Of Gods and Elves - By Brian D. Anderson Page 0,90

is who he says he is,” replied Gewey, trying to ignore Bellisia’s repeated reference. “As for anything else, I was not alone when I met him, and Felsafell made no move to harm my companion. In fact, he did what he could to make sure the spirits left both us in peace.”

Bellisia scowled “That proves nothing. There is something you are not telling us. No one shows as much trust as you show Felsafell without good reason.”

“Perhaps Gewey is not as jaded as some,” said Chiron, an obvious dig at Bellisia.

“We are talking in circles,” said Theopolou. “We either allow Felsafell to continue with us, or we ask him to depart.” He looked at Gewey. “You say that you will not go without him?”

Gewey nodded. “As long as he wants to come with me, I will have him.”

Theopolou turned to the others. “There you have it. As Gewey is called before you to give testimony, you must make your decision. Do you withdraw your invitation?”

The elders looked at each other, but none said a word.

“Very well,” Theopolou continued, with satisfaction. “Felsafell will be welcome among us.” He turned to Gewey. “Watch over our new guest. I will be with you in a moment.”

Gewey bowed and walked back to where Felsafell was still fast asleep, Linis and Kaylia close behind.

“Sometimes I can't tell the difference between an elf and a human,” muttered Gewey.

“What do you mean?” asked Linis.

Gewey had not meant his words to be heard. “I'm sorry. I meant no offense. It’s just that since I've met the elders, I've seen nothing but petty squabbling and disagreements. The council back home in Sharpstone gets along better.”

“You are not wrong to say so,” Linis agreed. “Once we were a noble people, with honor and understanding. Our forefathers would be disgusted with us now. It is as if a veil of mistrust has been brought down upon us, and we do not know how to lift it.”

“My father thought that the generation that fought in the war would have to leave this world before we are healed,” added Kaylia. “He believed that the bitterness it caused prevents us from regaining what we have lost.”

Linis nodded. “I think he may have been right. It is a new way of thinking we need. Our race must find how to exist in a new world.”

“Where does he fit in?” asked Gewey, motioning to the sleeping Felsafell. “What is he? He’s certainly not an elf. He looks human, but... he isn't.”

“What am I?” said Felsafell, popping to his feet. “I am the oldest, I am. The most withered.”

“I'm sorry,” said Gewey. “We didn't mean to wake you.”

Felsafell smiled cheerfully, stretching his arms. “I wake myself. Sleep I did. Sleep well. Sleep soundly. Sleep plenty.”

“But you've only just lay down,” said Linis. “Even an elf needs more rest than that.”

“An elf I am not,” said Felsafell. “And the child of heaven is right. I am not human.”

“Then what are you?” asked Kaylia.

“I am the first,” he replied. “But not the last. No. I shall soon fade. But before I do I must rescue my kin. Rescue my past.”

“I don't understand,” said Gewey.

“All will be clear,” Felsafell assured. “Clear as glass. But not now. Now with enemies about, we must be swift and silent.”

“Enemies?” said Gewey

“Don't fret,” said Felsafell. “No swords or arrows will hinder us. A clear path we have. But enemies don't always carry swords. Be silent and still and all will be well.”

The party gathered and continued toward the Chamber of the Maker. Felsafell walked just behind Gewey and Kaylia, while Linis ventured a few yards ahead of everyone, scouting for signs of an ambush.

As the day progressed, elves began to approach Felsafell, requesting a private talk. Felsafell’s wisdom was legendary among the elves, and they did not want to miss a chance to benefit from it. True to his word, Felsafell was more than willing to speak to all comers. Some walked away smiling, others angry, and others in tears. Gewey wondered what he had told them, remembering the words the strange little man had for him on his porch in the Spirit Hills and how they had upset him.

They stopped once for the midday meal, and Gewey listened for signs of pursuit, but to his relief, all he could hear was the sound of the wind and various small animals. Even though he informed Linis of this, he still insisted on searching the area. He enjoyed that while Linis could remain invisible to