Of Gods and Elves

chapter Twenty-Three


An hour before sunrise they were underway again. Linis spent the first few hours picking up where they had left off the night before. The bonding ceremony wasn't very complex, but Linis had made it clear to Gewey that each part held great significance, and it was very important to get it right.

“I have never seen the bonding performed,” he said. “And I don't really understand the bonding in the same way that Theopolou would. But, as you are connected with Kaylia's spirit already, I don't think it will be difficult for you.”

“I hope not,” said Gewey.

Linis threw his arm around Gewey's neck. “Don't worry. Things will go as planned. Besides, you are about to become the envy of many an elf.”

They went over the ceremony a few more times, then let their conversation drift to lighter subjects. Gewey's guards kept their distance, but by midday Akakios joined in. He had heard of Linis and held him in high regard, despite the fact that he had been named a traitor.

They covered another forty miles before they stopped. Gewey noticed the elves occasionally glancing over at him to see if he were tiring. Gewey knew it would be wise to feign fatigue, but his pride wouldn't let him. Every time he caught one their eyes he would smile happily and whistle. This brought fierce stares and chatter among the elders. All except, of course, Theopolou.

Once camped, Kaylia joined them again. She looked burdened with worry. “What’s wrong?” asked Gewey.

“Theopolou,” she replied. “He doesn't seem well.”

“You mean he's ill?” asked Gewey.

Kaylia shook her head. “Not ill. It’s like he is... drained, weary.”

Linis smiled sympathetically. “Theopolou is very old, Kaylia. Perhaps this trip, and our quick pace, is too much for him.”

Kaylia shook her head. “I know, but it's more than that. It's as if his spirit is being drained from him.”

“I might be able to help,” offered Gewey.

“How do you mean?” asked Linis.

“I could... give him part of what I have” said Gewey. Then he shook his head. “No. That's not what I mean. I... I can't describe it, but I think I can put power from the earth inside him.”

Linis looked at Gewey in wonder for a moment. “How did you learn to do such a thing? Only the greatest of elf sages have ever been able to do this.”

“I don't know,” he admitted. “I don't really know that I can. I just feel that I can. Ever since I journeyed to the spirit world, the first time, I keep getting these... impressions. It's like I know I can do a thing, but I don't know what it is.” He rubbed his chin. “I don't understand it, but I think I can help Theopolou... if he'll let me.”

“I'll ask him,” said Kaylia and rose to speak to her uncle. She paused and looked down at Gewey and smiled. “Thank you.” With that, she walked off to speak to Theopolou.

A short time later Kaylia returned, accompanied by Theopolou. The old elf sat next to Gewey, though he did not look at him.

“Kaylia says you have the ability to transfer the flow from yourself to another,” Theopolou remarked.

“I think so,” said Gewey.

Theopolou turned to Kaylia then to Gewey. “Then you are not certain?”

“Not entirely,” Gewey admitted. “But like I told Linis and Kaylia, when I woke up from being in the spirit world, I felt like I knew things... without really knowing them. I know I can do this. And if you're ill you should let me try.”

Theopolou scrutinized Gewey for a long moment. “I'm neither ill nor tired as Kaylia might think, but something is wrong.” He stood up slowly. “I feel as if the energy of the earth is somehow being drained from me.”

“Drained how?” asked Linis.

“I don't know. I have never encountered this before. I have attempted to track down the source, but so far unsuccessfully.”

“Could it be one of the elders?” asked Gewey.

“I don't think so,” said Theopolou. “Of all the elders and other elves here, only Chiron has a stronger connection than I... and perhaps Linis. Neither could do this. Actually, you are the only one here with such ability.”

“I swear—” Gewey began to protest, but Theopolou held up his hand.

“I did not mean to suggest that you had anything to do with it,” said Theopolou. “Only that you are the only one I am aware of that could. It is possible another has somehow gained this ability. And it may not be anyone. It just may be an anomaly.” His eyes grew sad. “Our people have lost so much knowledge. Even the wisest of us are mere children compared to our ancestors. They had such vast knowledge in matters of the flow, it is said they could trace it to its source.”

Linis joined Theopolou in his melancholy. “Yes. The seekers of old were said to have been able to out run a deer, and hear the heartbeat of a rabbit from one-hundred yards away.”

“I do not think it is wise for you to give me your flow,” said Theopolou. “But I would ask that Linis help me track down the culprit, if there is one.” Then as if a wave had hit him, he staggered.

