Of Gods and Elves

chapter Twenty-Seven


As Gewey left the tent, he was awestruck. In the fullness of night, the camp was an ocean of multicolored lights. The tents glowed brightly, their fabric silhouetted by their inhabitants moving about inside. It wasn't quite as bright as the light of day, yet he could see just as clearly, as if a shadow had been removed from his eyes, allowing him to see the cool, natural beauty of the night. He could feel eyes upon him as they walked toward the Chamber.

“Before we enter, you must receive permission from the keepers to enter,” said Chiron.

“The keepers?” said Gewey.

“Guards with a title,” mocked Linis. “Most are elves that didn't have the talent to become seekers.”

Chiron frowned at Linis. “They are more than that, and you know it. They stand watch over all that enter the Chamber of the Maker and keep the peace within its borders.”

“They are arrogant fools,” grumbled Linis. “It took Theopolou twenty minutes to convince them to allow him entry. Then it took more than an hour of debate to have them open the Chamber for the bonding.”

“It is well within their right to question petitioners,” said Chiron. “In fact, it is their duty. You should know this.”

“I know that they tried to deny us,” Linis replied. “And that is not within their right.”

“You dwell on things that do not matter, seeker. You should keep your focus on the matter at hand.”

Linis' jaw tightened. “You are right, of course.” But his tone still held a tinge of irritation.

“Do you think they'll try to stop me from getting in?” asked Gewey.

Chiron smiled. “No. That has been dealt with. You will only be following tradition by requesting to be let inside.”

As the entire Chamber slowly came into view, Gewey nearly gasped. The dome was supported, not by columns but by a series of immense crystal statues of elf women, their arms held aloft and their eyes turned skyward. The craft and skill needed to carve them was beyond his imagination. Light emanated from the base of each statue, spraying out a myriad of colors that washed over the surrounding area. The statue bases themselves were much like the glowing spheres that lit the houses and tents but many times more intense, and he could feel the power of the earth radiating from the entire structure. There were no walls beyond the statues, and Gewey could see that the interior was a gigantic amphitheater.

The path that led to the main entrance was made from a smooth, red stone that radiated the same energy as the building itself. Elves could be seen pouring in, and by the time they were fifty yards away, he heard a cacophony of voices inside. When he reached the base of the Chamber, he stopped.

“What's wrong?” asked Linis, placing his hand on Gewey's shoulder.

Gewey took a deep breath. “Nothing. Nothing at all.”

“Intimidating sight, is it not?” remarked Chiron.

“Yes, it is,” said Gewey. “It's beautiful, though. The craft is beyond anything I have ever imagined.”

“If only we could build like this today.” There was a tinge of sadness in Chiron’s voice.

“I think it was more than mere skill with crystal and stone,” said Gewey. “I sense the flow within everything here. I'm sure it was put here... almost like the flow itself was made part of the structure.”

“Our ancestors were said to have a powerful connection to the earth’s energy,” said Linis. “No doubt they used it in their craft.”

Gewey squared his shoulders and took a deep breath. “How do I look?”

“Ready,” said Linis. “You look ready, my friend.”

Two elves strode up, adorned in brightly polished leather armor and helmets, each with a curved sword attached to their belt.

“What business do you have at the Chamber of the Maker?” asked the elf on the left. Linis stepped forward. “You know well what we are doing here.”

The keeper ignored Linis and fixed his eyes on Gewey.

“I am here to complete my bond with Kaylia,” he said, his voice clear and strong.

There was a long pause, then both keepers nodded and moved aside. Gewey nodded sharply and marched forward. As he passed into the Chamber of the Maker, he could feel the flow grow ever stronger, until it threatened to penetrate him. He was barely able to keep it at bay. The interior, though without decoration, was still impressive. The seats were carved from white, silver-veined marble that surrounded the entire hall. In the middle was a smooth floor, made from the same crystal as the statues. It glowed with power from the flow, illuminating the entire building. Hundreds of elves filled the seats, talking and whispering, but they all fell silent as Gewey came into their view. Theopolou and Kaylia were down below, on the theater floor. Felsafell, still dressed in his ragged skins and holding his gnarled walking stick, stood quietly, several feet behind them, a quirky smile on his wrinkled face.

