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Page 190
Chapter 14
The keep emptied of guests rapidly all through that day. Once the excitements and entertainments Llewelyn had offered were over, men with property in southern or eastern Wales remembered that a war was in progress and that the king's party had not been celebrating. Their lands might have suffered damage or might be threatened by an invading force at that very moment. Those from northern or western Wales might have been inclined to linger, since there was no danger to their property from the war; however, there were other dangers in war than attack by King Henry's forces.
Prince Llewelyn might demand help or support from them, and it would be nearly impossible to refuse if the request were made directly. Letters could be ignored, for a little while at least, with the excuse that one was not at the place where the letter was delivered; and one could write back asking questions or offering excuses. Thus, those uncertain of the outcome or less eager for war departed swiftly. Some, of course, were both willing and eager to join in whatever action Pembroke and Llewelyn were planning, and those remained, but Builth was now almost empty compared with the crowded conditions during the wedding.
Walter moved into one of the vacated chambers, ostensibly so that William could spend at least one night more comfortably than on a pallet on the floor. However, he had personal reasons for desiring privacy, the primary one being that he felt if he did not soon take a woman to his bed, he would forget all about anyone's honor the next time he was alone with Sybelle. Although he knew he should not, he had agreed at once that she should stay if she could obtain permission. She had asked him so sweetly, and then she had run swiftly away before he could have second, more rational, thoughts.
For a little while Walter had remained alone, staring into

 
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