Richard has made a statement others would be wise to heed ... Don't mess with me or mine. He obviously has earned a loyal following among other members of the magical realm. I think Rapshider's smirk was amusement at wait until you learn what mate has done than an I'm an evil bastard. First, because why would he rile the High King and second, because there are trolls in Richard's reaction force. I also suspect there is a grudging respect building among those who initially opposed Richard.
I'm afraid poor Carlos has some bad history with Mani.