delamere knew him better than anyone , had stood by his side and at his back since theyd been boys , had always counselled him wisely or prodded him mercilessly when hed needed advice or a push , had hitched his future to his not because longsword was the son of the king and certain to reap the wealth and prestige of such a position , but because he genuinely liked himill get her back for you , richard ; i swear it he asserted suddenly and vehemently .