My newest update for the month: some more of the horror fantasy series Scars. Khy-kala attempts to convince and recalcitrant member of her species of the value of a human life. This is a harder sell than you might think it would be, especially when the person selling the idea isn’t completely sold on it themselves. Meanwhile, Justir tries to pry more information out of the good baron, only to learn it would be easier getting blood from a turnip.
For a brief look at that conversation, check out the snippet below and for the full context, click on the handy link above and enjoy!
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“We’ve added an elven healer to our party.”
“So we have.”
“I assume she was not enclave-born.”
“I have heard nothing to suggest that she was,” Holeish replied noncommittally.
“Then she’s at least thirty years old. I’m no judge of elven age, but if I were a betting man, I’d wager she’s probably at least twice that.” He had nothing to base his theory on, but something in the way Khy-kala acted towards the other she-elf put him in mind not just of a guard dog, but an elder sibling, so it was unlikely that she was as old as their companion. Which, of course, supposed that their guesses regarding her age were anywhere near accurate.
“It’s quite possible. My understanding is that elves age very slowly.”
“If she’s that old, then as an apothecary she would remember many of the original elven poultices and potions. Those were always more potent than our own, weren’t they? You did say her skills are highly sought after.”
Holeish closed his book. “Let us cut to the quick. Did you have a specific question you wished to ask?”
“The same one I asked previously, my lord. Is there anything I should know?”
“Not at this time.”
“You’ve told my subordinate.”
“It has been my experience that elves understand the need for discretion far better than many men and women, particularly when the subject of that discretion involves one of their own. That you are querying me rather than your she-elf supports that theory.”
Justir pursed his lips. He had, in fact, asked Khy-kala and the newcomer, introduced as Sie-thyne, what her role was. The latter had only told him that it was a private matter and the former had agreed, saying that if he wanted more information, he could consult with Baron Holeish.
The nobleman, sadly, was proving as intransigent as either she-elf. The former paladin was quiet for several moments. “It’s the king, isn’t it?” He looked over at Holeish. The baron’s expression was stony, giving nothing away but that by itself gave Justir his answer. “I can’t think of any other reason for this level of secrecy.”
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