Gewey jumped up and placed his hand on Theopolou's shoulder. He could feel the elf tense at the unfamiliar contact, so he withdrew and took a step back. “Are you…”

Theopolou waved him off. “I'm fine.”

“No, you're not,” argued Kaylia. “You should let Gewey try to help you.” Linis nodded in agreement. “I...”

Suddenly he looked up to see that Akakios, standing a few feet away, eyes ablaze, his bow drawn and pointed at Gewey. Linis reached for his dagger, but it was too late. The arrow loosed. Time stood still as it flew through the air and Kaylia tried desperately to throw herself in its path. But instead of piercing Gewey’s flesh, it flew past him, missing his throat by a hair’s breadth, and buried itself into the chest of an elf wielding a vicious looking dagger, just a few feet behind them. He gasped, clutched at the arrow, and fell to his knees. Kaylia and Linis were already running towards him, while Gewey threw his arms around Theopolou and pressed him towards the guards.

“Unhand me, boy,” boomed Theopolou.

Gewey ignored his protests. When he was in range of the guards, he shoved Theopolou in their direction. “Protect him,” Gewey commanded. The elves obeyed without question, surrounding the elder.

Gewey ran to Akakios' pack and retrieved his sword. It sang as he pulled it free from its scabbard, and he could feel the warm throb of the earth rush through him. By this time, Kaylia and Linis had reached the assassin, and were trying to remove the arrow.

“To arms,” yelled Gewey, alerting the others, who by this time knew something was wrong and had begun forming a protective circle around the elders.

Gewey ran to Kaylia and Linis. The wounded elf was struggling against them, trying to reach into his belt. Gewey dropped to the ground, and with all his strength, grabbed the elf's wrists and pinned them to the ground. The assassin’s eyes shot wide when he felt the power in Gewey's grasp. Realizing he was far outmatched, the elf relaxed. Still, Linis, Kaylia, and Gewey did not release their hold.

“Who are you?” roared Linis.

The wounded elf said nothing and turned his head.

Gewey could hear the camp organizing a search of the nearby forest. He looked at the elf carefully. Then he closed his eyes, allowing the power of the earth to flow like a relentless tide and reach every fiber of this being.

“Gewey,” whispered Kayla. “What are you doing?”

Gewey took a deep breath. “I am going to get some answers.” Releasing his wrists, he placed his hands on the wounded elf's chest.

The ground hummed for a moment as Gewey let the power flow from him around the elf's body. “You can let him go,” he said to Linis and Kaylia. “He cannot move.”

Slowly Linis and Kaylia relaxed. They marveled at the sight they beheld. Gewey smiled as he also removed his hands. Still the wounded elf could not move.

“What have you done to him?” gasped Linis.

“Nothing,” Gewey replied. “I am just using the same power you do. Only I'm using it to hold the elf down.”

“Amazing,” said Linis, half smiling.

Gewey nodded then turned his attention back to his prisoner. “You will tell me what I need to know.” His voiced was grim and intimidating. “Who sent you?”

The elf glared with hatred and fear. “Curse you and all of your kind,” he hissed, and looked at Kaylia. “And you...”

“Careful,” Gewey warned, then let the power squeeze in tightly. The elf gasped. “Traitor,” he managed to say.

Gewey could hear some of the elves making their way toward them. In a flash, Theopolou appeared with his knife in hand and slit the elf's throat. Blood soaked the elf's shirt and spilled onto the ground. Gewey immediately released his hold on him, but it was too late. His eyes met Gewey's for one final moment before death overcame him. Pure hatred was the only thing Gewey could see. Then the blank stare of oblivion. He heard a thud, as the knife hit the ground beside the slain captive’s head.

Theopolou turned to the others who were still a few feet away. “He is dead. I have killed him.”

Chiron walked up to the body and examined it carefully. “He has no markings and his clothes could be from anywhere. The dagger is common as well. The stains and scrapes on his boots suggest that he has traveled through the mountains.” He turned to the others. “Does anyone recognize him?”

Each elf in turn examined the body, but none could place his face or guess at his origin. Even Linis could not find a clue. After it was clear that no one could solve the puzzle, the elders gathered in a small circle to decide their next move. They invited Linis to join them, but made it clear that Gewey and Kaylia were to remain with Akakios and the other three guards. Akakios looked as if he wanted to ask for Gewey's sword, but did not.

The elders talked for about an hour then split up to tell their plan to the others. Linis approached Gewey, his eyes aflame.

