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Hilderinc observed the exchange of words between Thornden and Wulfric with his mouth shut and still attentive to any signs of movement from the opposite group of soldiers, but on the inside, he felt the uttermost displeasure with Athanar's elder son. During the time spent in Athanar's household, he had learned a lot about both Wulfric and Wilheard and of their behavior, which reminded Hilderinc of exactly that type of young soldiers he had started to dislike the most when he had been serving as a soldier for the first time in his life. Self-centered, all-important showoffs, he thought. Nothing good will come out of this... He just hoped that Wulfric will have enough sense not to start any trouble before the matter with the local landholders is solved.
Wulfric seemed to have at least this much sense, however, and responsibly took his place. About time, it seemed, as suddenly the door of the hall swung open. Quin next to Hilderinc had almost drawn his sword, but Hilderinc grabbed his hand quickly and stopped him when it was just halfway out. He cast a short glance at the young soldier and slowly moved his head from side to side. He did not speak, but nodded towards the stairs.
Faramund stood there, announcing the coming of lord Friduhelm, and indeed, after a few heartbeats, his servant emerged from inside the house, along with Athanar, leading an old man between them. It occured to Hilderinc that even though lord Friduhelm was old, there was a certain air of confidence around him, and he reminded Hilderinc more of Athanar than of Faramund. He caught himself sitting straight on his horse and expectingly listening to what the landlord had to say.
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