War Of The Wildlands(54)

Darin took note of Yori’s interest in the ceremony. “We used to have lots of ceremonies like that when I was young. We praised all the forest gods in those days.”

“Why did you stop?” Yori asked.

“Different generations have different priorities it seems.”

“It’s a shame to lose something so magical,” Yori remarked.

“Yes, but the world is changing,” his grandfather replied. “We aren’t as connected to the earth as we once were. Perhaps in time we will be again.”

They boarded a raft to cross the Blue River. Yori looked down into its depths as they floated gently across the current. As they neared the halfway point, the blue of the river’s depths became more intense. Staring deeply into the water, Yori caught a glimpse of a face. For a split second, its features appeared silver amid the blue depths. An expression of pure serenity spread across the face before it disappeared back into the blue. Yori remained silent and did not mention what he had seen. Perhaps the River God had truly smiled on their crossing.

When the raft reached the far bank, Yori hopped off first to offer a hand to the rest of the elves as they disembarked. Carrying the majority of his grandfather’s belongings, he chose a flat patch of earth where they could build the new forge. “Will this spot work?” he asked his grandfather.

“Looks just fine to me,” he replied. “I’m guessing they plan to rebuild the village close to the bank. There is a fire elemental living in a tower just a few days’ walk from here. No one wants to live too close to him.”

“What does a fire elemental look like?” Yori asked.

“Beats me,” Darin replied. “He probably has red hair, though.” He smiled lightheartedly at his grandson.

For a moment, Yori was tempted to go and see for himself but thought better of it. He felt out of place now that the village was being relocated. Reylana’s words echoed in his ears, and he wondered if he was indeed a coward. The thought of war gave him nothing but bad feelings. His heart ached to see the elves treated fairly and for an end to the violence. No one should have to die for a piece of land.

“Grandfather,” he said. “I’ve been thinking about the Sunswept Isles. I’ve heard they enchant weapons and armor using gems.”

“I believe I’ve heard that as well,” Darin replied. “They’re all sorcerers, so they use their spells on the gems and set them into the metal. I’m told they can create very powerful enchantments.”

“What if you used those gems and runes together?” Yori was curious whether such a thing had ever been attempted.

“I imagine you’d have a very powerful weapon,” Darin replied. “I don’t think the Enlightened Elves bother with runes, though. I’m sure those snotty, self-righteous bastards consider them beneath their intelligence.” He thought for a moment and then asked, “Who would you give such a weapon to if you could create it?”

Yori was surprised by the question. He had not paused to consider what could be done with something so powerful. “Well,” he began, “I don’t suppose I would want it in the hands of the attacker. Maybe I would give it to whoever was trying to defend their home.”

“What if the people defending their home are committing atrocities of their own?” his grandfather replied. “In war, it isn’t always easy to determine who is good or bad.”

“You’re right about that,” he said with a sigh. He had refused to travel with Reylana and provide more weapons for the elves, even though his refusal might be their downfall. However, he did not see the need to continue killing Na’zorans when the prince honestly desired peace. He could see no reason why the two sides could not end the violence and come to an agreement. “I’m not sure I belong here any longer.” His tongue felt heavy as he spoke the words.

“It can’t be easy for you being a child of two worlds.” Darin placed his hands on his grandson’s shoulders. “I have taught you everything I know, and you have proven yourself highly skilled. You could use more practice, but you don’t have to stay around here to get it.”

Yori hugged his grandfather tightly. He tried to swallow the lump he felt in his throat as tears began to form in his eyes. “I love you, Grandfather. Thank you for everything.”

“I love you too,” the old elf replied. “Your father had the traveling spirit in him as well. Where will you go?”

“I think I’ll try the Sunswept Isles. I’d like to learn how their magic affects steel.”

“You might have trouble finding someone to teach you. They aren’t exactly a friendly bunch.” Darin laughed as he spoke.