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Since arriving in Hoenn, her life has been marked by instability—a strange sensation for a military veteran. For almost a decade, others made plans for her. She arose when ordered and went to bed at the same time each night. Only now was she beginning to adapt. The transition became more difficult as steady employment continued to prove elusive. [break][break]

The pension she received only went so far in an economy torn apart by war and uncertainty. Since arriving here, the veteran experienced more job loss than most people in their lifetimes. Customer service roles often ended when her cool demeanor clashed with someone’s sensibilities. The intensity of her reaction often frightened people. The security gigs she uncovered were short-term. While not above manual labor, she found it difficult to get people to give her the chance.[break][break]

People believed the doll-like appearance—and last name—meant she did not understand hard work. They did not see the muscles and scars hidden beneath her button-up sweater. Her curt, direct answers fell afoul of every hiring blog known to man. Fortunately, the job at the museum proved a decent fit. Its schedule was predictable and it came with a sense of purpose.[break][break]

She was history’s sentinel. With her service, education would continue for future generations. Or, at least, that is what she told herself as she stopped another teenager from wiping boogers on a Renaissance painting.

When Howard made his not-so-grand escape, Lydia was retrieving the staff’s luncheon order. It was her small attempt to make friends—something her brusque manner made difficult. With almost a dozen coffees and two full bags, the petite woman did not see the man running toward her. But her companion did. “BEEEEEP!” The Iron Valiant lifted its gaze to face Howard.[break][break]

Lydia peered past her mountain of drinks in time to see one of her fellow guards gesture at the man. "STOP! THIEF! COME BACK HERE! IT'S PRICELESS!" A statement she found ironic considering the black market would settle upon something. Unlike her breathless compatriot, the blonde did not shout. It seemed pointless.[break][break]

She doubted a thief had ever stopped because someone asked nicely.[break][break]

“Hm.” The surprised Iron Valiant suddenly found its arms full of bagels, croissants, and a bunch of not-actually-coffee drinks. Blue eyes gleamed dangerously as her normally flat lips tilted upward. In that same motion, it was relieved of its bladed scepter.[break][break]

As the blade swept down, the thief’s life likely flashed before his eyes. Fortunately, Lydia's intent was less on skewering and more on sweeping out his legs.