Ralph knew that people like the one before him did not act with intent, that intent was for the most part beyond them. They acted more like machines made of meat, responding to stimuli; they were primitive-minded, wholly egocentric, apparently blind and heedless to the awareness and personal sovereignty of other living things; living in and for the moment, only for themselves.
The Prince’s attention was fixed primarily on Doc, whom he stared at uncertainly. He’d heard the rumours which circulated about his Powers of healing, but the arcane device the old man wore over his eyes bespoke of something else.
‘Well, Pran, you have finally demonstrated that you are indeed a traitor! Your attempt to conceal the presence of this Magi has failed, and though I deem him to be powerful, I very much doubt that he and his lone bodyguard will prevail against two score archers.’
‘I have concealed naught,’ Pran replied in a calm voice. ‘These two are travellers, new to the Elf Kingdom, and are guests in my home.’
‘If you have concealed naught,’ the Prince replied in a surly tone, ‘then why have they not been brought before Myself or the King?’
‘I was unaware,’ Pran replied levelly, ‘that Men travelling within and through the Elf Kingdom required Your leave. To the best of my knowledge, Men and Dwarves are free to come and go as they please.’