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When Byron came back that evening, he was told of the meeting and usually, he wasn’t much for being around his fellow Gelflings that much, but he knew he would have to go. His village would need to be informed of how SkekSil came to be here.

Chamberlain watched as Byron got himself cleaned up to go to the meeting. Wyneth had prepared herself long ago after cleaning up her own mess from dropping her supply basket.

When they were ready, all three of them left Wyneth’s house and Sil followed the two Gelflings to what they called the Counsel or Meeting House. Sil was almost surprised the door to it was big enough for him to pass through it, since he was much bigger than the Gelflings.

Byron and Wyneth went in first. Sil was right behind them, but he had to have a look first what was going on inside. He saw lots of Gelflings walking around and talking.

Byron and Wyneth turned when they saw Sil wasn’t with them. He was still at the door. Byron went back to him. “What’s wrong?”

“Haven’t been around this many Gelflings for awhile all at once.” Sil replied.

“It’s going to be fine.”

“I stay out here till I’m announced.” He said.

“Alright, but stay here at the entrance.” Byron said.

Wyneth went up to Suth. “We’re here.”

“Where’s the Skeksis?” Suth asked.

Wyneth pointed to the door. Suth saw Byron talking to the Skeksis. “I think he’s nervous about coming in.” Wyneth said.

“Understandable perhaps. But let’s get on with this then.” Suth said. He was standing at a podium.

Suth began hitting a gavel on the podium that got everyone’s attention. “Everyone, let’s get this meeting started. Please sit down.”

The other Gelflings sat down. Byron stayed by the door. Sil was still looking in.

“We are here tonight to talk of a new arrival in our village. He’s not of our kind, but I was wanting to inform all of you that he is here. And whether he is to stay.” Suth began.

There were some whispers. Then a young female Gelfling spoke up. “Then let’s bring him forward.” She said.

“Very well, Queen Athya. Byron, if you would bring your friend inside.” Suth said.

Chamberlain heard the word queen and knew these Gelflings were led by a female. Then Byron said, “Come on in, Chamberlain. You have been announced.”

Sil was a little nervous doing this. He followed Byron inside finally. He watched the clan’s reactions.

The Gelflings gasped at the sight of him. To them, he did look a bit scary, even dangerous looking a bit, but Chamberlain was looking as calm as he possibly could.

Sil saw many hair colors on the Gelflings and could make out little children too. He guessed the whole clan was here, or nearly all of them. Then, the queen got his attention.

“Byron, I was told that it was you discovered this strange creature. What’s his story?” Queen Athya asked.

“I was just doing my job that day: letting the Mounders do what they do in the fields and then I heard some screaming. I had myself and the Mounders check out what was causing the noise and when we got there, I saw two Rakkidas attacking him. After the Mounders got rid of the Rakkidas, I found him nearly dead. I had the Mounders take him to Wyneth’s, and we had been taking care of him since. He was hurt really bad.” Byron explained.

“He had wounds on his arms and one leg and some broken ribs. The ribs are still healing, but the worst of the wounds are healed. I assure you, he hasn’t done anything to harm us. He was banished from the Skeksis clan. He has nowhere else to go. Please, consider letting him stay with us. I’ve come to enjoy his company very much myself.” Byron finished.

Chamberlain was surprised that Byron had said that. A Gelfling that enjoyed his company? He had never imagined.

“So…” A voice snapped him out of his thoughts. It was the queen. “What is your name, Skeksis?”

“SkekSil, Chamberlain.”

“Why were you banished?”

Sil knew he couldn’t give away the full answer, if he was going to stay. “I… lost a fight. My Emperor wouldn’t listen to me about another Skeksis causing trouble for him. He favored that one over me. I kept trying to tell him to listen, but he wouldn’t and had enough and had me forced out.” He explained simply. “Then I run into Rakkidas and what Byron said from there.”

“Sounds like you’ve just had a hard life.” She said.

“Yes. Am friend to Gelflings. Please not send me away. Grown used to it here.” Sil said.

“Well, Chamberlain, you are going to have to prove yourself to us. I can arrange for you to do some chores around the village with the others here. We always have lots to do. What did you do before?” Athya asked.

Sil proceeded to tell some of his jobs that he did back at the castle. But he never revealed how the Gelflings were treated among other things.

