Ralph and the Pixie

‘I am entrusting the safety of my messenger to you. I adjure you to see that she comes to no harm.

In Trust, Elgar.’

Grinding his teeth, the Thane digested this for some time. Eventually, he said, ‘Am I to understand that this . . . Elgar . . . wishes me to heed this advice? And does he intend that I reply through you?’

Satu stared her incomprehension. ‘Advice? I did not hear Elgar’s roll of paper speak.’

The manner in which she stared at the thing in his hands prompted a chuckle from the Thane, despite the seriousness and the implications of Elgar’s message. ‘I take it no one has taught you your letters.’

Satu folded her arms and regarded him crossly. ‘No! I do not wish to learn about letters!’

‘I see.’ The Thane rolled the scroll and placed it safely in a saddlebag. ‘You haven’t yet answered my question, young lady.’