Judging from Vaughn's expression, even if Gazel refused to participate, the man would likely volunteer to attend in his place.
Gazel paused, deep in thought.
Hehehe… that brat Atem. I have no idea what's going through his mind, but he's certainly not the type to act casually…
He understood that Atem was probably trying to make the Western Nations recognize Eterna, yet Gazel could not fully read his intentions. That uncertainty, in truth, made it exhilarating.
Gazel struggled to suppress a chuckle—maintaining his composure before the council of ministers was not easy.
That guy… he dares to set up this kind of challenge just to put me in a tight spot… how audacious!
He channeled his rising irritation to mask the laughter threatening to escape.
"So, what does your Majesty intend to do? Rigurd-dono mentioned: 'It won't be easy to have His Majesty Gazel attend, but should he accept, we will prepare the finest seat in anticipation.' They've also informed other nations' leaders, so seating will be limited. Rigurd-dono additionally requested: 'With so many attendees, the venue may descend into chaos, so please respond at your earliest convenience.'" The minister, trembling, relayed the message.
Though politely conveyed, the words might have seemed improper—Gazel's Unique Skill, Dictator, read the minister's anxious thoughts with ease.
The king spoke to correct the misunderstanding calmly.
"I will attend the presentation and take the chance to tour the city."
The ministers erupted into another round of objections.
"Sire! Even if you are close to Atem-dono, this is unwise. I can't fathom the scale of their entertainment programs, but surely one seat would suffice!"
"Moreover, your Majesty, the extent of invited guests is unclear. Nobility from other nations may not have the leisure to attend like we do. They likely wouldn't accept so readily."
"On top of that, attending personally could invite a host of complications!"
The ministers' concerns were reasonable—but Gazel ignored them completely.
"There's no issue. Atem simply has absolute confidence. You all remember him from his visit before, but he has changed completely since becoming a Demon Lord. This festival is a direct reflection of his character—precise, calculated, and daring. Eterna now commands formidable military might; many will be curious to see it firsthand. As Vaughn said, their accommodations are superb, designed to meet each visitor's needs. That is my interpretation."
Vaughn nodded emphatically. "Exactly. After ascending, Atem radiates authority. I'm also genuinely curious about the type of festival these people would host. Even without representing our nation, I'd attend personally."
He had already arranged for an invitation through Solarys, Sovereign of Wisdom, just for himself.
I won't be outdone either, Gazel thought. He knew most ministers would oppose attending personally, so he needed to persuade them without taking drastic measures.
"I will not attend merely as king, but as his senior, to oversee him personally in case other nations attempt to slight him. We must demonstrate that the friendliest nation to Eterna is Dwargon," Gazel declared. Slowly, some ministers began to grasp his true motive.
"I-indeed! We must be the faction closest to Atem, and show this clearly to other nations!"
"Hmm… I heard that Sarion has also begun seeking favor with Atem-dono after his ascension?"
"Then we must showcase our closeness to Lord Gazel. It will also serve to keep rival nations in check."
A faint, pleased smile crossed Gazel's face. He was about to refine his strategy further, when he decided:
"These are minor details. I cannot delay any longer. If we oppose his attendance, Sire will likely attend on his own anyway. It is far safer for us to join the festival as a united nation."
The elders from the senate rarely spoke on matters like this, yet now one of them stepped forward, delivering what amounted to an ultimatum to the bickering ministers. This elder, no stranger to the king's unpredictable actions—especially the time Gazel had slipped away using a body-double—had clearly been scarred by past events.
With the elder's words, the matter of attendance was finally settled.
I have a problem with that statement… Gazel thought, but at least this way, I get to attend the festival.
The conclusion was different from what he had anticipated, yet he would not argue further. Although slightly dismayed, he accepted it.
Dwargon would attend the invitation from Eterna as a nation.
As for the ministers, this outcome clashed with every expectation they had harbored—but it remained the official and final decision. Slowly, a new thought began to ripple through the chamber:
Then I will have to attend as well…
The atmosphere grew louder once more. Ministers, knights, and advisors began speaking over each other, each expressing a desire to accompany the king to the festival.
"I… I wish to attend alongside His Majesty! It would be an honor to witness Lord Atem's inauguration firsthand!" one of the younger knights exclaimed, practically bouncing with excitement.
"Your Majesty, I request permission to go as well! I would personally observe the military formations of Eterna, as this may be of strategic importance to our nation!" shouted another.
The ministers' arguments grew increasingly chaotic.
Gazel pinched the bridge of his nose, a faint smirk betraying his amusement. So many people want to follow me… as expected, curiosity and ambition always come first.
"Enough!" Gazel's voice boomed across the chamber, carrying the authority of a man who had faced monsters, armies, and gods alike. The room fell silent immediately, all eyes on him.
"I will select those who accompany me carefully. This is not a parade, nor a casual sightseeing trip. Atem is no ordinary lord—his insight and power are absolute. To attend his festival is to witness the might and wisdom of a Demon Lord who commands both respect and fear. Those who go must understand that," Gazel said, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the room.
Whispers ran through the ministers and knights. Many realized that this was not just a social event; it was a statement. The king's choice of companions would reflect Dwargon's priorities and its relationship with Eterna.
"I suggest—" began Vaughn, stepping forward cautiously, "we should prioritize those with experience in diplomacy, strategy, and combat. It is not only about showing presence; we must also be prepared for unforeseen incidents."
"Exactly," Gazel nodded. "Those who accompany me will act as both observers and representatives of our nation's strength. I will not tolerate recklessness or foolish enthusiasm."
As the elders, ministers, and knights absorbed Gazel's words, a tense yet excited anticipation filled the room. Each person silently evaluated their chances, eager to earn a place beside the king while understanding the weight of the responsibility.
Gazel let the silence stretch, his piercing gaze making more than one advisor rethink their application. Finally, he spoke again, the sound carrying the finality of a ruler's command:
"All who wish to attend must present their cases succinctly. Only those capable of both discretion and competence will be allowed. The rest… will remain behind to maintain order in our nation. This is not up for debate."
The room stiffened under his decree. Those who had hoped to ride on mere enthusiasm now had to prove their worth.
Gazel allowed a small, almost imperceptible smile. Let them argue, let them compete… this will show me who truly deserves to witness the rise of Atem, Sovereign of Eterna.
And with that, the selection process began, each petition carrying a mixture of ambition, pride, and genuine respect for the formidable Demon Lord. Gazel's challenge was not only to choose companions, but to prepare Dwargon for the political and military implications of attending a lord whose power could rival even the gods.