thank you.” Gewey picked up a leather-bond book with the title “Songs of Lilith” embroidered on the cover.

  “Something troubles you?” Akakios asked.

  “It's only that sometimes I realize I have much to learn.”

  Akakios smiled warmly. “It is good to know that about yourself. Even the very wise are not all knowing, though some may think so. I take it Theopolou had harsh words for you?”

  Gewey shrugged. “He didn't say anything I didn't deserve. It's just that for a while I was starting to feel like I was my own man, and then I'm reminded of how young and inexperienced I really am.”

  “Then take comfort that you are the first being, other than an elf, to grace the home of Theopolou or his family in more than five-hundred years. That is an honor that you, and you alone can boast. If it is experience you desire, this is certainly a good start.”

  This lifted Gewey's spirits. “Thank you. I guess I was feeling a bit out of place and alone.”

  “Think nothing of it.” He turned and opened the door to leave. “I'll be guarding your door. I will see if Theopolou will grant me permission to keep you company. Linis may be tied up with the meeting of elders.”

  “I'd like that,” said Gewey.

  Gewey spent the next few hours reading The Songs of Lilith. The book was a collection of stories about a young, elf girl named Lilith, who was kidnapped by a spirit and taken to the other side of the world. Each short tale recounted her quest to return home and ended with a moral lesson.

  By the time he had read the fifth story his eyes grew heavy and decided to go to bed. He examined the glowing orbs but could find no way to dim them. Finally, he lay down and covered his eyes with a shirt from his pack. He thought it best not to undress, just in case he had to move quickly, and kept his clothes on. His dreams were filled with visions of Lilith and her struggle to return to her family.

  Chapter Twelve

  Gewey awoke to find that the lights were dimmed and Linis sitting quietly on the couch, flipping through one of the books he had sent.

  “Good morning,” yawned Gewey. “Assuming it is morning.”

  Linis placed the book on the end table. “It is indeed. The elders began to show up late last night. Theopolou is hoping they will all be here today.”

  A breakfast of bacon, eggs and juice sat on the table. Gewey stretched and walked over, his mouth watering.

  “I noticed you were reading “The Songs of Lilith”,” remarked Linis. He joined Gewey at the table. “It was a favorite of mine as a child. I hope you are enjoying it.”

  “Very much. Though the symbolism is hard to understand at times.” He picked up his plate and breathed in the aroma.

  “I thought you should start at the beginning. It will help you understand elf ways better, if you understand us from childhood. These books are some of the first lessons we are taught.”

  Gewey swallowed a healthy portion of eggs. “They’re certainly different from the stories I heard as a child. My father would have loved them... so would Lee, I bet.”

  “I'm sure he would,” Linis face grew concerned.

  “What's wrong?” asked Gewey.

  “The elders are taking a long time to gather. Theopolou was worried that we would arrive after the others were already here. But instead we wait.”

  “Maybe some of them were delayed,” offered Gewey.

  Linis shrugged. “Perhaps. But too many have yet to arrive. I fear they conspire against Theopolou.”

  “Conspire? To do what?”

  “I do not know,” Linis admitted. “Many who have yet to come are those who are openly against him. When and how they arrive will tell me much.”

  “Do you think they'd try something here?” asked Gewey.

  Linis shook his head. “Within these walls... no. They would never break our customs to such a degree. To do violence in the home of another elf is one our greatest crimes. We consider the home a sacred place. Besides, Theopolou controls the flow here. Even if they did the unthinkable, they'd be slaughtered.” Linis stood and paced in thought. “No. If they intend to kill Theopolou they'll need to remove him from this place.”
/>
  “Easy,” said Gewey. “We just make sure he doesn't leave.”

  “I wish it were easy,” said Linis. “If there is a plot, it will be subtle. They will not simply threaten or force Theopolou to expose himself. They will dress it in a manner he will have no choice but to comply.”

  “How would they do that?” asked Gewey.

  “I wish I knew. I am not as wise as Theopolou, or as versed in the nuances of politics.”

  “What can we do?” asked Gewey, suddenly losing his appetite.

  “Wait and see,” said Linis. “I may be seeing intrigues that do not exist. I hope so.” He walked to the door. “I must leave you. I'm sorry that I cannot stay longer, but I have much to do before the meeting begins. Kaylia says to pay attention to the tenth story of Lilith.” A smile crept over his face. “She is quite an elf.”

  Gewey laughed. “Yes she is. Oh, one more thing before you go,” said Gewey remembering the lights. “How did you dim the lights?”

  Linis laughed softly. “Rub your hand up the side of the glass to brighten, and down to dim.”

  “Thank you,” said Gewey.

  Linis nodded and left. Gewey tried out the light. Just as Linis had said it became brighter as he moved his hand up the side. He marveled at the skill it must have taken to make such a wondrous device.

  Gewey spent the next few hours reading. He made it to the ninth story in The Songs of Lilith when there was a knock at the door. Gewey open it to find Akakios standing there, a broad grin on his face.

  “Theopolou granted me permission to keep you company,” said Akakios. “Please come in,” said Gewey, happy to have someone to talk to.

  Akakio sat down at the table and gestured to the book Gewey held. “What do you think?”

  “I'm loving it,” said Gewey as he sat across from the elf. “Do you know who wrote it?” Akakios raised an eyebrow and chuckled. “You think you might know the author?” He picked up the book and thumbed through the pages. “Anyway, if I told you, you wouldn't believe me.”