Dozens of elves could be seen alongside looking down at them, all dressed in tan shirts and red trousers. One unfurled a rope ladder, as well as two thin ropes. Aaliyah attached the ropes to two steel rings on either side of the boat and led Gewey up the ladder. He could already feel queasiness in his stomach as he climbed. The ship rose and dipped methodically, nearly causing him to fall twice before he reached the top. Once on deck, Gewey reached over and held the side railing to steady himself.
“You will grow accustomed to the movement soon,” Aaliyah promised. “For now, stare at the horizon. It will keep your stomach from turning sour.”
Gewey looked doubtful, but obeyed. He could hear the whispers of the elves behind him. The words Shivis Mol being repeated over and over. After a few minutes, his nausea subsided, and he turned around. The sway of the ship kept him slightly off balance, and he stumbled forward. A tall, thin elf with dusty-brown hair and ice-blue eyes, leaped forward and grabbed his arm.
“I'm fine,” said Gewey. “Thank you.”
The elf bowed. “It takes time to grow accustomed to the sea.” He smiled brightly. “But I suspect Shivis Mol will have little trouble.”
Gewey looked out over the deck. At least a dozen elves were busy about the ship. Aaliyah was standing several feet away speaking to one of the crew. To the aft end, the deck sloped upward ending at a cabin that stood nearly ten feet tall. A narrow wood door led to the interior flanked on either side by a ladder that led up to the poop deck. The main deck was smooth and glistened in the morning sun, yet despite its slick appearance, it gripped the soles of his boots. He examined the various ropes and pulleys that hung from the first mast, and marveled at the sheer complexity. The riverboats he had seen were as toys by comparison.
Aaliyah motioned for him to join her. “If you wish, you can spend time among the crew. They will be pleased to show you how the ship works.”
“I would like that,” said Gewey. His stomach growled loudly.
Several elves began to gather around each mast.
“You should watch this,” said Aaliyah. “Then you can eat and rest.”
The elves closed their eyes and folded their hands in front of them. Gewey could sense the sudden swell of the flow growing around him. He felt the air begin to stir and build, until the sails snapped full. The masts groaned and creaked as the ship lurched forward. The elves opened their eyes and all but one broke the circle and went back to their work.
“He will maintain the wind until midday,” said Aaliyah. She pointed to the bow where another elf woman stood, eyes fix on the horizon. “And she will guide us.”
Gewey could scarcely believe what he had seen. “You can teach me this?”
“Of course.” She reached out and took his hand. “That is why you are here, is it not? But come, there will be time for that later.”
“But how-”
She placed one delicate finger to his lips. “Later. I am strong, but still I need to eat.” She led Gewey across the deck and through the door of the cabin. The wooden interior was polished, clean and superbly varnished. The long tables had been placed to his right, and a narrow door was at the far end. The walls were bare — with the exception of a silver placard with an expertly carved relief of a dolphin leaping playfully from a turbulent sea, situated on the far left wall just above the last table.
Aaliyah took Gewey's pack and motioned for him to sit. “I will take your belongings to your quarters.” She disappeared through the door.
Gewey waited patiently. It wasn't long before Aaliyah returned carrying two bowls, followed closely by a short, elderly elf woman, clad in brown tunic and trousers, bearing a bottle, two wooden cups, and two spoons. The scent of fresh fish filled the air. After placing everything on the table, the woman nodded and left.
Aaliyah took a seat across from Gewey. “I hope you enjoy our fare.”
In the bowl was a thick creamy stew, dotted with red, green, and black spices. His mouth watered. “What is it?” He picked up a spoonful, and saw large chunks of fish mixed with the thick broth.
“It is a stew made from cream, fish, and spices from my homeland.” She poured Gewey a cup of wine.
Gewey eyes went wide at the first taste. It was almost sweet, yet the spice caused his tongue to tingle. The fish was tender and just salty enough to be a pleasant addition to the overall experience. He smiled and moaned with satisfaction.
“I am pleased you like it,” said Aaliyah.
They ate the rest of the meal in silence. When they were finished, Aaliyah led Gewey through the door and down a narrow corridor that split at the end. To the right of Gewey was an open door that led to a small kitchen. They continued left to the end of the hall to another door. Inside was surprisingly luxurious. The floor was covered by a thick, indigo rug, woven with swirling silver patterns around its borders. A large oak desk was directly ahead, covered with maps, charts, and several leather books. On either side was a single bed, dressed with plush blue quilts and two small soft-looking, round pillows. A large ash chest had been placed at the foot of each bed. The wall was decorated with paintings of various sea creatures, some he was familiar with, others looked like something out of legend. Glowing spheres hung from the ceiling in the corners.
Aaliyah sat on the bed to the right. “You sleep there.” She nodded toward the other bed.
Gewey froze. “You mean we're staying in the same room?”
“Of course,” Aaliyah replied, clearly amused. “Space aboard ship is limited, and I will not have Shivis Mol sleep on deck.”
“I wouldn't mind.” He made no move toward the bed. Knowing her intentions made him feel uneasy, and he knew Kaylia certainly would not approve.
Her laugh rang out like music. “Calm yourself. I can have one of the crew stay with you if you wish.”
Gewey suddenly felt very much a child. He tossed his pack on the bed and settled his wits. “I wouldn't want to kick you out of your own room. I didn't mean to overreact.”
There was a knock at the door and two elf men entered, carrying a small basin filled with water. Their eyes fixed on Gewey as they placed the basin gently on the floor and left.
Aaliyah rose to her feet. “It is time for your first lesson,” She knelt in front of the basin. “The water is cold. You shall heat it.”
Gewey knelt beside her. “What do I do?”
“The same as you do with power from the earth. Only you must focus your spirit on the air that surrounds the basin.”
Gewey cocked his head. “The air? Not the water?”
Aaliyah shook her head. “No. You could heat it that way, but the effort would be much greater.” She reached over and took his hand. “You must learn to find the smooth path. Water will resist you, while the air is pliant.” She squeezed his hand tightly. “Open your mind to me. Allow me to guide you.”
Gewey breathed deep and closed his eyes. At once he saw Kaylia, her face anguished and lonely. His eyes snapped open.
Aaliyah released her grip and sprang to her feet. “This will not do.” Her voice was disapproving and sharp. “If you cannot govern your bond, I must…assist you.” Grabbing Gewey's shoulders she pressed down hard.
“What are you doing,” he demanded. Then it felt as if he had been struck between the eyes. He fell back, reeling.
Aaliyah knelt beside him. “You are not hurt, Shivis Mol.”
Gewey opened his eyes. It took him a moment before he managed to sit up and regain his focus. Something was wrong. An overwhelming sadness filled his heart, and tears began streaming down his cheeks. He closed his eyes, and reached out to his bond with Kaylia. It was gone! He glared accusingly at Aaliyah. “What have you done?” he roared. He experienced sorrow blended with sheer fury.