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returned just then, flushed with pride, to tell them that he had been accorded a place near the end of the boys' jousting. Although this meant he had to wait some time to try his skill, it was an honor. Those who were thought to be the nearest to men in performance had been placed closest to the time of the men's jousting, when more of the spectators would have finished breaking their fasts and have come down to the lists to watch. |
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By the time Geoffrey and Walter had finished expressing their satisfaction and approval, Ian, Simon, and the women had joined them, Ian also armed for jousting. Geoffrey frowned and glanced at Alinor and Joanna. Ian had been one of the great jousters of his day and was still a formidable opponent for a single set or two. It was Ian's endurance that was failing, not his style, knowledge, or ability. |
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Ian noticed Geoffrey's frown and laughed. ''I have already promised that I would run no more than two sets of three," he said. "Richard asked for a friendly meeting, and seeing my advantage with his face so bruised, I agreed. Now who else? Geoffrey?" |
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"Absolutely not!" Geoffrey exclaimed, laughing, "I have no mind to be lifted off my horse and dumped on the groundwhich is what happens every time I joust with you. I will gratefully allow someone else to have that honor. You need not fear there will be any lack of aspirants. Just remember your promisetwo sets only." |
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Walter said, "I" and then stopped, remembering his broken collarbone. |
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"Some other time," Ian said, smiling at him. "You will be often at Roselynde. We will have opportunities enough to try each other. I cannot think why we did not do so when you visited us last." |
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"Because he was too busy following Sybelle around to bother with you, Papa," Simon teased. |
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"I must say I approve his taste," Ian said. "If I had a choice between my company and Sybelle's, I would choose hers, too." |
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"I cannot say I agree," Rhiannon put in with a false air of serious thoughtfulness. "I think I would prefer you, Ian. Sybelle is all very well, but . . ." |
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Everyone laughed, but attention shifted back to William as |
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