The Godling Chronicles : Bundle - Books 1-3

by Brian D. Anderson

  “But enough,” said Aaliyah. “There will be time for this when we arrive.” Nimble and swift as the wind, she spun around and walked down the road toward the Chamber of the Maker, Nehrutu and Mohanisi following close behind.

  Gewey, Kaylia, and Linis, looked at each other, then did the same.

  As they approached the field where the pavilion had been erected, Aaliyah and her companions dropped back next to Linis. The field was still abuzz with activity as hundreds of elves darted about.

  “I believe you should make the introductions,” said Aaliyah. “Considering what has happened here, it may be better if your people are greeted by someone more familiar.”

  Linis nodded in agreement.

  Two guards barred their way when they reached the edge of the field. They eyed the strangers for a moment.

  “They are not foes,” said Linis.

  The guards grunted and stepped aside.

  “A bit brutish,” remarked Mohanisi.

  Linis pretended not to hear. All the same, he couldn't help but bristle at the insult. “They must be hard to survive these times. They fought bravely to protect their kin.”

  “I meant no disrespect,” Mohanisi explained. “It is only that you are so different from what we know.”

  Theopolou, Eftichis, and Bellisia approached from the pavilion. Kaylia ran ahead and embraced her uncle with joy. She held him tightly for nearly a full minute.

  “I am so happy to see you are safe,” said Theopolou, smiling broadly. “Though I had no doubt Gewey would succeed in your rescue.” As the others approached, Theopolou bowed. “Thank you,” he said to Gewey and Linis. “I am in your debt.”

  Gewey bowed in reply. “I wish I could say I freed her. But as it turned out, she managed that on her own.”

  Theopolou smiled lovingly at Kaylia. “A tale I would love to hear.”

  “As would I,” said Bellisia. “But first I would like know who you have brought among us.”

  Linis introduced the elves and explained how they met, not failing to mention their claim.

  “So, you say you are from beyond the Great Western Abyss,” said Theopolou. His tone bore no hint of surprise or trepidation. “That would explain the news we received. Reports of red sails on the horizon have caused quite a stir.”

  Aaliyah stepped forward and took Theopolou's hand. The old elf stiffened and staggered back. In a flash, Linis and Eftichis had their knives drawn and were pulling Theopolou away. Mohanisi and Nehrutu made no move to stop them.

  “No,” Theopolou cried out. “Stay your weapons. I am not harmed - only dazed.”

  “What happened?” asked Linis, still holding Theopolou's arm.

  “I beg your forgiveness,” said Aaliyah. “I thought it would be easier this way. As you are one of the more - how should I say this? Talented among you. That is to say, you can use the flow.”

  “Yes,” said Theopolou. He steadied himself and straightened his shoulders. “But I suggest you refrain from doing that again. At least until you have addressed the others.”

  “Theopolou....” began Bellisia.

  “She is who she says she is,” said Theopolou. “She merely communicated it to me in a manner which I am not accustomed. It was just too much at once.”

  “I would speak to your people,” said Aaliyah. “But first, your wounded should be attended.” Her companions nodded in agreement. “You could help as well,” she said to Gewey.

  “Of course,” he said.

  Linis stepped forward. “I will join you.” He could tell that Theopolou and the others had recently been using their powers to heal and were now exhausted, though they hid it well. “The elders should rest until we have done what can be done.”

  “Of course,” said Aaliyah. “They have accomplished all they can.” She looked at Kaylia and smiled. “If you would tend to your elders while we do our work....”

  “I will go with you as well,” said Kaylia.

  “Theopolou and the others have greater need of you.” Aaliyah’s tone was not contentious, yet it held an air of authority that caused Kaylia to stop short.

  “Stay,” said Theopolou. “You can tell me what happened after you were taken.”

  Aaliyah didn't wait for a response. She turned gracefully and walked in the direction of the pavilion. Kaylia’s eyes followed her closely.

  When Gewey and the elves entered the healing pavilion they saw scores of injured elves lying in row upon row of beds that had been taken from the tents. Even so, there still weren't enough beds for everyone in need of care, so the least injured had been placed on simple bedrolls. Those administering to them were busy distributing food and medicine, and at first hardly noticed the group’s presence. Gewey peered just beyond the pavilion and could see others tending to the dead. His heart ached.

