Of Gods and Elves - By Brian D. Anderson Page 0,14
time of year,” said Millet once his belly was full. “Why are you so empty?”
Gerald's face twisted in anger. “Angrääl,” he spat. “It's because of those damn soldiers. Most are too afraid to travel, and the few that do are agents and officials of the invaders. They take what they want and leave us to starve.” His hands trembled as he drank from his cup. “This hostel has been in my family for three generations. We’ve never had much, but donations from the temples and travelers kept us fed and clothed. We were able to help hundreds of people who might have otherwise perished on the road. I always took great pride in the work my family has done here. Now I can barely survive.”
“You mentioned your uncle,” said Millet, his voice filled with compassion. “Where is he?”
“Hunting,” replied Gerald, regaining his composure. “We can't afford to buy food most times, so my uncle hunts for what we need.” He nodded to the leftover pork. “Without it we'd starve.”
Maybell reached over, took Gerald’s hand and said softly. “You're very brave to stay here alone.”
Gerald managed a weak smile. “It's my uncle that's brave. The forests are riddled with bandits and thieves. So far he's avoided them, but it's only a matter of time before I fear his luck runs out.”
“I'll pray for you,” said Maybell, tears welling in her eyes.
Gerald jerked his hand away. “Save your prayers,” he snarled. “The Gods care nothing for me.” He stood up and faced the wall. “I'm sorry.” His voice cracked as he forced back his tears. “I know you mean well. It's just that it has been so long since hope has been in this land. I've prayed and prayed, but I think the Gods have abandoned us.”
“Perhaps not,” said Millet. “Perhaps help is on the way.”
Gerald turned and sighed. “I hope you're right.”
They soon retired for the night. The earlier cheer was overcome by sadness, and none slept peacefully.
Chapter Four
Lee sat by the fireplace in the main library of Valshara reading quietly. Over the past eight days, it had become his favorite way to pass the time, and the only thing that took his mind off his wife and son, not to mention Gewey and Kaylia. He had always been proud of his own collection of rare books, but Valshara held treasures beyond his imagination.
When he wasn't in the library, he spent time with his mother. She told him of her life in the temple and recalled memories of his father. It soon became clear to him the love she held for the man and the pain she felt after his death. He found it difficult at times to fight off feelings of guilt for the anger he had felt toward her for so long.
Gewey and Kaylia had shown no signs of reviving. Lee visited them at least twice a day but was only allowed to be in the room for a few minutes at a time. The healers clearly thought any intrusion an imposition, and Lee was not inclined to argue. Besides, there was nothing he could do, and he did not enjoy feeling helpless.
Dina spent her time recounting her experiences in her journal. Selena had held a small ceremony signifying her elevation to full cleric and set her to task. Lee had scarcely seen her except for when they happened to run into each other on their way to check on Gewey and Kaylia.
Word had come that Linis was seeking out Theopolou and hoped to have the sage there soon. He had arrived in Althetas two days after the battle between Gewey and Harlando and was contacted by Valsharan agents. Lee took comfort in this. He knew if anyone could hasten the arrival of Theopolou, it was Linis.
The door to the library opened, and Lee saw Ertik. His face was grave, and he was dressed in white ceremonial robes, a thing Lee had only seen at Dina's elevation to cleric. Lee placed his book on the table beside his chair and rose to his feet as Ertik strode over.
Ertik bowed. “Lee,” he said in a respectful tone.
Lee smiled warmly. “Why so formal today?” He reached out and shook Ertik's hand.
“Theopolou has arrived,” he replied. “The High Lady asked me to tell you that we will be meeting with him this evening in the main receiving hall. Appropriate clothing has already been brought to your room.”
“I see,” said Lee, noting Ertik's demeanor. “How many are with him?”