Chapter 13: Resemblance to an Old Friend
The expressions of some of the people present changed rapidly. They subconsciously began turning their heads to look for allies, exchanged glances with each other, and brooded about what to do next.
The Papal States has a total of thirteen city-states besides Florence. Currently, to “facilitate unified management” and “better serve His Holiness the Pope”, their lords have established a thirteen-member council for the Free City State Alliance. Each lord took turns as the chairman, and in the past few years, it had been the Portia family’s turn.
It was said that it was “out of loyalty to the Pope”, but everyone knows what the real purpose is. The Papal States were torn into pieces, and Florence was deliberately excluded. Wasn’t it just to better seize the power of the Papal States and gain a completely independent status?
What is Julius Portia doing now?
Rafael took in the changes in the expressions of most people present and smiled very slightly. Of course, there was no need for him to extend his hand for Julius to kiss the papal ring at this moment, but so what?
That’s what he wanted to do. He wanted to force Julius to bow to him right now.
At this moment, here – in full view of everyone, bow your head to him and swear allegiance to him.
Irrefutable. Indisputable.
The moment Julius lowered his head, it was undeniable that a twisted sense of pleasure and strange intoxication arose in his heart.