Episode 231

The summit, which would determine the fate of the Iberian Peninsula, was a grand affair.

The sheer number of nobles and soldiers accompanying the kings from various countries nearly filled the entire estate to capacity.

In addition, many nations expressed a desire to observe the proceedings, even if they weren’t directly participating, which meant finding space to accommodate them was a significant challenge.

With England, the Holy Roman Empire, and even Rome closely monitoring the situation, the influx of people was overwhelming.

Given the caliber of these guests, it wasn’t enough to simply provide them with lodging and expect them to make do.

With support from France, I managed to set up suitable facilities and venues, and I began meeting with the visiting monarchs, engaging in light conversation.

“Portugal is deeply concerned about France’s recent actions.”

“Yes, I understand how you must feel.”

“It’s not just Portugal. The nobles of León feel the same, and I’m sure Navarre and Aragon share these sentiments.”

“Indeed.”

“We have fought for years, shedding blood to reclaim Andalusia. Now that the Almohads have retreated, the land should return to those who bled for it. Don’t you agree, Prophet?”

Ah, I see what they’re doing. They’re hoping I’ll side with them.

If I express understanding, they’ll likely use it to pressure France.

I remained silent, simply observing the kings of the Iberian Peninsula.

When the expected response didn’t come, King Ferdinand III quickly spoke up.

“Ah, may I add something? We’re not asking you to declare which side is right, Prophet. We’re just sharing our perspective.”

“I understand. But let me be clear once more: I have no intention of taking sides in this summit. Naturally, neither will the divine favor one side over the other.”

”…Are you saying the divine doesn’t see us as right?”

“Not entirely right, but not wrong either. As long as the resolution is reached through dialogue and not force, any conclusion will be a positive one.”

I have no intention of siding with anyone.

Ferdinand III sought further clarification.

“So, you’re saying you won’t side with France either?”

“Of course. I’ve already conveyed the same to King Philip II. My role is to observe the summit and ensure its conclusions are implemented, not to interfere in the proceedings.”

“I see. That’s reassuring. But what if no proper conclusion is reached? If it seems there’s no room for compromise…”

“If you’re considering using force, I wouldn’t recommend it. I hope no one would be foolish enough to take such actions.”

“Of course not. I wasn’t suggesting that… but there might be pressure or blockades, not direct attacks…”

It sounds like they’re considering isolating Andalusia to force compliance.

From their perspective, it’s a viable tactic.

I never thought I could prevent all conflicts of this nature, and realistically, it’s impossible.

“I can’t involve myself in such matters. What right do I have to dictate trade issues between nations?”

”…I understand. I see where the boundaries lie.”

After setting the ground rules for the summit, the kings engaged in small talk for about an hour before departing.

Once the other kings had left, Ferdinand III hesitated, then sat back down and spoke cautiously.

“Prophet, if you don’t mind, could I have a bit more of your time?”

“I don’t have any pressing engagements, so that’s fine. But if word gets out that I’m having a private conversation with one of you, it might cause some unrest.”

“Oh, it’s not a secret meeting. If anyone asks, I’ll be the first to disclose what we discussed. I just have some personal curiosities and things I’d like to discuss with you…”

Even from our brief conversation earlier, Ferdinand III stood out among the kings.

In history, he’s regarded as one of the wisest rulers of the Spanish dynasty, so I was naturally intrigued.

I wondered how he would compare to Philip II of France, one of the greatest kings, and whether they were similar or complete opposites.

And how their debates would unfold.

As a history enthusiast, this was an event I couldn’t miss.

The only downside is that, compared to the seasoned Philip II, Ferdinand III lacks experience.

There’s a significant age gap of over 30 years, but that’s not the main issue.

Age alone doesn’t make one more eloquent.

However, Ferdinand III, having only recently ascended the throne, and Philip II have vastly different levels of experience.

While Ferdinand III was still playing childhood games, Philip II was already crafting strategies against Europe’s many monarchs and nobles.

And that’s not all.

