Lothar and Richard stared at each other for a long time.
In the latter's eyes, the imposing aura radiating from the former grew ever stronger. His entire outline had blurred into an indistinct golden shape, as though he had truly become the incarnation of the legendary Lord of All Armies descended into the world.
After a moment, the proud King of Albion slowly looked away.
"As long as you uphold justice, I have no objections."
Philip opened his mouth in surprise. Someone like Richard could lower his head? That was a rare sight indeed!
Seeing Lothar turn his gaze toward him, Philip also stated, "So long as it is for the holy war, the knights of Gaul are willing to obey your commands as well."
Now it was Raymond's turn to feel as though a date were lodged in his throat.
When we spoke in private, weren't you all so defiant? Weren't you saying the Three-Headed Alliance would stand against him, that you'd rather withdraw and return home than bow to Lothar? How had every one of you knelt so quickly?
"Since neither King has any objection, then it is settled."
For a moment, Raymond, who had been about to voice his agreement, felt utterly miserable—couldn't you at least ask me?
He had completely forgotten that, as a vassal, he had no right to stand alongside two Kings. The only reason the Three-Headed Alliance included him at all was because he was a local power and the primary provider of supplies.
It was only because he represented the Kingdom of Jerusalem, as Regent, that he had been qualified to stand alongside the two Kings.
Now that Lothar, the legitimate King of Jerusalem, had arrived, what place was there for him to speak?
Disagree?
Defy Lothar?
Lothar was still looking for