“We had hoped that you would know a way to open the Book,” said Selena. “Perhaps within its pages we could find a way to help them?”
Theopolou shook his head. “I cannot. My family has been the Book’s keeper and guardian, but we have no knowledge of how to open it, or what is truly inside. Even if I knew, I wouldn't. It is not meant for me, or any but the Emancipator.”
“Perhaps not,” said Lee. “But the thought of handing over a potential weapon to a people who have such deep hatred of humans does not sit well with me.”
“I understand,” Theopolou replied thoughtfully. “As I have given my word, we will not take it by force. But you must know that once word of this reaches my people, they will not suffer you or anyone else to possess it. They will come for it.”
“Any attempt to attack this temple will fail,” warned Lee. “And many will die in the attempt.”
“All the more reason for you to return it,” he replied. “I have no desire for bloodshed, but I cannot prevent it from happening. My kin will take back the Book of Souls. Of this I am certain.”
“As the High Lady of Valshara, I will tell you this.” Selena’s voice was commanding and firm. “Any attempt to take the Book of Souls by force will fail. You may know of the location of this temple, but you do not know its secrets. Even should you succeed to breach our walls, you will never find the Book. It will be lost forever.” She slowly rose to her feet. “I promise you that the moment a single elf steps inside without invitation, this will be the last moment the Book of Souls will see the light of the sun. I will cast it where no one will ever find it again.”
“This is getting us nowhere.” Theopolou’s frustration bled through in his voice. “What will make you see reason?”
The door to the hall flew open and Sister Wileminia ran straight to the High Lady. As she whispered in her ear, Selena's eyes widened.
“We must resume this later,” Selena announced. “Lee, Dina and Lord Theopolou, I need you to come with me at once.”
“What's happened?” asked Dina.
“Gewey and Kaylia are awake. Sister Wileminia, will you see that Theopolou's companions are fed?”
Wileminia gave a quick nod and Selena rushed out of the room. Lee, Theopolou, and Dina followed closely behind.
Chapter 5
When they arrived at the healing chamber they found it nearly empty. A single healer was mixing herbs with a stone pestle in the corner, and Gewey and Kaylia were sitting up in their beds talking quietly to each other. Their faces lit up when they saw Lee and Dina, but Kaylia's expression quickly changed to concern when Theopolou entered.
“It's about time you two woke up.” Lee laughed.
“It's good to see you, too,” said Gewey. His voice was weak and cracked.
“They mustn't speak too much,” said Selena. “At least, not until they've had a few days to regain their strength. We've kept them alive with herbal mixtures, but that's not a replacement for a good hot meal.”
“We're both fine,” said Gewey. “Although I wouldn't turn down a bit of food.”
“I've already sent word to the kitchen, High Lady,” said the healer in the corner. “It should be here shortly.”
Theopolou moved next to Kaylia's bed, ignoring the others. “It is good to see you well.”
Kaylia nodded. “I am pleased to see you, uncle. I am confused though. How did you come to be here?”
“Your...friends sent for me. They hoped I could heal you.” He motioned, indicating Gewey. “And this one too. But it seems this was unnecessary.”
“Healing me cannot be the only reason you have come,” said Kaylia. “I am to be killed on sight. Am I not?”
“That is not of my doing,” replied Theopolou. “I have opposed it from the beginning. I despise what you are doing, but I would never see you put to death without judgment.”
“But you would see me put to death,” she shot back.
“Have you not broken the law? Are you not in the company of humans? Have you not chosen to travel with them openly?”
“And why should that be a crime?”
“You should know better than most.”
Kaylia fumed, but Gewey reached out and took her hand.
“I thank you for coming,” said Gewey. “But as you can see, neither of us is in need of help.”
Theopolou stared at Gewey holding the hand of his niece for a long moment. “I see,” he said finally. “Then you have committed yourself to treason, and there is nothing more I can do for you.”
“Treason?” Kaylia scoffed. “Then what have the elders who sent assassins to hunt me down committed?”
“I agree,” said Theopolou. “But that changes nothing. If you come home now, then I might just be able to persuade the elders to let you live. However, the look in your eyes tells me that this will not happen.”
“You're wrong, uncle. I have given my word that I will face judgment, and I will do so. But not until my task is finished.”
“And what task is that? What business could you have with these people?”
“That is not for me to say. At least, not yet.”
Theopolou sighed heavily. “Then if you no longer are in need of aid, that only leaves one final matter.” He looked over to Selena. “The Book of Souls.”
“That can wait,” said Lee. “I would speak to Gewey and Kaylia first. There is much I have to tell them and much I would like to know.”
“Very well,” said Theopolou. “I too, would hear their account. They have journeyed where no elf has gone. How this could have happened has weighed on my mind.”
“Forgive me,” said Gewey to Theopolou. “But there are things you cannot know.”
“Then please omit any details you feel necessary,” he replied. “I already know that you are not what you appear to be. That your spirit traveled beyond my reach or understanding tells me as much. And that Kaylia was able to join you tells me even more.”
Gewey looked at Lee, who just shook his head and shrugged. “Fine,” said Gewey. “But only if Kaylia allows it.”
