Book 3: Chapter 47 (2/2)

“You want me to start a turtle farm? These turtles are as strong as dragons when they’re adults,” Grimmy said. “It’s better to eat it now before it grows old enough to lay eggs.”

Lindyss smacked the top of his head. “You’re giving up huge long-term profits for a tiny short-term gain.”

Grimmy rubbed his chin with his front paw. “We’ll see.”

The two waited underneath the moonlight. A figure appeared on the horizon, two phoenixes perched on its shoulders. Grimmy’s expression relaxed as he deflated with a sigh. “It’s just a person with an imprint,” he said and clicked his tongue. “How disappointing.”

Lindyss sighed as well, her stomach grumbling. “I guess we can eat the phoenixes? A small consolation prize at least.”

“Phoenixes taste burnt,” Grimmy said with a snort. “I don’t want any.” He turned back around and lumbered inside the cave, plopping down onto the ground while curling up into a ball. A moment later, he raised his head. “Waiting for these people to summon more devils is boring. Maybe I’ll capture this person and use her as bait for the turtle that imprinted her.” He climbed back onto his feet and trudged out of the cave. When his head poked out of it, his snout nearly collided against an armored woman, Mary.

Mary took in a deep breath and drew her sword, pointing it at Grimmy’s nose as the two phoenixes on her shoulders flew away into a nearby tree.

“Doesn’t that dragon look familiar?” Susan asked Emile as they hid behind some leaves.

“All dragons look the same,” Emile said and snorted.

Grimmy tilted his head and blinked at Mary. “What’s this?” he asked. “You’re pointing a sword at me?”

“You captured a devil,” Mary said, her voice unwavering despite her pale face. “I’m here to reclaim it.”

Grimmy’s eyes narrowed into slits as his smile widened. “Oh?” He plucked Lindyss off his head and placed her in front of Mary. “You two should fight.”

“Huh?” Lindyss and Mary asked at the same time.

Lindyss glared at Grimmy. “This is entertainment for you, isn’t it?”

“I’ll give you the devil if you win,” Grimmy said to Mary as he folded his front paws and rested his chin on top of them. “Well, what are you waiting for?”

“I don’t particularly like thrashing brats,” Lindyss said as she scratched the back of her head with an awkward expression on her face. “How about you surrender?”

Mary charged at Lindyss while swinging her sword in response.