Waldemar Fitzurse becomes a deeply ambiguous character in the novel because of moments like this one: John’s overreach offends Fitzurse’s natural sense of aristocratic values, but although he chides the prince publicly, his craven desire for power overrules his better judgment and keeps him in league with this deeply flawed and ignoble man. On the other hand, Cedric’s outright rejection of John’s company emphasizes his lack of the real power and charisma necessary to unite the Saxons and the Normans.