Gewey was taken aback at the sight of his future unorem. She was clothed in a silver gown that shimmered in the light of the Chamber. The cloth hung to her curves flawlessly, and though her back was to him he knew she was smiling. Her hair fell loosely about her shoulders and was decorated with tiny, delicate, white flowers. He could feel the bond between them grow stronger with each step he took. He no longer noticed the elves in the gallery.

“Your sword,” whispered Linis.

Gewey removed the blade and carefully handed it over. Linis stayed just behind him as he continued down.

Theopolou’s eyes were closed, his hands folded in front of him. As Gewey finally reached the stage, Theopolou opened his eyes. The old elf held a grave expression, denoting the seriousness of the ceremony.

As he stepped beside Kaylia, Gewey saw the slightest of smiles on her lips. Theopolou bowed slightly and held out his hand, palm down. Gewey and Kaylia slowly dropped to their knees. All voices were silent, and all eyes were focused on them.

“We are here on this night to bear witness,” said Theopolou. His voice echoed throughout the Chamber. “The Creator has deemed that the two here before me be bonded in spirit. Their souls forever as one. Their lives... a single life. It has been many years since such a thing has taken place, so it is fitting that such a sacred vow be made here, in the Chamber of the Maker, for all the elders of our race to see.” He stepped forward and placed a hand on Gewey and Kaylia’s heads. “Is there anyone here that can find just cause to stand against their bond?”

This caused a stir among the crowd, and Gewey's heart raced, but no one spoke. “This is good,” Theopolou continued. “Then--”

“I claim the right of pudnaris,” called a voice from the crowd.

Both Kaylia and Gewey turned. From the crowd, a lone elf pushed his way through. He was dressed in plain tan leathers and wore a long knife on his belt. He was tall, nearly as tall as Gewey, though not as broad in the shoulders. His long, silver blond hair was tied back in a tight braid, and his eyes were aflame with determination.

“Eftichis,” whispered Kaylia.

“By what right do you challenge?” Theopolou demanded.

Eftichis reached the floor and stood tall, just a few feet away from Gewey. Linis moved in between.

“Still yourself, seeker,” said Eftichis. “I will do no violence... yet.”

“Answer the question,” said Theopolou. “By what right do you challenge?”

“Kaylia was promised to me,” Eftichis replied, in a loud clear voice.

Kaylia sprang to her feet. “I was never promised to you or to anyone.”

“You dare to tell untruths in this sacred place?” Eftichis challenged. “Your father made this arrangement during the Great War as a symbol of unity between our families. You were yet to be born, but the promise still holds. Certainly you know this.”

“I know nothing of the sort,” Kaylia countered. “Were you to ever make this claim, I would have refused, and you know it. I am already bonded to Gewey, and I will not be forced to accept a promise made by my father before I was born... if he ever made such a promise.”

“You doubt my honor?” Eftichis asked. “You doubt the word of my father?”

“You think to trick me into naming you a liar,” said Kaylia. “I will not. But if you wish to see the Maker, so be it.”

Eftichis laughed. “You think much of your human mate.”

Gewey rose to his feet and met Eftichis’ gaze. “You speak from ignorance. I will ask you not to do this. I have no desire to spill your blood, but if you stand between us... I will.” Gewey allowed the flow to wash over him. Audible gasps came from the gallery.

“I see,” said Eftichis. “There is more to you than meets the eye, it would seem. Still, I will not be deterred. Do you accept?”

“He has until sunset tomorrow to answer,” Theopolou interjected.

“I don't need to wait,” snapped Gewey. “I accept. I am sorry. I had hoped I would never have to spill elf blood. But if you force me to, I will.”

“We will see whose blood will spill, human.” Eftichis sneered and turned to Theopolou. “And unless you dare to dispute my word, then you have no choice. The right is mine, and I claim it.” He looked out over the gallery. “Does anyone here question the truth of my claim?”

