Of Gods and Elves

chapter Twenty-Five


The spirits of the party did not rise with the sun. The events of the previous day weighed heavily on their minds. Aside from their footfalls and the rustling of gear, not a sound could be heard. Kaylia continued to stay by Theopolou's side, while Linis and Gewey stayed to the rear. Gewey felt more at ease where eyes could not easily watch him. Though the pace had slowed a bit, they were still able to cover many miles before they made camp for the night. The evening mood was as dreary and quiet as it was during the day, though it was decided that a few small fires could be lit.

Linis and Kaylia, along with Theopolou and Chiron, joined Gewey beside the fire he had built a few yards away from the main camp. Six guards surrounded them, far enough away so that they did not intrude, but Gewey still felt uneasy as he noticed the contemptuous stares they gave him when he met their eyes.

“I thought it would be best to show our... friendship, to the others,” explained Chiron, as he took a seat by the fire.

“I appreciate it,” said Gewey. “I need all the help I can get.”

“Indeed,” said Theopolou. “The coming days will be difficult. Lord Chiron and I both agree that we must find a way for our people to survive the coming storm... even if it means allying ourselves with the humans for a time.”

“Others will argue that it is the humans who march,” added Chiron. “The King of Angrääl was himself a member of Amon Dähl, and his armies are human, even if it is their own kind they march on.”

“The humans who follow him have been deceived,” said Linis. “They have no idea what is about to be unleashed upon the world. And the elves that think him the reincarnation of King Rätsterfel are just as blind, and twice as stupid.”

“I cannot argue,” Chiron admitted. “But you must take into account that many of our people are weary of what has become of us. They no longer want to live in the shadows, yet they cannot bear to live side by side with humans.”

“What do you think?” Gewey asked Chiron.

“In my opinion the elves should leave,” he replied. “There are legends of lands beyond the great Western Abyss. It is said that my people once dwelt there. Perhaps it is time we returned.”

“Those are just legends, as you say,” said Theopolou. “And we have sent ships across the Abyss. None have ever returned.”

Chiron smiled and laughed softly. “I suppose this will be a discussion to be had once our people are no longer facing extinction. In the meantime we have matters to resolve.” He turned to Gewey. “You will face intense opposition when you face the entire council of elders. Some, perhaps many, will wish to aid you, but few will say so openly. It is important that you convince more than just Theopolou and me to speak in your favor. To do this you must open the Book of Souls.” He eyed Gewey intensely. “Theopolou is confident that you can do this. Can you?”

Gewey thought for a long moment then said, “I don't know.”

“That’s not the answer I was hoping for,” said Chiron. “But it will do. If you are challenged for the right to bond with Kaylia, you must wait until after the bonding to speak to the council. You have until sunrise of the next day to answer the challenge, so

you must not act before then. If the Book is opened and you are proven to be the fulfillment of prophesy, then not only will you likely avoid further challenges, but almost certainly gain the support you need.”

“What if we waited until I opened the Book to complete the bond?” suggested Gewey.

“Risky,” remarked Linis. “If you are not successful—”

“Then Gewey and I will still complete the rite,” Kaylia interjected.

“The fact is,” said Theopolou, “there is no way to tell what will happen until we arrive. I suspect all of our plans will be useless. We will be entering an atmosphere alien to us all. Not since the Great War have so many elders been summoned.”

Chiron nodded in agreement.

A commotion sounded at the edge of the camp. Gewey and the others sprang to their feet and drew their weapons. One of the elves that had been guarding Gewey ran up to them.

“We have an intruder,” said the elf.

“An intruder,” Linis exclaimed. “How did anyone get past the watch?”

The elf shook his head. “I don't know. He just appeared out of nowhere.”

“Is it an elf?” Theopolou asked.

“No,” the guard replied. “He looks human but...”

“But what?” Chiron pressed.

“I'm not sure what to make of him,” the elf stammered. “He doesn't smell like a human.”

“Take us to him,” ordered Theopolou.

The guard bowed sharply and led Theopolou and the others through the camp, to its opposite edge. A group of elves gathered in a circle with their weapons drawn, surrounding a small, cloaked figure, leaning on a long, ash walking staff. Theopolou pushed his way between two elves and stood directly in front of the newcomer.

“Who are you?” Theopolou demanded. “What do you want?”

