From then on, time aboard passed quickly. By the beginning of the second week Gewey began rising early in order to study the ship and its workings. All the crew members were happy to teach him, and he found himself looking forward to this as much he did his lessons with Aaliyah. His new friends relished telling him stories from their homeland, and were eager to learn of his life too. Their cheer and good nature reminded him of Linis and his seekers. It was comforting to know that he did not need to convince them to be his allies. Though they did not say it directly, he felt as if they would do anything he asked of them.
But even though he had immersed his mind in his lessons, Kaylia was never far from his mind. The absence of her thoughts and emotions was an open wound that felt as if it would never heal. Several times every day he tried to reach her, but without success. Each time he attempted this Aaliyah appeared shortly afterwards to give him further instruction. Somehow she knew what he was doing. But worse, she also knew what he was feeling and was able to say just the right thing to send his heart pounding and cheeks blushing. Most of the time this was followed by heart-wrenching guilt. But she would occasionally catch him off-guard, and he would respond more in the manner of a suitor than a student. This, naturally, caused him even more guilt and torment.
By midway through the second week the cool evenings had become warm and muggy. Aaliyah told him that they were about a hundred miles from the shores of a large delta city. Gewey assumed this to be Baltria. She explained that, until they neared their destination in four days’ time, they would remain far from shore so as to avoid other ships. Gewey marveled that they had traveled so far in such a short time.
Aaliyah told him that he would begin lessons with water on their return journey. This reminded Gewey of why they had actually come. He had heard stories of the desert nomads: fierce and dangerous, they wandered aimlessly, preying on anyone foolish enough to stray too far from the oasis towns. Ravenous beasts supposedly roamed the sands as well. There were tales of wolves the size of a pony hunting at night, devouring entire caravans and leaving only the bones to bleach in the scorching sun. He’d even heard stories of great flying lizards that breathed fire, though these were the things usually told to children at night. His father had occasionally delighted him with desert tales, and the giant lizard stories had always been his favorite.
On the day of their arrival Gewey gathered his belongings and went on deck to wait for Aaliyah. He had decided to wear his elf clothes. They were cool, and might also keep the sun at bay. It was just before nightfall and the air was unusually mild. He had hoped some of the crew would be joining them – the idea of just he and Aaliyah alone braving the desert sands unsettled him – but she had explained that the crew’s place was aboard ship. However, should they need help, she could certainly call them.
The small boat they had used at the beginning of their sea crossing had already been lowered into the water. The water was calm with a pale green tint, unlike the deep, rich blues he had seen before. The crew took turns in bidding him farewell and good luck. He knew he would miss their good humor in the days to come, especially if what he had heard of the desert was true.
Gewey saw Aaliyah approaching from the main cabin. She was dressed in a pair of loose-fitting tan trousers and tunic, together with a pair of short leather boots. On her belt were two long daggers. Her hair was tied in a tight braid that danced to and fro as she moved. One of the crew followed close behind, carrying her pack.
“Are you prepared?” she asked Gewey, taking her pack and slinging it across her shoulders.
He nodded. After they’d climbed down the ladder into the boat, Aaliyah channeled the flow as before, sending the craft speeding forward. It wasn't long before Gewey could make out the dunes just beyond the shoreline. Even from so far away he could see that they were massive, and tried not to think about how hard it would be to walk among them. Then they were at the beach edge. The waves lapped curiously against the small boat as the craft slid ashore. They gathered their packs and Gewey checked his sword. There was no driftwood about, so they pulled the boat to the base of the dunes.
“With luck, the tide will not rise this high,” said Aaliyah. “Otherwise we may be forced to swim back to the ship.”
“What do you...?” he began, but stopped when he spotted Aaliyah's mischievous grin. “You're funny.” He looked up at the dunes and sighed. “I assume you know where to go from here.”
“I know what direction to take,” she replied, “but not the exact whereabouts of our destination.”
Suddenly she stiffened and her hands shot to her daggers.
