The Godling Chronicles The Shadow of God

chapter 19





Selena was shaken out of her slumber. As her vision cleared, she saw Ertik standing over her, his face awash with worry.

“I'm sorry, high lady,” he said. “But you ordered the woman, Salmitaya, brought to you in two hours.”

Selena stretched and rubbed the back of her neck. She was not exactly rejuvenated, but felt more like herself than before. “Give me a moment to change, then bring her in.”

Ertik bowed, then left.

Selena searched her wardrobe and found a long, blue linen dress, with the symbols of the Nine Gods embroidered in white on the front. She doubted that Salmitaya would wear such a thing, but still she wished she had brought other attire. She pulled her hair back, tied it in a loose ponytail, and looked at herself in the mirror. The lines of worry and age were carved deeper than ever before. She sighed and scolded herself for her vanity.

“Bring her,” she called out firmly. The door opened and in walked Salmitaya, hands bound in front of her, Ertik scowling behind her. “Cut her bonds.”

Ertik hesitated for a moment, then drew his dagger and cut the rope.

Selena sat in her chair and motion for Salmitaya to sit across from her. “Please, leave us.” Once Ertik left, she took a deep breath. The anger still boiled in her breast.

“What do you want from me?” Salmitaya demanded, as defiant as ever.

“I'm not sure,” Selena replied. “Perhaps nothing. Maybe just to look at the face that had my temple captured and its people slaughtered.”

Salmitaya sneered. “Then you will be disappointed...high lady. I arrived after Valshara was already taken.”

“Is that so?” She looked in Salmitaya's eyes. The woman masked her fear well. “If that is so, then why not plead for mercy? Why wish for death? You speak as if you prefer it to being returned to your master.”

“If you don’t kill me now, I shall die soon enough.” She shifted in her seat. “If you imprison me, then I will languish in squalor until Angrääl returns and destroys this place. Then die I will, slowly, for my failure.”

“If you are so certain your master would kill you, why return? Why not flee?”

Salmitaya sneered. “You know nothing. You don't think I've tried to run away? You think I would be under the lash of someone like Yanti if there was any other way? If it were possible, I would disappear, but I can't. And even if I could elude Yanti, I've been in the presence of the Reborn King. I've heard his true name. I am bound to serve him until I die. There is no other way.” Her lips trembled at the mention of her master. “And when he comes, when he has you put in chains and brought before him, you will give yourself to him, too.”

“I think you underestimate me,” said Selena.

Salmitaya laughed. “It is you who have underestimated him. Do you think this petty victory means anything? Do you think allying yourself with the elves will save you? Nothing you can do will stop what is coming. He possesses the power of the Gods. By his will he has imprisoned them. Such a man will not be defeated by the pitiful force you have gathered. And when the time comes, not even your godling will be able to save you? No. Soon, even Gewey Stedding will be his as well, along with everything and everyone else in this cursed world.”

“If you know what Gewey is, then you can't possibly think he can gain power over him,” Selena scoffed. “Your king is powerful, yes. But he is still just a man.”

“That may be, but the Reborn King has laid low the Gods of this world in one fell stroke.” She cocked her head. “They are nine...he is one. Gewey will either serve or die. As for me, you waste your time speaking to me. I know nothing of value. And you gain nothing by keeping me alive.”

“That is for me to decide,” said Selena. “For now, I give you your life. But you need not fear. I will kill you myself, before I allow Yanti, or your king to take you.” Selena called for Ertik. “We will speak again very soon.”

Selena returned to bed. She knew what she must do next. She had known from the beginning. The captured soldiers could not be released. They must die. But such things could wait until morning. One night more without being the instrument of death was all she asked for...and she would have it.

The next morning the temple was a beehive of activity. Selena ran into Ertik on her way to the kitchen. He had already prepared her breakfast, and was bringing it to her room.

“Thank you, but I'd rather eat in the dining hall,” she explained. “Could you find Theopolou and King Lousis and ask them to join me?”

Ertik bowed and ran down the hallway, still carrying the tray of food. The east dining hall was nearly filled to capacity. Elves and human dined together talking and laughing over their meal. Selena smiled at the sight. She had only walked a few steps when cheers broke out, mugs were banged on tables, and the words “Hail the High Lady of Valshara, Hail Amon Dähl” carried through the hall in loud, boisterous voices. Selena held up her hands to quiet the crowd.

