The Godling Chronicles 02 - Of Gods And Elves

by Brian D. Anderson

  “Try me.”

  “Legend says it was written by Lilith herself, thousands of years ago.”

  Gewey's eyes widened. “You mean these are true stories?”

  “Perhaps. But I think not.” He leaned back and crossed his legs. “More likely Lilith was just the one who invented the stories.”

  “Of course.” Gewey felt foolish. “Has the meeting begun?”

  “Yes,” Akakios replied. “About an hour ago. The last of the elders arrived just before they were going start without him.”

  “How is it going so far?”

  Akakios shrugged. “I would not know. The only non-elder allowed in is Linis. I'm sure he'll fill you in later. In the meantime...” He pulled a set of eight-sided dice from his pocket. “How would you like to learn an elf game?”

  Gewey beamed. “I'd love to. But I must warn you, I'm not a very good gambler. And I really don't have much money.”

  Akakios leaned back in his chair and gave Gewey a devilish grin. “Don't worry. We can play for fun... for now.”

  Gewey fetched the little money he had... three coppers, a silver, and a gold (Lee had given him the gold) and tossed it on the table. “That won’t be necessary.”

  “Don't worry,” joked Akakios when he saw Gewey's money. “I'll give you a loan if you need one.”

  The game was similar to games played at the tavern in Sharpstone, and though Gewey was not one to visit the tavern at night often, he caught on quickly. Soon he had nearly doubled his money.

  “Not a gambler?” teased Akakios, as he fiddled with his dwindling pile of coins.

  “Is that what I said?” said Gewey, feigning innocence.

  Linis entered, looking very unhappy. Akakios gathered his coins and excused himself.

  “From the look on your face things aren't going well,” said Gewey as they took a seat on the couch.

  Linis lowered his head and rubbed his neck. “That is putting it mildly. Things are turning sour and fast.”

  “What happened?”

  To begin with,” started Linis. “They knew you were here.” “How?” asked Gewey.

  Linis shook his head slowly. “I don't know. Somehow they found out that both you and Kaylia are here. Some of the elders are calling for Theopolou to face judgment for harboring a fugitive and for treason.”

  Gewey shifted nervously. Without Theopolou's protection, he wasn't sure what could happen. “They can do that?”

  “It's doubtful. It's just a prelude to another move.” Linis looked disgusted. “Even if they can get enough support to call Theopolou to judgment, they would never be able to convict him.”

  “Then why do it?”

  “To force him to expose himself,” said Linis. “If he is called to judgment, he will have to go to the Chamber of the Maker.”

  “What's that?” asked Gewey.

  “It's where all judgments are made, and where the council meets during times of war.” Linis stood up and began pacing. “If he leaves these walls he is vulnerable.”

  “You don't really think they'd try to kill him... do you?”

  Linis sighed heavily. “If you had asked me that question a year ago, I would have said no. Now...”

  Gewey thought for a moment. He needed to speak to the elders and convince them to join him against Angrääl. If Theopolou were brought to judgment, he didn't know if there would be another chance.

  “There's more,” said Linis. “They want to speak to you... and Kaylia.”

  This sent a chill throughout his entire body. “Together?”

  “Yes,” Linis replied. “They know about your bonding. Needless to say they are not pleased.”

  Gewey shot to his feet. “What will they do?”

  Linis grabbed Gewey's shoulders, trying to calm him. “They can do nothing so long as you are under Theopolou's protection. If they tried, the elves who are undecided in this matter would move against them. And don't forget, this is the house of an elf sage and council elder. Only a great fool would attack him here. He controls the flow within these walls.”

  “But if we are forced to leave?”

  “Then you have the greatest living seeker to fight at you side,” Linis assured. “Even the elders will pause at that.”

  “But that will put you at war with your own people,” Gewey shook his head. “I won't have that.”

  “I'm already at war.” Linis held a deep sadness in his eyes. “I've been called to judgment.”

  Gewey's eyes shot wide. “What? What are you going to do?”

