by Aya Knight
The elders grew silent as they looked toward one another. It appeared as though they were speaking telepathically.
Finally, a third council member spoke, “Tell us the name of whom you seek.”
“His name is Brig,” Kale quickly responded.
All four elders began whispering to one another in Ceruya.
Kale watched as Neelan nervously listened, biting down upon her bottom lip. Finally the room grew silent once again as the four council members directed their attention to Kale
“Request denied,” the first elder spoke.
“Why?” Kale blurted out in an overwhelming bout of frustration. He had come so far since being transformed and was not prepared to return to Judith and Elanya without finding answers.
“You dare to question our authority—human boy?!” The first elder, who appeared to be the head of the council, raised his voice. “Our decision has been made and is final. We do not know why you desire to seek a dark elf—even one within our own kingdom—nor do we desire to know. However, the man you wish to find suffers from insanity and delusion. He treads a fine line within Tyrione and cannot be trusted; therefore, you cannot be trusted to collaborate with such an individual. We have only granted him permission to remain within these walls because of a plea from a respected high priestess—your mother, Neelan.”
Her eyes shifted with surprise. She could not have fathomed her mother to be fond of dark elves. Neelan’s father had always made it quite clear about his disgust for their race. She had always assumed her mother to share the same feelings.
“Neelan, though you are no longer welcome to live within Tyrione, I will grant you and your companions a brief stay under guarded supervision to visit your family.” The elder’s narrow face locked eyes with hers. “This decision is not for your benefit, but your mother’s. You must leave here immediately after.”
“T-thank you,” Neelan replied.
Kale couldn’t figure out if the sad look upon her face was due to the finalization that she was no longer welcome in Tyrione, or that she would now have to face her father—the one person who scarred her emotions for so many years.
“However,” the elder continued, “should we find that you attempt to seek the dark elf named Brig, you shall be exiled from Tyrione, and banished from contact. Go now and make haste, your time here runs short.”
They did not dwell or further question the ruling. The four companions quickly turned to leave, thankful for each step they placed between themselves and the council. The same two guards awaited their exit, still stationed beside the immense doors. As they made their way outside, Kale felt the sunlight wash over his face and was thrilled to smell the fresh air. Though, his time within the tower room was brief, it had felt like an eternity of awkward moments. Never before had he required permission or authority to do something he desired—it irked him to no end.
“That was truly horrible, Neelan. I can now see why you fled from this place. I would too, if I had to deal with those four skeletons.”
“Kale, lower your voice! If any of the citizens hear you speak in such a manner, we’re through here!” Neelan snapped.
“From the way things went back in there, we are already through here.” Kale crossed his arms in frustration.
“Calm yourself, I have a plan.” Neelan spoke softly.
“What sort of plans are you discussing?” The four turned in surprise to see Lorin standing next to Neelan. His suspicious glare locked upon Kale. “I do hope you aren’t going to do anything that may jeopardize Neelan’s wellbeing here within Tyrione.”
“It’s nothing like that. We were planning where our next destination would be after leaving Tyrione.” Neelan quickly thought up a witty response to quench his curiosity. “Why are you here anyway?” She raised an eyebrow.
“I was sent to escort you to your home.”
They sure don’t waste any time maintaining control here, Kale thought bitterly.
“Perfect.” Neelan began to walk, wrapping her arms tightly around herself. “Let’s get this over with quickly.”
Chapter 19: Neelan’s Secret
Throughout their walk, Kale found himself frequently dodging the cold glares from Lorin’s grey eyes. Curiosity at what Neelan planned tugged at his thoughts. He knew that, whatever it may be, it was their final hope for finding the answers they desired.
“Pardon my prying, but how do you two know one another?” Thomas broke the heavy silence.
Nicely done, Thomas, Kale thought sarcastically with a sigh. He knew that Neelan already had enough on her mind with the upcoming family reunion, and now she would have to endure a stroll down memory lane with the unpleasant male elf.
“Considering most of us have lived within the walls of this city since birth, it’s hardly an interesting story. Most of the citizens know one another,” Neelan quickly replied.
“I’d bet that’s why you’ve been gettin’ so many foul stares since we left the tower. I’m sure a lot of them don’t fancy your arrival after what happened in your past.” Illadar glanced around at their surroundings.
First Thomas, now Illadar? And they say I am the one who cannot bite my tongue? Kale shook his head.
“Let them stare, I truly could not care less. I am sure it was the words of my father that established all this negativity toward me. His only priority in life is the temple—not the emotions of his family.”
Kale glanced toward Lorin, who had remained silent with a glum look upon his face.
“Neelan,” Lorin finally spoke, “you make our history seem as though it was meaningless. I cannot understand how you speak so carelessly about me. I have known you since you were a baby.”
“That is true—but it’s not as though we were very close to one another.”
Lorin looked as though Neelan had shot an arrow through his heart. “I disagree.” His voice lowered to a whisper, “I was always close—even if you never realized.”
As Kale overheard, for the first time since he met Lorin, he felt sympathy for the elf. Unsure how to react to the situation, Kale attempted a friendly gesture to ease the tension; he gave Lorin a pat upon the back of his armor.
