The trio made their way to a nearby bar, the neon lights illuminating the dimly lit establishment. The atmosphere was filled with chatter and laughter, with various other devil hunters congregating after a day's work.
As they took their seats, Himeno playfully slid a shot glass towards Ryota, winking, "For the hero of the day?"
Aki promptly removed the shot glass with a knowing look. "He's a minor, remember?"
Ryota laughed, "Yeah, it's still a few years before I can legally enjoy that. So, any recommendations for a non-alcoholic drink?"
Just then, the doors swung open, and Makima entered the bar. The atmosphere subtly shifted as conversations hushed and many turned to look at her. She had a presence that was hard to ignore, even in a casual setting like this.
Ryota, curious and wanting to lighten the mood, asked, "Makima, how much alcohol can you hold?"
Makima smirked, "Enough to make most men here pale in comparison."
Himeno, never one to back down from a challenge, grinned mischievously, "How about a drinking competition then? Winner gets bragging rights."
Several devil hunters cheered in support, the idea quickly gaining traction. Aki sighed but decided to join in, along with a handful of other hunters. Ryota, of course, could only watch, but he was more than entertained by the unfolding scene.
The competition was fierce, with each participant trying to outdo the others. Shot glasses were emptied, beer mugs were downed, and slowly but surely, many began to tap out. In the end, it was no surprise to anyone that Makima was the last one standing, her expression barely changed, while most others were either slurring their words or holding their heads in drunken stupor.
She smirked, holding her glass high, "Bragging rights, as promised."
Ryota clapped, genuinely impressed, "Well played, Makima."
She winked at him, "Just another day in the life."
Makima, after winning the drinking competition, seemed to have a different energy about her. She staggered slightly, her eyes a bit unfocused as she approached Ryota.
"Hey there," she slurred, her voice dripping with insinuation. "You're looking quite... interesting tonight."
Ryota shifted uncomfortably in his seat. "Makima, I think you've had a bit too much to drink."
She leaned in close, her lips brushing against his ear, her voice dropping to a whisper, "Maybe... or maybe I just want to get to know you better."
His heart raced, but he tried to maintain his composure. Given his condition, any unexpected advances were particularly challenging to handle. "Makima, this isn't like you," he said, trying to gently push her away.
But she persisted, her fingers tracing a line down his chest. "Maybe you don't really know me."
As Aki was clearly too drunk to intervene, Ryota felt a rush of uncertainty. With Makima's advances and his own condition, he needed to think fast.
"Makima, are you testing me?" Ryota asked, eyes narrowed.
The Control Devil's voice echoed in Makima's mind, 'What is she doing? This isn't like her at all.'
Meanwhile, the Illusionary Devil in Ryota's head hissed, 'Don't fall for it! It's a trap. She's trying to manipulate you.'
Trying to defuse the situation, Ryota managed to get an arm around Makima's waist to support her, even though she was surprisingly heavy for her frame. "You're... heavier than you look," he commented with a grimace, trying to lighten the mood.

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Chainsaw Man:Reincarnted as Kobeni's brother
FanfictionIf you're tired of protagonists who bend over backwards for every girl or guy they see, who live their lives shackled by others' expectations, then maybe this story is for you. Our main character doesn't waste his time being some girl-crazy or dim-w...