“Fools,” spat Linis. “Bloody fools!” “What is it?” asked Gewey.

Akakios and the three guards had joined them.

“They want to press on even faster,” he replied, in disgust. “And they still will not allow my seekers to join us.”

“You told them they were near?” asked Kaylia.

“I had no choice. Whoever the assassin was, he had the skills to slip past my people. If there are more out there, we won't be able to notice them if we travel too fast. And if they allowed my seekers to come among us, we could move at speed and avoid a trap.” He checked his weapon. “I need to speak to my comrades. I'll return soon.” He dashed off into the woods and disappeared.

“Your weapon,” came Bellisia's voice from behind them.

Gewey turned to her as she walked toward them accompanied by two escorts, long knives drawn.

“If there is someone seeking to kill him,” said Theopolou. “He should be allowed to keep it.”

“You misunderstand,” she corrected. “I only wish to know where he acquired it.”

“It was a gift,” said Gewey.

“And such a gift it is,” she said. Her eyes locked with Gewey's. “I will not ask you to give it up, and I suspect that forcing it from you may prove more difficult than we would have originally suspected. Because of that, I think that you shall be dealt with first. Theopolou's judgment must wait.” She turned to Theopolou. “Once we arrive, be prepared to present your arguments in favor of this boy, and inform him of his rights.”

“You cannot do this,” said Theopolou.

“I can and will,” Bellisia shot back. “Do you think me blind? Did you think he could use that much of the flow and it would escape my notice?” She stepped toward Gewey, looking him up and down. “Whatever you are, I will get to the truth of it. And if you are a danger to my people, we need to know. That gives me the right.” She spun on her heels and strode off.

“I am sorry, Gewey,” said Theopolou, in a half whisper. “I fear this trip may go ill for you.”

“I don't understand,” said Gewey. “What just happened?”

“Bellisia is calling you to appear before the council to determine if you are a danger to our race. If they decide that you are, then they will kill you... and me, for bringing you among us.”

Gewey tightened his jaw and re-sheathed his sword. “They may find that more difficult than they think.”

“Then you will be forced to slaughter your allies,” said Theopolou. “We will fall and the Dark One will triumph.”

“If he allows himself to be killed, all is lost anyway,” said Kaylia.

Theopolou nodded. “The only hope is for you to convince them to spare you. You must show them that you are not a threat.”

“I need to do more than that,” said Gewey. “I need to convince them to join me. That's why I came to begin with.”

“True,” said Theopolou. “But I fear you will have little success. The only way is to gain the support of the majority of the elders. The others will fall in line to avoid a second split.”

“How should we proceed?” asked Kaylia.

“My way is one of caution,” replied Theopolou. “But now is a time for bold action.” He turned and took a few steps. “Face each other. Do it quickly.” He turned back around. Gewey and Kaylia stood motionless for a moment, then obeyed.

“Are you sure you wish to be bonded?” the old elf asked. His voice was soft and melodic.

Kaylia didn't hesitate. “I am.”

Gewey was speechless but still managed a short nod.

“But won't this anger the others?” asked Kaylia. “How can Gewey convince them if they're too incensed to listen?”

“Anger will fade,” he explained. “You have chosen this... man. And he you. If you expect to touch the reason of the elders, you must make them face their fears and see what is possible. Talk is not enough. Though you may be right; this may be a mistake.”

“It is no mistake,” said Kaylia, smiling. “If Gewey faces death, I will face it with him. I would have the bond completed before our fate finds us and it is too late.” She turned to Theopolou. “Now is the time.”

“Then prepare yourselves,” said Theopolou. “I will gather the witnesses.”

They watched as Theopolou walked away into the fading light, towards the elders. Gewey was shocked. “They will be our witnesses?” he laughed.

“They cannot refuse,” Kaylia explained. “The bonding ceremony is among our most sacred rituals. It strikes at our core beliefs. They would not dare say no, regardless of who is being bonded.”

“What do I need to do?”

Kaylia suppressed a laugh. “If you still have the clothes Theopolou gave you, you should put them on. It's a bit more appropriate.” She reached out and squeezed his hand. “As for me I should change as well.” With that, she danced off, leaving Gewey reeling with emotion that flowed between their connection.

If this is what it's like now, Gewey thought. What must it be like when it's completed? He shook his head vigorously, trying to steady his nerves, and went to his pack and retrieved his elf clothing.

