Ralph and the Pixie

‘If that small object embodies a jest,’ Pran responded, ‘then it is a jest that may hold countless lives in its balance. I suggest a demonstration.’

An archer was summoned, who arrived almost immediately with a headless shaft in his possession. The Thane handed the arrowhead to the archer who quickly fitted it. When this was done, the Thane said to one of his aides, ‘Have a target brought to this room.’

Ralph and Pran exchanged a look. ‘I wouldn’t do that,’ Ralph put in quickly. ‘Someone might get hit. How about the floor?’ he said to Pran. ‘The rest of the building seems empty, so it’s probably the safest target here. That way someone on the lower floors can retrieve it.’

Pran considered a moment, then nodded.

The Thane raised an eyebrow, and said to the archer, ‘Do as he suggests. One can only hope that your marksmanship is up to the task.’

Affronted by what he no doubt perceived as a blatant waste of his talent, the archer took the arrow, drew full back, and said, ‘If this comes back in my face and I lose an eye or worse, I will expect my family to be fully compensated.’ Then he released the arrow.