Of Gods and Elves - By Brian D. Anderson Page 0,37
the desire of many of my people,” said Akakios. “Perhaps when all of this nonsense that plagues the world is done, we can.”
“Do you hate humans?” asked Gewey, then realized the rudeness of his question. “I only ask because—”
“I know why you ask,” Akakios said. “The answer is no. Though I have no love for them either. Hatred is a useless emotion. Though I would not choose to live among your kind, I see no cause to dwell in the past. The world is big enough for all to live within it.”
Gewey thought for a moment. “So you are against what Linis and others like him are doing?”
“I am,” Akakios admitted. “They invite the destruction of our culture. The result of living side by side with humanity would be a mixing of the races. I would not see the blood of our people corrupted.” He lowered his head. “I hope I have not offended you, but it is how I feel.”
Gewey's thoughts turned to Dina. “I'm not offended. I don't agree, but you have the right to feel any way you wish. But then why spend the day in my company?”
“You have shown yourself to have great strength and courage. I would know the man behind it. I am not close-minded. I realize that virtue does not live within my people alone, and your company does not cause me discomfort.”
“I'm glad,” said Gewey. “Maybe in time, I can change your mind even more.”
“One can never know the future,” said Akakios. “You're welcome to try.”
When they had made camp, Theopolou informed Gewey that they would be resting until the morning. Gewey insisted that he could continue, but Theopolou would not be dissuaded.
“Your stamina is already causing talk,” said Theopolou. “Besides, as I understand, you will be releasing the flow tonight. You may find that your body needs to recover.”
A chill shot through Gewey's body. He had all but forgotten that he would spend time without the power of the earth inside him.
Gewey sat on his bedroll, staring at the fire when Linis approached.
“It's time,” said Linis. “Release it.”
Anger swelled in Gewey’s chest. “I'd rather not.”
Linis studied him for a few minutes. “I was not certain before, but I am now. You must release the flow, now.”
“I will not,” he growled. “There is no reason. I'm fine.”
“You are not fine,” shot Linis. “If you were, you would have no trouble doing as I request. I can see that you should not hold it for so long.”
Gewey jumped to his feet, rage swelling inside him. His eyes focused on Linis, and his hand felt the urge to slide to his sword.
“Gewey,” called Kaylia, from just outside the light of the fire. “Come here... now!” Gewey’s mind snapped to attention. It was then he realized the entire camp was staring at him. He lowered his head and started toward Kaylia.
Kaylia stood with her eyes fixed on Gewey. Once he stood beside her, she took his hand and led him away from the camp.
“You must release the power,” she said softly. “And you must do it quickly before you lose yourself.”
Gewey pulled away, his anger returning. “Why? Why must I become weak again?”
“Do not call yourself weak,” she said. “You insult me. My spirit would not bind itself to the weak. Your strength, your true strength, does not come from the flow. It comes from within.” She placed her hand on his chest. “Do this for me.”
His heart raced at her touch and he lowered his head, allowing the power to drain away. Gewey felt weakness and fatigue wash over his entire body and he fell to his knees... weeping. The absence of the flow made him feel hollow and afraid. The sounds and smells he had found so enthralling were gone, and he was left in silence. It was like the world had been ripped away.
Kaylia knelt down in front of him and pulled his head to her shoulder. “It will pass.” She stroked his raven hair. “I am here.”
After a few minutes, Gewey regained his composure. He wiped his face and his eyes. “It's dark,” were the only words he could manage.
Kaylia smiled sweetly and kissed his cheek. “And it will get darker still... but not tonight.”
“Thank you,” said Gewey, weakly. “You were right. I must not hold the power for that long again. I nearly lost myself.”
“But you have returned to us, I trust,” came the voice of Linis from a few yards away. He walked into view, Theopolou at his side.