The nearest of the elven figures stepped forward, her weapon—some kind of elegantly curved blade that seemed to be made from a single piece of polished metal—held in a position that was clearly threatening but not immediately aggressive.
When she spoke, her voice carried an accent that was both musical and completely unfamiliar. "Humans. You will explain your presence on Lilivil Prime, and you will explain it now."
Lucy stepped forward with the confidence of someone accustomed to diplomatic situations. "I am Princess Lucy Grey of—"
Every weapon in the surrounding circle immediately shifted to point directly at her. The nearest elf's expression hardened, and several others took aggressive stances that suggested Lucy's introduction had been exactly the wrong thing to say.
"We do not speak with females of your species," the lead elf said coldly. "They lie as easily as they breathe, just like the others who came before."
