Of Gods and Elves - By Brian D. Anderson Page 0,22
don't think you're going to like it.”
“No doubt,” remarked Lee.
“Don't worry,” interjected Theopolou. “It's conditional on the approval the High Lady and you, of course.”
What is it?” asked Selena.
“I have agreed to allow Theopolou to possess the Book of Souls,” said Gewey. “In return, he will help me persuade the elves to join us.”
“Assuming I agree,” said Selena. “How do you propose to do that?”
“I will open the Book of Souls.”
“You'll what?” exclaimed Lee. “How?”
“If the boy truly is a God, he possesses the power of heaven,” Theopolou explained. “With that power he may be able to open it. If he can, it will go a long way toward swaying my people, if not in joining you, at least not to oppose you.”
“And when they find out what he is?” argued Lee. “What then? Even elves that befriend humans hold no love for the Gods.”
“Nor do I,” said Theopolou. “But I do not subscribe to the notion that it was the Gods that caused the Split. I was there.” He turned to Kaylia. “As was your father. I saw no evidence of divine intervention.”
“Then what do you think really happened?” asked Lee.
“That is not a thing I would discuss here. It is the business of the elves. I only say this much to set your mind at ease regarding my intentions toward Gewey. I may not wish to befriend humans, but as Gewey is not human, I bear him no ill will.”
“I wish you could let go of the old hatred, uncle,” said Kaylia. “They’re not as we have been told. At least not the ones I call friend.”
“You did not suffer through the Great War, or the Split. I watched the humans take advantage of our weakness and decimate our people. I could never trust them, and without trust, there can be no friendship. If I can help Gewey convince my people to help your cause, it is only to fight a greater threat. I do not believe the promises made by the Dark One. Once he has defeated his human enemies, he will turn on us and destroy us.”
“I'm still concerned about the Book falling into the hands of our enemies,” said Selena. “How does this agreement prevent that?” She walked to the bed and sat beside Gewey.
“If I fail to help sway my kin, I will take the Book and hide it away where it will never be found,” Theopolou replied. “You have my solemn vow on this.”
“And just how do you propose to sway them?” asked Lee.
“Gewey and Kaylia will accompany me to my home. There the elders will meet and decide.”
“Hold on a minute,” said Lee “Do you really think we would allow Gewey and Kaylia to simply leave with you and deliver themselves into the hands of people who want nothing more than their deaths?”
“They will be under my protection,” replied Theopolou. “No elf will harm them while I give them sanctuary. That I return with the Book of Souls will also go far in aiding our cause.”
“If you do this, I will go with you.” Lee planted his fists on his hips.
“No, Lee,” said Gewey. “It can only be me and Kaylia. If we have any hope of bringing the elves to our side, we must show them we can be trusted.”
“You will not be welcome among us, half-man,” said Theopolou. “If you come then our efforts will fail.”
“Find a way to make them bear my presence if you are so bloody wise.” Lee could barely contain his frustration.
“Insults are not called for. I have given my word the boy and Kaylia will not be harmed.”
“And what of Kaylia?” Dina was careful not to come to close to Theopolou, afraid he might discover her heritage. “What if they decide to judge her?”
“Kaylia will face judgment,” he replied. “But not at this time. I have granted her my protection, and my people will honor it.”
“Let us think on this,” said Selena. “I will give you my answer tomorrow—in any event, they cannot travel until they are stronger.”
“I would like Dina and Lee to stay a while,” said Gewey. “They've heard my story, and I'd like to hear theirs.”
Selena smiled. “Only for a short while. You must regain your strength.” She turned to Theopolou. “I'll have rooms made ready for you and your escort.”
Theopolou nodded. “Thank you, High Lady. If you have rooms that are a bit... secluded, it would make our stay more pleasant for everyone.”