“We hope that whoever aids us is not doing so to keep spoils for themselves,” she replied. “I cannot tell who or what they are.”
He shook his head. “Nor can I.”
The nomads were scattering like ants, some dragging the wounded, others in a full run down the dune, completely abandoning the attack. After a few minutes there was only the sound of the sea and rustle of the wind.
Aaliyah tapped Gewey's shoulder. “Should we be attacked, drag the boat to the water.”
“What will you do?” he asked. He was not about to let her fight alone.
She held out her palm and a tiny ball of flame appeared above it. “I will be showing them that arrows are of little use.”
It was then a thin figure appeared atop a dune one-hundred yards to their north. In its right hand it held up a bow, and in its left a quiver. Gewey could hardly believe his eyes.
“Elves,” he whispered. “Here in the desert.” For the first time Aaliyah looked surprised and uncertain. “You didn't know?”
“That there were elves here?” She shook her head slowly. “I did not. But I am grateful to see them. Unless I am wrong, that is not a gesture of aggression.” She raised her hand, returning the greeting. “Still, mind what you say. Do not tell them who I am or, more importantly, who you are. If they are like the other elves of this land, being human may be enough to anger them.”
The elf made his way deftly down the dune, slinging the quiver over his back as he descended. He was dressed in white trousers and shirt, and high boots made from a material Gewey had never seen. Like leather in its thickness, but clung like cloth, and was as pliable. At his side hung a long, curved saber attached to a thick tan belt. His short cropped, blond hair was shaved to the skin on either side of his head. His face was obscured by a thin piece of cloth wrapped just below the tip of his nose, and around his forehead, but Gewey could see that the skin around his eyes was pale white.
“Have you ever seen an elf like this?” asked Gewey.
It took a moment for her to answer. “You have more experience with elves than I. I only know those of my own land, and none are like this one.”
He strode up with amazing grace and speed, seemingly unaffected by the deep sand. “How lucky you are,” he called, when he was a few yards away. “Had we not been aware that the Soufis were near, you would be slaves…or worse.” He removed his covering, revealing a broad smile. He looked young, though Gewey knew that when it came to elves, looks could be deceiving. “I was not aware elves from the west journeyed to the desert.” He laughed. “Or that they preferred the company of humans.”
Aaliyah stepped forward. “I am Aaliyah. This is…Gewey.” It was the first time Gewey had heard her use his name. He cracked a smile. “If we have trespassed-”
The elf held up his hand. “One cannot trespass in the desert. They can only step unwisely, as you have done.” He turned his head and let out a high pitched whistle. “But fortune smiles on you. Now you are our guests, rather than Soufis slaves.”
Twelve more elves appeared atop the dune.
“We thank you for your assistance,” Aaliyah said, bowing. “And would be grateful for your hospitality. We have traveled far.”
“Though not alone.” He glanced at the boat. “You did not come here in that. Will the rest not join us? We have never seen elves from the west and would enjoy knowing them. We have heard of their hatred of humans; a tale clearly not true. We would be pleased to have as many of your comrades as care to come.”
“You don't hate humans?” asked Gewey.
He threw his head back in laughter. “Hate? We have few dealing with humans. Why would we hate them? They do not trouble us. Most beyond the heart of the desert do not even know we are here. The humans that choose desert life keep to their own ways, and we have respect for one another.” He glanced at the dead Soufis. “Well, there are some that we are not fond of.” He placed his hand on his chest. “I am Pali. And I welcome you.” He spun around. “Come. The nights are cold and my belly is empty. Our camp is not far.” He paused. “That is unless you would rather brave the night alone.”
Without waiting for a reply, Pali strode off in the direction of his companions. Gewey and Aaliyah followed as best they could, but the soft, pliant sand hindered their steps. Soon, they were yards behind, but Pali didn't slow his pace. When they finally reached the dunes where Pali's companions awaited them, Gewey was already dreading their trek. Days of wading through sand would not be easy.
The other elves were dressed in the same fashion as Pali, though the three females kept their hair in lengthy braids rather than short and shaved like the men. It struck Gewey that their skin was just as pale as Pali's. How this was possible in such a climate, Gewey couldn't guess. Pali introduced them, and each greeted them in turn. They all had the same cheerful expressions and seemed very pleased to have them along.
“We can be at our camp in less than an hour,” said Pali. “We move fast across the sands, but we will slow our pace, as you are not accustomed to the terrain.”
“Thank you,” said Gewey.
Pali led them between the dunes, twisting and turning until Gewey was certain he would be lost without their guidance. The sun had nearly disappeared and the soft orange glow of twilight reflected on the yellow sand, making the world seem surreal and unnatural. The elves began singing loudly, and though Gewey didn't recognize the tune, the words and images were easy to understand, mostly about traveling in the desert with friends or living free from troubles. Aaliyah remained quiet and expressionless, and walked close by Gewey's side.
Just as Pali had said, an hour later, they rounded a large dune, Gewey spotted several palm trees in the distance. He could hear the sound of voices laughing and talking. They arrived not a moment too soon. The temperature had begun to plummet uncomfortably.
“Don't worry,” said Pali, noticing Gewey rubbing his hands. “Soon a warm fire and a hot meal will cure your chill.”
As they approached the camp Gewey could see about twenty elves, scattered about a small oasis. The scent of camp fires mingled with the pleasing aroma of spiced meat. A cacophony of boisterous greetings rang out, followed by murmurs of curiosity as the camp spotted Gewey and Aaliyah.
“These are our new friends from the west,” Pali announced. “They will be joining us as long as it pleases them to do so.” He turned to Gewey and Aaliyah. “Feel free to explore what little there is to see here. There is a small spring just over there.” He pointed north to an area behind the last fire. “I only ask that you use it sparingly. It's a slow spring, and takes several days to replenish itself.” He inhaled deeply. “And I can tell you are accustomed to bathing. I'm sorry to say that water is too precious to be used that way.”
Gewey sniffed the air. “You seem clean to me.”
Pali laughed. “I didn't mean to say that we don't clean ourselves. Just not by the same means. If you wish I can show you.”
“Perhaps later,” said Aaliyah. “For now, a meal and your company is sufficient.”
“Our meal will be ready soon,” said Pali. “Until then, you may find a place by a fire.” He stopped a passing elf and whispered in his ear. “I will have wine brought to you right away. But now I must tell our Sand Master about the encounter with the Soufis.”
Aaliyah and Gewey found a vacant spot near one of the fires beside six elves. The much-needed warmth lifted Gewey’s spirits, and he was quick to introduce himself. Aaliyah was not as forthcoming, choosing only to say her name and be silent. Gewey could tell something troubled her. The elves, two women and four men, greeted them warmly.
“I'm Dreta,” said a short thin, dark hair woman. “How lucky we are that you chose this fire to warm yourself. We'll be the envy of the camp.”
The rest eagerly called out their names in turn — Freda (the other female), Hali, Ghenti, Deransil, and Freuli.
“How is it your people came to live in the desert?” asked Gewey.
“Some legends say that we were exiled thousands of years ago for protecting humans from slavery,” said Dreta. “Others claim that we were put here by the Gods as punishment for defying their will.” She shrugged. “But who knows what the truth really is. Our people belong to the sands now, and this is our home.”
“So you never go west?” asked Gewey.
