Ralph and the Pixie

‘However, as to Malina’s title, I have given the matter some thought, and have conceived of a solution, though I thought I should first seek your approval, Malina, before uttering it.’

She looked at him doubtfully, waiting.

‘You shall be,’ he said, ‘an Emissary of Faeriekind, from Ralph’s world to our own. Since the title does not concern those of Elvenkind, it is unlikely that you will be questioned on the matter. As well, as Ralph’s world is a world of Men, such a title will carry weight, even with those not kindly disposed towards Faeriekind.’

‘But it is a lie!’ she protested. ‘And if I am called out on the matter, all will know it.’

‘Actually, it is not a lie; not if we use the Elven Law against itself,’ Pran told her with grim certitude. ‘As Ralph, here, is one of the few people from his world to visit ours, he can rightly claim that he speaks for his people. Under Elven law. That is his right and privilege.

‘Conversely, as you are the sole member of Faeriekind to have visited their world, while in their world, you were, whether you knew it or not, an Emissary of Faeriekind, because the laws of Elvenkind do not apply to their world.