Middle District – Whisperroot Inn
The inn's exterior was nothing special—weathered bricks, chipped wood sign, a warm scent of stew and ale wafting from inside. But it was alive. Inside, laughter and clinking mugs filled the room.
Ken stepped through the front door.
The place was packed with adventurers—some drunk, some shouting, others passing out mid-laugh. Plates of food piled high. Weapons stacked beside tables.
Ken (thinking):
Cheap... but lively. Good enough.
He walked toward the reception desk near the stairway.
A bell chimed as he approached.
Behind the counter stood a young woman in her 20s, red hair tied back, wearing a tight corset that did nothing to hide her—well—"stats."
Ken blinked.
Ken (thinking):
Damn it, Azarith... First the Queen, now the receptionist?! You made all the women in this world busty as hell.
...Not bad though.
Suddenly, a faint celestial whisper echoed in his mind.
Azarith (voice in his head):
"Don't forget to have fun with the ladies, Hero~."
Ken flinched.
Ken (thinking):
SHUT UP.
He coughed and straightened his posture.
Ken:
"Ahem… Sorry. I'd like a room. Two nights."
The redhead blinked, looking flustered for a moment.
Receptionist:
"Y-Yes! Right, um… that'll be 20 silvers, sir."
Ken placed the coins on the desk.
-CLINK.
She handed him a key with slightly trembling fingers.
Then—biting her lip, she looked up at him through her lashes.
Receptionist (blushing):
"M-My name is Lia… Lia Escort…"
She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, nervously. Her cheeks flushed pink.
Ken (blinking):
"…Eh?"
Ken (thinking):
Oi oi, why'd she introduce herself like that? Wait… why's she blushing?
A beat passed.
Then Ken's eyes widened slightly.
Ken (thinking):
Oh no. It's the Incubus skill…!
He forced a smile, clearing his throat.
Ken:
"Aha… I'm Ray. Nice to meet you, Miss Lia."
Lia (whispering):
"N-Nice to… meet you too… Ray…"
The air was suddenly too warm.
Ken shifted awkwardly.
Ken: "Uhh… I-I'm gonna head to my room. Haven't showered in like three days."
He turned to leave—
But just before he walked away, he heard a breathy whisper behind him.
Lia (whispering under breath):
"Y-You… smell good, Ray... Let me… s-shower you…"
Ken (freeze frame):
"…E-EHH?!"
He turned, blinking rapidly.
Lia (snapping back):
"N-NOTHING! I SAID NOTHING!! JUST—JUST GO!!"
Ken practically teleported upstairs, flustered and red-faced.
He reached his room, unlocked the door, stepped inside, and slammed it shut.
-CLICK.
He locked it.
Ken (hand on forehead):
"…What the hell was that?!"
He walked to the bed, slumped down, still processing.
Ken (thinking):
Did… the Incubus skill really mess with her that fast?!
He looked at his hands. Then down at the bracelets. Then… at the door.
Ken (sighing):
"I need food. Not fanservice…"
Later.
Ken stood in front of the small wall mirror in the corner of his rented room, hands on his hips, inspecting himself.
His reflection looked like a man dragged through a warzone.
Ken:
"Tch… I'm filthy. Clothes torn to hell. No way I'm walking around like this."
He glanced around the room. No bath. No bucket. No bathroom.
Ken (frowning):
"…Seriously? Not even a tub? What kind of inn is this?"
He sighed—then smirked as an idea popped into his head.
He stepped back and raised both hands.
Ken: "Water Wall!"
–SHHSSHHHH—!!
A tall curtain of water formed midair, suspended like an enchanted waterfall between his palms.
Ken (grinning):
"…Now—Purify!"
The water glowed briefly with soft blue light, cleansing magic activated.
Ken stripped off his tattered clothes and stepped into the shimmering wall, letting the enchanted water wash over him. Steam rose, sparkling in the air.
Ken (relaxing):
"…Aaahhh… This hits the spot."
After scrubbing down, he stepped out—sparkly clean and refreshed.
He picked up his dirty clothes, examined the grime and rips, then casually tossed them into the Water Wall.
–SPLASH!
