Chapter 11. Makima Orders Food — “You’re a New Devil, Aren’t You?”

Before entering the Midnight Diner—

Aki Hayakawa had followed Makima with Power in tow, assuming they were just grabbing a bite before returning to work.

But unexpectedly, Makima had a clear destination in mind.

She led them straight to the deepest part of the alley.

Right to the door of this Midnight Diner.

Makima stopped and looked at the entrance.

Aki glanced around and asked, "Is there something off about this place?"

Makima didn't answer.

Power sniffed around outside, suddenly perking up. "There's something delicious inside!"

Makima pushed the door open and entered.

Facing Hayashi's question,

Makima first glanced around.

Three women, all eating like starving beasts.

Power looked ecstatic.

Aki scanned the room quickly. Well-furnished interior, young owner.

Finally, Makima looked at the menu.

"Three orders of curry rice."

Then she sniffed the air with her small nose and glanced at the coffee in Hayashi's hand.

"And one of that coffee too."

"Uh..." Hayashi looked at his coffee.

Whatever. He'd sell it.

He had a whole bag, and coffee wasn't even his favorite drink anyway.

So he nodded. "No problem, just give me a moment. Feel free to sit wherever you like."

With that, he turned and headed back into the kitchen, ignoring Makima's curious gaze.

Once Hayashi left, Makima scanned the room.

She led the other two to a four-person table and sat down.

Power was visibly excited, her eyes darting toward the others' meals—especially Rize's steak.

Then she turned to Makima. "I want meat! I want the same thing she's eating!"

She was even using "I" instead of her usual "This great me!"—but only because she was speaking to Makima. She didn't dare act out around her.

Aki Hayakawa frowned. "Power, order your own food next time."

Makima didn't respond.

Power continued. "I've got money, right? I work for you guys. Use my pay and get me another one!"

Aki glanced at Makima, who was still thinking.

He sighed and walked toward the kitchen. "Excuse me, Chef—one more steak, please."

"Got it," Hayashi's voice called back from the kitchen.

Power lit up with joy.

—

In the dining room—

After a few moments of thought, Makima began observing everyone.

She looked briefly at Kasumigaoka Utaha, then shifted her gaze.

Then at Touka Kirishima—looked a little longer, then looked away again.

Finally, she stared at Rize. This time, for a while.

At that moment, Rize had just finished her steak. She looked up and dabbed the oil from her lips with a napkin.

Noticing someone staring, she turned her head and met Makima's gaze. She tilted her head slightly and gave a faint smile, as if to ask, What's up?

Makima stared without expression for a few seconds, then looked away.

Aki also took a quick glance around.

Which prompted Rize to size up the three newcomers in return.

They were carrying weapons—not normal.

They weren't wearing CCG uniforms, so… Public Safety Devil Hunters?

That red-haired woman—she might even be a higher-up?

As for the short-haired guy…

Back then, Rize might've been interested. Could've even tried to eat him.

But now? She just glanced at him with zero appetite.

Especially after that amazing steak.

Everyone quietly studied one another.

Only Power remained carefree, eagerly waiting for her food.

Before long—

Hayashi came out with the food.

This time, he didn't use any "special seasoning"—because for someone like Makima, it was completely unnecessary.

In two trips, he served all their orders, including the coffee.

Power immediately started shoveling food into her mouth.

"This is delicious!!!" she cried.

Then she dove in like an animal.

Aki hesitantly took a bite of curry. His eyes widened—and he began eating furiously.

Makima glanced at the two across from her, then at the coffee in front of her.

She took a small sip, and her usually emotionless eyes suddenly flickered with life—a hint of color returning.

She stared at the coffee, then at Hayashi.

Hayashi gave her a polite smile.

Makima lowered her eyes again and tried the curry.

One bite—and just as expected—

The two across from her were already devouring their food like beasts.

Makima, however, remained elegant and composed, eating slowly and methodically.

Gradually—

Power finished her curry and then moved on to the steak, grabbing it with her bare hands and tearing into it.

That caught the attention of the other three women.

Touka and Rize noticed the small horns on her head.

Ah—so they weren't accessories.

This blonde girl… was a devil!

Though they had no idea what kind of devil.

Hayashi glanced at her and didn't care.

He brewed an entire new pot of coffee, then poured himself a cup and headed out to the courtyard for some fresh air.

—

But just as he was about to leave—

Touka hesitantly called out, "Um, Hayashi-san? Could I ask for three orders of curry to go later? I'd like to share with some colleagues."

Hayashi thought for a moment, then agreed.

But he did give her a heads-up.

"Normally I wouldn't—takeout ruins the taste if it sits too long. But since the café is nearby, I'll make it fresh when you're about to leave. Just make sure it gets eaten quickly."

Touka beamed. "Got it! Thank you so much!"

Hayashi nodded, then opened the door and stepped into the courtyard.

—

Meanwhile, at the trio's table—

Aki, having finished his meal, was busy wiping Power's hands and face with napkins so she wouldn't make a mess and upset the chef.

Makima, for once, let out a rare sound of satisfaction.

Then she stood up. "I'm stepping out for a moment."

Aki blinked and nodded blankly, watching as she followed after Hayashi.

—

Outside, in the courtyard—

Hayashi had just sat down, sipping his coffee.

He suddenly sensed someone behind him.

Lying back slightly, he tilted his head—and saw two… hemispheres. And a pair of golden, ringed eyes.

"?" Just as he was about to speak—

Makima bent over slightly and whispered, "You're a newly born devil, aren't you? A Cooking Devil? Or perhaps… a Gourmet Devil?"

"…Hah?" Hayashi blinked.

Makima whispered again, "Whether it's the food or the coffee, there's definitely 'power' in them. That ability—it's unique to you, right?"

"Uhhh…"

Hayashi scratched his head. Wait… is she implying I really am a devil?

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