Return of the Shirán (Elven Worlds, #3)

by R.K. Lander

Zedah clenched her jaw, allowed her anger to show, even though her father had always taught her to hide it. “Why do you do that? Antagonise me? If we are to work together, can we not do so in harmony?” Ranoor huffed, then turned forward. “Harmony is a hard-earned state. It can’t be forced, imposed, or wished into being. You must show me your worth. Only then can I trust you. Only trust brings harmony.” “You’re cynical. The rumours about you are true then. You are cold and hard, unfeeling – and heartless.” Ranoor’s head whipped to Zedah. “Ignorant people are quick to judge. Are you one of them? Blabbermouths with nothing better to do than label people? Did your kingly father teach you nothing then?” Zedah was taken aback, not by Ranoor’s cutting words but by the impact that one word had on her. Her retort was slow coming. “My father… I don’t even know if he’s alive.” She had said it almost to herself, but Ranoor heard well enough. “And in answer to your question, captain, my father was a wise man. He taught me well. It was I who never listened.” Ranoor said nothing, and for a while, all they could hear was the clip-clop of their horses’ hooves, the occasional snort, the cry of a hunting bird overhead. “And in answer to your question, Zedah. I am not inconvenienced. The solitude will do me good. There will be time enough for battle – there always is. For now, you are my pupil. I will train you, watch you, respect you if you rise to the challenge. But if I see any sign of rev...