The dirt and blood dissolved instantly. The wall faded as the magic wore off, dropping the clothes on the floor—still soaking wet.
Ken:
"…Right. Time to dry."
He held out one hand and summoned a small controlled whirlwind.
Ken:
"Mini Tornado."
A swirling wind danced above his palm. He tossed the clothes into it, and they spun rapidly in midair.
–WHIRRRRR—!!
After a few seconds, he pulled them free—bone dry.
He laid them flat on the bed.
Ken (thinking):
Let's try a new one... something useful…
He pointed his hand at the outfit.
Ken: "Restore!"
–FLASH.
A faint light glowed. The cuts stitched themselves. The faded cloth regained its color and texture.
Like new.
Ken (smirking):
"…Nice. That worked better than expected."
He slipped the outfit back on—clean, dry, repaired.
Then activated his disguise.
–POOF.
His hair turned blonde. His eyes shimmered blue. Ken had become Ray, the mysterious traveler.
He headed downstairs.
The tavern floor was still busy with adventurers eating, drinking, and talking loudly. But no one paid him any mind.
Ken quietly sat at an empty table near the wall, hands folded.
Ken (thinking):
Let's see what kind of food this world really has… and what kind of rumors are floating around.
Suddenly—
–CLACK.
Footsteps. A soft voice.
Lia (nervous):
"Y-Yes, what's your order, si—"
She looked up and froze.
Their eyes met.
Lia (blushing hard):
"O-Oh… i-it's you again… R-Ray-sama… I—I mean—san!"
Ken (thinking):
Ah shit… here we go again.
He coughed politely.
Ken:
"Hey. Uh… I haven't eaten all day. Got anything heavy to recommend?"
Lia (quickly):
"Y-Yes! Of course! Right away!"
She scribbled nervously, her eyes flicking between him and her notebook.
Lia:
"A-And… drinks? M-Maybe wine, or—?"
Ken:
"Just water or juice. No alcohol."
Lia:
"Got it! I'll b-be right back!"
She turned—and practically floated away, giggling into her hands.
Ken (thinking):
Did she just… giggle? While blushing?
Damn it… is the incubus aura ramping up again?
A table nearby caught his ear.
Two gruff adventurers hunched over their mugs, speaking just loud enough.
Adventurer 1:
"Did you hear? The sixth hero—he's dead."
Adventurer 2:
"Yeah, man. They said he sacrificed himself in the dungeon. Poor guy… luggage handler, right?"
Adventurer 1:
"Didn't even get a proper blessing from the crystal. But he still helped them escape... real hero stuff."
Adventurer 2:
"They're holding the ceremony for him tomorrow. Up at the castle. Gonna be huge."
Ken's eyes narrowed.
His hand clenched into a fist beneath the table.
Ken (thinking):
Ceremony, huh…
They're celebrating my death like it's part of their legacy.
He exhaled slowly—and let his hand relax.
Ken (thinking):
You're all gonna pay for this.
–CLACK.
A tray was placed gently on his table.
Lia stood beside him, face red, hands trembling slightly.
Lia (softly):
"I… I hope you enjoy the food I made… just for you, Ray…"
She leaned closer and whispered:
"…sama."
Ken blinked. Hard.
Ken: "…Eh?"
But Lia had already turned and walked away—hands covering her glowing red cheeks.
—
Ken (thinking):
"Sama"? She said it… twice.
What the hell is going on with this skill?
He turned to the food.
A beautifully grilled steak with seasoned potatoes and glazed vegetables. A warm bowl of soup beside it. Fresh bread. Chilled fruit juice.
He picked up the fork and took a bite.
Ken (eyes wide):
…Holy hell.
Ken (thinking):
It's… delicious.
I didn't know food in this world could taste like this…
He took another bite.
Then another.
Before long, he was eating with genuine joy.
Behind the kitchen curtain, Lia watched, biting her lip—eyes soft, hand on her chest.
Lia (whispering):
He's smiling… he really liked it…
And for a moment… her heart beat faster than her thoughts.
15 minutes later.
Ken wiped his mouth, pushing the empty plate away. The food — some kind of spicy meat steak with herbs he didn't recognize — had actually been really good.
