Ralph and the Pixie - Page 424/574

‘In the meantime, they pursued their own Lore, which was not dissimilar to that of we, their southern cousins. Later (at least, according to our oldest accounts), when the Wizards came, they became enslaved by the evil Wizard, Morlock, becoming as they are today: Goblins.

‘In truth, we do not fully understand their interest in the Elf Lore. If it is to seek aid in healing themselves, they need only ask us for assistance. But they have never done so.’

‘You said the three main tribes of Elves became merged,’ Doc said, looking doubtful.

‘I said that their Lores became merged,’ the Thane corrected. ‘Cultural differences between Elves can be seen to this very day, and though there are many who are of mixed blood, as is the case in our city centres, still, you have undoubtedly made the acquaintance of people from more remote parts of the Elf Kingdom. Many of those you healed spoke with accents that must have sounded strange in your ears.’ At this, Doc nodded. ‘In truth, there are as many types of Elves as there are Faerie creatures with whom Men interbred. Elves are not the only result of such unions; the Imps are themselves such an example, if old legends are to be believed beyond their allegorical content. But they are also exceptional.