A minute passed and the Chamber was silent. Eftichis smirked with satisfaction.

Theopolou bowed his head and sighed. “Then it is done. When the dawn breaks, you will return here. You may bring with you your weapon, your clothes, and nothing more. One elf of your choosing may stand with you, but he is not to interfere. Do you understand?” Both Gewey and Eftichis nodded.

“A shame, it is,” rang the voice of Felsafell. “To see blood of the young wasted. But blood there will be and nothing more.”

“I have heard you were here,” said Eftichis. “What wisdom do you bring us? Do you think to stop me?”

“No, oh no,” Felsafell replied. “I am no mover of elves or molder of fate.”

“Then why are you here?” called a voice from the crowd.

Felsafell surveyed the gallery, then his eyes fell on Gewey. “I am here to live in the world one last time. Oh, yes, once more before the end. To see a child of heaven walk the earth. To hear the wails of the elves and cries of men. To free my brothers from winter’s cold grasp.” He reached out and took Gewey and Kaylia by the hand. “Come with me. The dawn comes early, and there is much to say.”

The three made their way back out of the Chamber, followed closely by Theopolou and Linis. Once they had reached Theopolou's tent, Felsafell released them and took a seat at the table. Gewey, Kaylia, and Linis did likewise, while Theopolou gave orders to his escort. Once he had finished he joined the rest of the group.

“Did you know this would happen?” Gewey asked Felsafell.

“A fortune teller I am not,” he replied. “Things I know, I do indeed. But the future... a mystery difficult to grasp.”

“I suspected someone may try to stop you,” said Theopolou. “But I never thought Eftichis would lie openly, on the Chamber floor.”

“He was lying.” Gewey turned to Kaylia. “Wasn't he?”

Kaylia stared down at the table. “Perhaps. His father was close to mine. They fought together during the Great War. If he promised me to another, I was never told. But I suppose it is possible. Eftichis would have been a good match for me, had my life taken another path.”

A pang of jealousy shot through Gewey, but Kaylia smiled and placed her hand on his.

“You will have to kill him,” said Linis. “There is no way to avoid it.”

“Perhaps,” said Felsafell. “Always choices. Always new roads to travel. Listen to me, child of heaven.” His eyes fixed on Gewey. “My time in this place is at an end. A new road I must travel. But this you must know. The cold of the north comes swifter than you can imagine. Not ready to face it are you, but you must. Hard choices you will make, and many deaths will you see. Your true mother will soon be revealed, and with this knowledge will come madness. Your bonded mate will save you if you allow it. But the cost may be more than you can bear.” He rose to his feet. “One last thing. Do not falter. Do not retreat and all will be overcome.” With that, he walked toward the back of the tent. “Until the morning I remain, I will. Then off to free my kin.” He pushed back the flap and disappeared down the hall.

“I really don't understand him,” said Gewey.

“You're telling me that he walked all this way, just to tell you that?” said Linis. “Now he's leaving?”

“Felsafell has his own reasons,” said Theopolou. “He comes and goes as he pleases and speaks in his own time. Besides, I think you have more urgent matters to attend to.”

Gewey nodded. “Is there anything I should know about Eftichis?”

“He's strong,” said Kaylia. “Had his father not been the leader of his people, he would have likely been a seeker. It is known that he has great skill with a weapon. You should be cautious.”

“Indeed,” said Theopolou. “Do not underestimate him, as he will underestimate you. Though your display in the Chamber will have given him pause, not to mention the others watching. The best thing you can do is get some rest and gather your strength. In the morning you will face him, and we shall see.”

“I wish there was another way,” Gewey grumbled. “Why must everything be life or death? I really don't want to kill him.”

“But kill him you must,” said Theopolou. “Otherwise Kaylia will be taken from you, and there will be nothing I can do to stop it.”

Gewey’s fist clenched until his knuckles turned white. “Then death it is.”

