Of Gods and Elves - By Brian D. Anderson Page 0,83

a joyous occasion, not to be tainted by the petty squabbles between me and the elders.”

As they returned to the camp, Gewey and Linis went over the ceremony one last time. Upon arrival, Gewey could see that the elders had gathered and all their eyes were on him.

“This should be interesting,” muttered Gewey, as he approached the group. The grim expressions on their faces told Gewey that they were none too pleased.

“Gewey Stedding,” said Lord Chiron. “As you probably know, we are not in favor of this union.”

“I understa—” Gewey began, but Chiron held up his hand to silence him.

“Allow me to finish,” he continued. “We are not in favor of this, but there is nothing we can do to stop it. As you know, this is among our most sacred rites, and you and Kaylia are the first in more than one-hundred years to be bonded in this way. We would not have it done here in the middle of nowhere. We feel that to be a sacrilege.” All but Theopolou nodded in agreement. “We ask only that you delay this until we reach the Chamber of the Maker. It is a more fitting site for such an event.” He took a small step forward. “Kaylia has already agreed, but only if you do as well. What say you?”

Gewey's eyes drifted to Theopolou, but his face was stone.

“It may be a wise choice,” Linis whispered in Gewey's ear.

Finally, Gewey squared his shoulders and said, “I do understand that this ritual is sacred to you. And if Kaylia is in agreement, then so am I. We can wait until we arrive.”

Chiron bowed. “I thank you.” The others bowed and dispersed.

“One more thing,” called Gewey. The elders turned. “We will complete the bonding before I face your judgment.”

“Agreed.” Chiron walked away.

Only Theopolou lingered.

“A wise decision,” said Theopolou, almost smiling. “This could go a long way to furthering your cause. The rite of bonding, performed in the Chamber of the Maker, is symbolic beyond your understanding.”

“Who suggested this?” asked Linis.

“Lord Chiron,” Theopolou replied. “He could be an important ally to you. He has been a friend to me for many of your lifetimes.”

“And the others?” asked Gewey. “How do they feel about this?”

“Their opinions are mixed,” Theopolou admitted. “Though they all agree that the rite should be performed in a more appropriate location, they still have a difficult time with the fact that a “human” is to be bonded to an elf. They may try to convince you not to do this, though they cannot stop you... or Kaylia.”

“They can try all they want,” said Gewey. “The choice has been made.”

“Do not underestimate their guile,” Theopolou warned. “They have far more experience bending the will of others than you. Their arguments will be... persuasive.”

Gewey nodded with understanding.

Bellisia approached. “Gewey Stedding. I would speak with you alone.” Theopolou and Linis bowed to her and walked away, out of earshot.

“If you are here to talk me out of completing the bond with Kaylia—” started Gewey.

“I am here to warn you,” said Bellisia.

“Warn me?”

“I know that you intend to try and sway the elves to join you in your fight against Angrääl,” she said. “And you may accomplish your goal. But should you bond with Kaylia—”

“Stop right there,” said Gewey angrily. “My relationship with Kaylia has nothing to do with Angrääl, or my reasons for being here.”

“You think not?” she shot back. “Do you think the powers in the north are fools? What will they do once they find out they you are bonded to an elf woman?” She paused. “They will kill her.”

Gewey opened his mouth to speak but no words came.

“That's right,” she continued. “They will hunt Kaylia down and kill her. And they will do it to kill you.”

A cold chill filled Gewey's chest. “Why would you think they would care about me?”

Bellisia sniffed. “You think we do not know that the King of Angrääl is searching for you? Every elf tribe knows your name. We have all been made aware that he seeks you, and have been made offers of friendship for your deliverance…or death.”

“Theopolou hasn't said anything about this,” said Gewey. “He would have told me.”

“Theopolou,” she scoffed. “You think Theopolou is your friend? He is no more a friend to you than I am. But at least I am not trying to make you think otherwise. Theopolou has no love for humans. He is motivated by his love for his niece. Make no mistake, if he had his way,