After leaving the council hall, Radulf spotted Alfred waiting just outside in the corridor, as though he had anticipated this very moment.
Their eyes met, and Radulf came to a slow halt before him, offering a slight bow.
"Commander Alfred," he said, "I didn't expect you to stand with me today."
He extended his hand. "Thank you—for not letting the army fall in line with Phillipe."
Alfred grasped his hand firmly, then pulled Radulf into a brief but warm embrace.
Patting his back, he stepped away, a flicker of regret passing through his eyes.
"I only wish I'd had the strength to do this four years ago," he said. "If I had gained control of the army then... your father and mother might still be alive."
"Your hands were tied, weren't they?" Radulf said gently. "And back then, Phillipe held the upper hand. I wasn't strong enough to challenge him either.
