Chapter 21: A Satanical Offer (II)
Slowly, Sirzechs slid a clear glass over, filling it with a bottle of sanguine red wine.
"You might want to have a drink while you mull this over," he suggested.
"Don't mind if I do, Lord Lucifer."
Candidly, I couldn't agree more with the kind gesture. Serafall had just finished laying out the proposal she had cooked up alongside him, and it definitely wasn't one I was expecting to receive today—or ever, to be honest.
Then again, this was a meeting between a mere High Class Devil such as myself and the Satans Lucifer and Leviathan. I should've expected an extraordinary revelation from an extraordinary circumstance.
I languidly raised the glass to my mouth, indifferent to the possibility of my judgment becoming impaired by virtue of alcohol consumption. After what these two had just disclosed to me, my mind's far too awake to succumb to inebriation.
Put simply, I've been offered the role of a "Guardian." Specifically for Sona Sitri and Rias Gremory, the little sisters of the Satans sat on either side of me.
Sebastian's hunch about sending Rias to the human world turned out to be right after all, it's an effort to delay the wedding arrangement between her and the rooster. Orchestrated by none other than the Satan Lucifer himself, with the help of his mother—a woman by the name of Venelana Gremory.
Somehow, Rias' father, Zeoticus Gremory, had the intrepidity to organize such a betrothal without the prior knowledge of his family. Now, had it been any other family, the Patriarch would be free to make such a decision regardless of what those around him wished.
However, Zeoticus is no Sebastian. When you aren't the strongest in your active bloodline, you ought to think twice about making choices on behalf of someone they deeply care for.
To think the Bael Clan of all families would marry a daughter of theirs to such a blithering fool, consider me thoroughly appalled. I understand why Sebastian thinks so little of him, as much as I hate to be on the same wavelength as the old fogey.
The plan is to enforce a term stating that Rias Gremory doesn't need to make good on the wedding until she's graduated from human university, but both myself and Sirzechs are confident that the Phenex Clan won't just sit by and allow the marriage to be put off.
They will try to accelerate the marriage, probably within a few months' time, perhaps even less, depending on how eager they are to solidify a relationship with the Gremory Clan.
Once that happens, Sirzechs plans to enforce a clause preventing the marriage from going forward—unless the rooster can defeat her in an unofficial Rating Game.
That's where I come in.
It's no secret that I've brawled the rooster more times than anyone else in the Underworld, furthermore, I may or may not have amassed some information on his peerage, beyond the general knowledge of its flagrant, perverted nature.
Sirzechs wishes for me to use that knowledge to train Rias and her peerage, in order to give them the best shot at beating him.
Honestly, I'm not sure how feasible that is for several reasons.
Firstly, there's the question of time. Neither of us knows precisely how long the Phenex Clan will wait before making their move, which will make it exceedingly difficult to plan a regiment for her without an accurate time period to plan said regiment around.
Secondly, I might know how to use my abilities to beat the rooster. But I can't say the same for Rias, who uses the Power of Destruction, and much less her peerage, whose names I don't even know. There's no guarantee that the training I provide will be as practical as he hopes.
Thirdly, the fact that Sirzechs isn't already confident in Rias' ability to win is quite concerning. She's supposed to be the sister of the Satan Lucifer, the fact that he believes the rooster of all people can trouble her is beyond distressing.
I know it's none of my concern, but are they sure they raised her properly? The rooster's nothing like the shining star that is his eldest brother, Ruval Phenex. A Clan Trait that's said to annihilate matter itself should make quick work of him.
Even if he can last a little longer with his Immortality, wiping out his peerage should be as easy as a flick of the wrist for someone with such a revered power.
Sigh.
Perhaps I'm being overly inconsiderate. Sirzechs and Rias both share the same blood, but applying the same logic that I do for the difference between the rooster and Ruval. It's highly possible that the same blood doesn't equate to equal talent for them.
At the very least, I hope the mentality difference isn't the same.
I'm also quite privileged, since I possess two Clan Traits in one body.
And in all fairness, I haven't even met the girl yet. I should wise up a little and tone down the judgmental side of me.
A side that I probably inherited from Martha.
Then there's Sona Sitri.
She has no special arrangements that require assistance, so fortunately, I won't be managing two fronts at once.
All I'd need to do is keep her safe from any external threats residing up above, for example, Exorcists sent by the Church. Or possible Fallen Angel activity, which Serafall informed me has been on an upward rise in recent history.
Something about Sacred Gears? Fancy weapons given to humans by the Biblical God, which I'll research at another time.