Kaylia stared hard at her uncle. “He is wise and will learn the truth if he stays, no matter what you leave out.”
“You know me well,” stated Theopolou with a hint of pride. “But I already know that you have bonded your soul to the boy. That is clear. And the places his spirit has traveled say that he is either one of Felsafell's race or something...else.”
Silence fell over the room for a moment. Hearing Felsafell's name caused Gewey's chest to tighten.
“What do you know about him?” asked Gewey.
“I know that he is neither human nor elf. And that he is ancient. His people were here before humans walked the earth. Some believe that they were here even before the elves, but there is no way to know. Perhaps you could ask Felsafell, if he allows you to find him. I know that his race was able to project themselves into places unreachable by any, save the gods. ”
“I have met him,” admitted Gewey. “I spent the night in his home, and I saw him again just before I woke.”
Theopolou looked at Gewey in wonder. “Then I think I would hear your tale now.”
Gewey nodded and recounted the experience he and Kaylia had had in the spirit world.
When he had finished Lee doubled over in laughter. “You are a wonder. Just when I think I’ve heard everything, you tell us this.”
“You are a wonder indeed,” agreed Theopolou. “And the only one of your kind, unless I am mistaken.”
Lee tensed. “Whatever you may think, I'm sure you are mistaken.”
Theopolou raised his eyebrow and smirked. “I see that you believe I shall reveal his secret. Perhaps I would if circumstances were different. But, as my niece has bonded with him, I will not. Besides, if I did, I would be put to judgment for not killing a god when given the chance. Even my own guards would turn on me.”
Hearing Gewey's true nature said aloud brought a wave of anxiety throughout the room.
“How long have you
known?” asked Selena.
“I suspected from the moment I discovered where his spirit had traveled,” he replied. “But when I heard about your experience with Felsafell there was no question in my mind. And it does explain Angrääl's sudden mobilization in the north, and their pursuit of a young boy.”
“What do you mean?” asked Lee. His thoughts turned to his wife and son.
“Our seekers tell us that his armies gather. He will be ready to march by spring at the latest.”
“When did you learn this?” asked Lee.
“Just before I came here. The information can be no more than a week old.”
“How is it we have heard nothing of this?” Selena’s eyes flashed with anger.
“If you have sent spies north, they would not likely have made it far enough to have seen anything,” replied Theopolou. “The way is well guarded. Even my people have difficulty moving undetected.”
“We need to start building alliances here,” said Lee. “As the elves will not join us, we should finish our business and move on.”
“Quite right,” Theopolou agreed. “But as we are at an impasse, I do not see what there is left to say.”
“What business?” asked Gewey.
Lee told Gewey about the meeting. Gewey sat up straight in bed and rubbed his chin. “I would like to speak to Kaylia and Theopolou alone.”
Lee and the others paused for a moment before obeying.
“What do you suppose they're talking about?” wondered Dina as they waited outside the chamber.
Lee shook his head. “If I know Gewey, he's doing something foolish.”
“Give him some credit,” said Dina. “He's managed to do pretty well so far.” Lee grunted and crossed his arms.
Selena placed her hand lightly on Lee's shoulder. “It will be fine,” she said softly. “If what you've told me about the boy is true, his heart will guide him well.”
For over an hour they waited, the only interruption being a healer who brought Gewey and Kaylia a bowl of stew and some apple juice. Lee was just about to lose his patience when Theopolou came to the door and invited them inside.
“We have come to an agreement,” said Gewey. “But I don't think you're going to like it.”
“No doubt,” remarked Lee.
“Don't worry,” interjected Theopolou. “It's conditional on the approval the High Lady. And you, of course.”
What is it?” asked Selena.
“I have agreed to allow Theopolou to possess the Book of Souls,” said Gewey. “In return, he will help me persuade the elves to join us.”
“Assuming I agree,” said Selena. “How do you propose to do that?”
“I will open the Book of Souls.”
“You'll what?” exclaimed Lee. “How?”
“If the boy truly is a god, then he possesses the power of heaven,” Theopolou explained. “With that power, there is a possibility that he may be able to open the Book. If he can, that will go a long way toward swaying my people, if not into joining you, at least into not opposing you.”
“And when they find out what he is?” argued Lee. “What then? Even elves that befriend humans hold no love for the gods.”
“Nor do I,” said Theopolou. “But I do not subscribe to the notion that it was the gods that caused the Split. I was there.” He turned to Kaylia. “As was your father. I saw no evidence of divine intervention.”
“Then what do you think really happened?” asked Lee.
“That is not a thing I would discuss here. It is the business of the elves. I only say this much to set your mind at ease regarding my intentions toward Gewey. I may not wish to befriend humans, but as Gewey is not human, I bear him no ill will.”
“I wish you could let go of the old hatred, uncle,” said Kaylia. “They’re not as we have been told. At least, not the ones I call friends.”
“You did not suffer through the Great War, or the Split. I watched the humans take advantage of our weakness and decimate our people. I could never trust them, and without trust, there can be no friendship. If I can help Gewey convince my people to help your cause, it is only to fight a greater threat. I do not believe the promises made by the Dark One. Once he has defeated his human enemies, he will turn on us and destroy us too.”
