The steward also slows down, and chooses his words carefully before speaking. Since you are both alone he changes to French.
"I share your concern, Quentin. The Burgraff believes that it's just pride that keeps Rudolph from trusting me. However, I believe he fears that I might have any aspiration to become the next head of the family. Which I assure you, I don't have."
Guido takes a handkerchief from a pocket and uses it to wipe his head before going on.
"I hope that the Burgraff's desire, his son learning how to be a good lord, becomes true, but I doubt it's going to happen. Rudolph is, as you said, prone to anger, and for much time has nurtured his fear and jealousy of my proximity to the Burgraff into a nasty hatred. If he becomes my lord, it's good enough if my wife and sons can escape alive. As for the valley, I don't think he, as he is now, is suitable as a lord."
"But if he doesn't become the Burgraff, then the lands are likely to be divided between the Burgraff's daughters. I must confess I'd not like that. My lord has toiled too much to keep unity in the family and to avoid petty disputes, and I'm afraid that once all is divided, we are going to see much strife."
He gives you a look.
"It's also uncertain which daughter would inherit the lands where you live now, so I don't think this would suit you either. On that note, the Burgraff instructed me to give you a letter reaffirming your rights to live in the land and levy taxes for the next years. Now it bears your name, not your grandfather's. It's only valid while Lord Otto lives, so let's hope he has many years ahead of him yet. I'll bring it to you after you reunite with your men."
You keep going towards the keep, but there is still some time before you reach it.
(OOC: I'd appreciate a Per+Awareness check).