A Trial of Souls Page 17

  Lee shook his head. “We’ll need to get used to it. Besides, I don’t intend to stay there for long.”

  Linis told Lee how Aaliyah, Mohanisi and Nehrutu had taken it upon themselves to instruct him and the others in the ways of the flow.

  True to their word, Milu and Lolin easily pressed the pace. Often the horses had to break into a run to keep up, and were forced to rest long before the elves had tired.

  Morale was high on the first night of camp. Linis and Dina spent much of the evening talking with Milu and Lolin, while Lee, Jacob, and Millet discussed strategy for their return march with Bevaris and Tristan. There was no way to avoid alarming the Eastland with their crossing, so Angrääl would certainly learn of it quite quickly.

  “The best we can hope for is that Angrääl decides not to stop us,” said Lee. “And that the Eastland sees us as friends.”

  Millet drew his dagger and scratched a rough map in the dirt showing the land from the desert to the Goodbranch. “If we are met by resistance before we reach King Luccia in Xenthia, we should head south, and then west.”

  Tristan rubbed his chin in thought. “That puts us dangerously close to Baltria.”

  “Yes,” said Millet. “But the crossing there is narrow. And with forty-thousand elves who have likely never seen a river before…”

  “I see what you mean,” said Tristan, nodding.

  “And if we manage to see King Luccia?” asked Bevaris.

  “Then it will depend on what he says,” replied Millet. “If he joins our fight, we will decide what to do then.”

  “I should ride ahead,” suggested Bevaris. “I can quell their fears of an elf attack.”

  They all nodded in agreement.

  “I will come with you,” called Lolin, striding up. “I would like to meet the human king and convey our good intent.”

  Bevaris looked unsure. “An elf riding openly into an Eastland city may not be wise.”

  Lolin sat beside him and slapped him on the shoulder. “They will need to know us sooner or later, and I say the time is now.”

  “I agree,” said Millet. “There is no more use in hiding. When the elves march, their banners should fly high.”

  Lolin laughed. “We carry no banners. But perhaps we shall make some.”

  By the time they reached the outskirts of the desert, the heat was close to intolerable. All of their water supply had been exhausted in three days, and if not for Lolin and Milu’s experience in finding water in the most unlikely of places, Lee guessed that at least half of the men would have died of thirst.

  Being that the elf camp was well north of Dantory, it was considered best if they avoided the city altogether. Milu told Lee and Millet that supplies were plentiful, and there was no need to trouble an already frightened people.

  The thought of there being life-sustaining food and water in any significant quantity within such a barren wasteland boggled Lee’s mind. He had once traveled two days into the desert and it had nearly killed him. Of course, he was young and inexperienced at the time, but he could still feel the burn on his skin and the swelling of his tongue whenever he thought about it.

  Nights were equally uncomfortable as the temperature dropped to near freezing. Lolin assured them that once they arrived there would be comfort and cheer enough for all.

  The day they were due to arrive, Lolin and Milu called for a halt after only a few miles.

  “We will go ahead and announce our arrival,” said Lolin.

  After several hours they returned with twenty more of their kin, all dressed in similar fashion, and all carrying long scimitars on their waists. Lee dismounted at once, signaling for the others to do the same.

  “We have brought refreshment for weary souls,” announced Lolin.

  Without a word the elves began handing out tiny leather flasks, which the men accepted greedily. Only after draining them dry did they stop to thank their benefactors. When Lee opened his flask, the scent of sweet honey filled his nostrils. As the cool liquid soothed his parched mouth he felt renewed strength shooting through his limbs. He was unable to stop drinking until every last drop had been consumed.

  “We will provide you with suitable attire once we reach the camp,” said Milu.

  The elves walked among the men as they made their way north. Conversation was warm and friendly, and with the help of the elf flasks - of which there seemed to be plenty - the blaze of the sun was all but forgotten. The land had now become virtually devoid of plant life, with only a few hardy shrubs and tall cacti able to survive the conditions. At first the ground was cracked and brown, but as they continued it gave way more and more to ever deepening yellow sand. In the far distance tall dunes could be seen, rising and falling like waves on a vast ocean, given life by the heat reflecting on the horizon.