The whole basis for this offer was to grant me "freedom" from the imprisoning nature of my family. The Foreign Affairs thing is just a cover to grant me political immunity from any of their attempts to keep me in the Underworld.
After all, not even they have the power to resist the backing of two Satans at the same time.
I'll admit, being able to move around without chains entrapping me around the clock would be beneficial to my goal—which Serafall and Sirzechs appear to have misinterpreted as a desire to sever ties with my house completely. However, I don't feel compelled to disclose anything to them unless they try to pressure me into doing so.
Gotta keep my cards close to my chest and all.
Still, I'm not too sure about accepting this deal.
The "reward" they're giving me is just too convenient in their favour. Truth be told, it feels like I'm being made to work for free here.
I respect their strength, but I'm not about to allow myself to be taken advantage of, especially by people who could never comprehend my perspective on the matter.
Besides, I don't even fully understand this deal in the first place.
"Why me? There are plenty of devils who are much, much stronger than I that you could approach in your position. I don't see why you'd rather entrust a secluded youngster such as myself with the protection of your siblings, who you seem to care a great deal about."
"That's the whole point, you're a youngster." Serafall began. "If we bring anyone outside of your generation into the fold, then isolating this situation within the bubble we wish for it to be contained in will prove impossible. We might be Satans, but there are lines that even we cannot cross without facing repercussions."
Sirzechs nodded his shared concern. "Furthermore, involving the older generation would give Sebastian and Martha a foothold to counter our political backing. I doubt that's something either of us wishes for."
"No, I suppose it isn't," I affirmed while scratching my chin.
It seems they've really thought this through. Rias Gremory. Sona Sitri. You're quite blessed to have such caring older siblings. I hope you're appreciating them as much as you should be.
Family is important above all else.
"Then allow me to rephrase my question. Within my generation, why me specifically?"
"Aside from your knowledge of Riser Phenex and his peerage?" Sirzechs lifted a brow, to which I nodded affirmatively. "It's simple, it's because of your strength. Among your generation, only you and Sairaorg Bael have begun to break through to the realm of Ultimate Class. With Riser Phenex as a semi-close third."
Heh, and I wonder who's responsible for the rooster's progress?
Oh wait, it's this guy!
"That's quite the compliment," I replied in a plain, noticeably uninterested tone.
Ultimate Class didn't mean anything to me. Even once I reach that stage, the monsters I call parents will still be out of reach for me. If I ever want to catch up, I'll need to go beyond even that threshold.
"The best compliments are often grounded in truth," Serafall smiled warmly. "Sairaorg Bael might be powerful, but adding him to the equation also means we'll need to deal with this deeply bothersome ancestor."
"My father told me much about Zekram Bael. Most of his words were that of caution."
"Sebastian was wise to do so," Sirzechs remarked approvingly, part of me feeling as if he was familiar with the man to a greater degree than I presumed. "But that's a story for another time. Forthwith, I'd like to hear about your thoughts on the offer."
I clasped my hands together, my look pensive. "I have a few questions."
"Please, ask away."
"When exactly are they departing for the human world?" I've still got my awakening ceremony and the possible obtainment of my Evil Pieces if all goes well, awaiting me. I can't afford to let that go.
"A month from now."
Of course.
"Oh my, how convenient. That's precisely when my ceremony's happening." I said, my voice flat as a board.
They were meticulous about every detail of this plan.
"Really? What a coincidence! ☆" Serafall covered her mouth, her eyes widening. "I guess this means you'll be able to plan around the arrangement without alerting your parents beforehand, how fortunate! ☆"
"Serafall. Some professionalism, please." Sirzechs shook his head in chagrin.
"What's the big deal? Al-chan isn't as stuck up as his Mama! ☆ Isn't that right? ☆"
I sighed, deciding that I neededto vent a little bit of my frustration.
"Lord Lucifer. Lady Leviathan. I understand that you probably have a well-founded intelligence network, but please don't pretend actually to understand the kind of people my parents are. Even if one of them has divulged from their old self." I boldly proclaimed, resting my palm against my temple and exhaling.
Evidently, they were taken aback by the boldness it took someone of my meager standing to scold the likes of them.
Nonetheless, there are just some things I'd rather people keep to themselves around me.
"As for my second question, what exactly am I getting in return here? I hope you don't truly believe that I'll accept my freedom as my sole reward. If that's the case, then I'm afraid you're sorely mistaken."
