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wings darkening the sky, flight after flight of gwythaints retreated toward
Annuvin. Of the Huntsmen there was no sign; and Gwydion believed that Arawn,
learning of the Crochan's destruction, had summoned them to return.
The companions rode not in triumphant joy but slowly and
thoughtfully. The heart of King Smoit, too, was heavy, for he had suffered the
loss of many warriors.
With Kaw perched on his shoulder, Taran rode beside Gwydion at the
head of the column as it wound through hills rich with autumn's colors. For a
long while Taran did not speak.
"It is strange," he said at last. "I had longed to enter the world
of men. Now I see it filled with sorrow, with cruelty and treachery, with
those who would destroy all around them."
"Yet, enter it you must," Gwydion answered, "for it is a destiny
laid on each of us. True, you have seen these things. But there are equal
parts of love and joy. Think of Adaon and believe this.
"Think, too, of your companions. Out of friendship for you, they
would have given up all they valued; indeed, all they possessed."
Taran nodded. "I see now the price I paid was the least of all, for
the brooch was never truly mine. I wore it, but it was no part of me. I am
thankful I kept it as long as I did; at least I knew, for a little while, how
a bard must feel and what it must be like to be a hero."
"That is why your sacrifice was all the more difficult," Gwydion
said. "You chose to be a hero not through enchantment but through your own
manhood. And since you have chosen, for good or ill, you must take the risks
of a man. You may win or you may lose. Time will decide."
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They had come into the Valley of Ystrad, and here Gwydion reined up
the golden-maned steed.
"Melyngar and I must now return to Caer Dathyl," he said, "and bring
word to King Math. You shall tell Dallben all that has happened; indeed, this
time you know more of these events than I.
"Go swiftly," Gwydion said, reaching out, his hand. "Your comrades
wait for you; and Coll, I know, is eager to ready his vegetable garden for
winter. Farewell, Taran, Assistant Pig-Keeper ---and friend."
Gwydion waved once and rode northward. Taran watched until he was
out of sight. He turned Melynlas, then, and saw the faces of the companions
smiling at him.
"Hurry along," Eilonwy called. "Hen Wen will be wanting her bath.
And I'm afraid Gurgi and I left in such a hurry I didn't take time to
straighten up the scullery. That's worse than starting a journey and
forgetting to put on your shoes!"
Taran galloped toward them.
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The End :
The Chronicles of Prydain Book Two
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The Black Cauldron
Next :
The Chronicles of Prydain Book Three
The Castle of Llyr
About this Title
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