Predator and Prey
Aside from her occasional scheming nature...
Sometimes, it was easy to forget that Lydia wasn't just another ordinary girl.
Heheh! Today's cafe tour was fun!
Especially the limited-edition bread from Street Bakers—that was really something!
Hmm...? Hold on a sec, Captain. Let's check this place out before we go.
A shop full of cute stuff...! NOA really does have everything!
The SealEO Series is still super popular, huh?
Oh? Is that Silverblade Saint Knights merch? They've got stuff like this too?!
Whoa, back in the West, I'd have to pay twice this much! Should I grab one?
Lydia chattered away in front of the display case filled with character merchandise, eventually picking up a small doll.
What do you think, Captain?
Wouldn't it look cute hanging off my bag strap?
If there's something you like, I'll buy it for you.
Really? Then I want this and thi—
...Wait a sec. Captain, what's with that face?
What about my face?
You've got that "uncle spoiling his cute little niece" look on your face.
Tch, just so we're clear!
...It's not like I actually love stuff like this, okay?
I just... you know, pretend to like it.
If I keep up the ordinary girl act, people will see me as harmless and naive, right?
They'll underestimate me, which works out in my favor.
Is that so...?
...That's how it is.
But since you offered, I won't say no to—
Just then, her book Kuku started shaking like crazy, making a loud noise.
What now? Are you hungry again?
I told you to behave until I find something for you to—
...Huh?
...Captain.
I think I found it.
Found what?
Kuku's next meal!
With a glazed look in her eyes, Lydia started walking toward a jewelry shop as if in a trance.
I keep telling you, I need a closer look!
How else am I supposed to give you a proper price?!
Bah! Whatever. If you're not buying, then forget it.
You're just wasting my time. Ptui!
You think this place is the only shop that'll pay up?
I. Found. You.
Kgh...?! Who the heck are you?!
Hehe. That's a really pretty gem you got there.
Beat it, kid. I'm busy.
Oh, really? It's just that the gem looks sooo pretty...
And I was just wondering where you got it...
...I dunno. It's been in my family for generations.
Oh, really?
Are you sure it's really yours, mister?
...What are you implying?
Well, I dunno… but it kinda looks like something a thief would have, doesn't it?
So, where'd you get it?
If you cooperate, we can end this quietly.
W-what are you talking about?!
The man shoved Lydia roughly, pushing her back.
...
Oh? Are you... intending to use violence?
Y-you're the one talking nonsense!
I was just messing around, but... seeing how riled up you got, I guess it's stolen.
...Mr. Thief.
You little brat...!
The man grabbed Lydia by the collar and roughly yanked her up.
S-stop it!
My words weren't directed at the man, but Lydia herself.
Lydia, you better not—
Yes, yes, Captain. Don't worry.
...There are too many potential eye witnesses around right now.
It's your lucky day, mister!
Lydia fiddled with the strap holding Kuku on her back as she spoke.
W-what are you talking about, you little...!
Hey, you! You're the shady guy who's been hanging around here!
Is he causing trouble now?!
I-I didn't do anything! She's the one who—
I didn't ask you.
Hey, missy. Is what he's saying true? Did he cause you any trouble?
Lydia leaned close to the flustered man's ear and whispered.
Hehe... You wanna tell me now?
I bet the town guards will show up if this escalates...
So, what's it gonna be? Want the town guards to haul you off and take all your stuff? Or...?
Just hand over that gem and answer my questions, and we can keep this between us.
Krgh...! I'll tell you what I know, all right?!
I swiped it from some drunk miner at a bar a while back.
He said he dug it up deep in some mine or whatever, so I thought it'd be worth something, but...
A mine?
It was called the Nahum Mine or something.
I swear, that's all I know.
Ugh, just take this stupid gem. It's not selling, and it's more trouble than it's worth!
...Hehe. Good choice.
Lydia placed the black stone she took from the shady man on top of Kuku's cover.
While Kuku's monstrous teeth bit down and swallowed the stone, Lydia gazed lovingly at Kuku.
There, there, Kuku. Was it delicious?
Eat up and grow nice and strong, so we can keep having fun together!
Already done? Want another one?
...Lydia.
Shh... Captain.
It's rude to interrupt someone while they're eating!
Yes, yes! I know.
You liked that, didn't you? Ahaha!
And so, I spent the rest of the day watching Lydia feed Kuku the bizarre little snack...