52 Prejudice is Everywhere

ELIA

Two days later, Elia and Gahrye walked the trails together. They had done it every day after breakfast, and Elia hoped it would become a habit. She was learning a lot, and Gahrye was a fun companion, and very intelligent. And he spoke to her like she was…human. Though she supposed that was the wrong term to use here in Anima. He spoke to her like she mattered. And not as if she were a child. She hadn't realized how much she felt inadequate around these people.

As they followed the twisting path between the trees and she marveled again at the community that lived among the branches, they passed a merchant carrying a large basket of obviously handmade bowls and cups. They were beautiful, and Elia almost stopped the man. But when he reached them on the path, he looked sideways at Gahrye and stepped out to give them a wide berth as he passed.