  “We’re here,” called Lolin.

  Linis and Lee stared out at the empty sands.

  “What do you...?” began Lee, but then the faint outline of tents came into focus.

  “Amazing,” whispered Linis to himself. “To keep so many hidden.”

  Before them were hundreds upon hundreds of unevenly spaced tents. Their rounded tops and yellow coloring, combined with the way in which they’d been arranged, gave them the illusion of being an actual part of the landscape. Thanks to their nimble, almost fluid movements, the multitude of elves within the camp also blended in equally well. In fact, Lee had to focus with all of his might merely to keep any one of them in sight for more than just a few seconds.

  “I think this is a skill we’ll need to relearn once we leave the desert,” said Milu. “I doubt the green lands of the west will provide us with the same advantage.”

  Lee rubbed his chin. “Actually, it could work very well on the plains and in the forests. It’s brilliant - and simple. With the right materials you could do it, I’m sure.”

  “I doubt it is as simple as you think,” corrected Linis. “But it is certainly worth a look.”

  Soon thousands of elves began walking toward them at a slow deliberate pace. The sound of greetings and salutations carried loudly over the flat sand. When they were about one hundred yards away the elves halted, allowing the company to approach them the rest of the way.

  “The Amal Molidova will wish to see you at once,” Lolin said to Lee. “Your men shall be well cared for, your beasts too.” He patted Lee’s horse gently on its sweat soaked neck. “I know nothing of horses, but I imagine they are in dire need of care.”

  “They are far heartier than men,” replied Lee. “These steeds are of strong stock. But you are right. They do need care.”

  “Who is the Amal Molidova?” asked Millet.

  “She is our leader,” answered Milu. “At least, she leads us in times of great need.” He cracked a smile. “Unlike the people of the west, we have little use for chiefs and kings. But when one voice is needed to guide us, the Amal Molidova is who we look to. But worry not. She is kind and wise. It was she who first recognized Darshan for who he is. She spilled a drop of his blood into the Waters of Shajir and revealed to us our destiny.”

  As they entered the camp, the sounds of singing and laughter filled the air. Scattered between the tents were small fires surrounded by elves drinking and smiling in the familiar way that only kin share. Lee marveled at how people could find so much happiness in such a desolate place. Eyes fell upon them as they passed by - not eyes filled with suspicion and distrust, but with a welcoming joy that lifted Lee’s spirits.

  They dismounted and Lolin told some of his nearby kin to tend to the horses. They stared at the animals in fascinated amusement before leading them away.

  “Tristan and I will see to the men,” said Bevaris. “No need for the whole lot of us to see this Amal Molidova, I think.”

  Lee nodded curtly.

  “And who shall speak for you?” asked Lolin.

  Lee gestured to Millet. “Lord Millet Nal’Thain is the wisest among us - except for perhaps Lady Celandine.” He grabbed Linis’ shoulder fondly. �
��I am a servant of Lord Nal’Thain’s house, and my dear friend serves the Lady.”

  Linis shot Lee an annoyed glance. But a moment later he burst into laughter. “Quite right,” he agreed.

  “I would like to come too,” said Jacob. “If that is all right?”

  Lee grinned at Jacob. “My son is always welcome by my side.”

  Lolin and Milu led them through the immense camp to its very center. There, a circle of wooden blocks surrounded a large cloth pavilion, held aloft by black wooden poles. Beneath this lay a group of round pillows, atop one of which sat an elf woman clad in sky blue robes. Her angular features were framed marvelously by her golden hair, and her sparkling green eyes were made even more striking by her flawless alabaster skin.

  She rose to her feet as they entered and smiled brightly. “Ah, the friends of Darshan have arrived.” Her voice was musical and free of troubles. “I am Lyrial. Please, sit with me and take your ease. We have much to discuss.”

  “Thank you, my lady,” said Millet. “I am Millet Nal’Thain. This is Celandine, Linis, Lee and Jacob. The rest of our party is enjoying your hospitality.”

  “And they are most welcome,” she replied.

  They all sat. Shortly, an elf boy brought them each a cup of wine and then hurried away. Lolin and Milu bowed low and also excused themselves.

