“It is true. Indeed, that is why I dared not speak. I have yearned to be again at the side of my beloved Arianllyn, and my thoughts are with her now. But had I chosen to return, I would ever wonder whether my choice was made through wisdom or following the wishes of my own heart. I see this is as it must be, and the destiny laid upon me. I am content to die here.”

American author

Lloyd Alexander was an American author of children’s and young adult fantasy fiction. He lived from 1924 to 2007 and wrote over a long career that spanned seven decades. He is best known for The Chronicles of Prydain, a five-book high fantasy series. His work includes more than 40 books, with 48 written across his career, and it was translated into 20 languages. The final volume of The Chronicles of Prydain, The High King, won the 1969 Newbery Medal. He also received U.S. National Book Awards in 1971 and 1982.