Chapter 84: Are your friends aware that you're a dragon?

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Rias absorbed this information, her mind piecing together the puzzle. "That would explain a lot," she murmured, her tone filled with understanding. It seemed that Issei's connection to the Sekiryuutei shed light on certain aspects of his abilities and knowledge.

Issei let out a sigh, realizing the gravity of the situation. He suggested that they should inform their families about Vali and Tiamat's search. "Vali and Tiamat aren't here to cause trouble, at least not as far as I know. They're hoping that the Sekiryuutei will make an appearance in Kuoh again," he explained, his voice tinged with a mix of concern and caution.

Sona, deep in thought, nodded in agreement. "That actually makes a lot of sense," she mused, her tone reflecting her analytical nature. "Tiamat-sama has a history of conflict with the Heavenly Dragons, particularly the Welsh Dragon Ddraig. It's no surprise that she would be involved in this search. However, I can't help but wonder what Vali Lucifer's motives are in all of this," she pondered, her curiosity piqued.

Issei shrugged, a hint of nonchalance in his response. "I honestly don't know. I'm not involved in their affairs. I haven't been in contact with the Sekiryuutei for a while, so I can't provide any information on his whereabouts," he admitted, his voice filled with honesty.

Sona, grateful for Issei's cooperation, bowed her head respectfully. "Thank you for sharing this with us, Hyoudou-san. Your willingness to be open and honest is greatly appreciated," she said, her words carrying a genuine sense of gratitude.

The atmosphere in the room grew heavy with lingering questions and unresolved matters. Rias, her crimson eyes locked onto Issei's, weighed the impact of his revelations. "So, you're saying Vali Lucifer and Tiamat are not here to cause chaos? They're waiting for the return of the Sekiryuutei?" She arched an eyebrow.

Issei sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Look, I'm not an expert on their plans or whatever, but as far as I know, they have no intention of stirring the pot right now. They're mainly interested in the Sekiryuutei showing up in Kuoh again."

Sona, her eyes narrowing thoughtfully, chimed in. "That adds up. Tiamat has a known vendetta against the Heavenly Dragons, especially Ddraig, the Welsh Dragon. It's plausible she's here hoping for a rematch or something. But Vali Lucifer's intentions remain a mystery."

Issei shrugged. "I can't speak for Vali. All I can say is I'm not entangled in their affairs. I'm just here."

"Thank you for sharing this information with us, Hyoudou-san," Sona said, her eyes meeting his as she gave a respectful nod. "Your openness is invaluable to us."

The room fell silent for a moment, the air thick with unspoken words and unresolved issues. Finally, Rias broke the silence, her gaze intensely focused on Issei. "You should also know, Issei, that I have no intention of letting your help go unrewarded. You saved me from a disastrous marriage that could've ruined my future. I once said I'd give you anything you want as thanks, so, what would you have me offer you?"

Issei's eyes met hers firmly. "I'd like your brother and the other devil nobles to leave me be. That's all."

Rias's eyes widened slightly, then narrowed as she frowned. "Is that truly all you desire? You do realize I could offer you material wealth, perhaps even power within the devil nobility."

Issei shook his head, cutting her off. "It's really all I want, Rias. I've had enough of power games and political tangles. Just let me live my life."

She sighed deeply, her eyes softening with a touch of sadness. "You're sure? I feel somewhat uncomfortable, knowing you've been forced into this situation to help me and not asking for anything substantial in return."

The tension that hung in the air was palpable. Issei shrugged, his gaze meeting Rias's. "You've already helped me out a fair bit. You know, by clearing some political hurdles and making sure my friends got enrolled here. Let's just consider ourselves square."

Rias's eyes were imploring, almost pleading. "Issei, I still feel as though I owe you something more substantial. I feel quite guilty for dragging you into this mess."

Issei sighed deeply, exasperation creeping into his tone. "If it bothers you that much, Rias, then surprise me. I don't know why you're making such a big fuss over this."

Koneko interjected, her eyes narrowed and her tone tinged with annoyance. "Why do you have to be so difficult? Rias is genuinely trying to express her gratitude. Could you at least acknowledge that?"

Issei shot her an irritated glance. "Alright, alright. But you could do without the attitude, devil girl."

Koneko's eyes sharpened. "The name is Koneko Toujou. I'd prefer it if you addressed me as such, Hyoudou-san."

'Toujou? Where have I heard that before?' Issei pondered.

'Vali mentioned it,' Ddraig chimed in mentally. 'He was talking about that woman Kuroka. Her family name is Toujou too.'

His eyes narrowed as he studied Koneko more closely. Her yellow eyes did bear a striking resemblance to those of Kuroka. 'Could it be just a coincidence? Or is there more to it?'

'It's definitely worth looking into later,' Ddraig responded.

Breaking from his thoughts, Issei turned back to Rias. "Fine, Gremory-san. Whatever you decide to give me as a token of gratitude, I'll accept. But honestly, if you forget about it, I won't be offended."

Rias nodded, her expression a mix of relief and gratitude. For the first time since the conversation started, she seemed genuinely pleased, as though a weight had been lifted off her shoulders.

Tsubasa, who had been mostly quiet, decided this was the moment to chime in. Her voice tinged with curiosity, she asked, "Hyoudou-san, I've heard rumors around the school. Is it true that you're dating the blue-haired girl who transferred here? She's said to be one of your girlfriends."

Issei sighed, his expression turning stern. "Don't believe every rumor you hear, especially those concerning me. Those girls are childhood friends, nothing more."

Tsubasa's eyes narrowed ever so slightly at the mention of 'childhood friends', but her expression quickly softened into a warm smile. "That's good to know, Hyoudou-san."

Sona's queen, Tsubaki, interjected with a question that pierced through the social dynamics in the room. "Are your friends aware that you're a dragon?"

Issei met her gaze firmly. "Yes, they are. And they won't be a problem. I'd appreciate it if everyone would leave them be."