It had been a long shot: firing arrows off into the darkness, hoping one would strike something. And fortunately it seemed this one found its mark. The blue thing (another spirit, perhaps? though she didnât smell like the demon force he was used to - in fact, she smelled more like the earth than anything alive) actually seemed to understand him and answered his question with a courtesy he had not quite expected. This was something. A step in the right direction, at least.
âHuh? Youâll pay?â Otakemaru had never been one to hide his feelings, so the surprise shone clear across his face. But he also wasnât one to turn down an offer either. Though proud, Sealanders were also opportunists, and a smirk quickly took the place of his astonishment.
âIf you insist, I wonât say no. I havenât had a thing to eat since I woke up here.â And no money to speak of either. Or rather, he hadnât quite figured out how his card worked, or what it even did.
With as much dignity as she could muster, which was only so much given she was trying not to cry minutes before, the little lady nodded in understanding, her bows and ribbons mimicking her movements. âBy all means, Iâm more than happy to spread some hospitality.â By now, all earlier thoughts of self-loathing were gone, replaced with the deep-seated impulse to aid another.
Thus far, her conversation accomplished two things: she learned that this demon-man was another transplant from outside Terra, and she managed to rebound rather quickly from her earlier slump. Perhaps once he finished with his meal, she could help show him around?
Thoughts for later. Right now, the two of them were burning time. âWell then, whenever you are ready, youâre welcome to come inside. No need to wait on an empty stomach.â Lifting herself from a seated position, the sapphire turned away from Otakemaru to walk towards the building, before suddenly stopping and turning back. The motion caused her jewel to shimmer, and when they locked eyes again, her expression had brightened perceptibly. âBy the way, what drew you here in the first place? Were you seeking a meal, or something else?â