  “How could this happen?” muttered Mohanisi. His face flushed with anger. He spun and faced Linis. “How could this happen?” This time his voice boomed with rage. Everyone in the pavilion stopped and stared.

  Aaliyah gently placed her hand on Mohanisi's shoulder. “Calm yourself, my friend. This is not his doing.”

  Mohanisi's muscles tensed until he trembled, then he closed his eyes. Gasps filled the pavilion as the elf filled himself with the flow. More and more of it rushed into him until the surrounding air glowed with power. Only Gewey could hold so much - or so they thought. After a few seconds he released it and opened his eyes.

  Mohanisi breathed deeply, then smiled apologetically at Linis. “Forgive my anger. Aaliyah is correct. This is not your doing. But I have not seen a sight such as this before. It took me aback for a moment.”

  Linis bowed. “There is nothing to forgive. You are not wrong to feel anger. We have all allowed this to come to pass. I am as much at fault as any.” He could still feel the lingering power of the flow all around him, and everyone’s eyes continued to stare in amazement. “But, I must ask. How is it you can channel so much of the flow? Gewey is the only one I have ever seen use so much.”

  “I doubt I have the power of Shivis Mol,” said Mohanisi.

  “Your people have forgotten much,” Aaliyah interjected. “Once all elves could do as Mohanisi has done. Why you cannot still, I do not know.” She squared her shoulders. “But now is a time to heal, not talk. Talk can wait, but the dying cannot.”

  They all nodded in agreement. Without another word Aaliyah, Mohanisi, and Nehrutu started off in different directions and immediately began tending the wounded with the power of the flow. Linis left the more severely injured to Gewey and the other elves, restricting himself to healing those who he could more readily help. Gewey went from bed to bed for what seemed like an eternity using every bit of his strength. By the time it was full dark he was barely able to stand. Linis was faring no better, nearly losing his feet several times. Aaliyah and her companions seemed far less affected.

  “Are you well, Shivis Mol?” Aaliyah asked Gewey as he knelt at the bedside of an elf who had been run through. He only looked up when she touched his shoulder.

  “Just tired,” said Gewey. “This takes a lot out of me.”

  “I see.” Her tone sounded confused. “We have nearly done all that we can here. Mohanisi, Nehrutu, and I will finish this. You should rest. I am certain Kaylia will tend you well.” Her last remark sounded almost sarcastic.

  Gewey shook his head and steadied himself. “I'm fine.” He placed his hands on the wounded elf, channeling the flow. The wounded elf gasped and his eyes opened wide. After a few minutes the wounds began to close and the elf relaxed.

  Gewey staggered to his feet and stumbled to the next bed.

  “That is enough,” said Aaliyah. “You cannot go on. There are only a few others remaining who we can help. I insist you rest.” Her words were commanding, and Gewey could feel himself wanting to obey as she continued. “If you become ill, then I will have to heal you. This will take from those who need more urgent care.” She smiled. “Do not be concerned. Soon I will teach you to heal without so much ef
fort.”

  Gewey's resolve gave way. “I'll go.”

  Aaliyah took his arm and guided him from the pavilion to where Kaylia, Theopolou and the others were gathered.

  “He needs rest,” stated Aaliyah flatly. “Tend to him.”

  Before Kaylia could speak, Aaliyah released Gewey and turned back to the pavilion. He nearly collapsed the moment her hand let go. Kaylia was quickly at his side and guided him to a waiting bedroll. Eftichis brought him some bread and wine, which he gratefully accepted. Linis arrived a few minutes later and lay down next to him. He didn't speak a word and was asleep within seconds.

  “You should sleep as well,” suggested Eftichis, who had seated himself a few feet away.

  Gewey rubbed his neck and stretched his back until it made a sharp crack. “The others will be finished shortly. I want to be awake when they get here.” He yawned, in spite of himself. “If I sleep now, I won't be able to wake up.”

  Small fires were being lit throughout the camp. The scent of spiced meat and wine wafted on the breeze.

