Everville: The Rise of Mallory Read Online Free PDF Page B

loss for words. I am truly sorry about all those who died,” Owen said with deep sorrow visible on his face.
    “I know others may disagree, but you did what you believed was best. Say what you will, but if you had not initiated the city’s destruction, the dragons would have destroyed us all just the same. If you didn’t destroy the city, concentrations of power would have been even greater and our destruction total. Your actions, however, allowed some of us to survive, and more importantly, your courage and humility have prevented the destruction of our world by the element,” Borak said with reassurance.
    “Thank you, but there is something you may not be aware of.”
    Before Owen had a chance to finish, Borak interrupted.
    “If you are referring to Mallory and the juvenile dragon, I am very much aware. The General told us moments ago. It is indeed very troubling, Owen, but I have every confidence that you will once again be victorious. You have proven to be a man of great character and wisdom, and that wisdom will guide your path to the best course of action.
    “There will always be something. There will always be some evil. Whether it is apparent or not to some, there is darkness within all of our hearts, just as there is good. Even the best among us are capable of despicable acts, and the worst among us are capable of redemption. Mallory is the perfect example. Arrogance and humility are always in a constant struggle inside of us. That’s why we must always remain on guard, not just for those that would see us destroyed, but also for the darkness within,” Borak explained.
    “Darkness. Darkness,” whispered Felix.
    Asher gave Felix a stern look.
    Borak continued, “I must admit that at times I have also been a slave to my emotions. As soldiers we are bred for battle. We are honorable men, but anger sometimes does get the better of us.”
    “That’s completely understandable, but you’re not just honorable, you’re also brave and wise,” Owen replied.
    “Brave perhaps, but wise is another matter entirely.”
    The fatigue had caught up to him, and Borak’s body needed rest. He could go on no further.
    “I’m sorry but I must rest,” Borak said as he stood up from his seat at the table
    He walked towards the exit, his large size shaking the room and the table along with it. Grenmar almost fell off, but Owen was quick to grab his arm and hoist him back up on the crate.
    For a moment it was quiet. Owen sat there, thinking about what the giant had said.
    “This is delicious,” Felix said, breaking the silence.
    He stuffed his face with roasted morsels of meat that remained on the table. The others joined in.
    “It is quite tasty,” Asher replied.
    Owen and the others finished their dinner before making their way down the crates onto the floor. The ground was made of hard packed dirt and was not very comfortable, but they were able to find several discarded rags that made adequate coverings for the night. Soon they were all sound asleep.
     
    The next morning they awoke to the trembling ground and the sound of the giants moving about.
    “Ahhhhhh….” Felix yawned as he stretched his arms.
    The giants had already prepared breakfast, and both Felix and Grenmar were assisting each other in getting back to the table.
    “Good morning, Owen. I trust you slept well,” Borak said at a distance as he approached from the outside.
    “Yes. Thank you.”
    “The General tells me that you’re off to see the Mountain Dwellers in The Valley of Darkness a short time from now,” Borak continued.
    “Yes. We need to find clues that will lead us to Varstock, The Keeper who knows The Third Pillar of Truth,” Owen responded.
    “Well, before you go, I think you should meet the healer. I think she may be able to provide you with some protection for your journey,” Borak said.
    “That sounds great. We’d be grateful for any help you can provide us,” Owen replied.
    A short time later, Borak had escorted them to