Brian Anderson - Shadow of the Gods

Mohanisi nodded with understanding. “The woman, Maybell, is here.”

“Good,” said Theopolou. “Gather the men. We leave as soon as I have spoken to her.”

Mohanisi led him through the manor to where Maybell waited.

Maybell sat on the edge of a bed. She had dimmed the lanterns and allowed the dark to surround her.

“You are Maybell?” Theopolou's voice was deep and soothing.

“Yes,” she replied weakly. “And you want to hear my story. You want to know what happened to Malstisos.”

“I do,” he replied and sat next to her. “My name is Theopolou. I am-.”

“I know who you are,” she said, irritably. “And I know why you're here. But I don't know if what I can tell you will be of any help.”

“Whatever it is, I need to know,” said Theopolou

“You know, when I saw two brothers….real brothers mind you…fight to the death, I thought I had seen enough to break my heart in two.” The light from the crack in the door silhouetted Theopolou. “But when I saw someone as noble and kind as Malstisos slowly become dark and diseased…” A tear fell down her cheek. “I can't explain what happened.”

“Do your best,” said Theopolou.

Maybell recounted the events up until the duel between Grentos and Vadnaltis. “Once that happened, Malstisos withdrew. His mind and spirit grew darker each day. I just thought he was agonizing over what had happened, but soon it was clear to me that there was more to it than that. He began muttering to himself, almost like he was arguing with some inner demon. I tried talking to him, but he either ignored me or became angry.”

“Do you think he went mad?” asked Theopolou.

“I did at first,” she replied. “But then strange things began to happen. Dark figures began lurking about, wherever we went. Then, Malstisos started disappearing for hours at a time. I thought he was scouting or hunting, until one night when we camped just outside a small farm village, I caught him talking to a black-cloaked figure, behind a clump of bushes. When I asked him about it, he grew enraged and started shouting and flailing about. I swear, I thought he was going to hurt me.”

Theopolou rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “These cloaked figures…could you hear what they were saying?”

“No,” she replied. “I could only hear whispers. But after that I didn't question where he went.”

“Did he say or do anything else that would explain what was happening to him?”

She shook her head. “By the time we reach Althetas he had stopped talking altogether. But whatever is happening, I pray you can help him.” She covered her face and wept. “He was so good and kind.”

Theopolou placed his hand gently on her head. “If I can help him, I will. That he kept his word, and delivered you safely means that there may still be hope.”

“I'm sorry.” She choked back her sobs. “I wish I could tell you more.”

“You have told me enough.” He stood up. “If you wish, I can have you escorted to Valshara. Kaylia is there.”

“I would like that. Thank you.” Maybell stood and walked Theopolou to the door. “May the Gods keep you.”

Theopolou smiled and left.

Mohanisi was waiting outside. “Was she helpful?”

“I do not know,” he admitted. “What she said was strange. From what I know of him, Malstisos was strong-willed and noble. I cannot imagine what may have affected him in such a manner. But I intend to find out. Ready yourself to depart and meet me in my quarters in one hour.”

Theopolou pondered what Maybell had said. Perhaps whatever corrupted the mind of Malstisos had affected the elves of the Steppes as well. And if he could not overcome it, this may very well be his final journey.

For three hours, the council had debated on what to do about King Halmara. Most of the southern rulers, with the exception of King Tredford, thought it would be best to negotiate rather than go to war. The others argued that the attempted assassination of King Lousis left them no other choice. Ertik was to the point of utter frustration when the door flew open and King Lousis entered, assisted on either arm by a guard. His face was pale and he struggled to take each step, but the fire in his eyes said he was determined.

There was a moment of silence, then the hall erupted in applause and cheers. As Lousis took his seat he held up his hand to quiet the council.

“By the Gods we are grateful that you live, your highness,” said Prince Loniel.

This prompted another round of cheers.

“I'm grateful as well, Prince Loniel,” he replied, his voice matched the fire in his eyes. “I am told King Halmara and the snake Lord Sialo have fled. Also, that you have seen the wisdom of alliance against Angraal. Though I wish it hadn't taken an attempt on my life to accomplish this.”

King Victis spoke. “We are all overjoyed that you survived. And clearly Angraalcannot be trusted. But many of us feel that perhaps King Halmara has been deceived into doing you harm, if it even was King Halmara, and not Sialo acting alone. We would know the truth before we consider war against one of our own.”

“The truth is that he fled,” said Lousis, sternly. “The truth is that he allowed the murder of the men and women in Valshara. That is enough for me to go to war. Those who do not have the stomach for it…well, then you have chosen your side.”

Queen Illirial spoke. “But your highness, surely you would rather not see us at war with each other? Would not a peaceful resolution with King Halmara be preferable?”

“While you contemplate peaceful solutions, Angraalmay be already moving against us,” Lousis countered. “I understand that the southern cities are dependent on trade with Skalhalis as well as Baltria, and the idea of losing that trade worries you. But King Halmara is not fit to rule. And either by his action, or inaction, he has made his intentions known. I will not allow him to sit on the throne after what he has done. He has brought shame to his house, and his kingdom.” He struggled to his feet. “Those who are willing, you should begin to muster your armies.”

“What do you intend to do?” asked Prince Loniel.

“I intend to defeat King Halmara,” He sat back down. “Then I will do the same to this so-called Reborn King.” He looked to Ertik. “I am informed that you speak for both Valshara, and the elves.”

“This is true,” Ertik replied. “Lord Theopolou gave me that honor. He heads north with Mohanisi, to speak to the elves of the Steppes.”

“Then I will need you to send word to Valshara,” said Lousis. “We will need the help of the elves.”

“I will go myself as soon as possible,” said Ertik. “You will have whatever support you require.”

Lousis looked over the council carefully. “I will return to my chambers now. In one hour, those who are with me, may join me there. Those who are not…you are free to leave my home.”

King Stanis spoke. “And should we not join you, will you make war on us as well?”

Lousis smiled. “I will not. Unless you support King Halmara, you will remain unmolested by me. But know that when Angraalcomes…and they certainly will…you stand alone.” He struggled to his feet, and the guards rushed to his side. “You have one hour to discuss it. Ertik, as your mind is set, I would have you join me now.”

Ertik followed as the king carefully made his way from the chamber. They could hear the room erupt as the door slammed shut behind them.

“What do you think they will do?” asked Ertik.

“Most will not suffer Halmara to sit on the throne,” he replied. “They would have come to that conclusion without my help. Of course, it would take them weeks…and if Halmara is bold enough to make an attempt on my life, then he feels that there is nothing the others can do about it. That would mean he thinks he has the strength to keep the others in line. It may also mean he is ready for war.”