Lia scurried over, cheeks blazing red, balancing a tray awkwardly between her teeth.
Lia (stammering):
" H-How was… the f-food?"
Ken (nodding):
"Delicious. Honestly, I've never had anything like it before."
Lia slumped in relief, a tiny, dreamy murmur slipping past her lips:
Lia (whispering):
"Th-thank goodneeeess…~"
Ken (blinking):
"Eh?"
Lia (snapping back):
"Ah—n-nothing! Your bill is… 50 coppers!"
Ken reached into his pouch and dropped the coins onto the tray.
Ken (standing up awkwardly):
"I… should get some rest. Big day tomorrow. Good night."
He turned and hurried toward the stairs, his steps quick, but calm.
Lia's gaze followed him — wide-eyed and glowing — until he disappeared from view.
Lia's Thoughts:
It's now or never...
[ Ken's Room – Moments Later ]
Ken locked the door with a click and slumped against it.
Ken (muttering):
"…That was too close."
He wiped a bead of sweat off his forehead, then unbuckled his belt, letting his pants drop to his ankles — thank the gods for shorts. His shirt followed, hitting the floor.
Ken (stretching):
"Finally, some peace—"
–CREAK.
The door opened behind him.
Lia stood in the doorway, a spare key in hand, eyes wide like a deer in the moonlight.
And then...
–POOF!
Ken's magical disguise popped like a soap bubble. His real form was revealed instantly.
Lia's mouth dropped open.
She stepped forward… then slowly closed the door behind her, locking it with a soft click.
Her eyes gleamed under her bangs, smile growing wide.
Ken (startled):
"Uh… What are you doing here?"
Lia (stepping forward, voice dripping like honey):
"Ohhh... Ray... is actually the Sixth Hero, huh...?"
Ken (thinking):
Wait. How'd she know—
He turned and looked at the mirror.
Ken (deadpan):
"…You've gotta be kidding me."
She launched onto the bed, thighs caging him down, arms pinning his wrists. Her breath was hot, erratic — her pupils shaped like little hearts.
Lia (breathing heavy):
"I… want... the Sixth Hero's… baby."
Ken (horrified):
"HUH!?"
She leaned down, licking her lips—
Ken (panicking):
"No… no no no—"
"MMMPH!!"
Lia silenced him with a kiss.
Ken's Internal Screaming:
"This is how it ends. Pinned down by a girl I met TODAY. First night in another world... and I'm losing my v-card to a receptionist. Damn you, Azarith!"
[ SMASH CUT TO: ]
Bed creaking
Moaning in the dark
Slapping wet noises
Lia (gasping): "GIVE! ME! YOUR! BABY!"
Ken (offscreen): "NOOOOO—!"
Ken, as gardener, planted his seed in fertile soil.
Lia lay peacefully on Ken's shoulder, smiling like a satisfied kitten beneath the sheets.
Ken stared at the ceiling, one arm over his forehead — numb.
DING!
[Level Up!]
You've gained a new skill:
Stamina Enhancer – Lv. 1
Restores stamina slightly faster after physical exhaustion.
Azarith's voice echoed from nowhere.
Azarith (grinning):
"Yo. That was fast. You enjoyin' the hero perks?"
Ken (groaning):
"Shut. UP."
[Morning – Whisperroot Inn, Ken's Room]
The sun peeked through the curtains, casting golden rays across the room.
Underneath the blanket, Lia stirred. Her arms stretched, and she let out a soft yawn.
Then she paused…
Pulled the blanket slightly…
Her eyes widened.
Face turned red.
Lia (blushing hard):
"…I-I'm n-not dreaming…"
She turned her head.
Ken was still asleep beside her — breathing softly, face peaceful.
Lia (whispering):
"…So cute."
She leaned over and gently kissed his cheek.
Ken's eyes opened.
Ken:
"…Mm?"
Lia (flustered):
"G-Good morning… Danna-sama~"
Ken (blinking):
"Eh?"
He sat up, stretching.
Ken (stoic):
"Since when did I become your husband?"