Gewey instinctively drew in the flow of the earth. At once he knew what had alarmed her. He could sense at least fifty humans on the other side of the dune. He could feel them creeping up the slope, and hear the sounds of their swords being drawn and arrows being notched. “Nomads,” he whispered. “My father told me stories about them.”
Aaliyah drew her daggers. “Whoever they are, they intend us harm.”
How she could tell that, Gewey had no idea, but he was not about to question her. He freed his sword and let the flow rage through him. He could feel it flowing through Aaliyah as well, but could not tell if she was drawing it from earth or air.
“Pay heed, and do not lose focus,” she commanded. This brought Gewey back to attention. “When they crest the dune, follow me.”
Gewey crouched ready to spring, his knuckles white around his sword. Then, from a hundred yards to their left he heard the snap and twang of bowstrings, followed by the thin whistle of arrows flying. He looked skyward, fearing that a shower of arrows was about to rain down on them. But they were not the targets. A dozen nomads screamed out in agony as the arrows struck home. Gewey reached out to find the source, but could sense nothing. Another volley zipped through the air, and more men fell.
“What should we do?” asked Gewey.
“We hope that whoever aids us is not doing so to keep the spoils for themselves,” she replied. “I cannot tell who or what they are.”
He shook his head. “Nor can I.”
The nomads were scattering like ants, some dragging the wounded, others in a full run down the dune, completely abandoning the attack. After a few minutes there was only the sound of the sea and the rustle of the wind.
Aaliyah tapped Gewey's shoulder. “Should we be attacked, drag the boat to the water.”
“What will you do?” he asked. He was not about to let her fight alone.
She held out her palm and a tiny ball of flame appeared above it. “I will be showing them that arrows are of little use.”
It was then a thin figure appeared atop a dune one hundred yards to their north. In its right hand it held up a bow, and in its left a quiver. Gewey could hardly believe his eyes.
“Elves,” he whispered. “Here in the desert.” For the first time Aaliyah looked surprised and uncertain. “You didn't know?” he asked.
“That there were elves here?” She shook her head slowly. “No, I did not. But I am grateful to see them. Unless I am wrong, that is not a gesture of aggression.” She raised her hand, returning the greeting. “Still, mind what you say. Do not tell them who I am. Or, more importantly, who you are. If they are like the other elves of this land, you being human may be enough on its own to anger them.”
The elf made his way deftly down the dune, slinging the quiver over his back as he descended. He was dressed in white trousers and shirt, and high boots made from a material Gewey had never seen. It was like leather in its thickness, but clung like cloth, and was just as pliable. At his side hung a long, curved saber attached to a thick tan belt. His cropped blond hair was shaved to the skin on either side of his head. His face was obscured by a thin piece of cloth wrapped just below the tip of his nose and also around his forehead, but Gewey could see that the skin around his eyes was pale white.
“Have you ever seen an elf like this?” asked Gewey.
It took a moment for her to answer. “You have more experie
nce with elves than I. I only know those of my own land, and none are like this one.”
He strode up with amazing grace and speed, seemingly unaffected by the deep sand. “How lucky you are,” he called when a few yards away. “Had we not been aware that the Soufis were near, you would now be slaves - or worse.” He removed his face covering, revealing a broad smile. He looked young, though Gewey knew that when it came to elves, appearances could be deceiving. “I was not aware that elves from the west journeyed to the desert,” the newcomer told them. He laughed. “Or that they preferred the company of humans.”
Aaliyah stepped forward. “I am Aaliyah. This is Gewey.” It was the first time Gewey had heard her use his name. He cracked a smile. “If we have trespassed....”
The elf held up his hand. “One cannot trespass in the desert. They can only step unwisely, as you have done.” He turned his head and let out a high-pitched whistle. “But fortune smiles on you. Now you are our guests, rather than Soufis slaves.”
Twelve more elves appeared atop the dune.
“We thank you for your assistance,” Aaliyah said, bowing. “And are grateful for your hospitality. We have traveled far.”
