Ralph and the Pixie

‘The next time the brother thought to enter the Library upon his return, he found his way barred by Bellandor.

‘“Hail, Bellandor,” he had said, unable to conceal either his suspicion or his fear of being caught, “What business brings you hither?”

‘“The Elves have told me that you have been seen making your way north and east into the mountains, unaccompanied,” Bellandor replied.

His brother shrugged. “What of it? Am I not free to come and go as I please?”

‘“I wish you would tell me,” said Bellandor, “what the object of your curiosity is, that takes you alone and in secret to such an evil place.”

‘“The object?’ replied his brother, trying to conceal his surprise. ‘How do you know that it isn’t simple curiosity which takes me there?”

‘“I said nothing of an object,” replied Bellandor.

‘His brother’s eyes widened as he realised his mistake. And for a moment, he considered telling Bellandor all, as there had once been a bond of love between them. But the moment was lost, for Bellandor’s greater wit, once a matter of respect for his younger brother, was now taken as a challenge; a threat.