For a long moment they were made speachless by the implications of this unexpected request. While Belloc had spoken, Lily had moved to Anest's side, and he had put his arms around her. When Anest finally spoke, his words had a quiet, gaunt aspect. "Will it come to that, do you think?"

Belloc's reply was equally quiet. "It might."

Taking what little courage she possessed in both hands, Lily tried to smile, but failed. Answering for the two of them for the first time, she said, "We will do whatever you ask of us."

With an ambivalent smile, Belloc said, "Good. I can ask for nothing more."

They sat quietly for a time, without speaking, listening to their own private thoughts through the mournful sounds of wind and rain, and the more cheerful hiss and crackle of the fire. It was not long before the dogs began barking, followed by the rumble of approaching hoofbeats. They heard Caspar hail someone, and presently a knock was heard at the front door.

Answering the door himself, Belloc was greeted by several rain-cloaked and armoured men, the largest of whom was clean-shaven, and grinning widely as he clasped wrists with the wizard.

"Belloc, you old scoundrel! It's been a few years! This," he said to the men behind him, "is the fellow who used to catch me stealing apples from his orchard in Dale, when I was a wee lad." The others laughed in comprehension, apparently having heard the story before.




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