Chapter 34: Oath of Fealty
Chapter 34: Oath of Fealty
Ultimately, the resolution to use Henry II’s military funds to procure arms and train pilgrim soldiers was passed. Crusader nobles were more inclined towards offense rather than defense. This probably stemmed from their inherent love of plunder; if war occurred at their own doorstep, it would only cause irreparable damage to their own lands with no profit to be gained.
Coming out of the great hall, Godfrey clapped Lothar on the shoulder and said approvingly, "Well done, Lothar. Truly Werner’s son. To tell you the truth, in the letters Werner and I exchanged over the years, he always praised your valor, but I never expected your wisdom and eloquence to be no less than your father’s."
"Knight Lothar, you truly are formidable!" Balian too was full of admiration. He could understand the logic, but to organize his thoughts so well and speak them out before so many nobles was something he was completely incapable of.
"You flatter me."
Godfrey smiled. "Come with me. I’ll take you for an audience with His Majesty the King."
Lothar asked, puzzled, "What about Balian?"
"Although he is my heir, I have not yet knighted him. He is not qualified for an audience with His Majesty."
Lothar smiled at Balian and said comfortingly, "It’s only a matter of time. I’ll go ahead then."