A Certain Multiverse's Holy Right

"Oh? Erica Blandelli, you propose atonement through service?"

Roy's gaze shifted from the silent, red-faced Liliana to Erica, his curiosity piqued by her boldness.

"Exactly so, my King," Erica replied confidently, her head still bowed low. "Rather than facing death, we would serve you far more effectively alive, bringing you the power and resources you need. Thus, I humbly beseech your mercy—to pardon the transgressions of the Bronze Black-Cross and forgive our disrespect."

The young magicians in the room could not help but admire Erica's bravery. They knew well her close friendship with Liliana, as well as the historic rivalry between the Bronze and Copper Black-Crosses. Despite these divides, Erica had put everything aside to plea for the survival of her friend's organization.

However, the more experienced magicians and leaders present understood Erica's deeper motives. Casting a glance at Paolo Blandelli, Erica's uncle and the head of the Copper Black-Cross, they envied him. He had nurtured a prodigy—an heir of unparalleled skill and cunning.

"Erica Blandelli, lift your head and speak to me directly."

At Roy's command, Erica raised her head without hesitation, meeting his gaze boldly. Her striking blue eyes radiated poise and pride, complemented by her exquisitely sculpted features. Her golden hair framed her face like sunlight, cascading against her pale, flawless skin. Even her open-collared dress seemed tailored to draw attention, subtly highlighting her confidence and allure.

"A personal question—how old are you?" Roy asked with sudden curiosity.

"My King, I am fourteen," she answered without faltering.

"Fourteen…" Roy muttered, his tone one of mild disbelief.

He recalled that Erica had been sixteen when the original Campione events unfolded in the story he barely remembered. Yet even at fourteen, she already carried the charm and sophistication of a much older woman, her intellect and charisma far surpassing her years.

The other magicians, overhearing this, felt compelled to suppress their reactions. Fourteen? Was that truly surprising? After all, this "King" before them was only sixteen. And yet, in his sixteen years, Roy had maneuvered with such precision and insight that even the most seasoned politicians would envy his cunning.

Roy had exploited their hesitation brilliantly. While the Seven Sisters deliberated on their next move, hoping to stall until Salvatore Doni, the King of Swords, returned from his expedition, Roy had struck preemptively. His unexpected arrival caught them off guard, putting them in a precarious position.

By accusing them of defying his authority, he left them no room to maneuver. To deny him now would give Roy the excuse to annihilate them completely. To submit, however, would bind them irrevocably to his cause.

Their pledge of loyalty to Roy would not be the vague allegiance offered to Salvatore. This oath would leave no room for retreat. Whether Roy triumphed or fell in his inevitable clash with the King of Swords, the Seven Sisters would have no choice but to remain loyal to him.

"Erica, you're remarkably clever for your age," Roy said with a faint smirk. "You feign risking yourself for the sake of the Bronze Black-Cross, but in truth, you've calculated every outcome. If I forgive them, they owe you a debt of gratitude. If I don't, you eliminate a rival with no personal loss. Am I wrong?

"Ah, and by stepping forward as the first to swear loyalty, you've secured the favor of your King. You and the Copper Black-Cross will reap the rewards, leveraging your 'first follower' status to rise above your peers—both in Italy and beyond."

Pausing, Roy leaned closer, his gaze piercing into Erica's confident mien. "Am I right, Erica Blandelli? Speak the truth—don't lie to me."

Erica hesitated, her usually sharp tongue failing her under Roy's intense, enigmatic gaze. Her carefully constructed argument faltered, and she lowered her head in reluctant admission.

"You see through everything, my King," she murmured. "I overstepped by attempting to predict your will. It was disrespectful of me. I await your punishment."

Liliana, still kneeling nearby, stared at her friend in shock. Just moments ago, she had been moved by Erica's seemingly selfless act of courage. Now, she realized it was all a carefully calculated ploy. Erica had even used the plight of the Bronze Black-Cross to her advantage.

Many younger magicians and knights present reeled in disbelief. The so-called noble knight was anything but; Erica Blandelli's mind was as sharp and cunning as her beauty was radiant.

Even Erica herself felt a flicker of genuine fear. Her schemes had been laid bare, and she worried that Roy might retaliate against her audacity.

"Punishment?" Roy mused, his lips curling into a smile. "No, Erica, there's no need for that. Throughout history, the best advisors are those who understand their King's will. Your foresight is commendable—but remember, there is a fine line between wisdom and overreach. Do not waste your talents on misplaced schemes."

Roy's words carried both warning and praise. His gaze lingered on Erica for a moment longer before turning to address the room.

"Now, my dear subjects, have you reached a decision?"

At his gesture, the petrification afflicting Diana Milito melted away, her form returning to normal.

Paolo Blandelli was the first to rise, placing a hand over his chest as he performed a knightly salute.

"The Copper Black-Cross pledges its loyalty. We acknowledge you as our liege and King."

One by one, the other leaders followed suit:

"The She-Wolf swears fealty…"

"The Capital of Lilies bows to you…"

"The Bronze Black-Cross pledges its undying loyalty…"

"The Eagle of the Blue Skies kneels…"

"The Olden Dame pledges…"

Within moments, six of the Seven Sisters had declared their allegiance. The seventh, absent from this meeting, would have no choice but to follow.

"Excellent," Roy declared, rising from his chair. His commanding presence filled the hall. "Your first task as my loyal subjects is simple: use every resource at your disposal to locate the Heretic God Metatron.

"Additionally, intensify your excavation efforts across Italy. I want all ancient relics and divine artifacts unearthed and cataloged."

Turning his attention back to Erica, he added, "Erica Blandelli, you have proven yourself both resourceful and interesting. Tomorrow, report to me at the Vatican. Serve me well, and you shall find the Copper Black-Cross favored above all others."

With a flourish of his crimson robe, Roy departed, his figure disappearing from the assembly hall.

The magicians and knights stood in respectful silence, watching their new King leave.

With the Seven Sisters now bound to his will and the Vatican firmly under his control, Roy had cemented his reign. He was, in every sense, the King of Italy.