Lia (soft smile):
"Since…"
She gently placed her hand on her stomach.
Ken (deadpan):
"…Ah. Right."
She looked down.
Lia (quietly):
"I… I'm sorry. For, um… forcing myself on you like that."
She looked up, eyes shining.
Lia:
"It's just… when I first saw you, my heart wouldn't calm down. I've never felt like that before…"
Ken clenching his fist, feeling guilty.
Ken (calmly):
"It's not your fault. You were charmed… by a curse."
Lia (confused):
"Eh? A… curse?"
Lia (realizing):
"EHH?! You're cursed, Hero Ray!?"
Ken:
"It's Ken. Ken Hanzashi."
He sighed, leaning back.
Ken:
"It's a long story."
Lia (scooting closer):
"I like stories."
Ken's Inner Monologue:
So I told her everything…
From the summoning… the blessing from Azarith… that damn incubus skill… the betrayal in the dungeon… surviving floors of monsters…
All of it.
When he finished, Lia was crying.
Lia (voice shaking):
"…That's horrible… I didn't know… they said you died protecting them… I believed them…"
She clenched her fists.
Lia:
"How dare they… do that to my Danna-sama!"
Ken (thinking):
There it is again.
Lia (smiling through tears):
"If the curse… came from Divine Azarith himself… then I'm honored to carry it."
She leaned in.
"I'll happily give this body to you again… if it helps you grow stronger."
Ken (face turning slightly red):
"Eeehh??"
Lia giggled, brushing her fingers against his cheek.
Lia:
"I'm carrying the Sixth Hero's baby~"
Ken (groaning):
"Can you please stop saying that? I might end up sleeping with other women… because of this stupid skill."
Lia (blushing, smiling):
"I don't mind. If Lord Azarith gave you that skill… it must be for a reason."
Lia (softly):
"Just… don't forget me."
She brushed her hand gently along his jawline.
Ken (thinking):
What an angel she is…
He coughed and looked away.
Ken :
"…Ahem. Dear first wife, make me some breakfast. I'm hungry."
Lia (eyes sparkling):
"Haiii~!"
She jumped up, dressed quickly, and skipped out of the room, humming.
Ken leaned back on the bed, arms behind his head.
Ken (deadpan):
"…Ladies and gentlemen: Isekai life."
20 minutes later.
Knock knock.
Ken sat up on the bed, already dressed in his restored outfit, stretching his arms when the door opened gently.
Lia peeked in, carrying a wooden tray stacked with fresh food — eggs, toasted bread, buttered root veggies, and sliced apples with a cup of fruit tea. She stepped in with a shy smile.
Lia (blushing):
"G-Good morning again… Danna-sama~"
Ken (calmly):
"…You're really gonna keep calling me that, huh?"
She nodded, walking in with light steps.
Lia:
"I made breakfast… for my husband. So, I'm calling you that!"
She placed the tray on the bed in front of him. The scent of spices and butter drifted into the air.
Ken (blinking):
"This looks amazing…"
Lia (sitting beside him, cheeks puffing slightly):
"Of course! I didn't hold back. I made everything myself."
Ken picked up a fork — but she gently placed her hand over his.
Lia (pouty but teasing):
"Ah ah. You fought through a dungeon. Let me… feed you."
Ken (staring):
"…Seriously?"
Lia (smiling):
"Say 'aaahn~'."
Ken sighed, but opened his mouth. She gently fed him a piece of warm, soft bread soaked in egg and butter.
He chewed slowly.
His eyes blinked once.
Ken (thinking):
…How is it THIS good?
Ken (quietly):
"…You're dangerous, you know that?"
Lia (giggling):
"Only for you~."
She took another bite, this time for herself. Ken watched as she happily munched beside him.
Then, casually, he asked:
Ken:
"Hey… just curious. Are your parents okay with this? Y'know… you calling me husband, and all."
The room grew a little quieter.
Lia didn't answer right away.
She set the fork down gently, her smile softening.
Lia (quietly):
"My parents… passed away when I was little. I don't even remember their faces."
Ken (calm, respectful):
"…I see."
Lia:
"I've been living with my uncle and aunt. They run this inn… it's been my home as long as I can remember."
