Of Gods and Elves

chapter Eleven


Travel for the next two days was uneventful. At first, the elves kept their distance from Gewey, but by the morning of the second day, their curiosity got the better of them. Gewey tried to answer their questions as best he could, but soon it became apparent that he didn't have the information they wanted. He knew nothing about heaven, the Creator or immortality.

The day before they arrived at Theopolou's home, Theopolou asked to speak with Gewey and Kaylia alone. They walked a few yards from their evening camp and sat on a large fallen dogwood.

“When we arrive tomorrow,” Theopolou began. “I will ask that you keep to your quarters until you are summoned.” He looked at them disapprovingly. “And you will be housed separately.”

“We do not share quarters,” said Gewey, turning bright red.

“Good,” said Theopolou. “Until you have completed your bond you should not.”

“I may not share your opinions on humans,” said Kaylia. “But I am no scortus.”

“What's a scortus?” asked Gewey.

“A woman of ill repute,” Kaylia replied.

“I was not implying that you were,” said Theopolou. “But I'm still your uncle and am protective of your honor.”

“I would not dishonor Kaylia,” said Gewey, with all the sincerity he could muster through his embarrassment.

Theopolou cracked a smile. “I believe you.” Then his smile faded. “Now, listen to me, both of you. You must keep out of sight until I call for you.”

“How long will we have to wait?” asked Gewey.

Theopolou shrugged. “An hour. A day. There is no way to know. But you must stay put no matter what. Each of you will have a guard outside your door.”

Kaylia's eyes narrowed. ”Do you expect treachery?”

“No,” Theopolou replied. “But I will be prepared nonetheless. Timing will be crucial, and I will get us every advantage I can. Since I opposed your assassination, I have lost support. I still hold position and influence, but not as much as before. You must do exactly as I tell you.”

Gewey and Kaylia both nodded in agreement.

“Good,” said Theopolou, satisfied. “Now we must rest. Tomorrow we will arrive. I can only hope we get there before the others.”

They slept for only a few hours and were on their way long before daybreak. By midday, the forest grew thicker until it was nearly impenetrable. Gewey snagged his clothes countless times on thorns and brambles, and the insects swarmed, making a feast of his flesh. The elves seemed unaffected, deftly hopping between the trees and thick brush, avoiding thorns and low hanging branches as if they weren't there.

Linis noticed Gewey's difficulty. “Stay just behind me,” he said. “Do as I do.” Gewey tried his best to follow Linis' every move, and was able to lessen his hurts considerably. Still, he managed a few extra scrapes before the forest thinned.

“How can he stand to live in such a place?” Gewey asked.

“A bit much to get through, for anyone other than an elf.” Linis chuckled. “It is why we choose such places. Most of our dwellings are not easily accessible, even our towns. Some you could never find unless you knew exactly where to look.”

Gewey tried to imagine what an elf town would look like. Majesty and magic must be everywhere. Then he dismissed the notion. So far, he had been far from the mark. Kaphalos lived in a house, but although it was well-built and beautiful, it was nothing like he had pictured.

The forest thinned even more, and soon Gewey found himself walking along a colorful cobblestone street. It was wide enough that the party could walk four abreast comfortably.

Theopolou turned back to Gewey. “Once we reach the end of the road, Akakios will guide you and Kaylia to your quarters. You should be able to get there unseen. The servants will be preparing the house, and we are the first party to arrive.”

“How can you tell?” asked Gewey.

“It's my house,” replied Theopolou. “I know when someone is about. Not even Linis could enter my land without my notice.”

The road ended at an immense gateway, twenty feet high and solid as steel. It shined like silver and bore long, carved ivory handles. A polished granite wall spanned east and west farther than Gewey's eyes could see. He stared in wonder. Even the walls of a human city weren't so well constructed, and the gate looked as if nothing could bring it down.

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.