  “I am told you are the half-man, Lee Starfinder,” said Lyrial, looking deep into Lee’s eyes. “You are the mentor and companion of Darshan.”

  “I am,” he affirmed. “Though I’m sure he no longer needs my guidance.”

  Lyrial let out a childlike laugh. “We all need guidance. Even a god must look to those wiser than himself.”

  “Then I hope he has found someone wiser than me,” he replied.

  She smiled. “And you bring your son. He has your strength. I can see it.”

  Jacob gave a respectful bow of the head. “My father is a great man - a fact I have only recently come to realize. So I thank you for your compliment, my lady.”

  She bowed her head in return before looking to Millet. “And Millet, Darshan mentioned you in his tales as well. You have the look of one with great conscience and care. But it would seem that you are now lord rather than servant.”

  “I am Lord of the House Nal’Thain,” he said proudly. “Though Lee once held that honor.”

  “And Linis, chief among seekers,” she continued. “Darshan holds you in high regard. He spoke of your great skill, and of the friendship you offered when first he journeyed from his home. We will certainly be in need of your instruction once we are beyond our beloved desert.”

  “I would be honored,” said Linis. “That you and your kin are now known to me is a gift from the Creator.”

  Lyrial nodded, then looked closely at Dina. “I have very much desired to meet you, Celandine. Darshan spoke of your courage when you rescued him from the servants of our enemy.” She reached out and touched her hand. “When this business is done, we must speak in private.”

  Linis stiffened.

  “You need not fear,” assured Lyrial. “We have no ill intent. This I swear.” She took a sip of wine. “I think we should now speak of what we can do to aid Darshan.”

  “Indeed,” said Millet. “Unfortunately, time is becoming our enemy.”

  “Then we shall move swiftly,” said Lyrial. Her tone was strong and commanding. “Our battle with the Soufis is over. Their remnants are scattered and without hope. At this moment we are ready to march west until we find the sea.”

  Millet explained their intention to win over the Eastland kingdoms.

  “Then we shall follow you to that end,” said Lyrial thoughtfully.

  “What about the desert cities?” interjected Jacob. His tone was that of a young boy in the presence of his elders, but he kept his head high and his back straight.

  “They are too few and disorganized,” said Millet.

  “He does have a point,” countered Lee, trying not to sound like he was coming to his son’s defense. “Perhaps we should leave a small company of people behind to try and gather their support.”

  Millet shook his head. “We cannot afford the time, or the swords. If we can sway the Eastland kingdoms to join us, then we can send men back. But I don’t think we should do anything before that.” He looked at Lyrial. “How soon can your people break camp?”

  “Tonight if you wish it,” she replied boldly.

  “That fast?” The surprise on Millet’s face was clear. He chuckled. “I think perhaps we will rest at least one night, unless you have objections.”

  Lyrial shrugged. “I have none.”

  “Then Lee will explain our route,” said Millet.

  For the next hour Lee explained how they would travel. Bevaris had rightly suggested some days earlier that they should go north and skirt around the Xenex Valley. It would add a few extra days to their journey, but if Angrääl had sent forces, they wouldn’t want to be caught in the valley with an army guarding the narrow and steep path that was the only way out. Even if the enemy numbered in the mere hundreds, they would be sure to lose many elves before fighting their way through.

  Lyrial told them of their supplies and weapons. They traveled light, much like the elves of the west, and each warrior was able to carry enough food and drink to last at least two weeks and still stay strong. They wore no armor, so speed would certainly be on their side.

  Lee was concerned that should they run into heavily armored troops, they could be overmatched. But as nothing could be done, he dismissed the thought.

  The night had come and the temperature was dropping quickly by the time they were finished. An elf girl brought them thick red blankets and a bundle of elf robes.

  Lyrial stood. “The blankets will serve you well during the cold nights, and the robes will keep you cool until we are no longer in the desert.” They thanked her in turn. “Then, if there is nothing further,” she continued, “I will have you taken to your comrades.” She took Dina’s hand and held her fast. “Stay.”

  Dina smiled at Linis, clearly amused by his over-protective look.

  Lee slapped his shoulder. “Come my friend. Let us find some wine and meet more of your kin.”