She looked up at him.
Lia (smiling faintly):
"They treat me like their own, but… it still gets lonely sometimes."
A pause.
Lia (softly):
"But now… I don't feel so lonely anymore."
Ken was quiet. He looked at her—no teasing, no cold glare. Just honest eyes.
Ken (softly):
"…You're stronger than you think."
Lia:
"Ehh?"
Ken (smirk):
"To survive all that… still smile, run a front desk, charm your way into people's hearts? That's strength."
Lia (turning red):
"Whaaa—! D-Don't say that out loud!"
She playfully punched his arm, and he chuckled faintly — the rare kind.
Ken:
"Thanks for breakfast, Lia."
Lia:
"…Thank you for surviving."
They sat side by side for a moment, finishing the food together in quiet peace.
Ken's Thoughts:
First betrayal, first dungeon, and now… my first quiet morning.
I forgot what this kind of peace even felt like….
After finishing the breakfast.
Ken stood up, stretching his arms with a light sigh.
Ken:
"Lia, do you know where the nearest guild is? I've got dungeon drops I want to sell."
Lia (cheerfully):
"Y-Yes, of course, Danna-sama!"
Ken (thinking):
Right. Better go as Ray.
He tapped the disguise bracelet on his wrist.
–Puff!
His hair turned blonde, his eyes blue. Ken became Ray once more.
He offered a hand to Lia.
She blinked — then smiled, blushing — and took it happily.
Cut to: Streets of Gloria
They walked side by side through the city streets. Ken carried his massive leather bag, while Lia clung gently to his arm.
Lia (curious):
"Danna-sama, that bag… It looks huge. Isn't it heavy?"
Ken (calmly):
"This? Nah. I could carry three carriages full of people and horses if I had to."
Lia (giggles):
"You really are amazing."
She leaned her head closer.
Lia:
"But… why are you in disguise, Danna-sama?"
Ken (stoic):
"I just don't want attention. If people realize I'm alive, things could get messy."
Lia (nodding):
"Mm… Makes sense."
She squeezed his hand softly.
Lia:
"What will you do after the guild?"
Ken (flatly):
"Crash the ceremony. Then have a little… chat with that racist bastard king."
Lia:
"I see…"
Gloria's Adventurer Guild – Shadow Fangs Branch
They arrived at a tall stone building with a dark banner bearing a wolf fang emblem. The place was busy — adventurers loitered outside, chatting or checking equipment.
Ken (looking up):
"This is it, huh?"
Lia:
"Mhm. Welcome to the Shadow Fangs Guild."
They entered.
Inside, the guild was bustling. Adventurers stood around the quest board, barked orders across tables, and a few glanced sideways at Ken — especially at his large bag and the beautiful girl walking with him.
Ken walked straight to the front counter, where a sharp-dressed male receptionist greeted them.
Receptionist (politely):
"Welcome, sir. How can I help you?"
Ken (nodding):
"Name's Ray. I'm a traveler. Just looking to sell some rare items."
The receptionist perked up.
Receptionist:
"Certainly. Please follow me to the appraisal counter."
They moved to a side desk with fewer people around. Ken set the bag down with a soft thud and opened it.
One by one, he pulled out:
Golem cores
Rare herbs
Magic stones
Epic-grade dungeon loot
A Minotaur horn still dripping faint magic
Lia's jaw dropped.
Lia (stunned):
"T-That's… a lot…"
Receptionist (chuckling nervously):
"Haha… wow. You've got quite the haul, sir. That's… not something we see every day."
Ken (shrugging):
"I collect things. Folks call me 'Collector Ray'."
Receptionist:
"Understood. I'll need to run these through appraisal. It'll take some time."
Ken:
"How long?"
Receptionist:
"Approximately two hours. There's a queue."
Ken:
"Got it. I'll kill time in the market. Be back later."
Receptionist:
"Of course, sir. Everything will be secure until you return."
Ken nodded.
He and Lia left the guild hall and stepped back into the busy street.
Location: Middle District, Kingdom of Gloria
The cobbled roads bustled with the sounds of a lively afternoon — merchants haggling, children playing, adventurers passing through in worn armor.
