Ralph and the Pixie

Chapter 13

Mirrindale

‘Perhaps the greatest courage of all

is that of the lone individual

who speaks out against an

existing climate of hate.’

Artur Klaas (1347-1401)

‘Where are we going, Rowf?’ Malina was tired and sore, her insides an ugly, anxious knot from having to ride in the company of Elf soldiers. It was a mixed consolation riding with the big Human; though reassuring, his presence was a distracting torment to her. The feel of his strong arms against her sides, made inevitable as is was he who held the reins, made her breath short with a physical excitement she had to struggle against. And yet she was glad that there had been no room for her in the wagon; though in torment, it was not a torment she would have chosen to avoid.

She gasped as Ralph gave her a gentle squeeze that sent a maddening thrill of unfulfilled anticipation throughout her body. Oblivious to her predicament, he replied to her question.

‘Sorry! Did I hurt you?’ When she didn’t answer, he said, ‘Pran told me we’re going all the way past Narvi to some place in the mountains called Mirrindale-’

Mirrindale!

The very sound of that word was enough to strike a chilling chord of fright throughout her being!