A citizen in the presence of a sovereign ruler might express deference, respect, or obedience, acknowledging the ruler's supreme authority and legitimacy to govern. This is because a sovereign ruler holds the highest and ultimate power within a territory, and citizens typically recognize the ruler's right to make laws and enforce policies

. Specifically, a citizen might say something respectful or submissive, such as a greeting or an affirmation of loyalty, because the sovereign's authority is considered legitimate and absolute within their domain. The citizen’s words would reflect recognition of the ruler’s power and the social or legal order that the ruler embodies. This behavior is rooted in the understanding that sovereignty entails supreme authority, and citizens do not have equal say before a sovereign but rather are subject to the ruler’s decisions

. The reason for this is that sovereignty implies ultimate control and authority over a territory and its people, so citizens acknowledge this hierarchy to maintain order and legitimacy. If a citizen were to challenge or disrespect the sovereign, it could undermine the ruler’s authority and the stability of governance

. In summary:

• A citizen would likely speak with respect or obedience to a sovereign ruler.
• This is because the sovereign holds ultimate authority and legitimacy over the territory.
• Citizens recognize this power to maintain social order and acknowledge the ruler’s right to govern