The figure did not look up. “I seek a child of heaven, I do. Oh, yes. Among the young ones, I find him.”

Gewey knew at once who it was. “Felsafell!”

An audible gasp could be heard throughout the elves. Clearly they knew the name well.

Felsafell pushed back his hood, revealing his haggard features and crooked grin. “I see you remember old Felsafell... but of course, of course. You are not daft. Your mind is sharp, oh yes it is.” He took a few steps toward Gewey. The elves gave way.

“What are you doing here?” asked Gewey.

“I have come again to see the world,” he replied. “The spirits are gone and the wind has risen. Blown away my friends, it has. The darkness comes and the first born shall have one final adventure.”

“You claim to be Felsafell.” Bellisia stepped forward. “How do we know this is who you really are?”

“Ah yes,” Felsafell laughed. “The child of discontent, who sought me out. Did not find me. Could not find me. Cannot find herself. Lost you became, and lost you are still. Indeed, indeed. With troubled past and uncertain future. She still seeks the thing she once lost.”

Bellisia glared at Felsafell but fell silent.

This time Theopolou stepped forward. “If you are Felsafell, we welcome you. Your wisdom has helped our people for many ages past. But please, explain to us why you are here.”

Felsafell's smile vanished. “The wisest of the fallen speaks. Fallen from grace you are, yet in you, the spark remains. But I fear it fades. Like me and my brothers and sisters, fading from memory. Sad, sad, sad. The end nears for us both. But perhaps you may be saved. Oh, yes, I have seen the many paths. The trails of joy and sorrow join together.”

“You speak in riddles,” said Theopolou. “If you know something, tell us.”

“Know?” Felsafell sighed. “I know many things. Yes, I do. But none to help you. Alone is the journey of the second born. To what end shall be your task to discover. I come to aid the heaven child. Nothing less and nothing more.”

Gewey walked up to Felsafell and bowed low. “I never had the chance to thank you for what you did for me. If it were not for you I'd still be trapped.”

“How did he help you?” asked Bellisia.

“The why's and what's will have their time,” Felsafell said. “I know much and will share what I can. I will indeed. Oh, yes.” He looked across the gathering. “I know you have questions. Always questions for old Felsafell. But be mindful of what you ask. You may learn what you should not know.”

“So you intend to accompany us?” asked Chiron.

“I do, I do” he replied. “If you will have me. To learn to speak in the world again. An adventure that I did not see. Thought I would fade. Fade away and join my kin. But they have been stolen. The first are all gone.”

“You may join us,” said Gewey.

“You speak without authority,” snapped Bellisia. “We must—”

“He joins me, or I don't go,” said Gewey.

Bellisia paused, then turned and walked away, muttering.

“An old man is tired,” said Felsafell. “Rest is what I need. At least for a while. Questions after. Questions waiting.”

“Come with me,” said Gewey, offering his hand.

Felsafell smiled cheerfully and allowed Gewey to lead him through the camp to where he had set up his bedroll.

“You can take my blanket,” said Gewey. “I'm not tired.”

“A kind child of heaven you are,” said Felsafell. He plopped down on the ground and wrapped himself in the blanket. In seconds, he was breathing deeply.

“I can't believe he is here,” remarked Kaylia. “I wonder what he wants.”

“Whatever it is, he sure has stirred up the elders,” said Gewey, almost amused.

Theopolou approached. “We would like to speak with you,” he said. It was clear he did not share Gewey's amusement.

Gewey, Kaylia, and Linis followed Theopolou to the far side of the camp where the elders, along with their escorts, had gathered. They eyed Gewey as they shuffled uneasily and whispered to each other.

“How is it you know of Felsafell?” Bellisia demanded.

Gewey considered for a moment whether or not to mention his experience in the spirit world, and decided not to. “I met him in the Spirit Hills, after escaping from an agent of the Dark One.”

“And how did you come upon him?” asked Lord Aneili.

Gewey recounted the story of his encounter (leaving out things that would suggest his origin).

“You stayed in his home?” said Chiron. “Remarkable. Many of my people have sought out Felsafell. Some never to return. But even those who found him have never been afforded such a privilege.”

“We're still not certain that is the real Felsafell,” countered Bellisia.

“You seemed certain enough when he spoke to you a moment ago,” said Theopolou.