“Do not touch me, you foul and insignificant peon!” Lorin immediately pulled away from Kale’s reach.
“Excuse me for trying to be friendly with the likes of you,” he huffed bitterly. “I can see why she doesn’t care to be close to you. I can’t see how anyone would want to be.”
“Would you two stop?” Neelan snapped, looking forward. “We are here…” Her voice trailed off into silence.
Kale glanced up, confronted by a wide, white building. The front was unique from all others within the city with three stained glass windows in a row. They seemed to be symbolic in some way, though Kale could not interpret how. In the first panel there was a sun and a moon; in another a variety of plants, and in the last a woman draped in gold with a yellow glow surrounding her body.
Interesting, Kale thought.
Near the top of the building hung a large golden bell which Neelan explained was used to summon the citizens for worshiping ceremonies to the Goddess Enya.
“Is this your home?” Thomas questioned, in awe at the structural details.
“This is the temple,” Neelan’s voice was grim and her breathing rapid. A flood of horrible memories invaded her mind. She closed her eyes, shaking her head as she regained composure. “My home is around back.” Neelan looked nervously toward Kale, “Will you hold my hand? I cannot do this on my own.”
Lorin grunted his disapproval. “Disgusting,” He whispered loud enough for Kale to hear.
Thomas fought the sudden urge to freeze Lorin’s lips shut. He knew better than to risk their mission for a petty quarrel.
It took Kale a few moments before Neelan’s sudden request registered within his
mind. “Sure,” he finally responded.
Neelan slipped her surprisingly soft hand into his then interlocked their fingers together. As they began to walk in the direction of her home, Neelan tightened her grip on Kale’s hand.
Soon he could feel a gentle tremble. He responded with a light squeeze in an attempt to assure her everything would be all right.
“Thank you,” she spoke softly.
“You don’t have all the time in the world. Let’s get moving,” Lorin insisted coldly.
They made their way to the rear where a small extension to the temple could be seen. The front entry path to the home was bordered with beautiful pink flowers that made the surrounding area smell sweet. A narrow brick chimney released a stream of grey smoke and Neelan’s grip tightened to the point of discomfort, causing Kale’s fingers to swell as blood rushed to the tips.
Lorin took a step forward, raising his fist to the green wooden door.
“Wait!” Neelan called to him. “I have to try and do this part myself—I need to face my fears and overcome these never-ending nightmares.”
Lorin nodded. “As you wish.” He stepped to the side.
She confronted the door with a clammy cold fist, finally rapping her knuckles against the wood. “Kale…” she whispered.
“Don’t worry, it will be all right.” Kale had not realized the true extent of fear her father had instilled for so many years.
A few silent moments passed before they heard stirring from within. The door swung in to reveal a woman who was undeniably Neelan’s mother. They shared very similar facial features and the same thin, sheen of hair hung long and straight. The woman immediately gasped, pulling Neelan into her chest.
Neelan’s eyes widened as her hand was pulled from Kale’s grasp.
The situation made Kale smile as he watched Neelan hesitantly wrap her arms in return around her mother’s waist.
“Bry oneya, Neelan!” The woman’s voice was filled with excitement.
“Mother, I am so glad only you are here. I have missed you so much,” Neelan confessed in an almost childlike manner as she pressed her head into her mother’s chest.
“English?”
“Yes, mother, my friends whom I have travelled with use this language. I prefer it as well.” Neelan glanced up at her mother’s eyes, awaiting a response.
“I see.” More silence followed before she spoke again, “Well then, I too shall use the language while in your presence.” She smiled. Her mother was unlike the other elves they met within the city; she was kindhearted and accepting. “Please, come inside.” She smiled toward Kale and his friends.
“Thank you for your hospitality.” Thomas bowed as they entered the home.
The atmosphere inside was cozy with minimal furniture which reminded Kale of Illadar’s home back in Braxle—yet much nicer.
“I shall stand guard outside, humble Priestess. I was sent here to escort Neelan and—the humans.” He forced the last part through gritted teeth. “It is not my place to enter your home.”
“Oh, mag weed. Lorin, I have known you since you were a plump little infant.” Neelan’s mother pinched his cheek which caused him to blush in embarrassment. “Get inside and have a cup of bossberry juice.” She smiled maternally. “And call me, Lelain. We are in my home, not the temple.”
Kale was completely baffled by Neelan’s previous accusations about her family. Her mother seemed amazingly kind and humble.
“I have missed you dearly, my beautiful little girl.”
“Mother, I am not a child.” Neelan hid her face to conceal her pink cheeks.
“I know, dear, I know. But you will always be my little one.” She glanced up toward Kale, Thomas, and Illadar. “Now tell me—who are your friends?”
Neelan introduced them, explaining how they met and about their travels. Lelain wisely picked up on her daughter’s constant stares toward Kale. She softly chuckled to herself which made Kale uncomfortable.