“Please,” she said in a clear strong voice. “It is you who deserve all the praise. If not for you and your bravery, this holy place would still be under the control of Angrääl. Through your ability to set aside old hatreds and misgivings, you have found kinship and solidarity. It is I who applaud you.” This set off another round of cheers.

Selena smiled graciously, and sat down. Just as she began to eat her breakfast, King Lousis and Theopolou entered and took their seats.

“How go things this morning,” asked Selena.

“Well,” Lousis replied. “The courtyard is clear, with the exception of the prisoners. The elves have made preparation for funeral rites a few miles beyond the passage. Also, I have chosen the men to remain behind. Ertik has already taken it upon himself to organize them.”

“I have also chosen fifty of my people to remain,” added Theopolou. Once the funeral rites are complete, most of us will return to gather our full force. Lousis has asked me to delay my journey to the Steppes until after his council meets, and I have reluctantly agreed.”

Selene nodded, pleased. “That is good. I think your presence at the council will be a help.” Her face turned grim. “And now I must tell you what is to be done with the prisoners.” She lowered her eyes and breathed deep. “They are each to be questioned,” she paused. “then hanged.”

“High Lady,” said Lousis. “I know they have wronged you, but one does not simply execute prisoners of war.”

“You said you would abide by my decision in this matter,” she countered.

“I will but—” he stopped as Selena held out her hand.

“They are not prisoners of war,” she continued. “They did not march across a field and do battle. They did not sack a city of a nation with whom they were at war. No!” She rose to her feet. “They broke into my house, and slaughtered my family. They are brigands and thieves, nothing more. Should a murderer of the innocent be allowed to return to his home, stained with the blood of his victims? Would you allow it in your city, King Lousis?”

The entire hall was silent. The King stared at Selena for a moment then answered. “I would not.” He sighed. “But I fear this choice may haunt you.”

“It haunts me even now,” she replied. Her eyes turned to Theopolou who was sitting quietly, with his hands folded in front of him. “And what say you?”

“I agree,” he said, after a long pause. “They are not prisoners of war. And if you look upon them as criminals, they should be treated as such. But I think that is not why you do this.”

Selena stiffened. “I beg your pardon?”

“You need to show Angrääl that you are ruthless and determined,” said Theopolou. “You know this to be a minor victory. Since this campaign began, I have thought it odd that the Dark Knight should show his hand so soon. There was no reason to take Valshara now. Not unless he was certain he could keep it. If it was his plan, it was a blunder, and you must see to it he is understanding of this.

“You are correct in your actions, high lady. And though I cannot say I would do likewise, I will not criticize your decision. You have chosen to keep the woman, Salmitaya, alive. I think you do this to somehow ease your conscience. However, whatever you do, from this moment to the last, I do not think it serves you to be in denial. You said you held off your decision until it was made without anger, so to claim indignation is false. And though your actions are harsh, they are justified.”

Selena sat back down. “You are correct, of course. And though I hear your words, my mind is not swayed. I stand by this decision.”

Theopolou nodded.

“I will order gallows built at once,” said Lousis. He leaned forward, and cleared his throat.

“You have something else to say?” asked Selena.

Lousis nodded hesitantly. “We found the bodies of your people. They had been piled up and burned in one of the rooms in the basement. I had my men gather the ashes and the few personal possessions that remained.”

This struck a nerve, and tears welled in Selena’s eyes. “Thank you…I…” She dried her eyes. “I will see to the remains, personally.”

“Very well,” said Lousis. “Will you want me to see to the executions?”

“No, your highness,” Selena replied. “It is my decision that sends them to their death. So it will be I that will see it done. I only ask you leave skilled interrogators.”

“I have already seen to it, and they have begun the questioning” said the king. “There is another matter. I would have you at the council when it convenes. Will you come?”

“No,” she replied, “There is too much to do here. Sister Celandine is in Sharpstone with Millet. They are gathering the few remaining knights of Amon Dähl there, to establish a foothold along the Goodbranch River. Linis is to join them, and I must see to it they have all that is required. Also, I must make contact with the other temples throughout the land. We must know who is with us and who has been compromised.” She looked at Theopolou. “Keeping Salmitaya alive serves more than to ease my conscience.” She leaned back and rubbed the bridge of her nose. “I will be sending out some of the people you have left me into great peril. You should be aware of this.”

“My men are at your command,” said Lousis. “I would not leave them otherwise.”

“As are the elves who are remaining,” added Theopolou.

