Because he was not among the living, there was no way to trace his background. Because he was dedicated to maintaining balance, he had slain sinners who had caused massive innocent casualties!
Even his involvement in the current chaos was meant to bring this age of turmoil to an end as quickly as possible and restore normal social order... I understand. I understand it all!
"I know it may be hard for you to believe when I suddenly say this, but I truly—"
"I believe you!" The black-haired girl spoke decisively and with utter sincerity. "You've never lied about anything important, and besides... do you even need to deceive us?"
It was blunt, if a little hurtful, but Iori truly had no need to care much about their feelings.
The only one who could truly influence the overall situation was Esdeath, and Esdeath's "loyalty" to Iori was unshakable.
"I have another question."
Akame was quite agitated, while Najeta had more to consider. The one-eyed female general stared directly at Iori, as though trying to peer into his heart.
"Why tell us the truth specifically?
"You already possess enough power to change the world. You could shape a new order entirely according to your own wishes, and no one could resist you. Revealing your true identity to others at a time like this... would only create more uncertainty, wouldn't it?"
"Yes. As expected of you—you saw the crux of it right away."
Iori said calmly, "Naturally, I have something important to entrust to you by revealing this secret."
"...That really makes me not want to hear it." Chelsea wore the conflicted expression of someone who had boarded a pirate ship. "But I don't have the right to refuse, do I?"
Iori smiled wordlessly, tacitly acknowledging her judgment.
Then, he swept his