"Tsk! Tsk! Tsk!" Serafall rhythmically wagged her index finger from side to side. "Fret not Al-chan! ☆ Levi-tan would never try to swindle a cutie such as yourself! ☆"
"What Serafall is trying to say is that we've prepared ample rewards in exchange for your services." He pulled out a sealed envelope with the emblem of a tree described on the marker. "I presume you're aware of how the Familiar Forest rotation operates?"
My eyes lit up in immediate understanding.
"I am."
The Familiar Forest, as the name implies, is a region where devils go to find their helpful little companions. Capable of serving a wide array of functions, whether it's offense, defense, healing, or reconnaissance. The list of species went on and on.
However, access to the forest is regulated by a "rotation." Noble families are given specific periods throughout the year for when they are allowed to enter, doing so without abiding by that regulation results in heavy punishments, none of which they're willing to pay for.
Furthermore, illegally obtained familiars are confiscated without question.
"In this envelope is a talisman, tearing it will grant you immediate authorized entry into the forest. Regardless of when you choose to do so." He handed the envelope to me, which I carefully stored in my coat. "I'd recommend you use it wisely."
"I will. Is that all?"
Martha once taught me that a negotiation isn't over until it's over. I shouldn't express any satisfaction until I've extracted everything I can.
It's ironic, I'm using her teachings in a manner that involves me opposing her wishes.
"My goodness Al-chan! ☆ You're so demanding! ☆" She playfully cupped the sides of her face, feigning an expression of bewilderment. "Granted, there is one more reward we have prepared for you. Or more accurately, one that I prepared—it'll make Sirzechs' reward look like candy in comparison."
I looked at him with a questioning gaze, shocked to receive a face that conveyed admittance in return.
Serafall proceeded to pull out a vial.
Ba-dump!
It was filled three-quarters of the way with a viscous, luminescent dark blue sludge.
Ba-dump! Ba-dump!
I could feel my pupils dilate as I looked upon it, the pace of my heartbeat quickening second by second. Saliva started to build up in my mouth as if I were turning into a hungry beast.
Ba-dump! Ba-dump! Ba-dump!
And even though it was still sealed by a cap, I could somehow smell its pungent odour shifting through my nostrils. A smell that was nothing short of intoxicating. Like a five-star Michelin meal had been laid out before me.
I didn't know what it was. But I know I just had to have it. I needed to consume it.
I desired it. I yearned for it more than anything I ever had before.
"That's about the reaction I'd expect from a Buné." Serafall giggled. "This is Tiamat's blood."
Tiamat?
The Tiamat?
The Chaos Karma Dragon?
The strongest among all five Dragon Kings?
That Tiamat?
Impossible.
"We understand that your family has a covenant with Tannin in exchange for his blood. While he is by no stretch of the imagination a weakling, his strength doesn't compare to Tiamat's. Besides, his blood became diluted when he turned into a devil. The concentration doesn't even begin to hold up in comparison."
Of course I know that! You don't need to tell me!
Shit.
Now she's brought up such a resource, the situation has undergone a drastic change.
If I could consume Tiamat's blood instead of Tannin's, then climbing up to Sebastian's level might become more attainable than I thought.
I'm not just being offered breathing room anymore, I'm being provided that and a monumental strength boost. Selvaro would probably roll in his grave if I denied such a boon.
Naturally, the Familiar Forest trip is a nice cherry on top.
This could be it! The solution I've been looking for! Delivered unto me in satanic wrapping.
"Well?" She held the vial out towards me, my desire burning up even further.
Don't be rash Alduin, think this through. Use that "emotional control" Sebastian kept trying to hammer into you.
"Hold onto it for the time being. If I can sense it, then Sebastian will too." It took every ounce of strength within me to stop myself from attempting to snatch the vial, and gulp down its contents in one swift motion.
"Smart boy. You're already showing promise." She sheathed the tube. "Should I interpret your words as acceptance of our offer?"
I honestly don't even feel like it's a choice anymore.
"Yes, I'll become Sona Sitri and Rias Gremory's Guardian, as well as the latter's mentor for her eventual battle with the rooster." Their faces lit up with delightful satisfaction.
"Excellent! ☆" She pulled out a strange-looking badge, handing it towards me.
"What's this?"
"Identification that you're a representative on behalf of the Underworld's Foreign Affairs Department. When you're ready to leave, imbue some of your demonic power into the badge. I'll come to pick you up and bring you up above."
"I see," I replied. Conflict brewing up within me once I recalled something vital, that I had foolishly overlooked until this point.
"Is something wrong?" She tilted her head, observing me intently.
"Actually, there's someone I'd like to bring alongside me to the human world…"
———
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