The Aspect of Essence (The Aelfyn Archives, #1)

by Samantha Amstutz

It shocked Jassyn when the general didn’t puff up like a rooster, proud of crowing about such blatant manipulation. Instead, his gut twisted into an icy knot, knowing Elashor’s obsession with extending his line was the actual reason for his assignment. Jassyn knew he could slip into the role of tutor, but decided his theatrics would end there. He wasn’t bound by decreed obligations beyond teaching Serenna. If Elashor believed he could pressure him into impregnating his daughter, he would be disappointed. Jassyn banished the thought, appalled by the general’s intentions. “I don’t see how another descendant will make any difference to your line,” Jassyn argued, regaining his composure. There was no doubt Elashor had more elven-blooded children and descendant offspring than any other elf. It appeared the general’s aspirations were to couple with as many elven-blooded as possible for reasons Jassyn couldn’t fathom. The thought disgusted him—Elashor using the mixed-race elves as if they were his personal breeding stock. He suspected there was more to the situation than he was aware of. “This is my only line in the human realms,” Elashor said with a pointed look as sharp as the sword at his side. “You might not be informed, as this is your first visit, but humans aren’t as accepting of our ways. Queen Arianna is unaware of my offspring in Alari.” The general’s eyes narrowed. “I plan on keeping it that way.”