They did so, puzzled.

"You can't go into town without one silly little item. Lily, give me your left hand." Taking her small hand, he reached into his robes and produced a gold ring which he placed on a finger of her left hand. "Now you, Anest." He placed an identical but larger ring on Anest's ring-finger.

"Now, kneel before me." They did so, their faces a question. The wizard placed a hand on both their heads and said, "By the laws of marriage, which are common to all the known lands, I pronounce you man and wife. May you prosper in this world, and find such love and happiness as life brings."

Belloc then rose and headed for his chambers. When he reached the doorway, he turned and saw that his young charges hadn't moved.

"Well? What are you waiting for? I know it's a little early, but get yourselves off to bed! We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow."

As Belloc made his way down the long hallway, he overheard Lily as she said, "Anest, can I please take these boots off now?" He didn't hear Anest's reply, but he did hear laughter as Anest scooped Lily up in his arms and took her off to bed.




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