“Well, we can also let you have your own place to live, but first, you must earn it. Getting your own home is the best reward for earning your keep here.” Athya said.

“When I begin?” Sil asked.

“Tomorrow. Report to my house and I will give you instructions on what you can do. Byron or Wyneth can accompany you.” The queen said. “We are adjourned for tonight.”

The crowd began to get up and disperse. Many still held many doubts about this strange creature.

“At least you get to start doing things tomorrow.” Byron said.

“That… was nice of you to say what you said about me… enjoying my company.” Sil said.

“Well, you have been. You are different than what I’ve lived with all my life and I just don’t like being around other Gelflings constantly. I’ve been looking forward to something different in my life. The Mounders were as good as it got without leaving for some adventure. Then you came and it has been an adventure getting to know you.” Byron said.

“He has that right, Chamberlain.” Wyneth came up to them. “You are exotic to us. But the clan getting used to seeing you is something else. You will have to work hard to show them that you can be trusted. Not everyone here is so trusting. It took me awhile to get used to you. But of course, now that you are well, I also need to see your full potential. At least our people are willing to give you a chance. Don’t blow it.”

The three of them headed out after the others were all gone. Though Suth was still there, talking to the queen.

“Just keep an eye on him, Suth. Until he proves fully trustworthy, I can’t help but be a little wary of him.” Athya said.

“Yes, my queen. I know what you mean. Even Kalta was worried. She recently had to make some clothes for him. You saw what colors he was wearing.” Suth said.

“Yes. Not often we see clothes of those colors.” She said.

“I will keep an eye on him as he begins his duties.” Suth said and then he went home for the night, as did the queen.
……………..

Chamberlain went to bed that night wondering what he was going to be put to chores on the next day. He hoped it wasn’t something too hard, or too heavy, as his ribs couldn’t handle that kind of thing at the moment.

Byron’s main duty was the Mounders everyday, so he had to go to the Mounders. Wyneth went with Sil the next day to the queen’s home to get his instruction duties.

Sil saw that the queen’s home was bigger than all of the others in the village. These Gelflings were obviously of the woodlands. This had been the first time of him seeing the village in the daylight.

All Gelfling outside that saw him on the way to the queen’s home would stop and stare. It made Sil a bit uneasy just as they obviously were.

When they got to the queen’s home, they both made their way to the throne. Wyneth bowed right away. “We are here, your Majesty.” She greeted.

Sil saw what she did and he looked at Queen Athya. She was obviously watching him for it. Just as a sign of respect for a leader, he did a bow too, but not too low, as his ribs gave a little cracking, making him grab the injury.

“I see your ribs are still a problem.” Athya said.

“A little, yes.” Sil replied.

“Maybe he shouldn’t be working until they’ve healed some more.” Wyneth said.

“He can handle light duties.” Athya said. “Hence, with the name Chamberlain as your title, tells me your rank must have been a high ranking one?”

“Title says yes, but Emperor stripped me of it.”

“So what did you do for him as Court Chamberlain though?”

“Did a lot of delivering scrolls and books between the Emperor and the Historian. And I was also a lot of a listener around the castle for certain secrets. And watched others for signs of trouble.” Sil said simply. “Made sure state affairs were in order.”

“Well, you can do state of affairs for me if you wish. But do you know Gelfling writing?”

“Have learned it, yes.”

“I give the orders, you write them, and send them to the certain individuals in the village when needed, but sometimes, you might also be needed in the village too with maybe some bigger tasks that require more strength. But for now, with your remaining injury, we will keep that limited. Wyneth, how long as it been since the injuries happened?” Athya asked.

“Over 23 days ago, my queen. It can take up to at least 42 to over 60 days for the worst of broken bones to mend. A little ways to go yet.” Wyneth said.

“I’m not the strongest Skeksis. The fight I was in that I lost to get me banished was a trial of being able to hold a lot of weight and I couldn’t do it. I’m not that strong.” Sil said.

“Well, I meant more from a size difference between us and you. You are much bigger and should be able to handle some stronger jobs than what we can. I guarantee they aren’t like lifting heavy rocks. Just helping the farmers in the fields and delivering items at times. And your bringing the villagers’ concerns and things to me. Any of the clan might request your help from time to time.” Athya explained.