  At that moment, Aaliyah and the others appeared from the fading light. “We have healed as many as we could,” she told them.

  “You have our gratitude,” said Bellisia, who had been seated beside Lord Chiron for several hours, talking quietly.

  “Indeed,” agreed Chiron. “Many more would have died if not for you.”

  “I only wish we could have done more,” remarked Aaliyah, sadly. “Many were beyond our power.”

  “You should rest,” said Gewey. “You must be exhausted.”

  “We are,” admitted Aaliyah. “More so than we have ever been. And I would have strength before I tell our tale.” She reached down and placed the back of her hand on Gewey's cheek. Kaylia’s anger flashed across their bond, startling Gewey.

  “For one so ignorant of his own abilities, you did well,” said Aaliyah. Her voice was tender and musical, like the cradlesong for an infant prince. “Though I admit I was confused to see how little you know of yourself.” She glanced over to Kaylia, then fixed her eyes on Gewey's. “That will change. I will see to it.”

  Kaylia moved close to Gewey, her face hot with jealousy.

  Aaliyah smiled. “Fierce and protective. Though I must admit, I can understand why.” Her hair shimmered in the firelight. She stepped back and sat on a blanket a few feet away. Mohanisi and Nehrutu rested next to her. “In the morning I shall address the elves.”

  “I am afraid it will have to wait until after the funeral rites,” said Theopolou. “They begin with the sunrise.”

  “Of course,” said Aaliyah. She lay down and pulled the blanket over her shoulders. It was mere moments before sleep took her.

  Gewey looked about him. Small groups of elves were gathered around the fires, speaking in hushed whispers. No one had disturbed the newcomers while they were tending the wounded, but news of them had spread like wildfire. Gewey smiled. Only the arrival of these elves could have overshadowed the presence of a god in their midst. And for that, he was grateful. He finished his meal and lay on his back. The stars were peeking out from behind wisps of thin clouds high in the sky. He wished the night was clear. The nights of a new moon were the best time for star gazing. Kaylia lay next to him, her head turned toward Aaliyah.

  “She is beautiful,” said Kaylia.

  Gewey reached over and took her hand. “I didn't notice.”

  “You do not need to spare my feelings,” she said in a half-whisper. “I am not doubting your feelings for me.”

  Gewey turned his head and met Kaylia's eyes “Good. And I'm not sparing your feelings. I really didn't notice. I was too busy in the pavilion to notice such things.”

  “And now that you are not in the pavilion?”

  Gewey pushed himself up and leaned over to her. “And now that I'm not in the pavilion, you're still more beautiful.” He kissed her softly.

  She smiled. “She wants you.” Pulling him to her, she kissed him back. “But she cannot have you. She called me fierce, but she has no idea of how fierce I can really be.” She stroked his cheek. “Now sleep.”

  Gewey lay back down and closed his eyes. The tingle of Kaylia's touch still caressed his lips. As sleep took him he could feel his spirit drift. He had come to enjoy the sensation. Then he heard a call. Not in words, but a sweet summons, like soft music. Kaylia, he thought. A thin mist surrounded him. It was warm and soothing. He allowed it to penetrate him.

  “I am here,” called a gentle feminine voice.

  A figure approached through the mist. Gewey expected to see Kaylia, but as the figure neared, he realized it was not her.

  It was Aaliyah.

  Chapter 7

  A bitter chill woke Gewey the next morning. Kaylia and Linis had already risen and were nearby helping the others prepare the morning meal. Bellisia, Chiron and Theopolou were gathered a few yards away, and were now donned in white robes; Gewey presumed these were for the funeral rites.

  Aaliyah's face still burned in his memory, but he could not recall anything beyond the point when she had first appeared. He scanned the area for her and her friends, but they were nowhere to be seen.

  Just next to him, lying atop his sword and scabbard, he noticed his pack. Someone must have retrieved his belongings from Theopolou's tent. He rummaged through his things until he found the clothes Theopolou had given to him, then went to look for some place private to change. He thought perhaps to seek out water for washing, but didn't want to miss the ceremony. Looking toward the burned remains of the camp, he could see dozens of funeral pyres that had been erected during the night. He dreaded the sad ceremony that was to come. Finding a hidden spot just beyond the pavilion, between two tents, Gewey changed into his elf clothing.

