“Are you prepared?” asked Theopolou.
“I'm not sure,” Gewey admitted. “I really have no idea what I'm going to say to convince them.”
Theopolou looked at Gewey thoughtfully. “The appearance of Felsafell should help with that. Word will spread fast that he is with us. That you have such an ancient wisdom as your ally will go far to sway the doubters. The main thing you must remember is not to allow yourself to get angry. Your opponents will try to twist your words. If you show anger they will see it as a sign of weakness and you will lose support quickly.”
“I'll do my best.” Gewey sighed, trying to anticipate just what might be said to anger him. No firm ideas formed.
When he returned to camp, Gewey sought to temporarily forget concerns about the day ahead by listening to Felsafell sing songs in an ancient forgotten tongue. Though he couldn't understand the words, he imagined an epic battle between good and evil being waged across time. He wondered what the song was really about, but did not bother to ask. Once the song was done, Gewey shut his eyes and listened to the music of the forest until he felt the dawn approaching.
Linus kneeled beside him. “Today is the day.”
Gewey opened his eyes and smiled. “I'm ready.”
Chapter 26
It was mid-morning when Gewey noticed the terrain around him beginning to change. The woods became thicker - so dense in fact, that even when he used his powers to listen, the sound bounced straight back, startling him.
The party funneled into a narrow trail, causing their progress to slow. No sound could be heard at all, not even their footfalls. Gewey nestled himself between Felsafell and Linis as Felsafell began to whistle. The sound pierced the dead silence of the woods, making some of the elves uneasy.
“We're nearly there,” whispered Linis.
“Nearly there indeed,” said Felsafell. “There and back we go. Once more and again.”
Gewey couldn’t help but smile at Felsafell's words, though most times they made no sense to him.
After about an hour they came to a narrow stream spanned by an elegant, wooden bridge. Theopolou motioned for everyone to halt.
“We come in brotherhood and friendship,” he called out.
There was a long pause before a voice called back from the other side. “Then enter and be welcome.”
Theopolou and the other elders slowly led the party over the bridge. Here, the landscape soon opened up into a soft grassy meadow dotted with multicolored wildflowers. Tents lined the far end, and Gewey could see elves walking among them. Far beyond the tents, a white, vaulted roof peeked out. A group of three elf women dressed in tan leather shirts and trousers, each with a long knife at her side, approached from among the tents. Theopolou raised his hand in greeting, but the women made no reply. When they were a few feet away, Theopolou stopped and bowed.
“Matrons of the Creator,” said Theopolou, without looking up. “I offer you my friendship. As the eldest among my party, I claim the right to beg entry for all.”
The matrons examined the group, only pausing for a second when their eyes passed Gewey and Felsafell. They looked at each other and nodded.
“Be welcome,” said the woman in the middle. “But be warned. You bring two humans with you, and will be responsible for their well-being, and answerable for their actions.”
“I understand,” he replied, lifting his head. “We need to be shown to our quarters at once. There is much to do.”
“You, along with the other elders, have already been seen to,” said the matron on the left. “Your tents and provisions had been made ready and await you.”
Her gaze fell on Gewey and Felsafell. “However, we did not expect to accommodate humans.”
“They need no special consideration,” said Theopolou. “They will lodge with me and mine.”
“Very well,” said the matron on the right. “I assume you know your way.” With that, they turned and walked back in the direction of the tents.
Theopolou waved Gewey over. “Stay with me.” He turned to the others. “Farewell for now.”
The other elders and their escorts bowed in turn and headed off in different directions to their own tents. Theopolou led Gewey, Linis, Kaylia, Felsafell and his own escort to the left, toward the western edge of the encampment. Gewey glanced several times at the domed roof, hoping to get a better look, but to his disappointment the dome disappeared as they drew close to the campsite. From the far end of the meadow, Gewey hadn’t been able to tell how many tents had been erected. But now they were passing amongst them, he was surprised to see that they numbered literally in the hundreds. Elves were everywhere. Most were dressed in plain leather or linen, but some were attired in fine silks and adorned with exquisite jewelry.
