The monarchs present immediately looked toward Baden and the Grand Duke of Bavaria with both envy and astonishment.
Envy, because being elevated to a kingdom was not merely a grander title—it meant a tremendous boost in international standing and national prestige. It could also raise the people's morale, attract more capital, and spur economic prosperity.
Yet becoming a kingdom was by no means simple. On the surface, the Holy See confirmed a nation's elevation, but the real decision rested in the hands of Europe's great powers. Only with the endorsement of enough powerful nations would the Holy See dare approve a country's application for elevation.
And for the newly crowned King himself, it was undoubtedly a monumental honor and achievement worthy of being recorded in history.
Back then, Brandenburg had provided the Holy Roman Emperor with decisive military support during the war, and only then had it been elevated into the Prussia Kingdom. After that, Prussia's development entered the fast lane, surpassing every Holy Roman State in one stroke and becoming a class of its own.
Who wouldn't want to become a great power like Prussia?
Joseph raised both arms at the right moment and called out, "Congratulations to His Majesty Frederick and His Majesty Theodore. May God forever bless you!"
Most of the monarchs immediately put on radiant smiles and offered the two their congratulations with impeccable etiquette.
After a moment, as the hall gradually quieted, Joseph continued, "In truth, many nations have long suffered under Vienna's suppression, yet possess the strength to become kingdoms."
He found two figures in the crowd. "For example, His Majesty Ludwig X and His Majesty Eugen."
They were the Earl of Hesse-Darmstadt and the Count of Württemberg.
The two immediately grew tense at his words.
Being a King was not so easy, either.