“Gewey appears to believe him, and of all of us he seems to have the most personal knowledge.”

“Suppose this is Felsafell,” said Lady Leora. “Is it wise to have him among us?”

Lord Endymion laughed. “Just what would you have us do, Leora? Kill him? He walked straight into our camp without being noticed. Do you think he gives us a choice?”

“I think we should hear what Gewey has to say.” Theopolou turned to Gewey. “You clearly want him with you, but is there anything you can tell us that might explain his being here?”

Bellisia leveled her gaze on Gewey. “Indeed, child of heaven. That is what he called you, is it not? What do you think are his motives?”

“I don’t know why he’s here,” said Gewey. “But I don't think he is here to harm us. That's not his way.”

“Tell that to my brother,” cried one of Chiron's escort. “He vanished in the Spirit Hills seeking Felsafell's so-called wisdom, never to be seen again.”

“I don't think Felsafell did anything to your brother,” said Gewey. “He warned me when I was with him that the spirits would try and trick you. They could make you lost and confused. If your bother disappeared I would think the spirits are the villains, not Felsafell.”

“So you say,” scoffed Bellisia. “Apparently, he has much interest in you. But why now? Why has he appeared just as we are ready to gather? Are you sure you cannot answer this riddle… child of heaven? Can you know that he means us no harm? Perhaps he means you no harm.”

“I’m certain he is who he says he is,” replied Gewey, trying to ignore Bellisia’s repeated reference. “As for anything else, I was not alone when I met him, and Felsafell made no move to harm my companion. In fact, he did what he could to make sure the spirits left both us in peace.”

Bellisia scowled “That proves nothing. There is something you are not telling us. No one shows as much trust as you show Felsafell without good reason.”

“Perhaps Gewey is not as jaded as some,” said Chiron, an obvious dig at Bellisia.

“We are talking in circles,” said Theopolou. “We either allow Felsafell to continue with us, or we ask him to depart.” He looked at Gewey. “You say that you will not go without him?”

Gewey nodded. “As long as he wants to come with me, I will have him.”

Theopolou turned to the others. “There you have it. As Gewey is called before you to give testimony, you must make your decision. Do you withdraw your invitation?”

The elders looked at each other, but none said a word.

“Very well,” Theopolou continued, with satisfaction. “Felsafell will be welcome among us.” He turned to Gewey. “Watch over our new guest. I will be with you in a moment.”

Gewey bowed and walked back to where Felsafell was still fast asleep, Linis and Kaylia close behind.

“Sometimes I can't tell the difference between an elf and a human,” muttered Gewey.

“What do you mean?” asked Linis.

Gewey had not meant his words to be heard. “I'm sorry. I meant no offense. It’s just that since I've met the elders, I've seen nothing but petty squabbling and disagreements. The council back home in Sharpstone gets along better.”

“You are not wrong to say so,” Linis agreed. “Once we were a noble people, with honor and understanding. Our forefathers would be disgusted with us now. It is as if a veil of mistrust has been brought down upon us, and we do not know how to lift it.”

“My father thought that the generation that fought in the war would have to leave this world before we are healed,” added Kaylia. “He believed that the bitterness it caused prevents us from regaining what we have lost.”

Linis nodded. “I think he may have been right. It is a new way of thinking we need. Our race must find how to exist in a new world.”

“Where does he fit in?” asked Gewey, motioning to the sleeping Felsafell. “What is he? He’s certainly not an elf. He looks human, but... he isn't.”

“What am I?” said Felsafell, popping to his feet. “I am the oldest, I am. The most withered.”

“I'm sorry,” said Gewey. “We didn't mean to wake you.”

Felsafell smiled cheerfully, stretching his arms. “I wake myself. Sleep I did. Sleep well. Sleep soundly. Sleep plenty.”

“But you've only just lay down,” said Linis. “Even an elf needs more rest than that.”

“An elf I am not,” said Felsafell. “And the child of heaven is right. I am not human.”

“Then what are you?” asked Kaylia.

“I am the first,” he replied. “But not the last. No. I shall soon fade. But before I do I must rescue my kin. Rescue my past.”

“I don't understand,” said Gewey.

“All will be clear,” Felsafell assured. “Clear as glass. But not now. Now with enemies about, we must be swift and silent.”

