Of Gods and Elves - By Brian D. Anderson Page 0,36
about,” insisted Gewey.
“True,” admitted Theopolou. “But I will not have a mad godling roaming the earth. Be mindful.”
“I will,” said Gewey, aware of Theopolou's implied threat.
Theopolou got to his feet. “We will rest for two hours. That should be enough time to eliminate any suspicions about you.” With that, he walked away in the direction of three of his guards, who were talking near the fire.
Kaylia and Linis sat next to Gewey a few moments later. “What did he say?” asked Kaylia.
“Nothing important. He just wanted to know if I was tired.”
“I see,” said Kaylia, clearly not believing him. “I would rather you say nothing at all than tell me a lie. Even if it's to spare me worry or hurt.”
“I'm sorry.” Gewey sighed. “I sometimes forget I cannot fool you.”
“I think I know what Theopolou wanted,” said Linis. “He was concerned about you using your power for too long. Am I right?”
Gewey nodded. “He said it could drive me insane.”
“Unlikely,” said Linis from behind them. “I've heard the same tales of caution, but as wise as Theopolou is, he has no real experience with this matter. It would take many weeks of constant use to have any lasting effect.”
“He said that because I can use so much more than an elf, that it might take less time,” said Gewey.
“He may have a point,” admitted Linis. “How do you feel now?”
“Good,” Gewey replied. “In fact, better than good. I've never felt so strong in my life. I think I could run for days without stopping.”
Linis thought for a moment. “Tomorrow I want you to release the flow when we rest. I and the others should be able to keep watch well enough.”
“Okay,” said Gewey, smiling. Though the thought of releasing the power of the earth made his heart ache. Kaylia at once picked up on this feeling.
“I'll see to it,” said Kaylia.
Linis threw his head back in laughter. “Then I have no need to worry. I am sure all will be well so long as you are keeping watch over our young man.” He moved to his bedroll. “Don't forget, you must at least pretend to rest, Gewey.”
Gewey lay on his blanket and closed his eyes. He could hear the forest’s sweet song, as the wind caressed the trees and moved across the grass. Nocturnal predators stalked their prey, and high above an eagle soared in the direction of the sea. It was so much more natural than the first time he has done this. In fact, he couldn't imagine a time when his ears were deaf to such marvels. Sleep was not a possibility.
Chapter Nine
When the elves broke camp, Gewey was bursting with energy. His mind raced with the thoughts of the coming days. The elves seemed satisfied that Gewey had had enough rest and took little notice of his energetic behavior.
In the hours before sunrise, they covered many miles. Gewey was astounded by the speed the elves maintained. His original journey from Sharpstone would have taken half the time had they been able to move this speed. He was certain Lee could match it but doubted that, at the time, he could have.
When the sun broke the horizon Linis called for a halt, but no one put down their packs. Each helped another to retrieve bread and a flask from their gear and they continued, eating and drinking along the way.
By midday, the sun blazed, and the party increased its pace, but the elves did not appear effected. Gewey, still using the power of the earth, was as strong as he'd been when they left. In fact, with each hour that passed he felt stronger.
“Does the human need rest?” asked Akakios, a short, stocky elf with sandy blond hair.
“The human has a name,” said Gewey irritably.
Akakios laughed and slapped Gewey on the back. “I meant no offense, young one. Come. Walk beside me and perhaps you can instruct me on human manners and customs.”
Gewey allowed his irritation to subside and gave the elf a friendly smile. “I'd be happy to, if you can call me Gewey.”
Akakios bowed his head. “Agreed.”
Akakios and Gewey walked together until the light of the day began to fade. Gewey told him stories of his home and his upbringing, and he found Akakios to be an elf of good humor. Just as Kaylia had when he first told her of his old life and upbringing, Akakios told Gewey that he and many other elves longed for such a life.