Only after Kafei's countless assurances, and with the situation growing increasingly dire, had they agreed to send some of their people to give it a try.
Faced with everyone's conflicted gazes, Hagoromo remained composed, without the slightest unease or a single unnecessary pleasantry.
He surveyed the gathering, his gaze sincere and resolute. His voice carried clearly throughout the valley, allowing every member of the Knights to hear him.
"I know you hate the Otsutsuki, hate Kaguya, and hate these endless sacrifices and oppression."
"We've seen all the suffering, sacrifices, and pain you've endured over the years."
"My brother and I stand here today not for power, not to scheme, and certainly not to capture anyone."
"We have only one purpose."
"To stop Kaguya, end the sacrifices to the God Tree, and put an end to this long era of chaos and conflict."
"We hope to unite everyone unwilling to suffer oppression or slaughter and break through this hopeless situation."
"So that there will be no more innocent sacrifices, no more forced arrests, and no more racial oppression."
"So that all living beings can live freely and peacefully, without fearing death, the God Tree, or tyranny."
It was a simple speech, without grandiose rhetoric or empty promises, yet every word was sincere and every sentence heartfelt.
The compassion, vision, and goodwill in his words deeply moved every battle-scarred warrior of the Knights present.
They had fought for years, never seeking power, only freedom!
The long-standing deadlock finally broke. The heavy, oppressive atmosphere in the valley gradually gave way to a resolve to fight side by side.
The alliance was formed.
Watching everyone lower their guard and agree to stand alongside them, Hagoromo nodded slightly, then took the initiative to bid them farewell.
"Thank you all for being willing to trust us."