The Sword of Shannara Trilogy (Shannara, #1-3)

by Terry Brooks

But it was necessary that Amberle discover the truth about herself another way than through me. I gave her a path to follow; I did not give her a map that would explain its twists and turns. Such choices as might be necessary I thought were hers. Neither you, I, nor anyone else had the right to make those choices for her. Only she had that right.”

The Druid’s features seemed to close in about him momentarily, and his dark face lost all expression. “I could not have prevented from happening that which happened, Elven Prince,” he replied slowly. “I could only try to prepare you for what was to be.” “Then you knew?” Allanon nodded. “I knew. I am a Druid.”

He was a keeper of secrets that could be shared with no other, and he must always veil the truth, for the truth could not be told, but must be learned.