“Though obviously not alone.” The elf glanced at their boat. “You did not come here in that. Will the rest not join us? We have never seen elves from the west, and would enjoy knowing them. We have heard of their hatred of humans - a tale clearly not true. We would be pleased to have as many of your comrades as care to come.”
“You don't hate humans?” asked Gewey.
He threw his head back in laughter. “Hate? We have few dealing with humans. Why would we hate them? They do not trouble us. Most beyond the heart of the desert do not even know we are here. The humans that choose desert life keep to their own ways, and we have respect for one another.” He glanced at the dead Soufis. “Well, there are some that we are not so fond of.” He placed his hand on his chest. “I am Pali. And I welcome you.” He spun around. “Come. The nights are cold and my belly is empty. Our camp is not far.” He paused. “That is unless you would rather brave the night alone.”
Without waiting for a reply, Pali strode off in the direction of his companions. Gewey and Aaliyah followed as best they could, but the deep soft sand hindered their steps. Soon they were many yards behind, but Pali didn't slow his pace. When they finally reached the dunes where Pali and his companions awaited them, Gewey was already dreading their trek. Days of wading through sand was not going to be easy.
The other elves were dressed in the same fashion as Pali, though the three females kept their hair in lengthy braids rather than short and shaved like the men. It struck Gewey that their skin was just as pale as Pali's. How this was possible in such a climate, he couldn't guess. Pali introduced them, and each elf greeted him and Aaliyah in turn. They all had the same cheerful expressions and seemed more than pleased to have them along.
“We can be at our camp in less than an hour,” said Pali. “We move fast across the sands, but we will slow our pace as you are clearly not accustomed to the terrain.”
“Thank you,” said Gewey.
Pali led them between the dunes, twisting and turning until Gewey was certain he would be lost without their guidance. By now the sun had nearly disappeared. The soft orange glow of twilight reflected on the yellow sand, making the world seem surreal and unnatural. The elves began singing loudly, and though Gewey didn't recognize the tune, the words and images were easy to understand. Mostly they were about traveling in the desert with friends, or living a life free from troubles. Aaliyah remained quiet and expressionless as walked close by Gewey's side.
Just as Pali had said, an hour later they rounded a large dune and Gewey spotted several palm trees in the distance. He could hear the sound of voices laughing and talking. They arrived not a moment too soon. The temperature was already beginning to plummet uncomfortably.
“Don't worry,” said Pali, noticing Gewey rubbing his hands together. “Soon a warm fire and a hot meal will cure your chill.”
As they approached the camp Gewey could see about twenty elves scattered about a small oasis. The scent of campfires mingled with the pleasing aroma of spiced meat. A cacophony of boisterous greetings rang out, followed by murmurs of curiosity as the camp noticed Gewey and Aaliyah.
“These are our new friends from the west,” Pali announced. “They will be joining us for as long as it pleases them to do so.”
He turned to Gewey and Aaliyah. “Feel free to explore what little there is to see here.” He pointed north to an area behind the fire furthest away from them. “There is a small spring just over there. I only ask that you use it sparingly. It's a slow spring, and takes several days to replenish itself.” He inhaled deeply. “I can tell you are accustomed to bathing. I'm sorry to say that water is too precious in the desert to be used in that way.”
Gewey sniffed the air. “You seem clean to me.”
Pali laughed. “I didn't mean to say that we don't clean ourselves. Of course we do. Just not by the same means. If you wish I can show you.”
“Perhaps later,” said Aaliyah. “For now, a meal and your company will be sufficient.”
“Our meal will be ready soon,” said Pali. “Until then, you may find a place by a fire.” He stopped a passing elf and whispered in his ear. “I will have wine brought to you right away. But now I must tell our Sand Master about the encounter with the Soufis.”
