Behind Michael, Miaomiao and Marcus straightened proudly, their forms adorned with ornate and gleaming accessories.
Their regal bearing was dazzling to behold.
The Sphinx was considered one of the most mysterious beings on the continent.
They were more than magical beasts—they possessed intelligence, unique spells, and their own social structure.
There was even a legend that said one had to pass three trials to beco a Sphinx's master.
And the dragon?
Though not as rare as a Sphinx, their power was no less formidable.
Most dragons lived in proud seclusion on the Isle of Dragons, and it was extrely rare for one to choose a master.
Sigmund emphasized the point.
"What do you think compelled such creatures to follow a young knight not yet even of full age? Clearly, they saw the makings of a hero."
Then ca the decisive blow:
"Michael is a man loved by all. He is trusted by both knights and mages, and he is the commander most respected by the soldiers."
And it was true.
Michael had earned overwhelming support from his troops by implenting a new military structure.
He had allowed them to study the divine beasts, supplied purified blood to the mage towers and high knights—becoming a figure of gratitude across many ranks.
"He fights alongside the soldiers, shares their burdens, and has always stood at the front lines," Sigmund concluded. "That is why I nominate Archduke Michael. Does anyone oppose ?"
The mont Sigmund finished speaking, a divine glow flared behind Miaomiao, while Marcus exhaled a small puff of fla.
The room fell into stunned silence.
Who would dare oppose such divine pressure filling the air?
And more importantly, there was no better candidate.
Grand Duke Maximilian, who might have qualified, had no choice but to stay silent—he owed Michael greatly for assistance during his civil war with Queen Dowager Guinevere.
The sa went for many others.
Now that Michael's connection to the Zark Trading Company was public knowledge, none would risk making him an enemy.
Even if he had practically revived the Xerxes Kingdom by force, it didn't matter—as long as it wasn't their territory being invaded.
For the smaller nations, all it ant was one more powerful figure to be cautious of—and they were well-practiced in the art of cautious diplomacy.
Michael's diplomatic, peaceable nature also played a major role in stifling opposition.
With the weight of Sigmund's praise behind him, Michael finally stood. His voice was modest.
"Thank you for the kind words. As Supre Commander of the Allied Forces, I swear to lead this war to victory."
He accepted the position without protest, taking a slow breath.
Then, in a steady, solemn voice, he began his speech.
"I understand that this war is not about my personal glory. We fight not for conquest, but to free the continent from the vile shadow of the Holy Nation of Radiance. This is our collective decision."
Everyone nodded.
Yes, we have not gathered to plunder. We are here for peace.
"Radiance has spent years weaving its web of sches across the continent. Countless civilians have starved, and nurous cities have burned under the false banner of holy war. Now, it is ti we returned the favor."
Many nodded grimly.
Those who had lost crops to locust plagues, only to buy back food from the Holy Nation at extortionate prices, forced bitter smiles.
Princess Astrid's eyes welled with tears as she rembered the people who had died horribly under the curse of the blood oath.
There wasn't a single country in the room that hadn't suffered.
Michael, sensing the swell of resolve in the room, pressed on.
"But I do not want this to be a war of revenge. This war must not be about destruction—it must be about creation. This is a war to build a new era."
He slowly swept his gaze across the hall.
Every king wore a serious expression now.
The ti had co to begin planning the first operation to consign the Holy Nation to the pages of history.
With a bright smile, Michael spoke again:
"As the first operation of this new era, I propose a campaign of public opinion."
"Public opinion warfare…?"
"I've never heard of that term before. What exactly is public opinion warfare?"
Michael looked around at those seated nearby.
The kings of various nations, gathered around a long table, exchanged confused glances amid the solemn atmosphere.
As expected, this world had yet to develop a proper system for managing public opinion during warti.
Though rumors might spread during territorial disputes or wars between nations, there was no structured approach akin to true public opinion warfare.
"I have a question for you all."
As Michael opened his mouth to speak, the room fell silent.
"Do you believe that victory in war is determined solely by military strength and tactics?"
Most of the monarchs showed puzzled expressions at the sudden question.
"Isn't that obvious?"
It was Romano II who responded.
"We are here to discuss the deploynt of forces, the maintenance of supply lines, and the strategies for battle."
"Indeed," Michael nodded, "but if military might alone guaranteed victory, the Radiant Holy Empire would not have lasted this long."
He slowly scanned the room before continuing.
"The most crucial elent in war is morale, and morale stems from the people's support. That's where the real issue lies. The Radiant Holy Empire is not just another country."
His voice dropped low, echoing through the chamber.
All eyes fixed on Michael, curiosity igniting in the monarchs' gazes.
"They have seized control of the masses through religion. Clergy have been dispatched across the continent, shaping public sentint. This is not rely a war—it is a battle for hearts and minds across the continent."
Sigmund's eyes glead as he leaned forward, an eagerness to assist Michael evident in his gaze.
"Public opinion warfare, you say? You've ntioned that term a few tis now. What exactly does it an?"
The other monarchs began murmuring among themselves.
For most, this was the first ti encountering such a concept.
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