“I can deliver the messages fine. But I don’t know all who is who in your village.” Sil said.

“You will in time. Until then, I will have my son, Lyrin, show you around to where you need to go at those times.” Athya said. “And for delivering the messages of scrolls and papers, there is a carrier bag to make it easier in your office. The rules are simple for your job: come in the morning and you go home in the evening.”

“What about his meals?” Wyneth asked.

“There will be fine meals served here at the right times of day. Don’t worry. I have heard that three women in the village are expecting babies soon, am I right, Wyneth?” Athya asked.

“Yes. I do need to be attending to them to make sure everything is alright. They are nearing term.” Wyneth confirmed.

“So, what now?” Sil asked.

“I will be on my way, and Athya will take care of you for now, Chamberlain. I have my duties to get to as well. Have fun.” Wyneth said.

“Yes, you are dismissed, Wyneth. I will help Chamberlain out as much as I can.” Athya said.

Wyneth walked out, leaving Sil standing there in front of the queen.

Athya then turned to the Skeksis. “I’ll show you to your special office now.” She said. “This way.” She hand gestured.

Sil followed her. His formerly injured leg could be walked on without a limp. He hoped the Gelfling wasn’t planning anything stupid on him. He was fully capable of turning on the Gelflings now if they betrayed him. But to his amazement, he was led to a well lit big room that was a library.

It had fine designs and tapestries on the walls, a desk in the middle of the room for writing on, and many books and scrolls on the shelves.

“You can make yourself at home here. Study what you want and when I need you, I’ll send for you.” Athya said. “And for the empty parchments for taking notes on, those are over there to the far left.” Sil saw them on the far left wall.

“Okay.” Sil said.

“I’ll leave you to it, and if you need assistance, feel free to ask.” She said, and left him alone to get acquainted with his new environment.

Chamberlain wasn’t sure where to begin. He walked over to the desk first to check it out.

It was a fine desk. It had drawers to hold scrolls and items. It had writing materials ready, and a good sized seat for him to sit on. It looked nice to him. Then he went over to examine the scrolls to see what they read. He had to keep himself busy.

There had to be much he could learn from this job. And so began his new job.

Description
When Byron came back that evening, he was told of the meeting and usually, he wasn’t much for being around his fellow Gelflings that much, but he knew he would have to go. His village would need to be informed of how SkekSil came to be here.

Chamberlain watched as Byron got himself cleaned up to go to the meeting. Wyneth had prepared herself long ago after cleaning up her own mess from dropping her supply basket.

When they were ready, all three of them left Wyneth’s house and Sil followed the two Gelflings to what they called the Counsel or Meeting House. Sil was almost surprised the door to it was big enough for him to pass through it, since he was much bigger than the Gelflings.

Byron and Wyneth went in first. Sil was right behind them, but he had to have a look first what was going on inside. He saw lots of Gelflings walking around and talking.

Byron and Wyneth turned when they saw Sil wasn’t with them. He was still at the door. Byron went back to him. “What’s wrong?”

“Haven’t been around this many Gelflings for awhile all at once.” Sil replied.

“It’s going to be fine.”

“I stay out here till I’m announced.” He said.

“Alright, but stay here at the entrance.” Byron said.

Wyneth went up to Suth. “We’re here.”

“Where’s the Skeksis?” Suth asked.

Wyneth pointed to the door. Suth saw Byron talking to the Skeksis. “I think he’s nervous about coming in.” Wyneth said.

“Understandable perhaps. But let’s get on with this then.” Suth said. He was standing at a podium.

Suth began hitting a gavel on the podium that got everyone’s attention. “Everyone, let’s get this meeting started. Please sit down.”

The other Gelflings sat down. Byron stayed by the door. Sil was still looking in.

“We are here tonight to talk of a new arrival in our village. He’s not of our kind, but I was wanting to inform all of you that he is here. And whether he is to stay.” Suth began.

There were some whispers. Then a young female Gelfling spoke up. “Then let’s bring him forward.” She said.

“Very well, Queen Athya. Byron, if you would bring your friend inside.” Suth said.

Chamberlain heard the word queen and knew these Gelflings were led by a female. Then Byron said, “Come on in, Chamberlain. You have been announced.”

Sil was a little nervous doing this. He followed Byron inside finally. He watched the clan’s reactions.