“I never thought to see this many of your people at the same time,” whispered Gewey to Linis.
“I'm shocked as well,” said Linis. “I thought to see less than half this many. It seems Theopolou's call has caused quite a stir.”
“All the more reason to be cautious,” Kaylia interjected over her shoulder.
They wound their way through the camp until they reached a large silver tent. It was twelve feet tall and at least forty feet across. Gewey figured it could easily house three times the number they had with them.
Theopolou pulled back the tent flap and disappeared inside. Kaylia, Felsafell, and Theopolou's escort followed close behind. Gewey and Linis entered last.
Gewey looked around, impressed. The interior resembled a house more than a tent. Just past the entrance was a large open area with a dozen plush chairs lining the walls. In the center was a round table, low set but big enough to accommodate twenty people; an assortment of cushions rested on the ground beneath this. The scent of mint filled the air, emanating from the roasted lamb that had been placed on the table. Along the ceiling hung light orbs set just dimly enough to give the room a warm feel. The floor was uncovered, but the soft grass was as lush and beautiful as any carpet. At the far left corner another tent flap led to the back areas.
“There are enough rooms for everyone,” said Theopolou, pointing to the rear flap. “They are all the same, so choose as you will. Hot water should be waiting for you, unless you prefer to eat before you wash.”
“No, thank you,” said Gewey. “I prefer to be clean when I eat, if I can.”
Theopolou nodded and led the group through to the back. A hall lined with several cloth-covered doorways stretched before him. Gewey chose the third room, and Linis the one just beyond. Kaylia and the others continued to follow Theopolou and disappeared around a corner. Felsafell whistled merrily and turned to wink at Gewey before heading after them.
Gewey’s room was rather sparse compared to the main dining and lounging area. A small bedroll had been placed in one corner, and opposite this, a washbasin with a cotton towel folded neatly beside it. One light globe hung from the ceiling, and a soft, thin, brown rug covered the floor.
Gewey washed and changed into a cotton shirt and pants, then strapped on his sword. He could still smell the mint lamb and his stomach growled loudly.
“Are you ready?” came Linis' voice from just outside his room.
Gewey threw back the door flap and smiled at the elf. “I'm starving.”
Linis noticed Gewey was wearing his sword. “You will want to take that off at the table,” he said. “It is considered rude to be armed at the table of your host, and for all intents and purposes this is still the home of Theopolou.”
Gewey removed his sword. “Should I leave it behind?”
“No,” Linis replied. “Keep it with you, but place it on the floor beside you.”
Gewey nodded before following Linis into the dining hall. Theopolou and a few of his escort were already seated. Gewey took a seat opposite them, while Linis sat on his left. Kaylia was not yet there.
Theopolou nodded at the lamb. “We serve ourselves here. Felsafell will not be joining us. He said he needs to rest.”
One of Theopolou's esco
rts passed them a bottle of wine. Gewey gratefully accepted it, then gave it to Linis.
“I'll wait until we're all here,” said Gewey, noticing that the other plates were still empty.
“We only await Kaylia,” said Theopolou. “The rest are running errands.”
“No need to wait any longer,” said Kaylia, entering the room.
She was dressed in a loose fitting, white cotton shirt, together with trousers and a pair of soft leather shoes. Her hair was tied into a long braid, and she carried a long knife in her left hand. After surveying the group, she took the seat on Gewey's right.
Theopolou cut off a portion of lamb, then passed it around to the others. One of the elves rose from the table to retrieve a basket filled with flat bread, and this was also handed around. To Gewey's relief, they dined in silence. It was all he could do to maintain his table manners. Not only was he famished, but the lamb was also exceedingly tender and juicy.
Once they were finished, two elves cleared the table and brought out a decanter of plum brandy. Gewey's mouth twisted as the sweet fragrance filled the room.
“I see you don't care for plum brandy,” Theopolou observed. “I have more wine if you would rather.”
