Round Table

"There's really no need to trouble Uncle Anno," Kay said with a confident smile. "It's just a war between small nations; I can sweep them aside with fifty knights and a thousand infantry."

King Arthur glanced at his foster brother and pondered for a moment. "Indeed. Then you shall lead the expedition. This is the first war to support a vassal state since we unified Britain, so try to make a good impression."

"No problem." He paused after speaking. "I'll also take a look at that princess named Guinevere to see if she's pretty enough to be worthy of you."

King Arthur's face flushed imperceptibly before he returned to his serious expression. "Let's set aside the matter of marriage and supplies for now. The primary purpose of this expedition is to demonstrate the benevolence of Britain; the reward is merely secondary. Sir Kay, I hope you keep that in mind."

With that topic concluded and the group having discussed other matters for a while, King Arthur brought up a new idea.

"Everyone, I have a thought." King Arthur's not-so-tall frame was nestled into the sofa. "I feel the current efficiency of our deliberations is still too slow."

Merlin, who had been resting with his eyes closed, opened them with a smile. "And what idea does the King have?"

King Arthur nodded. "If there were a table where my knights could all sit around in a circle, where everyone could speak without the constraints of status, I imagine it would make our discussions much more convenient."

Anno was lost in thought; this concept was something the King, himself, and Merlin had already discussed in advance.

Lamorak frowned. "But then, your authority as King would not be reflected."

Agravain also spoke up. "I actually think this method is quite good. As for the King's authority, I believe it can be resolved this way."

Everyone's gaze gathered on Agravain.

Agravain took a deep breath. "First, only knights recognized by the King may sit at this table to deliberate." As he said this, he glanced at Merlin.

Merlin smiled and waved his hand. "I act more as the King's tutor and magician; you need not concern yourselves with me."

King Arthur nodded in agreement.

Agravain continued, "When deliberating at this table, one person initiates a topic, and the others need only express 'agree,' 'oppose,' or 'abstain'."

Lancelot exclaimed in admiration, "This would indeed greatly increase the efficiency of our discussions. As long as the majority of knights agree, the motion passes, and if many oppose, we can make other plans. Sir Agravain, your idea is impressive."

Agravain did not show pride, merely nodding toward Lancelot.

Pindo, the invisible man, also voiced his opinion. "But wouldn't the King's authority still fail to manifest this way?"

Agravain held up a finger. "Of course. To preserve the King's authority, the most important point is that the King may veto any motion, regardless of the number of votes."

Once these words were spoken, everyone fell silent.

Finally, King Arthur clapped his hands with a smile. "Sir Agravain, you truly live up to Sir Anno's assessment of you. Few in Britain can match your meticulousness."

While everyone was laughing and socializing during the meeting, Anno stared blankly around the room.

Watching this harmonious scene, a faint smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.

Merlin sighed with a smile.

The most legendary object of this era was finally about to be born.

The Round Table—possessing the concept of the "gathering place of heroes."