figures walked towards them. They were tall, lean, and wrapped in heavy wool blankets.
“Elves,” said Malstisos under his breath, and looked to Jacob. “Do not speak until we know why they are here.”
Jacob scowled. “I'm not stupid.”
“I did not say you were.” The elf turned his attention to his approaching kin. He jumped down from his horse and raised his right hand in greeting. The other two elves returned the gesture.
“Greetings brother,” said the elf on the left. His voice was deep and rough, unlike the elf voices Millet and Maybell had heard before. “I am Grentos and this is Vadnaltis.”
Malstisos took a step forward. “Greetings.”
The two pushed back the blankets from her heads, revealing their features. Both had honey blond hair, pulled tight in a long braid that disappeared into the folds of the wool. Their skin was ivory pale and flawless.
“I see you are from the Northwestern Steppes,” remarked Malstisos. “I have not seen those of your tribe in many years. I am Malstisos of the Finsoulos clan. What brings you here?”
“It has been long since we have had dealings with our southern kin,” said Grentos. “What brings us to this frozen land is a discussion to be had over a hot meal and good wine. You must be near death in this frigid cold.”
“We were hoping to take shelter with the caravan,” admitted Malstisos. “But I did not expect to find elves among humans.”
“Nor did we expect to see the same.” Grentos smiled broadly. “But you need not fear. The humans here are from the shores of the Abyss. Elves are not unknown to them, nor do they fear us. A tent has been erected to shelter the horses near the tree line. Vadnaltis will show you the way. I'll prepare a meal and a place for you and your friends to rest.”
Malstisos bowed low. “I thank you.” He motioned for the others to dismount. They followed Vadnaltis around the outskirts of the camp to the horse tent. Two boys sat next to a fire near the entrance. They sprang to their feet and took their mounts. Millet gave both boys a copper and their eyes lit up.
“I promise they'll be well tended sir,” said the older boy, a dark haired, scraggly youth, barely eleven years old.
Once they removed their packs, Vadnaltis led them through the heart of the camp to the far end of a large, red tent. Smoke rose from a small opening at the top. A few people had turned to see the newcomers, but most ignored them. Vadnaltis held open the tent flap and allowed Malstisos and the others to enter.
The interior of the tent was simple. Six bedrolls surrounded a small fire in the center. A small lantern in each corner combined with the firelight to give the tent a cheery glow. Grentos was at the far end, pouring hot stew from a large pot into six bowls.
“Please, choose a place to sleep,” said Vadnaltis. His voice was rough compared to his comrade, though just as deep. “It matters not where.”
Grentos passed out the bowls and retrieved a large jug of wine and cups from his pack. “First we eat,” announced Grentos. “Then we talk.”
Malstisos and the others gratefully accepted the food and wine, but as Grentos and Vadnaltis did not speak, the others kept silent while they ate. The stew was unlike anything Millet, Maybell, or Jacob had ever tasted. Each smiled with delight after their first bite. Malstisos seemed to be more accustomed to the taste and gave no reaction other than a slight nod of approval. Once their meal was complete, Vadnaltis collected the dishes and left the tent. The cold air chilled them when the flap opened, and a wisp of snow blew inside to remind them how close to death they had come.
“I hope you are satisfied with our poor fare,” said Grentos.
“It was the best stew I've ever tasted,” said Millet.
Maybell and Jacob agreed enthusiastically.
Grentos smiled and bowed his head. “You are too kind. But now that we have eaten, I believe you have questions... as do we.”
“Should we wait for Vadnaltis?” asked Maybell.
“That will not be necessary,” Grentos replied. “As your host, I will have you ask of me what you will. I expect he shall return before you are finished.”
“In that case I'll be direct,” Malstisos began. “How is it you are here, and in the company of humans? I was not aware your tribe had started relations with them.”
“Only a few of us