“Brandy will be fine,” said Gewey. “I've never had elf brandy. I would try it before I decide.”
Theopolou smiled slightly while passing the bottle over. To Gewey’s relief, though the smell was similar, it was not as sweet as the brandy he had tasted in the past. In fact, it was quite pleasant. A smile crept over his face as he sipped it.
“Word of you and Felsafell will have begun to spread by now,” said Theopolou. “I have called for a gathering in the Chamber of the Maker this evening for the joining between you and Kaylia.” His eyes darkened. “Do not expect a warm reception.”
Gewey nodded. “Do you expect me to be challenged?”
“I hope not,” Theopolou replied. “It would complicate matters. On one hand, you could show your strength and resolve it. On the other hand, you may be prematurely exposed. That Felsafell is your friend and companion may give any would-be challengers pause - at least that is my hope.” His eyes fell on Linis. “I have debated as to the virtue of your presence. You are cast out and have refused to face judgment. Those who do not know this, soon will. Yet your name still carries weight and respect, even among your enemies. You shall also stay by Gewey's side.”
“I never intended to do anything else,” Linis stated. “And I will offer again to perform the bonding. That is, if you think it will go ill for you, should you do it.”
Theopolou's jaw tightened and his eyes narrowed. “I will not be denied my right, nor ignore my obligation as Kaylia's guardian and uncle. Though some may abandon me for what I am to do, I will not let politics cause me to act with dishonor.”
“I meant no offense,” said Linis. “I think only of your safety.”
“Then I will have Lord Theopolou bond us,” said Kaylia. “And no other.”
Theopolou couldn't help smiling. The old elf got to his feet, accompanied by his escort. “Then you should both prepare. I must make the arrangements.” He turned and left the tent.
“What do we do?” asked Gewey.
“If you are to be bonded in the Chamber of the Maker,” said Linis, “I think I will try to find you some appropriate attire.”
“Won't you be in danger if you go wandering around outside alone?” asked Gewey.
Linis flashed a smile. “I think not. There are few who can hope to attack me and live. Besides, with you and Felsafell around, I doubt I'm of much interest. At least, not yet.” Linis stood and fastened his long knife to his belt. “If I were you, I would take advantage of your time together alone.”
Gewey blushed as Linis departed. Kaylia forced back a laugh.
“Are you nervous?” asked Gewey.
Kaylia took Gewey's hand and kissed him lightly on the cheek. “No - not really. At least, not in the way a human might be.” She could see that Gewey did not understand. “I feel as if I am beginning a new chapter in a life that I know nothing about. This does not make me nervous. It makes me excited.” She scrutinized Gewey for a moment. “And you? How do you feel?”
Gewey thought for a moment. “I don't know. Not for sure. I do know this is what I want. I can feel that in my heart. It's just...”
He shook his head in frustration. “I wish I had the words. But I don't. In truth, I'm still just a simple farmer. I guess I feel small among the company I have been keeping. It's confusing.”
“Even with me?” she asked.
“Especially with you.” he admitted. “You are so far beyond anything my wildest dreams could have imagined. And I'm to be bonded with you. How am I worthy of this? How? Me, a hay farmer from Sharpstone married to an elf princess.”
Kaylia pulled Gewey to her and kissed him again, this time deep and hard. Gewey felt dizzy when she finally released him.
“For a farmer with no words you seem to speak them well,” she whispered. “You are worthy because I deem you worthy. Never forget that. And never forget that it is the company you keep that stands in awe of you.” She stroked his cheek and smiled sweetly. “One more thing - I'm not a princess.”
Gewey gazed deeply into her eyes. For the first time in days, he felt confident and at peace. He took Kaylia's hand and pulled it to his chest. “Thank you.”
Kaylia cocked her head. “For what?”
“For showing me what I must do.”
“And what is that?”
He squeezed her hand then kissed it. “Bond with you. Bond with you, then see to it that we are never in fear again.”