  Millet and the others bowed and two elves led them away.

  Once they had left, Lyrial released Dina’s hand. “I know of your story.” Her voice was low, and her face grave.

  Dina tilted her head and frowned. “That I am half elf is no secret. And you’ve already made it clear that you know of this.”

  “It is no secret, as you say,” she replied. “And I do not imply shame. But this is not what I speak of.” Lyrial leaned in closer. “I know of how you came to be - and of how you came to live among humans. I also know of the role Linis played.”

  Dina looked mildly surprised, though not angry or uncomfortable. “I’m surprised Gewey remembered to tell that tale. I suppose he left out no detail of our adventures.”

  She shook her head. “Gewey…as you call him, did not tell me of it.”

  A cold chill seized Dina’s spine. “Then who did?” she whispered.

  “It was me,” came a soft voice.

  Dina stood up and spun around. Before her stood a tall elf woman wearing soft, white, linen robes. Straight, black hair fell most of the way down her back. Her features were sharp and beautiful, with lightly tanned skin that glistened in the moonlight. But most noticeable of all at this very moment were the tears welling in her hazel eyes.

  Dina knew instinctively who she was. A loud gasp slipped out. “Mother!” she cried. Her body trembled and her mind reeled. Her breaths were shallow and quick.

  “Yes, my love,” she replied. “It is me.”

  “How...?” She stepped forward, but became faint and lost her balance. Hands gently supported her.

  “You should sit, child,” said Lyrial. She eased Dina carefully down.

  Dina’s mother sat across from her, tears falling one after the other. “I have missed you so much.”

  Di
na was unable to speak. The sight of her mother’s tears and the sound of her voice was overwhelming. A million emotions knotted in her throat as she swallowed down her sobs. A full minute passed before she was able to say anything at all.

  “How is it you are here?” she eventually asked.

  “I do not know how much you have learned of what happened, and why I had to leave you,” she said.

  “Linis told me everything,” she whispered.

  Lyrial stood. “I will go now.” She looked down at Dina’s mother and nodded. “Nahali. You know where I am if you need me.”

  Dina blinked and shook her head. “Nahali?”

  Her mother smiled lovingly. “That is my name here. You may use it if it is easier for you.”

  “No,” said Dina. Her own tears now began to flow. “You are my mother.” Moving across, she embraced Nahali, clinging desperately to her as if afraid she would suddenly disappear.

  Nahali held her close as they both wept for joy. “You cannot know the happiness I feel.”

  Dina had no idea of how much time had passed before they finally let go of each other and sat back. Dina took a cloth from her pocket and dried her eyes. Nahali did the same.

  “Linis is with you, I hear,” said Nahali.

  Dina nodded. “Yes. And I am certain he will be pleased to see you.”

  Nahali smiled. “I would very much love to see him as well. But first I would tell you of what happened to me. I have been in agony all these years, knowing that you thought me dead.”

  “Linis told me that he spared you,” said Dina. “But he didn’t know where you had gone. I wanted to look for you but…”

  Her tears returned. “I should have…”

  Nahali held up her hand, her eyes full of a mother’s love. “You did what you had to do. Had you sought me out, you would never have found me. That you followed your path has brought you to me, and for that I thank the Creator.” She took a deep breath. “But now I must tell you how I came to be here.”

  “Please - tell me everything,” Dina said.

  Her mother began. “After Linis spared me, I fled north along the Goodbranch River, hiding among the humans in their towns and villages. I found it easy to deceive them. Your father had told me of the people in the east and their manner of dress, so I wore a scarf to hide my features and told people I was from the desert. Most believed it, and those who doubted me took it as a sign I was hiding from someone. But none suspected the truth. I moved from place to place for a time, but it became more and more difficult to keep going. I had no gold, and was forced to hunt and trap in the wild. I knew my kin would eventually discover me if I didn’t keep close to the towns, so I continued further north, beyond where our people roam. When I neared the mountains I tried to lose myself in the surrounding forests. The game was plentiful and humans seldom ventured too far from their homes, so it was easy to remain hidden. I stayed there for several years. But then, something happened.” Her eyes grew distant.