The Godling Chronicles 02 - Of Gods And Elves (30 page)

“
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.”