“Enemies?” said Gewey

“Don't fret,” said Felsafell. “No swords or arrows will hinder us. A clear path we have. But enemies don't always carry swords. Be silent and still and all will be well.”

The party gathered and continued toward the Chamber of the Maker. Felsafell walked just behind Gewey and Kaylia, while Linis ventured a few yards ahead of everyone, scouting for signs of an ambush.

As the day progressed, elves began to approach Felsafell, requesting a private talk. Felsafell’s wisdom was legendary among the elves, and they did not want to miss a chance to benefit from it. True to his word, Felsafell was more than willing to speak to all comers. Some walked away smiling, others angry, and others in tears. Gewey wondered what he had told them, remembering the words the strange little man had for him on his porch in the Spirit Hills and how they had upset him.

They stopped once for the midday meal, and Gewey listened for signs of pursuit, but to his relief, all he could hear was the sound of the wind and various small animals. Even though he informed Linis of this, he still insisted on searching the area. He enjoyed that while Linis could remain invisible to the others, he, Gewey, could still hear exactly where he was.

“Your power grows,” said Felsafell, munching on a bit of bread. “No longer weak. No longer frail.”

“How do you know what I am?” asked Gewey.

“I am old, not blind.”

Gewey stared into Felsafell's watery, gray eyes. Something was there, deep inside. Something different. Something unfamiliar. “You're really not human, are you?”

“Human?” he laughed. “No, no, no. I am too old for that. I am the first, yet I will not be the last.”

“You said that before,” said Gewey. “But what does it mean?”

“Me and kin wandered the hill and valleys, we did.” said Felsafell. “Happy and free. Before the elves and their ways. Before humans and their wars.”

Gewey raised an eyebrow. “So you're saying your people were here first? Where are they now, and why haven't I heard of them?”

“We are all gone.” A tinge of sorrow filled Felsafell’s voice. “All but me. Poor Felsafell. Gone before the humans gathered, were we. We saw the coming of elves. But too small the world became. Too prideful were we to remain. Deep in silence we escaped until only our voices were left.”

“So your people were here before the elves,” said Gewey. “But what about the Gods?”

“Oh, how wonderful they were,” said Felsafell. “We loved them so. We love them still. But in time, we lost our way and our will. Spirits we became... companions to your mother and father.”

“Do you know who my real mother is?” asked Gewey. “I've guessed that my father is Gerath. But who is my mother?”

“I tell what I know,” he replied. “But I speak of only what I know... and this I do not. Perhaps the Book of Souls has what you seek.”

“You know about that?” said Gewey in a hushed tone.

“Oh, yes,” said Felsafell. “I was there. I saw the Book. I hear its cry. It longs to be opened. But beware... a bell that is sounded cannot be un-rung.”

“What's in it?” asked Gewey.

“Many things,” he replied. “Some I know and others I do not. But now is not the time for telling these secrets. Soon enough... yes... soon enough.”

Kaylia walked up and took a seat beside Gewey. “You have caused quite a stir. The entire party can't stop talking about you.”

Felsafell smiled. “I have not left home in the lives of many an elf. It is good to see the world. Better to know I'm remembered.”

“I've noticed your speech has changed a bit,” said Gewey.

Felsafell cocked his head “Has it? I guess living in the world does that... oh yes. Practicing with the living makes it easy. Spirits have no need for speech, and elves rarely visit.”

“What about humans?” asked Kaylia. “Do they ever seek you out?”

“No, no,” he answered. “They know nothing of me. They think me a ghost. A rumor. But time for more talk will come later. Now we must march.”

The elves had already begun to gather their packs and gear, and soon they were on the move once again. The day was warm and the sun shone bright in the sky. Traveling with Felsafell was enjoyable for Gewey. He never tired of the old hermit’s stories, though he understood very little at times, and had never heard of most of the people and places mentioned. Before he realized it, they had walked thirty miles and it was time to stop for the night.

The following days were much the same, though Gewey was becoming increasingly apprehensive as they neared their destination. The night before they were to arrive, Theopolou asked Gewey to accompany him, away from the others.

“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. He tried to imagine just what would be said to anger him but came up with nothing.

When he returned to camp, Gewey tried to take his mind off the thought of 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 didn't 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 approach.

Linus kneeled beside him. “Today is the day.”

Gewey opened his eyes and smiled. “I'm ready.”