Chapter 363: If It’s Tangled, Just Cut It (1)
Keter had acted like he was going to accept them, but he had just refused again. Puga blinked as reality set in. Just as he was about to erupt in anger, Keter clicked his tongue.
“No matter how good your conditions are, no matter how much you play the pity card, Sefira cannot help you. Is it because we're afraid of the Samael Empire? No. It’s not the empire we're afraid of—it’s you.”
“…?!”
“Why so surprised? Humans don't even trust other humans they’ve just met, much less creatures with snake heads and flaming fur, or someone five times the size of a normal man. Is it just your looks that are different? No, your power is at least at the level of the seven-star Prime. On what basis are we supposed to trust you and let you live on the same land?”
“But Inara said…”
“If it were just Inara, I wouldn't care because I know her. I know that even if she plays some tricks, she’s within a manageable level. However, I don’t know you lot. Keep you by my side until I get to know you? That’s far too bothersome and incredibly dangerous.”
Keter had experienced something similar in his past life, but back then, they were at least related by blood; here, with these non-human races, even that link was missing.
“Even so…” Puga opened his mouth to argue or persuade, but Keter wasn't finished.
“Let's say we were stupid and kind enough to keep you close and protect you from the empire. Even if the war ends safely and peace arrives, that would actually be the start of a new war. You know it too, don't you?