At this, they suddenly broke into relieved smiles.
'And here we were, agonizing over the decision,' they thought. 'Honestly, were we even in a position to hesitate? Were we even worthy of Henry trying to win us over?'
They suspected that in this battle, Henry could have single-handedly slaughtered everyone present!
Right now, their best bet was to start sucking up—and fast!
Henry might not remember who followed his orders. But he would certainly remember, in perfect detail, who disobeyed!
Under Henry's gaze, the other four Barons and more than thirty Independent Knights felt an unprecedented pressure. This was the moment that would decide their fates.
They didn't exchange glances or speak a word, yet they seemed to reach a silent consensus.
"Baron Henry, your valor and wisdom are a model for us all," one of the Barons said as he stood up.
"We pledge our loyalty to you. Wherever you may lead, we shall follow."
