Of Gods and Elves - By Brian D. Anderson Page 0,81

a thud, as the knife hit the ground beside the slain captive’s head.

Theopolou turned to the others who were still a few feet away. “He is dead. I have killed him.”

Chiron walked up to the body and examined it carefully. “He has no markings and his clothes could be from anywhere. The dagger is common as well. The stains and scrapes on his boots suggest that he has traveled through the mountains.” He turned to the others. “Does anyone recognize him?”

Each elf in turn examined the body, but none could place his face or guess at his origin. Even Linis could not find a clue. After it was clear that no one could solve the puzzle, the elders gathered in a small circle to decide their next move. They invited Linis to join them, but made it clear that Gewey and Kaylia were to remain with Akakios and the other three guards. Akakios looked as if he wanted to ask for Gewey's sword, but did not.

The elders talked for about an hour then split up to tell their plan to the others. Linis approached Gewey, his eyes aflame.

“Fools,” spat Linis. “Bloody fools!” “What is it?” asked Gewey.

Akakios and the three guards had joined them.

“They want to press on even faster,” he replied, in disgust. “And they still will not allow my seekers to join us.”

“You told them they were near?” asked Kaylia.

“I had no choice. Whoever the assassin was, he had the skills to slip past my people. If there are more out there, we won't be able to notice them if we travel too fast. And if they allowed my seekers to come among us, we could move at speed and avoid a trap.” He checked his weapon. “I need to speak to my comrades. I'll return soon.” He dashed off into the woods and disappeared.

“Your weapon,” came Bellisia's voice from behind them.

Gewey turned to her as she walked toward them accompanied by two escorts, long knives drawn.

“If there is someone seeking to kill him,” said Theopolou. “He should be allowed to keep it.”

“You misunderstand,” she corrected. “I only wish to know where he acquired it.”

“It was a gift,” said Gewey.

“And such a gift it is,” she said. Her eyes locked with Gewey's. “I will not ask you to give it up, and I suspect that forcing it from you may prove more difficult than we would have originally suspected. Because of that, I think that you shall be dealt with first. Theopolou's judgment must wait.” She turned to Theopolou. “Once we arrive, be prepared to present your arguments in favor of this boy, and inform him of his rights.”

“You cannot do this,” said Theopolou.

“I can and will,” Bellisia shot back. “Do you think me blind? Did you think he could use that much of the flow and it would escape my notice?” She stepped toward Gewey, looking him up and down. “Whatever you are, I will get to the truth of it. And if you are a danger to my people, we need to know. That gives me the right.” She spun on her heels and strode off.

“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