  Linis forced a weak smile. “I've refused to recognize their authority. Once I leave these walls I am to be considered a fugitive and a traitor.”

  “I'm so sorry,” said Gewey

  “Don't be. I knew this would happen. It was just a matter of time.” He squared his shoulders. “I have made my choices, and I do not regret what I have done.”

  The door opened and Theopolou entered, dressed in a long white robe, looking weary.

  “I imagine Linis has filled you in,” said Theopolou. Gewey nodded.

  “The council wishes to extend you an invitation to join them at the Chamber of the Maker,” said Theopolou in a clear even tone. “Do you accept?”

  “Why?” asked Gewey. “Why do they want me to go there?”

  “They feel that your presence has jeopardized the gathering,” Theopolou replied without conviction. “They fear you may have led others here.”

  “That is a lie and you know it,” Linis roared. “They are luring you into a trap. You must see that. Once you're outside of these walls they will kill you... and Gewey.”

  “I pray that you are wrong, seeker,” said Theopolou. “But if you are not, you must take the Book of Souls and keep it safe. I'll entrust it to you before I leave. Keep it hidden.”

  “No need,” said Linis flatly. “I'll be going, too.”

  Theopolou nodded. “Very well.”

  “What about Kaylia?” asked Gewey.

  “She will be accompanying us,” Theopolou answered.

  “I won't let you march her to her death.”

  “She is not to be judged,” said Theopolou. “At least not yet. She has been called to bear witness and give testimony.”

  “Testimony?” said Gewey “What kind of testimony?”

  “Against me,” Theopolou replied. “I have been called to judgment.”

  “You cannot do this,” said Linis. “Your enemies know that you will not be found guilty. It can only mean they intend to move against you once you are away from the safety of your home.”

  “If so,” said Theopolou. “I shall count on you to come to my aid.” “My seekers should come as well.”

  “No,” said Theopolou. “If you insist on coming, they must not. It will be taken as a sign of aggression. You must help me keep the Book... and Gewey safe. ”

  “So I won't be opening it here?” asked Gewey.

  “I do not think it would be wise,” Theopolou replied. “It would cause more trouble than I care to handle at this point. The council is aware that I have re-acquired the Book, and that has gained me some support. But introducing a God into the situation this soon would be... unwise. Linis is right. I will not be found guilty. Once that happens we can move on from there. I will gather the council once more after I am found guiltless, and then you will open it.”

  “Is Gewey still to meet with the council before we depart?” asked Linis.

  “Yes,” Theopolou replied. “Though your petition to have the elves join your cause must wait.”

  Gewey’s heart sank. “Isn't there any way for me to speak to them before we reach the Chamber of the Maker?”

  “It would be a foolish risk,” said Theopolou. “Beyond the grounds of my house I cannot protect you. Certain revelations may cause my kin to react... poorly.”

  “I have to risk it,” said Gewey. “Every day wasted brings the Dark Knight closer to our doors. I need to do what I came here to do.”

  Theopolou sighed. “If you must, I cann
ot stop you. But I think you would do better to listen to my council.” He turned to Linis. “The road ahead may hold danger. Prepare.”

  Linis nodded. “I may not be able to bring my seekers, but I can see to it that they are not far.” He shot a stare at Theopolou before he could argue. “I insist.”

  “They must say out of sight,” said Theopolou reluctantly.

  “They are seekers,” said Linis. “The finest the tribe of Melanctha has ever produced. That bumbling group of fools could not spot my elves if they were standing on top of them.”

  “I know you are angered by them naming you traitor,” scolded Theopolou. “But they are not fools. If your seekers are not careful they will be discovered.”

  “They will not be discovered,” said Linis. “But I must take my leave now to inform them.”

  Theopolou nodded curtly as Linis left the room. “What happens now?” asked Gewey.

  “Now you will speak briefly with the elders.” Theopolou looked Gewey up and down. “You may keep your present attire.”

  “And Kaylia?” asked Gewey.

