章 367: Night on the camp

The return of King Conradin to the Sicilian camp was marked by a certain solemnity, a reflection of the weighty negotiations that had just taken place on the parlay field. As he dismounted from his horse, Alberto, the third son of Philip Chignolo, emerged from the shadows. A devoted squire to the king, Alberto moved with practiced ease, seamlessly aiding Conradin in his descent and ensuring a smooth transition from saddle to solid ground.

The air was thick with the scent of earth and the subtle sounds of a camp preparing for what lay ahead. The rhythmic clinks of metal against metal echoed through the camp as Alberto began the meticulous process of assisting Conradin in removing his armor. Each piece, carefully crafted for both protection and mobility, was unclasped and laid aside, revealing the weary yet determined countenance of the Sicilian king.