Of Gods and Elves - By Brian D. Anderson Page 0,41
sealed the moment the human plague set foot on this world,” said Kaphalos. “The Great War was only the end result.”
“But it does not have to be the end,” Linis cried. “Can't you see that?”
Kaphalos spun around. “I see more than you know, seeker.” His eyes fixed on Gewey. “I see what you have brought among us. You think he will save us? Do you?”
Gewey's heart raced. Did he know?
“You're wrong,” said Theopolou. “Our people may still rise again. But we must not succumb to our own stubborn nature. We need the humans if we are to resist Angrääl.”
“Resist?” Kaphalos scoffed. “What resistance can you offer? The humans will scatter before the might of the army that now gathers. Once they are gone, we will be annihilated.”
“There is something you do not know,” said Theopolou. “We have recovered the Book of Souls.”
Kaphalos raised an eyebrow. “Have you? How nice. But even if you can open it, and even if it tells you how to defeat your enemies, what then? Do you not see what will happen?”
“I see that we will survive,” said Theopolou.
“Survive, yes,” Kaphalos retorted. “But to what purpose? The humans will not suffer those unlike themselves. Our people will be absorbed, and our race will cease to exist. I have already heard rumors that one half-breed walks the earth even now.”
Gewey tensed. This did not go unnoticed by Kaphalos.
“Human,” said Kaphalos to Gewey. “If that is even what I should call you. Somehow I think not.” His face was one of disgust. “Theopolou wisely instructed you not to speak. But I would know your thoughts. Would you have human and elf live as one?”
Gewey took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. “Yes, I would.” There was a long pause.
“That's all you have to say? Surely you have more than that.”
“I don't know what you want of me,” said Gewey. “I know you are wise, and I know that you believe you are of a right mind.” He chose his next words carefully. “I would not presume to debate you in matters that are beyond my understanding. So I don't see what I can offer you.”
“You offer nothing,” agreed Kaphalos. “At least nothing I would have from you. Still, I am interested in your reasons for trying to deceive me.”
Gewey was aghast and suddenly afraid. Kaylia shot him a glance, feeling his dismay through their bond.
Kaphalos let out a malicious laugh. “You have not told them that you have bonded yourself to an elf woman?” This caused the elves to stir. “Theopolou has kept this a secret as well, I see.” He shook his head slowly. “Did you really think I wouldn't know? I knew the moment I saw them.”
“I don't see what that has to do with anything,” Gewey growled with irritation.
“You wouldn't,” said Kaphalos. “But it just confirms what I have already said. You are the first, but you will not be the last.”
“Is this true?” Akakios asked Theopolou, appalled.
“It is,” said Theopolou. “Gewey and Kaylia have bonded their spirits.”
“Why keep this from us?” he demanded.
“It was not for me to reveal,” Theopolou replied. “The bonding is a personal matter and not to be spoken of lightly. I made my choice. You do not have to agree with it.”
The elves were clearly upset but calmed themselves and continued to listen.
“I am bonded to Kaylia,” announced Gewey in a clear strong voice. “I know this may anger you, but it was not my intent to do so. But know that I'm in no way ashamed.”
“Nor am I,” added Kaylia.
“It matters not,” Kaphalos said. “It is unlikely either of you will live long enough to regret it. Angrääl will march soon and slaughter us all.”
“Is there nothing I can say to convince you to come?” asked Theopolou.
“You know there is not,” Kaphalos replied. “But you needn't fear. I will not hinder you. There would be no point.”
Theopolou bowed his head. “Then we will take our leave.” Linis gathered the Vrykol head.
“Farewell,” said Kaphalos. “Perhaps we will meet again before we rejoin the creator. If not, know that I hold you in high regard... though we do not see eye to eye.”
“As do I,” said Theopolou.
They left the house and filed back down the walkway. Once they had reached the beginning of the trail that led to the house of Kaphalos, Akakios halted.
“My Lord Theopolou,” said Akakios. “We must speak... all of us.” The other elves nodded in agreement.
“And what would you speak about?” Theopolou asked.