Malstisos and the others gratefully accepted the food and wine, but as Grentos and Vadnaltis did not speak while they ate, the others remained silent as well. The stew was unlike anything Millet, Maybell, or Jacob had ever tasted. Each smiled with delight after their first bite. Malstisos seemed to be more accustomed to the taste and gave no reaction other than a slight nod of approval. Once their meal was complete, Vadnaltis collected the dishes and left the tent. The cold air chilled them when the flap opened, and a wisp of snow blew inside to remind them of how close to death they had come.
“I hope you are satisfied with our poor fare,” said Grentos.
“It was the best stew I've ever tasted,” said Millet.
Maybell and Jacob agreed enthusiastically.
Grentos smiled and bowed his head. “You are too kind. But now that we have eaten, I believe you have questions - as do we.”
“Should we wait for Vadnaltis?” asked Maybell.
“That will not be necessary,” Grentos replied. “As your host, I will have you ask of me what you will. I expect he shall return before you are finished.”
“In that case, I'll be direct,” Malstisos began. “How is it you are here, and in the company of humans? I was not aware your tribe had started relations with them.”
“Only a few of us have,” said Grentos. “We have heard of the progress made in the coastal cities with elf/human relations, and it has inspired some of us to do the same. We realize the world is getting smaller. We need to learn to live in this world alongside mankind or face destruction. The old hatreds must be left in the past.”
“I agree,” said Malstisos thoughtfully. “But that does not explain your presence here.”
“We came to gain intelligence on the gathering power in Angrääl,” said Grentos. “Unfortunately, we were only able to get as far as Hazrah. We were unable to find a clear way further north, at least, not one where we could pass unnoticed. They have every inch of ground well guarded. We gained passage with this caravan in Althetas so that we might travel without drawing attention.”
“So you are returning home?” asked Malstisos.
“Yes,” he replied. “We will stay with the humans until we reach the Western Abyss. Then we head north back to our people.”
“Have you learned anything?” asked Millet.
“Sadly, no.” Grentos sighed. “At least, nothing we didn't already know. The armies of the north are gathering. For what purpose, we can only guess.”
“Don't be a fool,” said Jacob. “You know why they gather.”
“Young one,” said Grentos. “I can see you are of this land, and dismayed that it has been conquered, so I will overlook your insult. But you know nothing.” He reached over and took the jug of wine. “Armies gather. Still, motives may not be known. We have no way to be certain that they intend to march further. They may not have the strength for such a campaign.”
“I think they have the strength,” said Millet. “And I think they intend to keep marching. It's when that troubles me.”
“You may be right, Millet,” said Malstisos. “But I know my brethren. They will not come to arms easily. Without proof of a threat, they will be content to do nothing.”
Grentos nodded. “Without proof, I can do nothing to persuade them.”
Jacob jumped to his feet. “Proof?” he shouted. “They've invaded the north and practically enslaved my people. What more do you need?”
“Calm yourself,” said Grentos. “I did not say that I disagreed with you, only that I cannot convince my people without more evidence.”
Jacob glared at the elf for several moments, then marched out of the tent into the bitter cold.
“That one needs to govern his passions.” Grentos took a long drink from the jug.
“He's young,” said Millet. “And his land is invaded. I share his frustration. I too am from here, and it pains me to see what has become of my home.”
“I am sorry,” said Grentos. “I will try to be a bit more - delicate.”
“Perhaps we should address more practical issues,” suggested Malstisos. “The road splits about twenty miles west. If you are headed for the Western Abyss, I assume you will be taking the northwestern road through Manisalia.”
“Indeed,” Grentos affirmed. “It’s the best way.”
“Millet and Jacob will be taking the southwestern road,” said Malstisos. “But Sister Maybell and I would like to accompany you, at least through Manisalia, once they leave us.”
Grentos smiled broadly. “We would be pleased to have your company. You may stay with us as long as you wish.”
Malstisos nodded. “Thank you, brother. I am grateful.”