The Gelflings gasped at the sight of him. To them, he did look a bit scary, even dangerous looking a bit, but Chamberlain was looking as calm as he possibly could.

Sil saw many hair colors on the Gelflings and could make out little children too. He guessed the whole clan was here, or nearly all of them. Then, the queen got his attention.

“Byron, I was told that it was you discovered this strange creature. What’s his story?” Queen Athya asked.

“I was just doing my job that day: letting the Mounders do what they do in the fields and then I heard some screaming. I had myself and the Mounders check out what was causing the noise and when we got there, I saw two Rakkidas attacking him. After the Mounders got rid of the Rakkidas, I found him nearly dead. I had the Mounders take him to Wyneth’s, and we had been taking care of him since. He was hurt really bad.” Byron explained.

“He had wounds on his arms and one leg and some broken ribs. The ribs are still healing, but the worst of the wounds are healed. I assure you, he hasn’t done anything to harm us. He was banished from the Skeksis clan. He has nowhere else to go. Please, consider letting him stay with us. I’ve come to enjoy his company very much myself.” Byron finished.

Chamberlain was surprised that Byron had said that. A Gelfling that enjoyed his company? He had never imagined.

“So…” A voice snapped him out of his thoughts. It was the queen. “What is your name, Skeksis?”

“SkekSil, Chamberlain.”

“Why were you banished?”

Sil knew he couldn’t give away the full answer, if he was going to stay. “I… lost a fight. My Emperor wouldn’t listen to me about another Skeksis causing trouble for him. He favored that one over me. I kept trying to tell him to listen, but he wouldn’t and had enough and had me forced out.” He explained simply. “Then I run into Rakkidas and what Byron said from there.”

“Sounds like you’ve just had a hard life.” She said.

“Yes. Am friend to Gelflings. Please not send me away. Grown used to it here.” Sil said.

“Well, Chamberlain, you are going to have to prove yourself to us. I can arrange for you to do some chores around the village with the others here. We always have lots to do. What did you do before?” Athya asked.

Sil proceeded to tell some of his jobs that he did back at the castle. But he never revealed how the Gelflings were treated among other things.

“Well, we can also let you have your own place to live, but first, you must earn it. Getting your own home is the best reward for earning your keep here.” Athya said.

“When I begin?” Sil asked.

“Tomorrow. Report to my house and I will give you instructions on what you can do. Byron or Wyneth can accompany you.” The queen said. “We are adjourned for tonight.”

The crowd began to get up and disperse. Many still held many doubts about this strange creature.

“At least you get to start doing things tomorrow.” Byron said.

“That… was nice of you to say what you said about me… enjoying my company.” Sil said.

“Well, you have been. You are different than what I’ve lived with all my life and I just don’t like being around other Gelflings constantly. I’ve been looking forward to something different in my life. The Mounders were as good as it got without leaving for some adventure. Then you came and it has been an adventure getting to know you.” Byron said.

“He has that right, Chamberlain.” Wyneth came up to them. “You are exotic to us. But the clan getting used to seeing you is something else. You will have to work hard to show them that you can be trusted. Not everyone here is so trusting. It took me awhile to get used to you. But of course, now that you are well, I also need to see your full potential. At least our people are willing to give you a chance. Don’t blow it.”

The three of them headed out after the others were all gone. Though Suth was still there, talking to the queen.

“Just keep an eye on him, Suth. Until he proves fully trustworthy, I can’t help but be a little wary of him.” Athya said.

“Yes, my queen. I know what you mean. Even Kalta was worried. She recently had to make some clothes for him. You saw what colors he was wearing.” Suth said.

“Yes. Not often we see clothes of those colors.” She said.

“I will keep an eye on him as he begins his duties.” Suth said and then he went home for the night, as did the queen.
……………..

Chamberlain went to bed that night wondering what he was going to be put to chores on the next day. He hoped it wasn’t something too hard, or too heavy, as his ribs couldn’t handle that kind of thing at the moment.

Byron’s main duty was the Mounders everyday, so he had to go to the Mounders. Wyneth went with Sil the next day to the queen’s home to get his instruction duties.

Sil saw that the queen’s home was bigger than all of the others in the village. These Gelflings were obviously of the woodlands. This had been the first time of him seeing the village in the daylight.

