Chapter 23: Another reason!
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"Let me clarify, Issei. While the Five Great Dragon Kings are indeed formidable, we are not invincible. A high-class Satan devil can still pose a significant challenge to a Dragon King, and the underworld houses many powerful devils. I prefer to maintain a cordial relationship with them, if only to avoid being sealed away or targeted by sacred gears. Sadly, many of our kind have suffered such fates. With our dwindling numbers, it is crucial for me to exercise caution and preserve our species," Tiamat explained with a sigh.
"Well, you should know that they're highly concerned about your presence at this school. One of those devil princesses even questioned me about why you and Vali are here. It seems quite reckless to me, not that I care," Issei remarked.
Tiamat nonchalantly shrugged, "I can imagine their frustration. Those spoiled little brats are probably upset that they can't simply force me out of their territory without initiating a major conflict. I've never had much fondness for the current Maou and their arrogant siblings and heirs. While the Astaroth Clan is tolerable, I'm not particularly fond of the Gremory or Sitri houses. They've likely already informed my brother, Sirzechs, of my presence here."
"So, you maintain good relations with the ruling devil clans, yet you align yourself with a faction that opposes them?" Issei inquired, seeking clarity.
"I've only recently freed myself from the need to please them. With Vali and Ophis supporting me, I no longer feel obligated to follow Ajuka's or any of the Maou's commands," Tiamat explained, her tone distant.
"Vali must be incredibly powerful if you're willing to choose her over the Maou," Issei remarked, acknowledging Vali's strength.
Tiamat nodded, "Indeed, Vali possesses tremendous power. If she desired, she could easily become a Satan."
Curiosity piqued, Issei pressed further, "So, what is it that you desire? Are you part of the Khaos Brigade solely because Ophis leads it, or is there more to your involvement? Are you tired of being controlled by devils?"
Tiamat casually shrugged, "It's something along those lines. Vali recruited me and made a promise to assist me with a personal matter. At first, I didn't believe her, but then..."
Intrigued, Issei prompted, "Then what happened?"
Tiamat chuckled lightly, "Ahaha...it's nothing, really. Vali just caught me off guard. When I discovered that her faction supported Ophis, I realized it was a better path to follow than the current Maou."
"There's something that has been bothering me. What does Ophis actually desire, and why has she taken the lead in your faction? It seems unlikely for her to involve herself in a conflict like this," Issei asked, his tone reflecting his genuine curiosity.
With a sigh, the blue-haired dragon responded, "You've asked us this before, haven't you? Ophis is a complex entity...it's something you should inquire about directly from her. Given that she was aware of your presence here, I'm certain she will reveal her intentions to you in due time."
"For how long do you and Vali plan on attending school here? And how is your recruiting progressing?" Issei inquired.
Tiamat shrugged, "It's hard to say...politics can be slow and tedious. Currently, we don't have much else to do besides recruiting, and so far, you're the only one we've deemed worthwhile."
"I appreciate the sentiment, but I still won't be joining you," Issei stated dryly.
"Understood...we also have another purpose for remaining in this town," Tiamat said with a serious tone.
"What could that be?" Issei questioned.
Tiamat shook her head, "I cannot disclose everything, Issei...not unless you become one of us. It's nothing personal."
"Fair enough," Issei sighed.
As the bell rang, capturing their attention, Issei stood up. "Well, I'm heading back to class. Are you coming?"
"I'll join you shortly," Tiamat replied as Issei made his way back inside and descended the stairs.
Later that day...
After enduring a long and tiresome school day, Issei felt a sense of anticipation for seeing Serafall later.
As he and Tiamat descended the stairs together, they were confronted by someone unexpected, Saji. However, he appeared more serious than angry, as if he had something important to discuss.
Tiamat glanced at Saji, then at Issei, and shook her head dismissively.
Issei crossed his arms, a hint of curiosity in his expression. "What do you need?"
"Can we talk...in private?" Saji asked with a touch of respectfulness.
Tiamat scoffed and walked past them, stating, "I'll see you later, Issei. Have a good weekend. Maybe I'll drop by at some point."
"See you, Tiamat," Issei replied, waving goodbye.
Once Tiamat was out of sight, Issei focused his attention back on Saji. "You want to talk to me privately? What could you possibly have to say?"
"Please, man...just hear me out?" Saji requested, glancing around at the curious onlookers who had taken notice of their conversation.
Sighing, the Sekiryuutei relented. "Alright, lead the way."
Saji led Issei outside to a more secluded area before turning to face him. His determined gaze met Issei's as he began to speak.
"First, I want to apologize for my behavior the other day. I tend to get carried away when it comes to the President. She's genuinely a good person and doesn't deserve any disrespect," Saji started.
Issei uncrossed his arms, listening attentively. "Respect isn't automatically granted; it must be earned. Nevertheless, I hold no grudge against her."
"She mentioned that she tried to recruit you into our peerage. I wasn't surprised by your refusal, but truth be told, I doubt you would have been able to join anyway," Saji continued.
Curious, Issei inquired, "Why is that?"
"Her peerage is already filled, except for the pawn positions. A high-class devil's peerage typically consists of eight Evil Pieces for pawns, and I occupy four of them. Considering your strength surpasses mine by far, the remaining four wouldn't have been sufficient to make you a devil," Saji explained in detail.
Issei glanced at his watch, growing impatient. "Is there a point to all this?"
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