“As am I,” Maybell added.
“It is I who am grateful,” said Grentos. “This journey will allow us to strengthen bonds long neglected.”
They spent the rest of the evening in cheerful conversation. The wine flowed freely, and soon the tent was filled with laughter. Jacob returned after a time and proceeded to sulk on his bedroll, despite Grentos' efforts to make amends. By the time the wine was gone, they had all but forgotten their troubles and fell into a deep peaceful sleep.
Chapter 7
Lee was woken by the gentle, feminine voice of one of the young healers who had attended Gewey. It had taken him quite some time to fall asleep. Despite his cool demeanor, he was excited by the prospect of Gewey finding out what had become of his wife and son, not to mention Millet, Maybell, and Malstisos.
“What is it?” asked Lee, groggily.
“I’m sorry, but Master Gewey wishes to speak with you. I told him to wait until morning, but he insisted.”
“Don't be sorry,” he said, trying not to knock the girl down as he sprang from his bed and headed swiftly to the healing chamber.
When he arrived, Gewey was sitting up and sipping a cup of hot tea. Kaylia was still fast asleep in the bed next to his. He looked tired and worn, but managed a thin smile.
“We did it,” said Gewey.
Lee was stunned. He had prepared himself for bad news. “Are they safe?”
“From what I was able to tell they're all just fine,” he answered weakly. “They're a few days from Hazrah. Your son is with Millet, and he is escorting him to Baltria.”
Lee sighed with relief. “And my wife?”
Gewey's eyes fell and his face clouded over. “She isn't with them. She’s been taken north to Angrääl. There was no time for Malstisos to tell us anything more than that.”
Lee's heart froze. “To Angrääl,” he repeated. “Why would they take her there? Unless...”
While Gewey remained silent, Lee began pacing, rubbing his temple. They must have taken her there as some kind of hostage, he told himself. It was the only logical explanation. If the Dark Knight had wanted his mother killed, that could have been done easily enough without dragging her all the way to Angrääl. For a moment blind rage clouded his judgment and he had to battle against a wild impulse to set off on a one-man rescue mission immediately. Gradually though, the red mist of anger began to dissolve and common sense took over.
If she were a hostage, then she was obviously being kept alive for a purpose, and unlikely to be in any immediate danger. On the other hand, for him to go rushing off to Angrääl with no knowledge of his wife’s situation or exact whereabouts could change everything and place her in great peril.
Lee thought some more. Maybe his son was planning a rescue mission of his own! From what he had heard, Jacob was hot headed enough to do just that. Yes, of course, that was why he was heading to Baltria. Jacob and his mother had friends there who would most likely be willing enough to help him in such a mission. But his son was still a mere child, with no experience whatsoever of such things. For him to make such a rescue attempt would be suicide. With a rush, Lee could see the truth and knew what he had to do.
“I must go to Baltria.” He looked up at Gewey. “I'm sorry, but I must.”
“I know you must. Besides, there is nothing you can do he
re. The elves won't allow you to go with me anyway.”
“I'll leave after you've gone,” Lee said. “I should still be able to beat them there easily enough.” Gewey nodded, clearly exhausted. Lee frowned. “Are you alright?”
“I'm fine,” Gewey replied. “It took a lot of effort to reach Malstisos. I wasn't ready for it, that’s all.”
“And Kaylia?”
“She'll be okay after a good night’s rest.”
“I'll let you both sleep then. I can't thank you enough for this.” Gewey nodded slowly and sunk back into his bed.
Lee returned to his room, but sleep took a long time coming. Thoughts of his wife trapped in Angrääl were bad enough. But even more important at this stage was for him to reach Baltria. If Jacob were to set out on such a foolhardy rescue mission before he got there, his son’s chances of survival were almost nil. Even worse, a bungled attempt may well bring about the death of the boy’s mother as well.
Much as these thoughts troubled him, Lee finally accepted that it was pointless dwelling on them. There was nothing he could do until he reached Baltria, and he had others to think of as well. Having accepted this, sleep at last came.