All Gelfling outside that saw him on the way to the queen’s home would stop and stare. It made Sil a bit uneasy just as they obviously were.

When they got to the queen’s home, they both made their way to the throne. Wyneth bowed right away. “We are here, your Majesty.” She greeted.

Sil saw what she did and he looked at Queen Athya. She was obviously watching him for it. Just as a sign of respect for a leader, he did a bow too, but not too low, as his ribs gave a little cracking, making him grab the injury.

“I see your ribs are still a problem.” Athya said.

“A little, yes.” Sil replied.

“Maybe he shouldn’t be working until they’ve healed some more.” Wyneth said.

“He can handle light duties.” Athya said. “Hence, with the name Chamberlain as your title, tells me your rank must have been a high ranking one?”

“Title says yes, but Emperor stripped me of it.”

“So what did you do for him as Court Chamberlain though?”

“Did a lot of delivering scrolls and books between the Emperor and the Historian. And I was also a lot of a listener around the castle for certain secrets. And watched others for signs of trouble.” Sil said simply. “Made sure state affairs were in order.”

“Well, you can do state of affairs for me if you wish. But do you know Gelfling writing?”

“Have learned it, yes.”

“I give the orders, you write them, and send them to the certain individuals in the village when needed, but sometimes, you might also be needed in the village too with maybe some bigger tasks that require more strength. But for now, with your remaining injury, we will keep that limited. Wyneth, how long as it been since the injuries happened?” Athya asked.

“Over 23 days ago, my queen. It can take up to at least 42 to over 60 days for the worst of broken bones to mend. A little ways to go yet.” Wyneth said.

“I’m not the strongest Skeksis. The fight I was in that I lost to get me banished was a trial of being able to hold a lot of weight and I couldn’t do it. I’m not that strong.” Sil said.

“Well, I meant more from a size difference between us and you. You are much bigger and should be able to handle some stronger jobs than what we can. I guarantee they aren’t like lifting heavy rocks. Just helping the farmers in the fields and delivering items at times. And your bringing the villagers’ concerns and things to me. Any of the clan might request your help from time to time.” Athya explained.

“I can deliver the messages fine. But I don’t know all who is who in your village.” Sil said.

“You will in time. Until then, I will have my son, Lyrin, show you around to where you need to go at those times.” Athya said. “And for delivering the messages of scrolls and papers, there is a carrier bag to make it easier in your office. The rules are simple for your job: come in the morning and you go home in the evening.”

“What about his meals?” Wyneth asked.

“There will be fine meals served here at the right times of day. Don’t worry. I have heard that three women in the village are expecting babies soon, am I right, Wyneth?” Athya asked.

“Yes. I do need to be attending to them to make sure everything is alright. They are nearing term.” Wyneth confirmed.

“So, what now?” Sil asked.

“I will be on my way, and Athya will take care of you for now, Chamberlain. I have my duties to get to as well. Have fun.” Wyneth said.

“Yes, you are dismissed, Wyneth. I will help Chamberlain out as much as I can.” Athya said.

Wyneth walked out, leaving Sil standing there in front of the queen.

Athya then turned to the Skeksis. “I’ll show you to your special office now.” She said. “This way.” She hand gestured.

Sil followed her. His formerly injured leg could be walked on without a limp. He hoped the Gelfling wasn’t planning anything stupid on him. He was fully capable of turning on the Gelflings now if they betrayed him. But to his amazement, he was led to a well lit big room that was a library.

It had fine designs and tapestries on the walls, a desk in the middle of the room for writing on, and many books and scrolls on the shelves.

“You can make yourself at home here. Study what you want and when I need you, I’ll send for you.” Athya said. “And for the empty parchments for taking notes on, those are over there to the far left.” Sil saw them on the far left wall.

“Okay.” Sil said.

“I’ll leave you to it, and if you need assistance, feel free to ask.” She said, and left him alone to get acquainted with his new environment.

Chamberlain wasn’t sure where to begin. He walked over to the desk first to check it out.

It was a fine desk. It had drawers to hold scrolls and items. It had writing materials ready, and a good sized seat for him to sit on. It looked nice to him. Then he went over to examine the scrolls to see what they read. He had to keep himself busy.

There had to be much he could learn from this job. And so began his new job.