The retired general finally spoke, to Atheline's immense relief.
At least military discussions made sense.
"The people will watch and assess you. Your victory in the hunting competition is not the end. You're just across the middle of the bridge. "
He nodded.
The general folded his arms.
"Nobles watch rulers."
"Yes."
"Soldiers watch leaders."
"Yes."
The general pointed toward him.
"But common people watch men," Atheline said earning a nod.
"It seems you've done your homework."
The room became quiet.
The general continued.
"No one cares about ancient rituals."
He threw a glance toward the historian. The man looked offended.
The general ignored him.
"They care about confidence."
Atheline listened carefully.
The general's voice remained calm.
"When you walk into that ceremony, thousands of people will decide what kind of king you are before you speak a single word."
Atheline considered that.
The general nodded.
"So stand properly."