The next morning, Lee joined Gewey and Kaylia for breakfast in the healing chamber. The healers insisted that they rest for at least one more day. A small table had been set up, and Dina and Selena soon joined them. Conversation was light, much to Lee's relief. He never enjoyed serious talk over a meal.
“Theopolou has agreed to allow Linis to accompany you,” said Selena after the table was cleared. “But I fear you may be forced to leave before you are fully recovered.”
“We could leave now if necessary,” stated Kaylia. “I am rested and not accustomed to being idle.”
Selena's eyes wandered to Gewey.
“I'm fine, too,” said Gewey. “Besides, it’s no good for a farmer to be lazy.”
Selena smiled warmly. “Don't worry. Neither of you will be idle for long.” She turned to her son. “I did try to convince Theopolou to let you go...”
Lee stopped her short and told her about Gewey's contact with Malstisos.
“I'll do my best to find out what has become of your wife,” she said. “In the meantime, I'll have preparations made for your journey. We have friends in Baltria. You will have whatever help you require.” She reached over and took Lee's hand. “Don't worry, son. I will do what I must to ensure their safety.”
Lee gave her hand a tight squeeze. “Thank you, Mother.”
“I'll go with you,” said Dina.
Lee smiled. “I appreciate it. But I won't put you in unnecessary danger.”
“Don't be a fool, Lee. You can't go alone, and I grew up in Baltria. You may need me.”
“I think it's a great idea,” said Selena. “I'd feel better knowing you had someone I trusted along with you, and as a temple historian, it’s her duty.”
Lee sighed heavily. “Very well. Meet me in my chambers after the noon meal to discuss our plans.”
Dina grinned with satisfaction.
“When does Theopolou want to leave?” asked Kaylia.
“In two days,” said Selena. “He has already sent word to the other elders. They should be there upon your arrival.”
“I don't like it,” said Lee. “I'd rather Gewey and Kaylia arrived first. Less chance for a trap to be set.”
“Linis agrees,” said Selena. “That's why he's sending his people ahead, just in case.”
Linis opened the door, his face grave. His hand gripped the handle of his long knife so hard his knuckles had turned white.
“What is it?” asked Lee.
“I just received a report that the roads are being watched.”
“That's not surprising,” said Selena. “We know that the elves are aware of this place.”
“It is not elves,” said Linis.
“Men?” asked Kaylia.
“No. We do not know what they are. But they're fast and cunning. My seekers have only been able to catch a glimpse of them before they disappear. But there is little doubt that they are stalking the routes away from here.”
“If the Dark One has discovered the location of this temple, then you must evacuate,” said Lee.
Selena lowered her head. “We will hold if attacked. Our walls are strong, and the Dark One has no army here.”
“Don't be foolish,” said Lee. “You have few men here that can fight or mount a defense. To cover the walls you would need a hundred soldiers, at least.”
“A hundred we shall have,” said Selena. “What you see here is not the entire strength of the Order. I shall send word for all of the knights to gather here. That will be enough to hold this temple indefinitely.”
“How long will this take?” asked Linis.
“I can double my strength in a week,” answered Selena, her hands firmly on her hips. “In three, I can defend this place against any attacker.”
“Then I shall stay until your men arrive,” said Lee.
“No! You will protect my grandson.”
Lee sat back in his chair, stunned by his mother’s sudden anger.
Selena's face softened. “You must protect your family, as I could not. Don't worry about me. If these walls are breached I can escape. There are secrets here that only I know. I will not be captured.”
Lee took his mother’s hands and pulled her close. “Swear it!”
Selena smiled. “I swear,” she said tenderly. “We will not lose each other again.”
Lee lowered his head and sighed heavily.
“We should leave right away, Gewey,” said Linis. “Tonight, if you are able.” He turned to Selena. “You said there are ways out of here that wouldn’t be noticed?”
“Yes.” She wiped her eyes. “I can get you and the others out of the temple unseen.”
