Finally, she got to a place where she was ready to tell Ellich the real reason for her coming.

“The Ard Rhys has determined to undertake a quest that ultimately will benefit all of the Races, Uncle.” She was speaking now directly to him because he was the one who would have to help her. It didn’t matter that Jera was present, though; Aphen knew that her uncle kept no secrets from his wife, and in this case there was no reason to do so anyway. “It requires use of the Elfstones if the journey is to be made easier, and I would like an opportunity to ask my grandfather to borrow them. How do you think I should go about it?”

Ellich shook his head and pursed his lips. “He will listen to you, even if you go to him directly and speak to him in private. He loves you that much. But he will not act on such a request unless it is made before the High Council. And with Phaedon present. My nephew will be King soon, perhaps yet this year. My brother grows weary of ruling and may choose to step down. Phaedon senses this and makes it a point to be a part of everything that happens in court.” He gave her a rueful grin. “Do I sound bitter?”

Aphenglow shook her head. “You sound pragmatic.”

“Thank you. I don’t resent my nephew’s eagerness to be King. But I do question his ability to govern well. He is ambitious and headstrong. Worse, he sees his own vision as singular and does not listen to others. A bad combination. It worries me.”

Jera made a shushing sound, and her husband nodded his agreement. “Enough of that. I would suggest you let me arrange an audience with the King and High Council where you can make your plea. If you come before them both, you will not risk embarrassing your grandfather by appearing to try to take advantage of your special relationship. There will be debate, and some—perhaps all—will resist your request because ultimately it is a Druid request. May I ask exactly what it is you need the Elfstones for?”

She hesitated. “They might show us what it is that we are seeking. They might show us where it is hidden.”

“Which would be what?”

“I am forbidden to tell you that, Uncle. I am sorry, but the Ard Rhys feels it should be kept secret. I can only say that it will be of immense benefit to the Elves if it is found.”

Ellich nodded. “Well, I am content not to know. But evasiveness will not sit well with either your grandfather or the High Council. At least you are being direct about it; maybe that will help. I will arrange things. Tell me, have you given any further thought to my suggestion that it might be time to think about coming home for good? Your mother misses you.”