Multiverse's Holy Right

On the streets of Rome, a specially customized luxury car moved slowly. The leader of the "Bronze Black Cross," Paolo Blandelli, gazed at Erica seated beside him with a complex expression on his refined and gentle face. His voice was low as he spoke, "...Have you made your decision, Erica? This new king is different from Sir Salvatore—more akin to Marquis Voban or the Eastern leader. Staying by his side is no simple matter."

Erica was the only daughter of Paolo's elder brother, and the two were the last remaining blood relatives of the Blandelli family. For this niece of his, whose talent and brilliance were second to none, he had done everything in his power to protect her.

But Paolo also knew that Erica, with her strong-willed nature, would never be content to follow the path he had laid out for her. When the time came, she would inevitably step out from under his protection and walk alone down a path of uncertain future. And now, that time had arrived.

"This is a direct command from the new king. Even if I were unwilling, what could I do?"

Erica's tone made it seem as though she was being forced by Roy to take this step, yet her expression was brimming with fighting spirit—even a sense of eager anticipation, as if she were facing some formidable challenge. And she, Erica Blandelli, would undoubtedly emerge victorious.

"Please rest assured, Uncle! With my abilities, even if the new king is as ruthless and self-willed as Marquis Voban or the Eastern leader, I will surely earn his trust and favor. I simply need to be cautious in my daily conduct."

"...This is our best opportunity, Uncle! The new king has just ascended the throne and is in dire need of trusted, direct subordinates. Becoming his right hand at this moment will be an opportunity—for both me and the 'Bronze Black Cross.' The centuries-long struggle with the 'Copper Black Cross' can finally come to an end. Victory will belong to us!"

Erica's radiant beauty glowed with the charm of youth and the absolute confidence of a young woman. This demeanor secretly warmed Paolo's heart, and in his mind, he offered comfort to the spirit of his late brother—his daughter had grown into someone capable of standing on her own.

Seeing that Erica had her own convictions, Paolo chose not to dwell on the matter further. After a moment's thought, he posed a question, almost as a test: "...What are your thoughts on the new king and Sir Salvatore?"

"Sir Salvatore is not a qualified leader. His eyes see only the 'sword' and 'battle.' Two years ago, I met him just after he had successfully slain a heretic god. Though it may sound irreverent, there is truly something wrong with his mind."

Erica pondered before settling on this rather unflattering description of the Sword King.

"Precisely because Sir Salvatore's mind is consumed by battle and the sword, he is actually easier to deal with. He would never care about our 'betrayal'—at most, he would seek a duel with the new king. And because of his nature, even if we became his subordinates, we would gain little benefit—hardly even his protection."

"...But the new King is different. From the information and interactions we've had, the new King possesses strong 'desires.' Therefore, as long as we can please him, we will surely gain his protection—even expand the influence of our 『Bronze Black Cross』 in his name."

"Sir Salvatore doesn't understand human hearts, but the new King knows exactly what we need!"

Erica spoke with conviction, analyzing the situation thoroughly from the perspective of human nature.

Though Campiones are invincible to mortals, they are still human at their core. And as humans, they have their own interests and preferences. As long as we identify these correctly, we can coexist harmoniously with a Campione.

...

On the Tyrrhenian Sea along Italy's western coast, a luxurious cruise ship sailed across the horizon. Fish darted beneath the waves, seabirds cried overhead, and Roy sat in the opulent, spacious observation lounge enjoying his lunch while admiring the breathtaking ocean view through the surrounding glass walls.

The lounge was furnished with modern luxury, resembling a five-star hotel suite—complete with a mahogany desk, plush circular sofas, a large bed, a bar stocked with fine wines, and a massive LCD television mounted on the wall broadcasting programs.

Seated at the dining table, Roy savored tender, premium-grade steak with his knife and fork, seasoned with Italian white Alba truffles, indulging in the exquisite flavors on his palate.

He was a man who understood luxury. If given the means, he would never deny himself comfort. Now that he was a Campione, money had become utterly trivial, and Roy naturally sought to enjoy the most expensive and refined things the world had to offer.

In his previous life, Roy had been an ordinary man for over two decades—occasional indulgences were possible, but daily feasts were beyond reach. After transmigrating into the world of Toaru, his sixteen years there could only be described as austere. Merely having enough to eat was satisfaction enough; luxuries were unthinkable.

Now that the opportunity had arisen, Roy was determined to let his tongue and taste buds—deprived for sixteen years—experience true pleasure. He was no ascetic monk who shunned fine food and women.

Knock knock knock—

The sound of knocking came from the lounge door. Roy knew who it was. Setting down his utensils and wiping his mouth with a napkin, he called out, "...Come in."

The door opened, revealing a young woman clad in a crimson dress, as haughty and resplendent as a phoenix. She wore matching scarlet high heels, her delicate feet and calves adorned with white woolen stockings. Though only a glimpse of her slender legs was visible, it was enough to stir an urge to cradle them in one's palms.

Red attire could easily appear garish on most, but on Erika, it was entirely different—only enhancing her innate noble grace.

"Forgive the interruption during your meal, King."

Erica bowed slightly. Even disregarding his past life, Roy was still a young man in the prime of his vigor, and his gaze instinctively drifted toward the girl's neckline—where human hearts lay.

But Roy wasn't so easily overwhelmed by mere exposure. Withdrawing his gaze, he smiled and asked, "...What brings you here, Lady Erica?"

"We'll soon arrive at Ponza Island. According to our 'Seven Sisters' investigation, Metatron is currently on this island. I came to remind you to maintain optimal condition before battling a deity."

Erica spoke her suggestion with the solemnity of a steward reminding her master.

"Thank you for the reminder, Erica... Eating well before battle has been essential since ancient times. Would you care to join me for dinner, Lady Erica?"

Roy nodded slightly, accepting Erica's advice while extending an invitation.

"I'm honored by your offer, but as your exclusive knight, it wouldn't be proper for me to dine at the same table as my master."

Maintaining her elegant demeanor, Erica flashed a radiant smile as she responded.

"Knight? Hahaha, Lady Erica, I don't recall bestowing upon you the title of exclusive knight."

Roy chuckled as he rose from his chair, stepping closer until his gaze met Erica's sapphire-blue eyes that adorned her delicate features.

***

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