“Gewey,” called Akakios, trotting toward him, holding a tiny flask in his hand. “There is a stream nearby where you can wash. I've sent the other three ahead to make sure it's safe.” He slapped Gewey on the back. “Come. Let’s get you ready.”

Gewey paused and extended his hand. “I didn't thank you for saving my life.”

Akakios looked thoughtful. “I'm not sure I did. Anyway, you might not have been the target.”

“What have they done with the body?” Gewey asked, noticing it had been removed. “Two of my kin have taken it to the forest to perform the funeral rites,” he replied. “Assassin or no, he was an elf and should pass from this life as one.”

“Of course,” said Gewey.

“But enough of that,” said Akakios. “You need to get ready, and I will not face Theopolou for failing to have you back on time.” He threw his arm around Gewey, pulling him along.

Gewey allowed himself to be led east, into the dense forest. About half a mile in, he heard the light trickle of a stream. The three guards were waiting. They did not smile. Akakios halted. “Just a few feet through that brush, you'll find the stream.” He handed him the flask. “Essence of the star lily. It is a tradition among us to perfume ourselves during high rituals, and it does not get more lofty than this.”

Gewey opened the flask and the air filled with a sweetness Gewey had never experienced.

“Thank you,” he said gratefully, and walked toward the stream.

“Just see that you give it back,” Akakios called after him. “I need some as well.”

Gewey washed and dressed. He wished he had a mirror. The stream moved too swiftly to see his reflection.

“Gewey,” called a voice a few yards away, just beyond the brush.

Gewey turn to see Linis walking with long strides toward him. A smile beamed across his face.

“How do I look?” asked Gewey.

Linis examined him carefully then said, “Presentable... all things considered. How do you feel?”

Gewey took a deep breath. “A bit nervous... but excited.” He took another breath. “Mostly nervous.”

“Just remember what I told you and you will do fine,” Linis reassured. “But if you'd like we can go over the ceremony again.”

“I'd like that,” admitted Gewey. “But tell me. Did you speak to your brethren?”

“I did,” he replied, with a flash of anger. “I am not pleased that they let someone through. It will not happen again.” His smile returned. “I can't wait to see the look on the elders’ faces.” He began to laugh. “Their own arrogance has forced them to witness their worst fear.”

“I'm sorry,” said Gewey. “But I don't think it's very funny.”

Linis forced back his laughter. “Forgive me, my friend. I forget myself. This is a joyous occasion, not to be tainted by the petty squabbles between me and the elders.”

As they returned to the camp, Gewey and Linis went over the ceremony one last time. Upon arrival, Gewey could see that the elders had gathered and all their eyes were on him.

“This should be interesting,” muttered Gewey, as he approached the group. The grim expressions on their faces told Gewey that they were none too pleased.

“Gewey Stedding,” said Lord Chiron. “As you probably know, we are not in favor of this union.”

“I understa—” Gewey began, but Chiron held up his hand to silence him.

“Allow me to finish,” he continued. “We are not in favor of this, but there is nothing we can do to stop it. As you know, this is among our most sacred rites, and you and Kaylia are the first in more than one-hundred years to be bonded in this way. We would not have it done here in the middle of nowhere. We feel that to be a sacrilege.” All but Theopolou nodded in agreement. “We ask only that you delay this until we reach the Chamber of the Maker. It is a more fitting site for such an event.” He took a small step forward. “Kaylia has already agreed, but only if you do as well. What say you?”

Gewey's eyes drifted to Theopolou, but his face was stone.

“It may be a wise choice,” Linis whispered in Gewey's ear.

Finally, Gewey squared his shoulders and said, “I do understand that this ritual is sacred to you. And if Kaylia is in agreement, then so am I. We can wait until we arrive.”

Chiron bowed. “I thank you.” The others bowed and dispersed.

“One more thing,” called Gewey. The elders turned. “We will complete the bonding before I face your judgment.”

“Agreed.” Chiron walked away.

Only Theopolou lingered.

“A wise decision,” said Theopolou, almost smiling. “This could go a long way to furthering your cause. The rite of bonding, performed in the Chamber of the Maker, is symbolic beyond your understanding.”

“Who suggested this?” asked Linis.

“Lord Chiron,” Theopolou replied. “He could be an important ally to you. He has been a friend to me for many of your lifetimes.”

“And the others?” asked Gewey. “How do they feel about this?”

“Their opinions are mixed,” Theopolou admitted. “Though they all agree that the rite should be performed in a more appropriate location, they still have a difficult time with the fact that a “human” is to be bonded to an elf. They may try to convince you not to do this, though they cannot stop you... or Kaylia.”

