After a few moments they were rejoined by Dorain, who approached Lily directly. "Come," she said, "both of you." She led them to a place where there were a few large boulders. "Lily," she said, "sit here between these rocks. Your husband and I can more easily protect you here." Lily did as she was told, her heart pounding uncontrollably. Looking up, she saw Belloc approaching with Brogan. Seeing Lily's situation, Belloc nodded his approval.
"I must watch the road," said the wizard. "I am loath to use the Vhurd-aq, for I have not mastered it yet, nor did I wish the enemy to know we possessed it. But no matter. They will regret this indiscretion."
The sight of Lily's fear prompted him to say something odd then. "Brogan, I know you are needed, but your men know their business. I would prefer you here, so that my mind is less distracted by the possibility of failure."
Lily knew intuitively that his remark had something to do with the book in the library. A child's book. She knew that Belloc had never taken a wife; he had said so. Had he failed to protect a child? She wanted to ask him, but he was gone.