"A while ago, there was a group of Fallen Angels planning something in this city. When I found them, they didn't recognize me as the leader of the Fallen Angels anymore—instead, they were praising you."
"You mean Reinare, Kalawarna, and Mittelt?"
Azazel nodded gently.
"Not just that. Their powers also increased to an absurd level—even for Fallen Angels."
"..."
"At first, I thought it was just a coincidence. But after digging deeper, it turns out their changes happened after they started praising you."
"Hahaha, maybe they just couldn't stand your overly free leadership anymore?"
Azazel gave a bitter smile and said in a helpless tone, "Maybe you're right. I'm just not suited to be the leader of the Fallen Angels."
"... So what is it you actually want to talk about?"
Azazel turned and looked straight at Issei.
"I want to confirm one thing. You're not planning to destroy the world, are you?"
Azazel's gaze was incredibly sharp, giving others the impression that he was a terrifying uncle.
Issei took a deep breath and replied seriously, "I have parents who care about me, women who love me, and friends who always make me laugh. Do you think I'm stupid enough to throw all of that away?"
Azazel froze in place, let out a long sigh, and shook his head.
"Thank goodness. If you actually intended to destroy the world, the situation would become far more dangerous."
"Azazel, I'm pretty sure there was a man from Reinare's group. What happened to him?" Issei asked.
"Don't worry. He's already been punished according to the rules."
"... Good. Thanks for helping me deal with that pest."
"Hahaha, to you, ordinary Fallen Angels really are nothing more than pests. By the way, I'm also a researcher of Sacred Gears. If possible, I'd like to study your Boosted Gear."
Issei turned with a bright smile on his face.
"Asking something from a devil requires an equal payment."
"Oho, I know that. Are you trying to bargain with me?"
Issei nodded lightly.
"Hm, tell me what payment you want in exchange for the right to research the Boosted Gear."
Issei's smile grew even brighter. He turned and said, "How about your life?"
"... Okay, forget it. I still want to live longer so I can see this world's future. Especially your fight against the White Dragon Emperor."
"No need to worry. I'll be the one who wins."
Azazel rolled his eyes.
"Confidence is good, but if it's too much, it can come back to bite you."
Issei grinned and replied confidently, "Don't worry. I understand the risk of the words I just said. He—Vali Lucifer—won't be able to defeat me."
Azazel was stunned, taking a deep breath to calm himself.
"You even know about Vali… this just got more interesting."
Issei glanced at Azazel and asked doubtfully, "Do you want to make me fight Vali?"
"Of course not. But that guy is too free-spirited. Since you're on the devils' side, I'm sure he'll come to you."
"That makes sense."
They stopped talking and stared straight at the lake.
"Why isn't there a single fish biting our bait?" Issei said in confusion.
"How would I know? Maybe there are no fish here."
"Huh?! Then why did you bring me fishing here?!"
"Because this place is the quietest, and it's perfect for talking about things that shouldn't be overheard by others."
Azazel's answer was flawless, and Issei couldn't blame his decision to choose this lake as their fishing spot.
"Issei, I need your help dealing with one of my subordinates."
"Who?"
"Kokabiel. It looks like he's targeting this city."
"Why don't you ask Vali?"
"I already did, but he gave me an uncertain answer."
"... Alright. I'll do it."
Azazel smiled in relief.
"About the payment—"
"We'll talk about it later. Don't worry, I won't ask for your life."
"Alright."
The serious conversation ended here. After that, they chatted about random things, growing fairly close—like an uncle and his nephew.
In the end, they didn't catch a single fish, returning with a bit of frustration since they hadn't gotten any at all.
... .. .
To be continued...
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