“Is that a threat?” Diarmuid demands, who seems determined to push for a coup, desires it. Be it bravery or stupidity, he’s driven by a calculated risk that Mannix’s attempts to survive will be to seize power, but doing so right after such accusations make the dispute indisputable. But Mannix doesn’t take the bait. Instead, he returns to a calm posture.
“I’m the best man for the job,” he repeats. “May I remind you who holds control of a huge group of soldiers?” Mannix refuses to acknowledge Diarmuid, exclusively directing toward the council and ignoring the chain of command.
Diarmuid becomes deflated, beaten by experience and now desperate to push his agenda regardless. He decides to return to the bare beginning of the chronicle, reminding Mannix and informing the council that prior to h