After Europe stabilized, Philip II joined the Crusades, engaging in intense psychological battles with Byzantine and Islamic leaders.

Most importantly, Philip II has had the most interactions with me, constantly pushing his limits and walking a tightrope.

Even if their potential is similar, such differences can’t be bridged in just a year or two.

Unless Ferdinand III is an exceptional talent, which I doubt exists in this era.

At best, he might be on par with or below Philip II.

He would need to collaborate with the other four kings to compensate for his lack of experience, but after meeting them, I abandoned that hope.

At this rate, the summit might end up being all hype with no substance, which is concerning.

“In fact, I was hoping to speak with you, Your Majesty. While I can’t take sides in the summit, I’m happy to answer any questions you have.”

“Thank you. I was the first to decide to participate in this summit. Not just out of frustration, but because I wanted to have a meaningful conversation with you, Prophet.”

“With me?”

“Yes. You might not know how deeply I felt. If I had been born just ten years earlier, I could have joined the Crusades with you…”

The conversation was taking an unexpected turn. Was this a diversion?

I scrutinized Ferdinand III’s eyes, but they shone with a peculiar intensity.

In this era, such a gaze is rare, but in my past life, I saw it often.

How should I describe it… the look of a fan gazing at a celebrity?

That’s the only way to describe Ferdinand III’s eyes as he looked at me.

“There’s nothing to be done about it. Birth and death are beyond our control.”

“True. But I couldn’t pass up this opportunity. Since you don’t mind, I have some questions…”

Ferdinand III seemed genuine as he pulled out a piece of parchment with notes and began asking questions one by one.

Most were trivial, about widely known stories from the Crusades, my thoughts at the time, and any hidden tales.

”…I was confident then. I had received certain knowledge that smallpox could be prevented this way.”

“Oh! I envy those who witnessed such historic moments. No wonder King Philip II holds you in such high regard, having witnessed those miracles firsthand.”

“Yes, I’m grateful for that.”

“Listening to your stories, it’s clear that King Philip II is extraordinary. To think he foresaw the current trends even back then.”

Ferdinand III’s eyes gleamed with even more intensity.

What is this? Aren’t he and Philip II supposed to be rivals?

From his tone, it seems like something else entirely.

“Isn’t King Philip II the one you’ll be competing with for influence?”

“Yes, but credit should be given where it’s due. My principle is that entering a summit without understanding the opponent is the most dangerous move.”

“That’s true. But if you regard the opponent too highly, it might hinder your own abilities. Balance is key.”

“Indeed. But I… oh, I shouldn’t disclose confidential matters here.”

Ferdinand III showed no signs of tension.

It seems he acknowledges Philip II as superior, but isn’t he worried about facing such a formidable opponent?

Unless he’s a masochist, that shouldn’t be the case.

“Your Majesty seems to admire King Philip II. Was there a particular reason?”

“I find it hard to understand why others don’t see it. How can they overlook such genius and strategic brilliance? To me, he’s like a textbook for young kings like myself to emulate. His mastery in strengthening royal authority, diplomacy, and even military matters is flawless, isn’t it? Don’t you agree, Prophet?”

“Uh… yes, indeed.”

The fact that Fernando III recognized the true worth of Philip II without direct experience shows he’s no ordinary ruler himself.

In my memory, only someone like Saladin could see through Philip II’s inner workings just from records.

Yet, it seems that extraordinary people always have some twisted aspect to them.

Looking closely, this man doesn’t seem entirely normal either.

“Honestly, unlike others, I’m simply delighted. I’ve had the chance to meet both individuals I wanted to have deep conversations with. I just hope His Majesty Philip II lives up to my expectations.”

“But if His Majesty Philip II is truly the kind of leader you expect, doesn’t that mean this meeting is doomed?”

“Not necessarily. Of course, I can’t do anything to His Majesty Philip II. But…”

Fernando III paused and gave a sly smile.

Ah, now I understand. No matter how formidable the opponent, if you don’t have to fight them yourself, there’s no need to be tense.

Is this what they mean by that saying?

If you can’t beat them, join them.