The morning sun peeked over the edge of the Underworld's eternal twilight sky, casting golden shadows across the grand halls of the Albion estate. Despite the peaceful glow, Ryuji felt the tension in the air the moment he stepped into the main hall.
One of the butlers approached with a bow, his expression more serious than usual.
"Young Master Albion, a representative from the Sitri Clan has arrived. She claims to be an old friend of your parents… and insists on seeing you."
Ryuji arched an eyebrow. "Old friend, huh? Bring her in."
He had barely begun to understand the politics of devil society, but he already knew this visit wasn't a coincidence. The Sitri Clan was among the most respected noble houses—second only to the Gremorys in power and influence. A sudden visit after years of silence? That was calculated.
Moments later, the massive double doors opened.
She walked in gracefully, her footsteps light on the polished marble floor. Dressed in a dark blue formal coat lined with silver, her presence was calm yet sharp—like a still lake hiding dangerous depth.
She looked about Ryuji's age, perhaps a year older, with sapphire-blue eyes and long midnight hair tied in a loose ponytail. A sigil shimmered faintly on her collar—the unmistakable crest of House Sitri.
"Ryuji Albion," she said smoothly, stopping a few feet from him. "You've grown."
Ryuji tilted his head slightly. "And you are…?"
A soft chuckle escaped her lips. "How rude. We used to play together when we were toddlers. I'm Sona Sitri's cousin—Selena Sitri. My mother was close to yours before… well, before everything."
Ryuji's expression didn't change, but his mind was spinning. He'd read up on Sona and Serafall's family. Selena wasn't a name mentioned in any records. Which meant she was either a background piece… or someone deliberately kept hidden from public knowledge.
"Sorry," he said casually. "I guess losing your memory after a long nap does that to you."
Selena smirked. "Fair. Still, I'm glad you're awake. Your parents' estate has remained untouched for years. Most assumed you were lost to time like the rest of your bloodline."
"So, are you here to rekindle old friendships… or size me up?"
She didn't flinch. "Both."
There it was—honesty. Ryuji appreciated that.
"I don't bite," he said, motioning to the seating area near the fireplace. "Let's talk."
Moments Later – Lounge Room
The two sat across from one another on elegant velvet chairs. Tea was served, and for a brief moment, the room was filled only with the gentle clink of porcelain.
"You inherited the estate," Selena said, sipping gracefully. "That means your magical signature was finally accepted by the house. That alone would make the elders nervous."
"I take it people were waiting for the Albion line to die out completely?" Ryuji asked.
"Not everyone. Some wanted it gone. Others feared it. Your bloodline is… different."
The way she said it made his fingers twitch. He leaned forward, eyes sharp. "You're speaking from knowledge, not rumor."
She nodded. "The Albion family was rumored to be researching Fate Magic. Forbidden stuff. Magic that could rewrite outcomes, warp destiny, even challenge the cycle of reincarnation itself."
Ryuji blinked. His system had hinted at it—but hearing it confirmed from someone inside the noble circle was another thing entirely.
"No wonder no one talks about us," he muttered.
Selena studied him with quiet intensity. "If you do carry that blood, then you're a variable. A potential threat. Or… an incredible ally."
Ryuji leaned back, a slow grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. "And which one am I to you?"
Selena smirked again. "Too early to say. But I'm not here to fight you, if that's what you're worried about. In fact, I came with an offer."
That piqued his interest.
"My cousin, Sona, is building a peerage of her own. You're not part of the Rating Game system yet, but you will be, eventually. The Sitri Clan is always looking to secure future alliances with rising devils. If you're as strong as your blood suggests, your presence will tip the balance in any faction."
Ryuji crossed his arms, thoughtful. "So I'm a free agent with unknown potential and a mysterious family legacy. And you're extending an olive branch before anyone else has a chance."
She nodded. "Exactly."
He liked her. Smart, blunt, and two steps ahead. A rare combination.
"I'm not committing to anything yet," he said carefully. "But I don't mind staying in touch. You're a good read."
"And you're dangerous," she replied with a teasing tone. "But I like that."
As Selena stood to leave, she handed him a small, enchanted card etched with the Sitri family crest.
"Call on me if you ever need help navigating the noble court. There are wolves in every hallway, Ryuji Albion. But not all of them bite without reason."
With that, she turned and walked away, her presence fading like the last note of a violin.
Ryuji sat in silence, staring at the card.
A smile crept across his lips.
"Guess I just stepped onto the board."