He jumped to his feet and pulled Kaylia up with him. “I guess you should get ready.” He embraced her for a long moment. “As for me - I'll count the minutes.”
Kaylia laughed softly. “It is tradition that I be attended by two elf maids.” She looked around the tent. “Sadly, I seem to lack them.”
As if on cue, two young elf girls dressed in blue satin dresses entered the tent. One carried a thick bundle bound with a thin twine. The other had a large leather bag thrown over her left shoulder. They stopped just inside the tent and bowed.
“We have been sent by Lord Chiron to attend Lady Kaylia,” said the elf holding the bundle.
Kaylia beamed. “A kind gesture. And well received.” She leaned over and kissed Gewey lightly on the cheek, then allowed the two maids to lead her away into the back of the tent.
Gewey took a seat back at the table and nibbled on a piece of bread while waiting for Linis to return. After half an hour, the tent flap opened. But instead of Linis, Akakios entered. He wore a grave expression.
“What's wrong?” asked Gewey.
“Word of your bonding has spread.” he replied. “Lord Theopolou was nearly assaulted.” Gewey jumped up. “How did it happen?”
Akakios peered outside for a moment. “An argument broke out regarding his presiding over the bonding ceremony. Linis stopped it just as knives were being drawn.” He looked around the tent. “Where is Kaylia?”
“She's getting ready,” Gewey answered. “Lord Chiron sent two maids to attend her.”
“That's good,” said Akakios. “The sooner this is over, the better. I have a feeling tensions will keep rising. Perhaps once the two of you are bonded there will be no further need for this nonsense.”
“I wish I could say I am sorry,” remarked Gewey. “But Theopolou knew this could happen. I think he knew it must. Change is always hard. I will not apologize for my bond with Kaylia. It's important. Not only for us, but for everyone.”
Akakios sighed heavily. “When I first met you, those words would have angered me. Now - I think I understand why this must be.”
He walked to the side of the tent and sat in one of the chairs. “I've heard the words of Felsafell. He speaks of us as a broken people. I think he is right to say so. When I hear of the grace and wisdom of my ancestors, I cannot help but long for us to regain what we once were. Not power. Not to be as we were
before the Great War. But to be as we were in the times of our legends. I used to think that they were just stories. But now I feel they are more than that.”
He reached behind him and touched a glowing globe that hung from the wall. Sadness washed over his face. “Once we created such things as to rival the craft of the gods. Now...”
“Compared to the darkness and fear that exists in the human world, your people are still great and wise,” Gewey said.
Akakios raised a hand and shook his head. “No. We are not as humans think we are. Not as good, nor as cruel. We have hidden ourselves away for so long that we have become...something else.”
“I'm hoping to change that,” said Gewey. “Perhaps when all is done, the elves can learn how to become what they once were. Perhaps something even greater.” He took a seat next to Akakios. “I've only begun to learn about your legends, but what I've read tells about a people who led open and adventurous lives. I believe it is time for your people to live that way again.”
Akakios turned his head to Gewey and smiled. “Yes, I believe you're right. For too long we have stewed in our own hatred. It is indeed time for us to live in the world again.”
“Indeed,” said Lord Chiron. He was standing just inside the tent wearing a crimson robe tied at the waist by a black silk rope. His long knife peeked out as he moved toward them.
Both Gewey and Akakios stood and bowed.
“Forgive me, My Lord.” said Akakios. “The threat to my Lord Theopolou so close to the Chamber of the Maker caused me to despair.”
“You are right to be upset by such events,” said Chiron. “But we should look to happier matters.” He turned to Gewey. “I trust Kaylia is well attended?”
Gewey bowed again. “She is. I thank you for your kindness.”
Chiron waved his hand. “Not at all. I am honored to have taken part in such a momentous event.” His eyes strayed to the flap leading to the sleeping quarters. “And I shall further my participation by inviting you to join me in my tent until it is time for the ceremony. It would not do to have you here while your future unorem is getting dressed mere feet away.”
The Godling Chronicles : Of Gods and Elves (Book Two) Page 24
