Two Hundred Thirty Three

That evening I pour over maps and deeds in Augustan's old study, looking for land free to give to the dark elves. Soren joins me for a while, rifling around the stacks of parchment and books. "I assume he knew where everything was," he sighs. "A shame no one else does."

"I assume Victor will go through it all," I say, raising a faded document to see it better in the lamplight. "He wishes to be responsible, here is his chance."

"What are you going to do about him?" Soren asks suddenly. "You cannot allow him to take such liberties with you."

"He is insecure in his power," I reply, setting down one paper and picking up another. "He is taking it out on me."

"Do you defend him so easily?"

"No," I reply stiffly. "But it is my concern, and no one else's. Besides," I sit back and look at Soren with a sigh, hating my own words. "We have a deal in place, and I can do nothing on my own if he changes his mind. It is better to endure his foolishness for a while and be free later than to anger him and be trapped forever."

Soren doesn't answer, but I can tell he is infuriated by my answer.

"Besides, I will need his blessing to ride against Zin. Aren't you the one who has always told me to be diplomatic? My tongue will only get me into more trouble at this point."

"But you still look for land for the elves."

"Of course I do," I reply. "We gave our word. What about the land where they roam now? The land below the Valour Mountains?"

"It is rocky and barren, save for the most hardy plants."

"Let us give them Pallas Arcum. Von'd claimed he did not fear the darkness there."

"They will charge tolls for the pass, and the men of Singh will not be pleased."

"Indeed not." I sit back a bit. "I could look to land closer to Fayde."

"I would get Bellaphon's leave first."

"Yes. Did the elves get along with the creatures there?"

"I do not believe they mingled much, but it may be possible, if Bellaphon agrees to take them on as neighbors, which he may or may not."

"We would have to make it worth his while," I sigh.

Soren merely nods and is silent for a long time. When he speaks it is very quietly. "I am troubled, Zaphael. For some reason I feel that Augustan's death may only be the beginning of our troubles."

"Indeed," I reply. "I'm not certain, but I believe this may be what Zin wanted all along."

"I do not believe you should return to face him," Soren replies.

I look at him then. "We must fight and defeat him."

"I know we must, but perhaps you should stay behind this time."

"And wave as the menfolk ride off to battle?"

"No. He claims that you belong to him. He predicted you would return to him. Why prove him correct, Zaphael?"

"I have no intention of returning to him," I snap. "I have every intention of slaying him."

He merely sighs deeply and turns to rifle through another stack.