Of Gods and Elves - By Brian D. Anderson Page 0,50
it would be wise,” Theopolou replied. “It would cause more trouble than I care to handle at this point. The council is aware that I have re-acquired the Book, and that has gained me some support. But introducing a God into the situation this soon would be... unwise. Linis is right. I will not be found guilty. Once that happens we can move on from there. I will gather the council once more after I am found guiltless, and then you will open it.”
“Is Gewey still to meet with the council before we depart?” asked Linis.
“Yes,” Theopolou replied. “Though your petition to have the elves join your cause must wait.”
Gewey’s heart sank. “Isn't there any way for me to speak to them before we reach the Chamber of the Maker?”
“It would be a foolish risk,” said Theopolou. “Beyond the grounds of my house I cannot protect you. Certain revelations may cause my kin to react... poorly.”
“I have to risk it,” said Gewey. “Every day wasted brings the Dark Knight closer to our doors. I need to do what I came here to do.”
Theopolou sighed. “If you must, I cannot stop you. But I think you would do better to listen to my council.” He turned to Linis. “The road ahead may hold danger. Prepare.”
Linis nodded. “I may not be able to bring my seekers, but I can see to it that they are not far.” He shot a stare at Theopolou before he could argue. “I insist.”
“They must say out of sight,” said Theopolou reluctantly.
“They are seekers,” said Linis. “The finest the tribe of Melanctha has ever produced. That bumbling group of fools could not spot my elves if they were standing on top of them.”
“I know you are angered by them naming you traitor,” scolded Theopolou. “But they are not fools. If your seekers are not careful they will be discovered.”
“They will not be discovered,” said Linis. “But I must take my leave now to inform them.”
Theopolou nodded curtly as Linis left the room. “What happens now?” asked Gewey.
“Now you will speak briefly with the elders.” Theopolou looked Gewey up and down. “You may keep your present attire.”
“And Kaylia?” asked Gewey.
“She awaits us.”
Theopolou led Gewey out the door and around to the front of the main house. He was excited to see the interior of such a magnificent building. The great metal doors swung open as they approached. What Gewey saw made the exterior seem trite and common. The immense receiving hall was lit bright by the same orbs that were in his room, only much smaller and vast in number. The floors were of deep emerald green marble, polished to a shine and veined with ivory. The walls were made from the same gleaming silver metal as the door and gate, and etched with elf letters and symbols of such artistry it brought tears to Gewey’s eyes.
Above him, running along the entire length and breadth of the hall, was a green marble balcony. Darkly stained wooden doors lined the wall leading to various rooms and chambers.
In the center of the hall a crystal statue, similar to the one outside, held a book. Gewey immediately thought of the Book of Souls. Theopolou's family had guarded it for generations. It must have pained the elf over the years to see the statue and know that it no longer held the same meaning it once had.
At the rear of the room, a broad staircase led up to the next level, with a set of double doors on either side of the base, as well as another set at the top. Gewey stared, mouth agape as he passed the statue. He could hardly wait to see the rest of the house. As he crested the staircase, Gewey caught sight of Kaylia. She was dressed in the same white robe as Theopolou, and her hair hung loosely down her back. She smiled when she saw Gewey and he could feel her relief through their bond.
Kaylia appraised his elven garb. “You look good dressed this way.”
Gewey blushed. “It's very comfortable, but I feel underdressed to meet elf elders.” He decided not to mention that he had also slept in them.
“Are you ready?” asked Theopolou. Gewey and Kaylia both nodded.
Theopolou clapped his hands loudly and the doors swung silently open. As they followed the elf in, Gewey took a deep breath, hoping this trip hadn't been a huge mistake.
Chapter Thirteen
The High Lady of Valshara paced the halls of the temple, immersed in thought. Ever since