On the bed was an old man, naked from the waist up. His hair was almost entirely white, and he looked to be over seventy years old. The old man appeared remarkably calm.
This was the Marquis of Milan, Alberto Azzo, founder of the Este Clan.
"Oh-ho, it seems something interesting has happened in Milan again. The master of Milan City is you now, is that right?" Marquis Azo stood up, completely unconcerned about being shirtless. He walked over to Eric and brazenly sized him up. "You look younger than twenty. Might I have the honor of hearing how you came to power? To be honest, I've become quite interested in these kinds of stories lately. It's one of my few remaining pastimes."
Marquis Azo laughed without restraint, his voice surprisingly robust.
"Conspiracy? Bribery? Or the usual spreading of seditious lies?"
Marquis Azo circled Eric, continuing to inspect him. "Or perhaps... seduction? You've got the looks for it."
Marquis Azo glanced to the side at Sforza, whom he recognized.