Aaliyah and Gewey found a vacant spot near one of the fires next to six elves. The much-needed warmth lifted Gewey’s spirits and he was quick to introduce himself. Aaliyah was not as forthcoming, at first choosing only to say her name and nothing more. It was clear to Gewey that something was troubling her. The elves, two women and four men, greeted them both warmly all the same.
“I'm Dreta,” said a short, thin, dark-haired woman. “How lucky we are that you chose this fire to warm yourself. We'll be the envy of the camp.”
The rest eagerly called out their names in turn - the other female introduced herself as Freda. Then came Hali, Ghenti, Deransil, and Freuli.
“How is it that your people came to live in the desert?” asked Gewey.
“Some legends say that we were exiled thousands of years ago for protecting humans from slavery,” said Dreta. “Others claim that we were put here by the gods as punishment for defying their will.” She shrugged. “But who knows what the truth really is. Our people belong to the sands now, and this is our home.”
“So you never go west?” asked Gewey.
“No,” said Dreta. “Why would we? As I said, this is our home and we love it dearly.”
Gewey couldn't imagine living in such a desolate place, let alone loving it. “But wouldn't life be so much easier away from the desert?” he asked.
The elves burst into laughter. “I doubt life is easy no matter where you live,” said Dreta. “But still, we live a good life. The sands have made us strong, and through that strength we have become one with the Creator. No. There is no other life for us.”
“And if you could learn the real reason why you are here?” asked Aaliyah. “What then?”
“What does it matter?” Dreta shook her head and grinned. “This is where we are, and this is where we'll stay. You would be hard pressed to find any among us who desires to leave.”
Aaliyah leaned forward. “And if someone did?”
“We do not hold our people captive,” Dreta replied. “If anyone wishes to leave, they are free to do so. It has always been our way.”
Just then Pali joined them carrying, two bottles of wine. “The Sand Master is in a foul mood now.” He passed a bottle to Gewey and opened the other himself. “She was hoping the Soufis would stop venturing this far south after what we did to them the last time.” He turned up the bottle and then passed it Dreta. “We must have killed fifty of them.”
“Why would they come then?” asked Gewey.
“For slaves,” he replied.
Aaliyah stiffened. “They take elves as slaves?”
“Of course not,” said Pali. “But there are several small human settlements, and a few nomadic tribes in this region. They raid these and take what they want.”
“And you protect the humans?” asked Aaliyah.
“We try,” Pali replied, casting his eyes downward. “But we cannot be everywhere at once. And the Soufis are clever.” He looked up and his smile returned. “But enough tragedy. I am curious; why have you journeyed so far?”
“We seek a very special place,” said Aaliyah. “A temple of sorts. I know it is in this area, but I’m not sure exactly where. It is urgent that we find it.”
Pali thought for a moment. “There is only one place in the southern desert I know of that would hold interest. But I advise you to abandon the idea. It is an unnatural place - evil lurks there.”
“What do you mean?” asked Gewey.
“It is a place where the shadows live.” He wrapped his arms. “We have not been there in many years. But those who went did not return.”
Aaliyah refused the bottle when Gewey offered it. “Can you tell us how to get there?”
“Yes,” said Pali. “But it is some distance from here, and you are not accustomed to the desert. I doubt you would make it alone.”
“We are stronger than you might think,” said Aaliyah.
Pali chuckled lightly and shook his head. “If you mean you can steal life from the earth, that will do you little good.”
Gewey could see that Pali's words bothered Aaliyah. “What do you mean - steal?”
“Our people once drew such power to control and dominate,” he explained. “Now though, to us, using it is unthinkable. We believe the sands live, and we would never take life from them for our own selfish needs.”
Gewey understood Aaliyah’s apprehension. “So you consider it a crime?”
Pali laughed loudly. “A crime, no. We have few laws beyond murder. But it is...immoral.” He grabbed Gewey's shoulder and gave it a fond squeeze. “But don't worry. We do not judge the ways of others, so long as they do not hurt our people or our friends.”
The Godling Chronicles : Bundle - Books 1-3 Page 76