D&D 5E (2024) Preferences in a New Official 5.5e Specific Setting

[Maxperson]

Gate implies a very high level spell.

Elric mostly does lower level stuff whose summoned creatures are less able or less willing,
like a "cat god" (Fiend Tabaxi), thus he knows different specific rituals (and preferred bribes) to get different specific creatures to assist. It is a lamp-shaded demonology. Summon and conjure spells represent the concept well enough.

To reflavor a High Elf for the royal family works well enough. Alternatively, use one of the Human two background feats to grant magical education.

Elric calls on literal gods who can affect entire universes with his knowledge and bargains his kin made. He calls on far more than any D&D spell can represent, even Gate.