Of Gods and Elves - By Brian D. Anderson Page 0,49
“They knew you were here.” “How?” asked Gewey.
Linis shook his head slowly. “I don't know. Somehow they found out that both you and Kaylia are here. Some of the elders are calling for Theopolou to face judgment for harboring a fugitive and for treason.”
Gewey shifted nervously. Without Theopolou's protection, he wasn't sure what could happen. “They can do that?”
“It's doubtful. It's just a prelude to another move.” Linis looked disgusted. “Even if they can get enough support to call Theopolou to judgment, they would never be able to convict him.”
“Then why do it?”
“To force him to expose himself,” said Linis. “If he is called to judgment, he will have to go to the Chamber of the Maker.”
“What's that?” asked Gewey.
“It's where all judgments are made, and where the council meets during times of war.” Linis stood up and began pacing. “If he leaves these walls he is vulnerable.”
“You don't really think they'd try to kill him... do you?”
Linis sighed heavily. “If you had asked me that question a year ago, I would have said no. Now...”
Gewey thought for a moment. He needed to speak to the elders and convince them to join him against Angrääl. If Theopolou were brought to judgment, he didn't know if there would be another chance.
“There's more,” said Linis. “They want to speak to you... and Kaylia.”
This sent a chill throughout his entire body. “Together?”
“Yes,” Linis replied. “They know about your bonding. Needless to say they are not pleased.”
Gewey shot to his feet. “What will they do?”
Linis grabbed Gewey's shoulders, trying to calm him. “They can do nothing so long as you are under Theopolou's protection. If they tried, the elves who are undecided in this matter would move against them. And don't forget, this is the house of an elf sage and council elder. Only a great fool would attack him here. He controls the flow within these walls.”
“But if we are forced to leave?”
“Then you have the greatest living seeker to fight at you side,” Linis assured. “Even the elders will pause at that.”
“But that will put you at war with your own people,” Gewey shook his head. “I won't have that.”
“I'm already at war.” Linis held a deep sadness in his eyes. “I've been called to judgment.”
Gewey's eyes shot wide. “What? What are you going to do?”
Linis forced a weak smile. “I've refused to recognize their authority. Once I leave these walls I am to be considered a fugitive and a traitor.”
“I'm so sorry,” said Gewey
“Don't be. I knew this would happen. It was just a matter of time.” He squared his shoulders. “I have made my choices, and I do not regret what I have done.”
The door opened and Theopolou entered, dressed in a long white robe, looking weary.
“I imagine Linis has filled you in,” said Theopolou. Gewey nodded.
“The council wishes to extend you an invitation to join them at the Chamber of the Maker,” said Theopolou in a clear even tone. “Do you accept?”
“Why?” asked Gewey. “Why do they want me to go there?”
“They feel that your presence has jeopardized the gathering,” Theopolou replied without conviction. “They fear you may have led others here.”
“That is a lie and you know it,” Linis roared. “They are luring you into a trap. You must see that. Once you're outside of these walls they will kill you... and Gewey.”
“I pray that you are wrong, seeker,” said Theopolou. “But if you are not, you must take the Book of Souls and keep it safe. I'll entrust it to you before I leave. Keep it hidden.”
“No need,” said Linis flatly. “I'll be going, too.”
Theopolou nodded. “Very well.”
“What about Kaylia?” asked Gewey.
“She will be accompanying us,” Theopolou answered.
“I won't let you march her to her death.”
“She is not to be judged,” said Theopolou. “At least not yet. She has been called to bear witness and give testimony.”
“Testimony?” said Gewey “What kind of testimony?”
“Against me,” Theopolou replied. “I have been called to judgment.”
“You cannot do this,” said Linis. “Your enemies know that you will not be found guilty. It can only mean they intend to move against you once you are away from the safety of your home.”
“If so,” said Theopolou. “I shall count on you to come to my aid.” “My seekers should come as well.”
“No,” said Theopolou. “If you insist on coming, they must not. It will be taken as a sign of aggression. You must help me keep the Book... and Gewey safe. ”