A Magician's Spell (Lyney x Lumine)

Chapter 4 - The Persistent Interviewer

"Wahhh you lied to me! You said you'd be back, but you took forever!"

"I'm sorry Paimon, something just came up. But to make up for it, we can have a huge meal after this!"

"Paimon is listening"

"...And I'll pay for all of it"

"Ooohhh yay! I can't wait!"

"Anyways, how was the show? Too bad it ended by the time I got back"

"It was amazing! Lyney suddenly said there was a change of plans and Lynette was going to take over the show from now on. Paimon wonders why there was a change of plans though... Was he called for something? Or did he get injured?"

I wanted to tell Paimon my experience outside the Opera Epiclese, but couldn't muster up the courage.

"Ah, I wonder too. Anyways should we go to that restaurant nearby? I hear it has some delicious Pate de Fruit"

"Finally, I get to try some Fontaine specialties for free! You're the best Traveler!"

"Hehe, I know I am."

"...Don't be so smug."

"Hey I'm paying I can say whatever I like!"

After the sudden dispute, we finally went out to look for the restaurant. As Paimon and I walked around, the scenery felt quite calm despite there being large mechs roaming about. Exploring everything properly for the first time felt rewarding but kept me in a trance.

"Uhm Traveler, are we there yet? We've been walking for twenty minutes!"

"Ah! Sorry I think I lost the way..." I pointed towards a girl with short pink hair "Why don't we ask her for directions?"

I slowly walked to her and tapped the pink-haired girl on the shoulder

"Hello, do you happen to know where-"

"Oh it's you! You're the one who was lucky enough to be featured on Lyney's magic show!"

I jumped, shocked at her sudden appraisal

"Oops! Sorry for that sudden outburst. My name's Charlotte! I work for the Steambird as a journalist. I have so many questions to ask you. Also if I'm not wrong, was it Mr Lyney that approached you after you left the Opera? What did he say? Why did you leave? Why did Lyney leave the stage to talk to you? Are you guys close? What-"

"Ahhh slow down please! You're asking too many questions Charlotte! Wait, how did you know Lyney met up with me outside anyways?"

"Well as a journalist, I'd do anything to get the biggest scoop!"

"...So you were spying on me?"

"Well it depends! If I said yes, would you still answer my questions?"

"Well uh you see... All I wanted was to ask for directions..."

"Then let's make a deal! You answer all my questions, and I'll give you the directions!"

Paimon then leaned in and whispered in my ear

"This girl is freaking Paimon out a bit... Let's just ask someone else for directions."

I was about to nod back when Charlotte abruptly interrupted me

"I can tell by your gesture you want to leave! But please let me ask a few questions, It'll be quick too, and I'll never spy on you again! Promise!"

I honestly wanted Charlotte to stop bothering me, so I begrudgingly nodded. I also had the feeling Charlotte didn't normally spy on people, so I let my guard down a bit.