"I know they can be separated," Ten-Nank says, "because they have been. Because many individuals have been - mortals, not mortals. No, it's not a true separation; I'm simply using what words and terms may make sense to another individual. Individuals who do not understand the void - and that is a problem in your theories. Your plans."

A point that has become evident.

"You don't understand or know the void. But, the rules you believe in - in the way you think things work, that make sense. You are part of a larger system. Many systems. You seem to lean on what is sometimes called, a 'gut feeling'. Gut feeling, does that make sense? Is that correct? Facts or information doesn't really matter. I could tell you, 'elves have been tethered before, separated', and would you believe me? There is a chance, but also not a chance - that's what my programs tell me. The tethering system isn't just one used by mortals. 'Mortals'. That's too simple a classification."