“Good. I'll inform Theopolou.” Linus nodded curtly and left.
Lee rose from his chair and looked at Dina. “Prepare to leave,” he commanded. “I want to be gone ahead of Gewey. Perhaps we may draw off any pursuit.”
“Of course.” Dina rushed off to pack.
For the rest of the morning the temple was a beehive of activity. Lee and Dina were ready to leave by midday. Selena provided them with gear and enough provisions to last more than a week, along with three strong horses. Lee had decided to leave Lord Ganflin's steeds behind, and made his mother promise to ride one to safety if the need came.
Gewey and Kaylia had been informed by Theopolou that they would be traveling on foot, which pleased Gewey. He had not been looking forward to saddle sores and preferred to travel light. Linis spent the morning going over the plans with Theopolou and his guards. Theopolou was troubled when he heard the roads were being watched, but agreed that there was little to do but move forward with their plan. The healers made the loudest protests, insisting that Gewey and Kaylia were not ready to be out of bed, let alone travel. However, neither one of them was showing any ill effects from their ordeal, and the insistence of Selena was eventually sufficient to quieten the healer’s opposition.
Just before one o'clock, Lee and Dina made their way to the front gate. The entire temple had gathered in the courtyard to see them off. Selena, Gewey, Kaylia, and Linis stood by the large oak doors, each one trying to hide the concern in their heart.
“Be careful, son,” said Selena as she embraced him. “And you,” she said to Dina with a smile, “keep yourself safe at all times. I won't have my most valued historian getting herself killed.” She embraced Dina tightly.
Linis handed Lee and Dina a small flask each. “Keep this with you,” he told them. “Should you find yourself lacking food and drink, it will keep you strong for several days. Only a mouthful is needed.”
They received their gifts gratefully and bowed in turn.
“Thank you, my friend,” said Lee.
Linis took Dina's hand. “I look forward to our next meeting.”
Dina blushed and smiled. “As do I.”
Kaylia embraced Lee and the
n turned to Dina. Dina laughed as Kaylia whispered something into her ear.
Gewey hugged Dina before looking at Lee. “Be safe, and bring your son home.”
Lee placed his hands on Gewey's shoulders and studied him for a moment. “You have grown up so much in such a short time. Still, listen to what Linis says, and be careful whom you trust. I don't like the idea of delivering you into the hands of the elves, but I think you’re right. It is the only way.”
“I'll be careful,” said Gewey.
Lee smiled, and then he and Dina mounted their horses.
As they rode through the doors they could hear the farewells of the temple calling after them. Nonetheless, Lee's mind was immediately focused on their journey the moment he heard the boom of the doors closing behind them. They hadn’t ridden a hundred yards when the hairs on the back of his neck stood up. They were being watched. He knew it. But from where exactly, he couldn't tell. The rocky terrain made it impossible for him to spot anyone, and if whoever it was could evade the elf seekers, then he had very little chance of catching him.
Lee turned to Dina, who was looking around nervously. “I feel it too,” she whispered.
“Be ready,” warned Lee.
Dina's hand slid to the knife in her belt. By the time they reached the end of the path her nerves were frazzled. Lee, however, seemed calm and alert.
“We should head in the direction of Althetas,” he said. “If we are still being followed by nightfall, we'll continue on to the city and try to throw them off. If not, we'll start west. There's a road about a day’s ride that will take us to Idelia. From there we can make our way to the southern coast.”
By the time the sun began to set, Lee no longer thought they were being followed. He and Dina found a small clearing and made camp.
“It seems we are not worthy of further attention,” Lee said as he laid out his bedroll. “Which means Gewey and the elves are the likely targets.” His eyes scanned the nearby brush. “Still, I should scout the area. Wait here.”
He disappeared into the fading light, leaving Dina to munch on a piece of bread and some dried fruit. About an hour later, he reappeared.
The Godling Chronicles : Of Gods and Elves (Book Two) Page 8