  “She awaits us.”

  Theopolou led Gewey out the door and around to the front of the main house. He was excited to see the interior of such a magnificent building. The great metal doors swung open as they approached. What Gewey saw made the exterior seem trite and common. The immense receiving hall was lit bright by the same orbs that were in his room, only much smaller and vast in number. The floors were of deep emerald green marble, polished to a shine and veined with ivory. The walls were made from the same gleaming silver metal as the door and gate, and etched with elf letters and symbols of such artistry it brought tears to Gewey’s eyes.

  Above him, running along the entire length and breadth of the hall, was a green marble balcony. Darkly stained wooden doors lined the wall leading to various rooms and chambers.

  In the center of the hall a crystal statue, similar to the one outside, held a book. Gewey immediately thought of the Book of Souls. Theopolou's family had guarded it for generations. It must have pained the elf over the years to see the statue and know that it no longer held the same meaning it once had.

  At the rear of the room, a broad staircase led up to the next level, with a set of double doors on either side of the base, as well as another set at the top. Gewey stared, mouth agape as he passed the statue. He could hardly wait to see the rest of the house. As he crested the staircase, Gewey caught sight of Kaylia. She was dressed in the same white robe as Theopolou, and her hair hung loosely down her back. She smiled when she saw Gewey and he could feel her relief through their bond.

  Kaylia appraised his elven garb. “You look good dressed this way.”

  Gewey blushed. “It's very comfortable, but I feel underdressed to meet elf elders.” He decided not to mention that he had also slept in them.

  “Are you ready?” asked Theopolou. Gewey and Kaylia both nodded.

  Theopolou clapped his hands loudly and the doors swung silently open. As they followed the elf in, Gewey took a deep breath, hoping this trip hadn't been a huge mistake.

  Chapter Thirteen

  The High Lady of Valshara paced the halls of the temple, immersed in thought. Ever since Linis had reported the presence of possible agents from Angrääl watching them, she had hardly slept. Then, two of her scouts had disappeared three nights ago, and the temple watch had seen shadowy figures lurking just beyond the walls. Their location was compromised and she felt an attack would soon come.

  The few knights she had available were not enough to hold off an attack should the walls be breached. They had attempted to convince her to escape, but she refused. The High Lady of Valshara would not scurry away in the night, and she would not leave her people behind. If evacuation became necessary, everyone would go. Of course, if the hidden exit had been found by their enemies, they would all die.

  Her mind wandered to thoughts of her son. She wished she could speak to him one more time. Their reunion had been all too brief, though she was thankful that she was able to see him before the end.

  “My Lady.” It was Ertik.

  Selena forced a smile. “Brother Ertik, how are the preparations coming?”

  “They go well, My Lady,” he replied, though not convincingly. “If the walls are breached, the knights will be able to slow any invaders long enough for everyone to get out.”

  “I want you to spread the word,” commanded Selena. “Gather all packs and gear and place them in the receiving hall at once. I want nothing to hinder our escape, if it comes to that.”

  “Yes, High Lady,” Ertik bowed and left.

  Selena busied herself by inspecting the provisions and defenses. The knights tried once more to convince her to leave, but she would not be moved. When it was time for the evening meal, fatigue had begun to set in. Her feet swelled and her legs ached. Still, even after a hearty meal and hot bath, she could not bring herself to sleep.

  After lying in bed for an hour, she decided to read. She sent for some hot tea and settled in her favorite chair, curling up with one her favorite comedies. She needed a laugh. Selena had only read the first paragraph when there was a loud knock at the door. It burst open before she could speak and Jericho, the captain of the knights, stepped inside holding his sword tightly.

  “We are besieged, High Lady,” said the captain. “We must evacuate.”

  “I heard no alarm raised.” Selena reached for her coat. She was thankful that she had begun the habit of dressing in clothes suitable for travel, rather than her cotton nightgown. “Have they breached the defenses already?” She slipped into a pair of short leather boots.