“I'm still concerned about the Book falling into the hands of our enemies,” said Selena. “How does this agreement prevent that?” She walked to the bed and sat beside Gewey.
“If I fail to help sway my kin, I will take the Book and hide it away where it will never be found,” Theopolou replied. “You have my solemn vow on this.”
“And just how do you propose to sway them?” asked Lee.
“Gewey and Kaylia will accompany me to my home. There the elders will meet and decide.”
“Hold on a minute,” said Lee “Do you really think we would allow Gewey and Kaylia to simply leave with you and deliver themselves into the hands of people who want nothing more than their deaths?”
“They will be under my protection,” replied Theopolou. “No elf will harm them while I give them sanctuary. That I return with the Book of Souls will also go far in aiding our cause.”
“If you do this, I will go with you.” Lee planted his fists on his hips.
“No, Lee,” said Gewey. “It can only be Kaylia and me. If we have any hope of bringing the elves to our side, we must show them we can be trusted.”
“You will not be welcome among us, half-man,” said Theopolou. “If you come, our efforts will surely fail.”
“Find a way to make them bear my presence if you are so bloody wise.” Lee could barely contain his frustration.
“Insults are not called for. I have given my word that the boy and Kaylia will not be harmed.”
“And what of Kaylia?” Dina was careful not to come to close to Theopolou, afraid he might discover her heritage. “What if they decide to judge her?”
“Kaylia will face judgment,” he replied. “But not at this time. I have granted her my protection, and my people will honor it.”
“Let us think on this,” said Selena. “I will give you my answer tomorrow. In any event, they cannot travel until they are stronger.”
“I would like Dina and Lee to stay a while,” said Gewey. “They've heard my story, and now I'd like to hear theirs.”
Selena smiled. “Only for a short while. You must regain your strength.” She turned to Theopolou. “I'll have rooms made ready for you and your escort.”
Theopolou nodded. “Thank you, High Lady. If you can provide us with rooms that are, how shall I put this - secluded? That would make our stay more pleasant for everyone.”
“That can be arranged.” She showed no sign of being insulted. “I can have your meals brought to you as well if you wish.”
“That would be fine.”
“Then, if you will follow me,” she said, leading Theopolou from the room.
“You certainly wasted no time in causing me trouble,” said Lee once the door had closed.
“I'm sorry,” said Gewey. “But there is no other way.”
“I didn't say you were wrong. I just don't like it.”
“Enough.” said Kaylia. “I want to know what has happened while I was asleep.”
“Yes,” agreed Gewey. “So would I.”
“Fine.” Lee sighed.
Lee recounted the events up until that day. Gewey smiled when he heard about the meeting between Lee and his mother.
“It's hard to believe,” said Gewey once Lee had finished. “All this time, and she was living right here.”
“Yes.” Lee chuckled. “The world is full of surprises.” His eyes grew sad, “Now, if only I had word from Millet.”
Gewey thought for a moment. “I think I may be able to find them - with Kaylia's help.”
“How would you do that?” asked Lee, unable to contain his excitement.
“I believe I can touch the mind of Malstisos. With a healthy dose of jawas tea and Kaylia lending me her strength, it may just be po
ssible.”
Lee looked at Gewey doubtfully. “They're hundreds of miles away. How could you do such a thing?”
Gewey smiled wide. “One thing I realized when I was with the spirits is that time and distance don't amount to much there. Now that I know the way, I can return.”
Dina became alarmed. “But won't you risk being trapped again?”
“Not likely. The spirits will leave me alone now, and they are the ones who trapped me in the first place. Without them in my way, I should be able to come and go as I please. With Kaylia there to help me find him, I think I can reach Malstisos no matter how far away he is.”
“I still can't ask you to risk it.” Lee shook his head. “If you're wrong...”
“He is not wrong,” said Kaylia. “Reaching out and returning is not the challenge. Finding one particular mind is. We have an advantage in that Malstisos will probably be the only elf in the area, so it will be easier to single him out. That's where I come in. Our bond allows me to travel with Gewey, and my familiarity with an elf’s mind should increase our chances.”
“When you say travel...” said Dina.
“I mean it literally,” replied Kaylia. “It's different to when one touches the mind of another, the way you or I would do. The world where we go is as real as this one in a way.”
“I am familiar with this sort of contact, as you know,” said Lee. “But it's still difficult to understand.”
“As much as I'd like to show you, I'm not sure what the risks would be,” explained Gewey. “Just imagine yourself in a dream where anything is possible, only you’re wide awake.”
“Sounds wonderful,” said Dina.
“It is.” Gewey nodded. “But it can be terrible too. If it wasn't for Felsafell saving us, we'd probably still be trapped.”
“That's probably the most confusing thing about your tale,” remarked Lee. “Little is known about him, and if Theopolou is right about his being a part of some ancient race, then his motives are a mystery. I don't like mysteries.”
“Whatever he's after, it doesn't seem he means to harm me,” said Gewey. “Until I can see him again, that will have to be enough.”
The Godling Chronicles : Of Gods and Elves (Book Two) Page 6
