The transition from a strong king to his successor was always a dangerous time.

You have been a far-sighted and a strong king, my lord.

"And the strong king who lies with his men within the hill?"

A strong king won their respect, a weak one alienated them at his peril.

However he did not like democracy either and thought that a country needed to be lead by a wise and strong king.

In the presence of a strong king, they offered their allegiance.

If now a strong king came with armies at his call, they were ready to show the way and share the profits.

Just that he was a strong king who was well respected during his period.

Garion clearly saw that this was not a strong king.

They know I will be a strong king, and they'll have no chance to gain ground anywhere.