  “You have an interesting mind.” It was Aaliyah.

  Gewey flushed. “How long were you watching me?”

  Aaliyah smiled. “Long enough.” She took a step forward.

  Gewey may not have noticed her beauty before, but he certainly did now. She had changed into a white silk dress. Though much the same fashion as the one she had worn the previous day, this one flowed with her movements, wrapping itself playfully around her obvious curves as she moved. Her hair was tied in a loose braid, intertwined with thin white strands of shimmering cloth.

  “I thought this may be a bit more appropriate,” she said. She held her shapely arms wide and spun around. “What would you say?”

  He felt his face grow hot with embarrassment. “I...”

  “Perhaps not.” With a wry smile, she took another step forward. “However, I brought nothing else other than a set of cotton trousers and tunic. The rest of my attire is on my ship.”

  “How did you...?” he stammered. “I mean...last night.”

  “Oh, that was nothing,” she replied, stepping closer. “I only wanted to see your mind for myself. A selfish thing, I admit. But I could not resist the chance to connect with Shivis Mol.”

  “Kaylia. She....”

  “Kaylia knows nothing of it,” said Aaliyah. “It was simple to occupy her thoughts. I encouraged her to dream of you. It was easy. She loves you deeply.”

  The mention of Kaylia's love for him steadied his nerve. “And I love her.”

  “Well, of course you do.” She sounded understanding in the way of a mother to a child. “But then you are quite young. And your bond with her makes your feelings infinitely stronger.” Slowly her face saddened. Gewey suddenly wanted to approach her. To comfort her. But he resisted. Aaliyah then added quietly: “I was bonded once. Long ago.”

  Gewey's heart ached to see her pain. “What happened?”

  She sighed deeply. “He died.”

  “Then how do you still live?” he asked. “I thought that once bonded, your lives are as one.”

  This shook her out of her melancholy and she laughed softly. “Perhaps that is true for the elves in this world. They have forgotten how to use their power. The bond between mates is strong, but not unbreakable. One need not lose themselves
should the other die.” She glanced behind her, toward the pavilion. “A pity. The bond makes you stronger. We could have saved more of the wounded if they’d all had a mate's strength to share. But if the risk is death, I suppose it is to be expected that they do not bond.” She tilted her head and smiled. “Perhaps that is yet another thing we can teach them.”

  Gewey saw Kaylia approaching in the distance. “I should go,” he said. Without waiting for Aaliyah’s response, he edged his way past her. She did not move to ease his passing, forcing their shoulders to touch.

  As he neared Kaylia, he could clearly see that she was not pleased.

  She placed her hands on her hips. “What did she want?”

  “Nothing,” Gewey replied. “She asked if what she was wearing was appropriate for the funeral rites.”

  Kaylia shot a stare at Aaliyah, who was still standing close to where he had left her. “Is that so?” She took Gewey's hand. “Come. We need to eat.”

  Gewey allowed Kaylia to lead him back to their bedrolls. A bowl of steaming porridge and a cup of new wine had been placed on the ground for him. After he’d finished these, Kaylia, Linis and Theopolou walked with him to the funeral pyres, where the gathering was already well underway. The pyres had all been encircled by elves in just the same way as Gewey had seen Linis and his seekers do during the funeral of Berathis. Aaliyah, Nehrutu, and Mohanisi stood beside Kaylia on his right. Linis, Theopolou, and the remaining elders were to his left. Those wounded who were able to do so had also made their way from the pavilion, unwilling to remain in bed during the rites of their dead brethren.

  The ceremony was long, lasting well into the afternoon. Elf after elf stood forward to say words about their fallen comrades. After all had spoken, the fires were lit - so many that the heat caused Gewey to break into a sweat. Finally, it was over and the crowd solemnly dispersed. Most eyes were still swollen with tears.

  Gewey, Linis, and Kaylia returned to their bedrolls, while Theopolou instructed everyone to gather an hour before sundown to hear Aaliyah and her companions speak.