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his association with Richard embarrass her family. It did not occur to him that his betrothed was fearful for his personal safety; she had implied concern only once, at the tournament, and when Walter thought of it, he considered it half a joke, as his reply to her had been. Thus, he assumed that part of the reason she urged him to attend to his own affairs was to prevent an outlawry within a clan that was known for its fidelity to the royal house. Walter was also concerned over this subject, but he felt his earlier commitment to be paramount. |
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Now he was beginning to wonder whether, despite her prejudices, Sybelle might be right. Perhaps it would be wise to speak to Richard and ask him directly which path would best forward his purpose. Walter grinned crookedly. Richard was no more to be trusted than Sybelle. He would certainly choose what he thought best for Walterunless Walter's assistance would really make the difference between success and failure. Nonetheless there was good sense in talking to Richard. Walter found Richard far easier to read than Sybelle. |
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As he was being made comfortable, Sir Heribert cursed himself for judging one brother by another. His late overlord had been so self-centered that he saw nothing beyond what he wanted to see. It had been very easy to encourage Sir Henry in every vicious form of self-gratification, to push him along a path that was rapidly leading to such excesses that even the most loyal castellan might be forgiven for complaining to the king. And such a complaint, when shown to be justified, could lead a clever man into the king's favor and to wealth and power thereby. From all Heribert had heard, King Henry was just such a fool as the Henry who was his master. |
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Sir Henry's death had closed that door, but the killing had opened another path even easier and more pleasant. Heribert knew from his late master's sneers and curses that Walter was an adherent to the rebel cause. Every day, Heribert had expected to hear that Walter had been declared an outlaw. Then he would only have to go to the king and declare his own loyalty. From there he could make his way upward. |
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But the king did not declare Walter outlaw. Sir Heribert assumed that Walter had powerful friends who shielded him from the king's wrath. However, Heribert believed if he could get Walter to order him to join Pembroke, he would have the lever he needed. Then he could go to the king, |
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