  “I don't know how it was done,” Jericho admitted. “But they killed three knights before we even knew they were there. Whatever they are, they're neither human nor elf.”

  A cold knot twisted in her stomach. “How many are there?”

  “I don't know,” said the captain. “But they fight as if possessed. We cannot hold. You must leave now.”

  Selena squared her shoulders, standing straight and tall. “Begin the evacuation. Then, and only then, will I leave.”

  Jericho lowered his eyes but made no move to obey. “My Lady, if you do not come with me willingly, I regret that I must take you by force.”

  “You wouldn't dare!” she hissed.

  “It is my duty to protect this Order.” He took a small step forward, but did not lift his eyes or place his hands on her. “You are not only our leader. You also symbolize what we are. Should you die, we die with you. The knights are falling back as we speak to aid in your escape. Every second you delay, more of us meet our end.”

  Selena boiled with anger, but she had no other choice. She nodded sharply and allowed Jericho to lead her though the temple to the receiving hall. Screams echoed everywhere as the enemy found new victims, but Jericho wouldn't allow her to pause. Tears streamed down her face. Her people were being slaughtered, and she was helpless to do a thing about it.

  She hoped desperately that the gathering in the receiving hall would be large, but as they entered those hopes were dashed. Three knights, Ertik, and two novices.

  “So few,” Selena whispered in horror. She felt her legs begin to give way, but Jericho caught her.

  “Come High Lady,” said the captain softly. He led her to the tunnel entrance. “Others may yet follow.”

  Selena tried to fight back her tears.

  “I will stay behind and help others get out,” said Ertik.

  “No!” Selena shouted. “You will escape now.”

  Ertik bowed and helped Selena to the ladder once Jericho had descended. When they reached the door, Jericho motioned for them to wait, and then crept outside into the cool night.

  “All clear,” whispered the captain. “My Lady, stay close behind me.”

  Jericho led the group down the trail, sword in hand. Selena, Ertik, the novices, and the three knights followed as closely as they could without tripping on each other.

  They had walked for about ha
lf a mile when they could hear footsteps coming from out of the darkness. Jericho crouched and the rest followed suit. As the footsteps grew louder, the light from three torches came into view.

  “Off the path,” whispered Jericho.

  They scampered into the nearby brush, trying to stay quiet. Soon the torches were right next to them. Selena's heart raced, and her breath was short and swift. Then the torches halted. From their vantage point behind a small bush, she couldn't see who it was.

  “Come out,” hissed a foul, unearthly voice. “I can smell you, hiding like scared rabbits.” Selena was the first to stand. “Who are you?” she shouted. “Why have you attacked the sacred Temple of Valshara?” She stepped onto the path. The others quickly jumped up and followed. The knights stood at her side, while the others stayed close behind. Ertik had drawn a small dagger.

  What she saw shocked and revolted her senses. Two soldiers stood in full chain mail, each bearing vicious, curved scimitars in one hand, and a rope attached to a bound and blindfolded elf in the other. Selena recognized them as part of Theopolou's guard. They had been badly beaten, but there was no mistaking who they were. Standing in the center was a creature she had never seen. Even in the dim torch light she knew it wasn't human. Hunched over and swaying from side to side, it was wrapped in a long, flowing, black cloak, and wore heavy boots of leather and iron. Though its face was hidden behind the drawn hood, she could feel its eyes on her. It took a step forward and drew a long, jagged sword. The creature’s movement was unimaginably quick and fluid. Jericho and the knights leaped in front of the High Lady.

  “Stay back, demon,” commanded the captain.

  “The Vrykol bid you greetings, High Lady,” said the creature. “You will come with us... or all of your companions will die.”

  “You will not lay your foul hands on the High Lady of Valshara,” growled Jericho.

  The Vrykol hissed a laugh. “Brave words, human. I think I'll kill you slowly.”

  “You will harm no one,” said Selena. In a flash, she reached in her sleeve and threw a small glass phial straight at the Vrykol's head. The sound of breaking glass was followed by another foul laugh.