Chapter 281: Secure the Throne

Even though the odd king of Arcadia had said that he was now the ruler, Tristan was sure it would not be that easy for him to securely sit at the throne. The process was totally not like what Callan just did: announcing he was the ruler. He believed it would be far more complicated.

In Tristan's book, a mere verbal promise couldn't be taken seriously, especially  when it came to this kind of important matter that could affect the lives of hundreds of thousands of people.

Therefore, heading as soon as possible toward the capital of Arcadia was certainly a sound choice and just common sense altogether.

At the moment, Tristan couldn't help but think that wouldn't it be amazing to come to the capital with ten thousand strong orcs at his back? Surely, no one would dare to mess with him when they saw the horizon completely crowded by his army.

Unfortunately, there was someone who vehemently opposed the idea.

"No! Please, Your Majesty. This is a very bad idea!" said Tobias, the man who seemed to have a quirk to comment on everything.

To be honest, Tristan could actually agree with him in this matter. However cool it might be, bringing the horde to the capital was definitely not a reliable plan. Not taking into account the chaos they might cause with the Arcadian citizens who definitely disliked the green creatures, it would also waste the time he doesn't have. It will take days, even weeks to reach the capital given how large their army was.

The idea was eventually altered quickly, and then it was settled that Tristan would only bring his closest confidants to the capital.

Naturally, Serene became his first choice to accompany him in the journey. As the princess of Vanyar Kingdom and cousin to the previous king, she would certainly be helpful.

As for the second candidate, it seemed that he didn't need to think much as Hererra quickly squirmed herself into the entourage. She firmly opposed the idea of parting with him, so the sorcerer would tag along as well.

Next, Tristan thought about bringing one of the orcs in his entourage as the representative of the hordes. However, he hesitated between Karra and Ghral. 

Eventually, he decided to bring Ghral. Karra seemed to be a better option, but he needed someone he could trust and smart enough to handle the hordes while he was gone. Karra completely fit that requirement.

On the other hand, Ghral would certainly bring a 'better' impression to whoever he would find in the capital. 

Lastly, Tristan's eyes wandered around the room before stopping right where Uriel was.

"Uriel, you are coming with me!" said Tristan with a smirk on his face.

"W-What!? ..Why?! No! No thanks!" Uriel stuttered as he replied. "I am fine here. You will also need someone to manage the town. In addition, I am still the mayor of the town of Erantell. I need to return and take care of them because I've been away far too long."

It was apparent that Uriel was really nervous as he said those words. This was normal though, as his mind was still comprehending the fact that Tristan was now the king of Arcadia. As for the reason for his refusal, he would definitely prefer a quiet life in the town that he understood well than an unknown journey to the capital.

Unfortunately, it seemed that Tristan was determined not to let him have his way. "No, Uriel, you are coming with me." he said in a calm voice, "Do you think you can refuse me?"

The fat elf let out a long and deep sigh as he knew he could only accept his fate. The other party could even find a way to force him to do his biddings when he was still a nobody, let alone now that he was the king. 

Right now, Uriel believed he could kiss his peaceful life goodbye.

Tristan smiled faintly when he saw the man's lifeless gaze. He knew he would need someone he could trust to manage all the complicated administration waiting for him in the capital, and who else was better suited for the job than Uriel.

"But who are you going to appoint in charge of Caerleon during your absence?" Uriel quickly said, hope returned to his eyes. It seemed that the man still hoped Tristan would let himself stay.

Tristan's eyes roamed the room once more before finally finding his best choice. Without the slightest hesitation, he pointed his finger at the person.

Seeing that he was being pointed at, the man's face immediately lost all color.

"Seth, you are in charge now."

"..." Uriel was completely speechless at how nonchalant Tristan was.

"Me…?" said Seth with an expression of disbelief. "Really?"

Silence enveloped the room as everyone didn't know what to say. They were all shocked by the unexpected development. On the other hand, it took Seth a few seconds to digest what had just happened.

"Don't worry, Seth. You have Gazef and Karra to help you." Tristan said. "You will be fine."

Moments later, everyone in the room could see a grin forming on Seth's face. The man subconsciously celebrated!

Deep in his heart, he was crying with joy. Apparently, it was true that Tristan thought of him as a friend - or at least that was what he had in mind at the moment.

All of a sudden, Seth's disposition turned serious and loudly said, "Sir, Yes Sir- I mean, Yes, My King! I accept your decree!"

Tristan knew that with the city basically already under his control, there won't be much for him to do. He just needed to appoint someone he could rely on to be the one in charge. 

Seeing Seth who was almost lost in happiness, Tristan quickly reminded the man that the most important thing he needed to do was to make sure the ten thousand orcs were well fed. He also needed to make sure that the orcs and Caerleon's citizens don't kill each other.

Tristan's words brought Seth out of his reverie as he turned pale once again. He finally realized that Tristan just gave him an important responsibility.

Ultimately, with the addition of Astrid, there were five people who would accompany Tristan to the capital.

The group walked towards the north gate and boarded the flying boat that was parked there while being escorted by the Kingsblade. The moment they entered the ship, a dark-skinned lady welcomed Tristan's group with a smile.

"An outlander who becomes the king; how amazing. Welcome aboard, My King." said Zoe, the co-pilot of the flying ship Firefly, with a smile.

The Firefly quickly took off and headed towards the capital.

With his eyes closed and his arms crossed, Tristan couldn't wait to see his little sister again.