“They can try all they want,” said Gewey. “The choice has been made.”

“Do not underestimate their guile,” Theopolou warned. “They have far more experience bending the will of others than you. Their arguments will be... persuasive.”

Gewey nodded with understanding.

Bellisia approached. “Gewey Stedding. I would speak with you alone.” Theopolou and Linis bowed to her and walked away, out of earshot.

“If you are here to talk me out of completing the bond with Kaylia—” started Gewey.

“I am here to warn you,” said Bellisia.

“Warn me?”

“I know that you intend to try and sway the elves to join you in your fight against Angrääl,” she said. “And you may accomplish your goal. But should you bond with Kaylia—”

“Stop right there,” said Gewey angrily. “My relationship with Kaylia has nothing to do with Angrääl, or my reasons for being here.”

“You think not?” she shot back. “Do you think the powers in the north are fools? What will they do once they find out they you are bonded to an elf woman?” She paused. “They will kill her.”

Gewey opened his mouth to speak but no words came.

“That's right,” she continued. “They will hunt Kaylia down and kill her. And they will do it to kill you.”

A cold chill filled Gewey's chest. “Why would you think they would care about me?”

Bellisia sniffed. “You think we do not know that the King of Angrääl is searching for you? Every elf tribe knows your name. We have all been made aware that he seeks you, and have been made offers of friendship for your deliverance…or death.”

“Theopolou hasn't said anything about this,” said Gewey. “He would have told me.”

“Theopolou,” she scoffed. “You think Theopolou is your friend? He is no more a friend to you than I am. But at least I am not trying to make you think otherwise. Theopolou has no love for humans. He is motivated by his love for his niece. Make no mistake, if he had his way, he would break your bond to Kaylia and see you dead. “

“I don't believe you,” said Gewey. “It was his idea that we complete the bonding. Why would he do that if what you say is true?”

“His idea?” she laughed. “And who suggested that you wait until we get to the Chamber of the Maker? Theopolou's closest friend... Lord Chiron.”

“That doesn't prove a thing,” said Gewey. “You're just trying to confuse me.”

“No,” said Bellisia. “I am trying to clear your mind.” She glanced over to Theopolou.

Kaylia was at his side, talking quietly. “He will not allow you to complete the bond. He thinks there is a way to break it. He is wrong, of course. But his love for his niece blinds him.” She turned back to Gewey. “That your spirit was able to combine with Kaylia's has caused much doubt among the elders. Enough that you might be able to convince them to side with you against Angrääl. But you will not get the chance.”

“What do you mean?” asked Gewey. “I'm supposed to prove that I'm not a threat to your people.”

“Yes. And you intend to use that as an opportunity to plead your case. But I assure you, it will not happen. You will be dead before you utter your first word inside the Chamber.”

“Are you saying Theopolou plans to have me killed?” he cried.

“No,” said Bellisia. “I am saying that Theopolou will stop you from completing the bond. But have you forgotten the assassin? Someone sent him. Perhaps someone among us. Whether it was Theopolou, I cannot say, but he certainly has the motivation to do so.”

“And what are your motivations?” asked Gewey.

“I only want my people to be safe and free,” she replied. “You are a being of great power. That much is clear, even if I don't know what you truly are. If killing you protects my people, then I would not hesitate. But I do not think that would do any good. And I do not believe that Angrääl will leave us in peace. You may be the only way we can escape destruction.”

“Then why not join me?” asked Gewey.

Her eyes locked with Gewey's. “Because I am not willing to sacrifice our souls in order to survive. Whatever you are, your heart is human. To join you is to join them. That I cannot do.”

“What would you have me do?” asked Gewey. “You said it yourself. Angrääl will not leave you in peace. The Dark One will march over the land like a plague, and both our peoples will suffer. Our only hope is to cooperate, even if it's only for a little while.”

“That may be,” she admitted. “And you may be able to convince the others. But my mind is set. I have seen what the humans do. I will not be a part of it.” She took a small step back. “I have said what I came to say. Think on my words. Speak to Kaylia if you wish. But know that I have not lied to you.”

“What would you do if you were me?” he asked, just as she turned to walk away.

Bellisia paused and turned her head. “I would run. I would take Kaylia and run.” With that she left.

Gewey stared at Theopolou and Kaylia for a time, then walked over, unsure what to think. One thing he knew. He had to speak to Kaylia. He had to know what they were walking into.