Chapter 11: Erica's Thoughts
The "Lili" the girl mentioned was, naturally, Liliana Kranjcar—the Knight-Maiden of the Italian magic association [Bronze Black Cross] who had already sworn fealty to Shirou.
Though they were close friends, their relationship was also one of rivalry due to the long-standing hostility between their respective organizations. In the past, because of Liliana's perpetually serious and earnest personality, Erica would often tease her. Seeing Liliana's face flush as she gnashed her teeth in helpless frustration gave Erica an indescribable sense of excitement.
However, things had changed. Liliana had beaten her to the punch by swearing fealty to a newly ascended Devil King.
Following this, the [Bronze Black Cross], now under the protection of a Devil King, would undoubtedly flaunt their newfound status directly in the face of Erica's association, the [Copper Black Cross]. It was precisely because of this that the Commander of the [Copper Black Cross]—Erica's uncle, Paolo Blandelli—had summoned her urgently.
Gazing at the detached villa ahead, Erica took a deep breath and quickened her pace. The villa had three floors, and because it was built against a mountain, each floor offered a unique view.
Passing through the main gate, she walked along a cobblestone path lined with stone benches displaying various potted plants and penjing, a sight that was quite pleasing to the eye. At the end of the path, a turn to the left revealed a moon gate, which led into the courtyard of the first floor.
Her uncle, Paolo Blandelli, was currently waiting on the third floor. Erica didn't waste time admiring the courtyard; she headed straight up the stairs. The third floor's construction differed entirely from the lower levels—a fusion of Chinese and Western styles. The foundational charm of Chinese aesthetics complemented Western architectural motifs and details, creating a space that was not only aesthetically pleasing but also comfortable and close to nature. The layout evoked the feeling of a traditional Chinese courtyard house, providing a refined and comfortable visual experience.
Beneath the magnificent chandeliers on the ceiling, the orange glow made the great hall as bright as day, even at night.
"You've arrived, Erica."
The middle-aged man sitting at the head of the room possessed a physique comparable to the Statue of David. Though nearly forty, he remained as active as a youth. He was tall and strong, with an energy that surpassed many younger men, yet his sharp, chiseled face gave off an air of profound intellect.
Paolo Blandelli was Erica's uncle and her only remaining blood relative. As a man who shared the title of Italy's greatest knight alongside Salvatore Doni, he held the prestigious titles of "Knight of the Highest Order" and "Crimson Devil."
"Yes, Uncle. Did you summon me urgently because of the Devil King born in Rome—the seventh 'Campione'?" Erica asked immediately.
"That is indeed the primary reason," Paolo nodded.
Erica took on a puzzled expression. "In that case, shouldn't we be seeking an audience with the newly born King? Why summon me here for a private discussion?"
Paolo gave a slight smile and explained gently, "As I said, the main reason is the new King in Rome, but there is something else besides that."
Noticing Erica's confused look, Paolo continued: "Because a new King has emerged, we know nothing about him. I sent people to investigate before you arrived, but no one can discover where this 'King' came from. To address this, Italy's 'Seven Sisters' have decided to convene a meeting to better understand our new King."
"'Seven Sisters'... you mean the 'Alliance Conference' that takes place every time a Devil King is born?" Erica was brilliant; hearing the name of the alliance allowed her to immediately deduce the true intent of the meeting.
"So, Uncle, do you intend to choose between this new 'King' and the 'King of Swords,' Salvatore Doni?"
A look of satisfaction appeared on Paolo's face at her analysis. "You guessed correctly. Although both [Copper Black Cross] and [Bronze Black Cross] belong to the 'Seven Sisters Alliance,' we have been rivals for centuries. We cannot share fealty to the same 'King' with the [Bronze Black Cross]. Therefore, finding an alternative path is our best choice."
Erica nodded in realization. "I see."
Because she and Liliana were secret friends despite their rival associations, they were both best friends and competitors. If possible, Erica wished for the two organizations to cease their hostilities so she could interact with Liliana openly, rather than in secret. However, she knew she lacked the power to change the status quo, so she kept that wish buried deep in her heart.
Although the "Divine Authority" of this new Devil King had not yet been revealed, everyone knew that once someone became a "Campione," their power far exceeded mortal reach. In this world, anyone aware of their existence has heard the sayings passed down through ancient texts:
A Campione—a Godslayer—is a Lord. Because he can slaughter the gods of heaven and seize their supreme power! A Campione—a Godslayer—is an Overlord. Because he can grasp and wield the Authorities of gods, dominating everyone on earth! A Campione—a Godslayer—is a Devil King. Because no mortal living on earth has the power to resist him!
The world was in upheaval due to the birth of the seventh Devil King, but at this moment, the new "King" was leisurely enjoying a hot spring.
"Ah... how refreshing..."
Shirou was bathing in a private villa in Naples, Italy. For him, a soak after a major battle was pure bliss.
"Mm... the trivial matters of the magic associations don't matter. It's about time I started looking for the next Heretic God."
Shirou had come to this world to increase his strength; he cared for little else. Whatever the magic associations were planning was irrelevant to him, as long as they remained obedient and didn't bother him with their own agendas.
After soaking for over half an hour, Shirou changed into a fresh set of clothes brought by a maid. The maid serving him was named Karen Jankulovski. Whether it was her beautiful appearance or her exceptional skill, it was clear that this attendant—who originally belonged to Liliana—was highly capable.
He wore a white tailcoat with matching pure white trousers, which accentuated his tall, upright figure. Shirou looked at himself in the floor-length mirror, brushed back his red hair which slightly obscured his eyes, and headed toward the bedroom.
Just before entering, Shirou turned to Karen.
"While I am resting, do not let anyone disturb me. Understood?"
Perhaps because it was her first time serving a Devil King, the girl in the blue-and-white maid outfit seemed a bit stiff. Her long blue-green hair was draped over her shoulders, and her legs in black stockings shifted slightly. She gently lifted the corners of her skirt and bowed to Shirou.
"Yes! King Orihara."
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