“Now, explain, why have you returned?” Lelain smiled. “As much as I would love to believe it is to see your old mother, I know this is not the case.” She forced a laugh that caused the corners of her eyes to wrinkle, revealing an aged appearance for the first time.
“I came to speak with a dark elf named Brig.” Neelan sighed. “The elder council denied permission.” She paused in thought. “They said he—Brig, that is—was granted the ability to remain within Tyrione because of you, mother.” She locked eyes with Lelain, “So please tell me, how do you know him, and why won’t they allow us to speak with him? You have no idea of the importance it would have on Ravondore.”
“I see. Well, to be quite honest with you, I felt as though it was the will of Enya which brought me to my decision of fighting for him to remain here. Though, he is of dark elven blood, his intentions are pure. He is incredibly intelligent, despite his—oddities. When the council was prepared to banish Brig from the kingdom, there were many signs presented to me. I knew that there was some meaning—some purpose as to why he had fled here. I suppose you could say that I utilized my authority as head priestess to grant him the ability to remain within Tyrione.” Lelain smiled. “Since that day, he swore an oath to repay me for my kindness. The gesture was kind enough for me; I expect nothing in return for fulfilling the will of Enya.” She placed a hand upon Neelan’s. “Aside from all else, I get to see my daughter again. What more could I possibly desire?” Lelain pulled Neelan close.
“I am not staying, mother. The elder council has forbidden me to live within Tyrione for my abandonment to the temple—though honestly, I would not wish to stay on my own will anyway. Not that it matters, but I am sure father had a great deal to do with the council’s decision.” Neelan curled her fingers into a tightened fist.
Lelain appeared hurt by the news. “I am sorry, my daughter.” Her mood shifted. “Your father was very upset when you left.”
“My father,” Neelan bitterly spoke, “treated me as a prisoner. He locked me away from the world and took everything I cared for away.”
Kale cleared his throat, growing more uncomfortable with each passing moment that the conversation continued. “Excuse my interruption, but I think it would be best if we allow you two to speak in private—especially considering our time here is short.” He shot a meaningful glance to Lelain as if to remind her once again that Neelan would soon be leaving.
“Kale—no!” Neelan’s hand reached out, gripping onto Kale’s arm like a lost child. He had never seen her behave so vulnerably before.
“It’s all right, I’ll be just outside. Trust me, with Lorin watching me like a hawk scoping its prey, I couldn’t run off even if I wanted to—which I don’t.” He quickly added the last part to avoid any further insecurity.
She hesitantly nodded, allowing her fingers to slip from his arm.
The sunlight felt invigorating as it warmed Kale’s cheeks. “This is much better.” He lifted his arms above his head to stretch as he seated himself upon a log bench against the front wall of the home.
“Indeed.” Thomas smiled, positioning himself next to Kale’s side. “I do hope Neelan is able to find peace with her mother.”
Lorin glanced to the vacant space to Kale’s other side. He then glanced toward Illadar to see that he was occupied with inspecting the surroundings of the small front yard. Lorin exhaled before giving in to sit upon the empty section of the bench.
Kale looked up in surprise. “You are aware that you’re seated next to a human, right?” Kale joked, secretly laughing at the irony behind his words.
“I can obviously see this.” Lorin replied with resentment. Apparently he did not have the best sense of humor. “I wanted to speak with you about Neelan.”
Kale could see by the look upon Lorin’s face this was incredibly difficult for him.
Lorin swallow
ed hard. Then, as if regaining his pride, he adjusted his posture and sat upright, his head held high.
Kale in turn faced Lorin, squinting as the sun reflected off the elf’s shoulder guards. He couldn’t imagine having to wear something so heavy and suffocating over his flesh in such humid weather.
“So what did you want to tell me?” Kale pushed the subject. He grew impatient waiting for Lorin to find words for what he wanted to express. Kale assumed it would be an irritating speech on why he should stay away from Neelan because he was a filthy human.
“Neelan,” Lorin finally spoke, “she is very special.”
That is one way to put it, Kale thought, secretly amused. Let’s not forget how she can be overly clingy, annoying, and horribly stubborn.
“Growing up, we didn’t get to see each other very often. Her father would always keep her occupied with temple duties. She was to become a devoted priestess, despite her own desires.” His jaw tightened, the veins within his neck pulsed. “I hated what her father did, but could never find the courage within myself to help. I will always regret how cowardly I was.” He shook his head. “When she was free to walk the city, I tried to be friendly and make attempts for her to notice me.” He glanced up toward the sky, shorter strands of blonde hair which had come loose from his ponytail hung disheveled across his face. “I longed to be more than just an acquaintance—I wanted more than friendship. I did all I could think of to win her heart. I brought her flowers, wrote letters, and did my best to be there when she needed assistance with tasks. Despite all my attempts, not once did she ever return my feelings. I felt so dearly for her.” His voice shook with pain as he struggled to hold himself together. “And now—you come along. Someone she barely knows—a human, yet she is drawn to you and comforted by your touch. I see the way she looks at you, Kale. I was in question at first, but even after the short time I have watched the two of you, I am now very certain—Neelan loves you.”