Kaylia put her arm gently around Gewey's shoulders. “This will only be the first of many, I fear. But I'll be with you until the end.”

“I'm afraid you are not allowed to attend the pudnaris,” said Theopolou. “You must remain here until it is over.”

Kaylia turned to Theopolou, her eyes burned with fury. “I will not wait here while Gewey faces death.”

“Yes, you will,” said Theopolou. “You have no choice.”

“Don't worry,” said Linis. “I'll be with him. I know he will prevail.”

Kaylia scowled. “The moment it is over, I expect you to send word.” She turned to Gewey. “And you... show no mercy. I will not have you killed. Forget everything else. Just win.”

Gewey smiled and said, “I will, I swear.” He kissed her lightly on the forehead. “I haven't come this far to die now.”

“Then you should rest while you can,” said Theopolou. He rose to his feet. “As should I.”

“Are you still being…drained?” asked Gewey.

“No. It ended once we neared the Chamber. Whatever the cause, it has no effect in this place. Do not be concerned. We have more pressing matters at hand.”

“Agreed,” said Linis. He looked at Gewey. “Come. I know it will be difficult, but you need to at least try to rest.”

Gewey gave a deep sigh and nodded. “I'll try.”

Linis led Gewey to his room, Kaylia just behind them.

“Don't worry,” Gewey said to Kaylia, just before he entered. “I'll be fine.”

Kaylia smiled sweetly and put her hand on his cheek. “I know.” She allowed their bond to share her emotions with him.

Gewey's heart pounded as he felt the love pour through. He watched for a moment as Kaylia walked away, then went inside.

Linis smiled broadly.

“What?” said Gewey, suddenly embarrassed.

“Nothing,” Linis replied, still smiling. “You have come a long way, since I first met you in that tavern. I knew there was strength in you, even then. But I think Kaylia has made you invincible. I pity Eftichis.”

“I'm trying not to think about it,” said Gewey. “I know what I have to do. But I still wish there was another way. I've killed before, but this time it's different.”

“Why?” asked Linis. “Because it's an elf?” He shook his head.

“Listen to me, Gewey. This will not be the last time you will face one of my kind. There is a split among my people. The idea of a second split once weighed heavily enough on our hearts to prevent it. Now it is inevitable. The world is changing, and the new ways are struggling with the old. I regret to say that means more blood will be spilled. We have already been attacked once by our own kin.”

Gewey remembered the assassin and the hatred in his eyes.

“War is upon us,” Linis continued. “And this time the victor will shape the future for both races. Even the most reluctant elf knows this. When you face Eftichis in the morning, you are fighting for more than just you and Kaylia. Your victory will see that your voice is heard by all elves. Many think humans weak and without honor. Tomorrow you will show them differently.”

“But I'm not human,” argued Gewey. “Not really.”

“That may be,” Linis countered. “But you were raised as one. You have their values, and you are what is best in men. The strength I speak of has nothing to do with a sword, though admittedly it helps. That you have the courage to face the elders of my people and speak your mind, shows the rest true power. That you fight for the bond between you and Kaylia shows that you will not be deterred, and should be treated with respect.” He placed his hand on Gewey's shoulder. “Tomorrow is about more than the pudnaris. By striking down those who would challenge your rights, you send a message that will echo throughout all the elf nations.”

Gewey's face twisted into a sour frown. “Thanks. Nothing like a bit of pressure just before a life and death struggle.”

Linis chuckled. “I think you can handle it. But sleep now. I will keep watch.”

“For what?” Gewey began to remove his clothes.

“Who knows?” Linis replied and dimmed the light.

Gewey lay down on his bed and closed his eyes. At first he tried to calm his mind and sleep but soon realized that would not happen. He decided to reach out to Kaylia, hoping that Theopolou wasn't able to block him, though he couldn't imagine why he would. To his relief he found her. As their spirits became one, his body relaxed and he became lost in the sheer emotion.

Is this what it will be like after we're completely joined? he asked.

It will be better, replied Kaylia. Much better.