Of Gods and Elves - By Brian D. Anderson Page 0,101

burned with fury. “I will not wait here while Gewey faces death.”

“Yes, you will,” said Theopolou. “You have no choice.”

“Don't worry,” said Linis. “I'll be with him. I know he will prevail.”

Kaylia scowled. “The moment it is over, I expect you to send word.” She turned to Gewey. “And you... show no mercy. I will not have you killed. Forget everything else. Just win.”

Gewey smiled and said, “I will, I swear.” He kissed her lightly on the forehead. “I haven't come this far to die now.”

“Then you should rest while you can,” said Theopolou. He rose to his feet. “As should I.”

“Are you still being…drained?” asked Gewey.

“No. It ended once we neared the Chamber. Whatever the cause, it has no effect in this place. Do not be concerned. We have more pressing matters at hand.”

“Agreed,” said Linis. He looked at Gewey. “Come. I know it will be difficult, but you need to at least try to rest.”

Gewey gave a deep sigh and nodded. “I'll try.”

Linis led Gewey to his room, Kaylia just behind them.

“Don't worry,” Gewey said to Kaylia, just before he entered. “I'll be fine.”

Kaylia smiled sweetly and put her hand on his cheek. “I know.” She allowed their bond to share her emotions with him.

Gewey's heart pounded as he felt the love pour through. He watched for a moment as Kaylia walked away, then went inside.

Linis smiled broadly.

“What?” said Gewey, suddenly embarrassed.

“Nothing,” Linis replied, still smiling. “You have come a long way, since I first met you in that tavern. I knew there was strength in you, even then. But I think Kaylia has made you invincible. I pity Eftichis.”

“I'm trying not to think about it,” said Gewey. “I know what I have to do. But I still wish there was another way. I've killed before, but this time it's different.”

“Why?” asked Linis. “Because it's an elf?” He shook his head.

“Listen to me, Gewey. This will not be the last time you will face one of my kind. There is a split among my people. The idea of a second split once weighed heavily enough on our hearts to prevent it. Now it is inevitable. The world is changing, and the new ways are struggling with the old. I regret to say that means more blood will be spilled. We have already been attacked once by our own kin.”

Gewey remembered the assassin and the hatred in his eyes.

“War is upon us,” Linis continued. “And this time the victor will shape the future for both races. Even the most reluctant elf knows this. When you face Eftichis in the morning, you are fighting for more than just you and Kaylia. Your victory will see that your voice is heard by all elves. Many think humans weak and without honor. Tomorrow you will show them differently.”

“But I'm not human,” argued Gewey. “Not really.”

“That may be,” Linis countered. “But you were raised as one. You have their values, and you are what is best in men. The strength I speak of has nothing to do with a sword, though admittedly it helps. That you have the courage to face the elders of my people and speak your mind, shows the rest true power. That you fight for the bond between you and Kaylia shows that you will not be deterred, and should be treated with respect.” He placed his hand on Gewey's shoulder. “Tomorrow is about more than the pudnaris. By striking down those who would challenge your rights, you send a message that will echo throughout all the elf nations.”

Gewey's face twisted into a sour frown. “Thanks. Nothing like a bit of pressure just before a life and death struggle.”

Linis chuckled. “I think you can handle it. But sleep now. I will keep watch.”

“For what?” Gewey began to remove his clothes.

“Who knows?” Linis replied and dimmed the light.

Gewey lay down on his bed and closed his eyes. At first he tried to calm his mind and sleep but soon realized that would not happen. He decided to reach out to Kaylia, hoping that Theopolou wasn't able to block him, though he couldn't imagine why he would. To his relief he found her. As their spirits became one, his body relaxed and he became lost in the sheer emotion.

Is this what it will be like after we're completely joined? he asked.

It will be better, replied Kaylia. Much better.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Yanti lounged in his cabin aboard the Moon Shadow. It was sturdy, as river vessels go, though not as lavish as he would