“Good,” she said, and smiled. “When do you depart?”

“I have already sent word to gather the kings and queens together,” Lousis replied. “I only have a few more things to attend to, then we will be away.”

“I ask you one last favor,” said Selena. “Though I cannot attend, I would like Ertik to witness the council and represent me in all matters. Unless there is some protocol that will not allow it.”

“Actually, I think that is wise,” said Lousis. “Your presence carries weight and will be missed. But as you cannot attend, your proxy should suffice. I will see that all know that he speaks on your behalf and is afforded all due respect and courtesy.”

“Thank you.” Selena pushed her food away. “I have no appetite. So if there is nothing further?”

Theopolou and King Lousis excused themselves, and Selena sat for a minute staring at her unfinished plate. She knew Ertik would resist the idea of leaving her side, and did not look forward to telling him.

The rest of the morning she walk about the halls seeing that things were attended to and in order; though with Ertik about this was nearly a pointless exercise, and only served to keep her distracted. He had been busier than she thought any man capable. When she finally cornered him and told him he would be leaving with King Lousis, he nearly broke down in tears. He begged not to be sent away. It was only after she promised to have an elf guard with her at all times did he relent.

Kaylia had made no secret that she intended to remain near her side, having chased away several soldiers who were in awe that they stood in the presence of the High Lady of Valshara, leader of the legendary order of Amon Dähl. At first, the admirers didn't bother her, but soon questions about the Dark Knight arose, and his time within the Order. These were subjects that she didn't care to discuss, and Kaylia had become adept at knowing when it was time to tell them to move on.

At midday, Selena and Kaylia sat quietly in the High Lady’s chamber. A light meal of fruit and bread had been brought in. As they ate, Selena could tell that Kaylia had something on her mind, but whatever it was, something prevented her from speaking.

“Kaylia,” said Selena. Her voice was calm, yet humorless. “You must not think me frail. If you wish to speak your mind, you must do so.”

Kaylia sat her plate on the small table beside her chair. “I do not think you frail. Nor am I afraid to speak. I simply did not want to cause you more grieve so soon after so much tragedy and bloodshed.” She fixed her eye on Selena’s. “I cannot help but wonder why you do not speak of the Dark Knight’s time in Amon Dähl. Surely, this knowledge may be valuable to our cause.”

Selena nodded. “It would, without doubt. But sadly, I know very little. When the Dark Knight first came to power, he all but destroyed this order, including all records of who he really was. Those who might have known him cannot remember anything specific about him. Even those who were among us at the time of the betrayal.” Her face was grave. “You must understand that the Sword of Truth wields a power beyond your imagination. My guess is that he used it to mask his true identity from the minds of those in the order who knew him.

“When I first joined the order I had heard of a great knight of unparalleled strength and valor. He had aspired to be the protector of the Sword. But his efforts failed, and another was chosen. Enraged, he abandoned his vows and sought out the Sword’s resting place.” She rose wearily to her feet. “That is the limit of my knowledge. The rest you already know.”

“Then why not tell people this?” asked Kaylia.

Selena sighed sadly. “You ask me to speak of what has brought Amon Dähl its greatest shame. For thousands of years we were guardians and protectors. Now…”

“I understand,” said Kaylia. “I will not ask you again.”

When it was time for the King and the others to depart, Selena, Kaylia, along with most of those who would remain behind, gathered in the courtyard to see them off. Selena's eyes wandered repeatedly to the prisoners against the wall. She wanted not to hate them. She wanted to believe her decision was right and not vengeance.

“Do not heed my earlier words,” said Theopolou. Clearly, he could see she was in self-doubt. “I spoke from the perspective of my longing for peace. This is war, and I would do the same. You cannot afford to second guess yourself in these times. You will act wisely. Have faith in that.”

King Lousis took Selena’s hands and kissed them fondly. “I will eagerly await our next meeting, high lady.”

Selena blushed. “As do I, your highness.”

Once the farewells were said, she watched as the party departed. Cheers erupted from both human and elf as they passed through the shattered gates. Ertik looked back at least four times before disappearing out of sight. Theopolou’s words still echoed in her mind.

She called to Lord Jeffos Windermere, who the King had left in charge of the Althetan forces. “I want you to have your men take the prisoners to the temple basement. There you will find an empty wine cellar. It hasn’t been used in many years and is large enough to house them, for the time being.” Windermere threw his fist to his chest in salute, and marched away.

“I must not doubt,” she whispered softly.