Ken, still under disguise as "Ray," adjusted the heavy strap of his massive leather bag. The bag looked worn and twice his size, but he carried it like it was weightless — a casual extension of himself.
He glanced toward the girl beside him.
Ken:
"Hey, Lia. I want to buy some clothes and shoes. Can you take me to a good shop?"
Lia (beaming brightly):
"Of course, anything for my Danna-sama~!"
Ken (scratching the back of his head):
"Sorry… I know I'm asking a lot. I've only been in this kingdom for a few days. Got summoned, tossed into a dungeon, and that's pretty much it.".
Lia (gently):
"It's okay, Danna-sama. You can ask me anything… I'm already yours~"
Ken (smiling faintly):
"…Thanks, Lia."
Lia:
"You're welcome, Danna-sama!"
Cut to: Boutique Entrance
The storefront looked elegant yet warm — polished wood and glass windows displaying fine cloaks, boots, and robes of every color.
Lia:
"This is one of the most popular clothing shops in the Middle District!"
Ken (nodding):
"Let's check it out."
He adjusted the leather bag's strap again and followed her inside.
Inside the Shop
The boutique was softly lit by floating crystals and golden candles. The smell of polished oak and fresh fabric filled the air. Rows of tunics, cloaks, belts, and accessories stretched across the room. Shoes lined the back wall on handmade racks.
Ken walked past a few curious glances — his large leather bag brushing lightly against a display, drawing attention. He browsed the shelves and picked out:
A sleek black jacket
A white tank top
Black martial-style pants
A comfortable pair of lightweight training shoes
And one pair of clean, breathable shorts
Ken (holding them up):
"…Yeah. These'll do."
Then, from the corner of his eye, he spotted Lia — standing quietly by a soft, cream-colored dress adorned with frills and a thin ribbon around the waist.
Ken:
"You want that dress?"
Lia (startled, blushing):
"N-No! I-I was just looking! That's all!"
Ken (grinning):
"Don't be shy. Pick out anything you like."
Lia (nervous):
"B-But it's… kind of expensive…"
Ken (adjusting his bag again):
"I'm not letting my wife leave empty-handed."
He paused.
Ken:
"You're my first wife, after all."
Lia froze.
Then slowly, her expression softened, and she blushed furiously.
Lia (whispering):
"Ha-Hayii~!"
She picked up the dress and shoes with sparkles practically dancing around her head.
At the counter, Ken reached into his bag's side pouch and placed a stack of silver coins on the counter. The shopkeeper quickly wrapped their purchases in enchanted cloth, handing each bundle over neatly.
Lia cradled her bundle in her arms, her smile still glowing.
Lia:
"Where to next, Danna-sama?"
Ken (glancing at the sun):
"We've got about an hour left. Anywhere worth checking out?"
Lia (clapping once):
"Oh! There's a dessert shop not far from here that sells frozen sweets!"
Ken (raising a brow):
"…Like ice cream?"
Lia (grinning):
"Mhm!"
Ken (chuckling softly):
"Huh. Ice cream in isekai… sure. Let's go."
She reached out and gently took his hand.
Ken's eyes flicked down to their fingers — hers small and soft in his own.
He didn't say anything.
The bag shifted on his shoulder as he adjusted it, then followed her through the crowd.
Ken (thinking):
Peace like this… even if it's short… It's not so bad.
And with that, the two vanished into the market crowd — off to frozen desserts and fleeting peace.
Location: Frost Lily Ice Parlor – Kingdom of Gloria, Middle District
The sun filtered through the enchanted frost-glass windows of Frost Lily, the most popular ice cream shop in Gloria's middle district. Ken and Lia entered together, the bell above the door chiming as they stepped inside.
Ken, dressed in his traveler disguise, still carried his massive leather bag — a stitched-together beast of a pack, worn from travel and stuffed with enchanted goods. He slung it easily over one shoulder like it weighed nothing.
Inside, the shop was packed with cheerful voices and the cold scent of vanilla and berries.
They found a cozy table in the corner. A young waiter handed them parchment menus.
Waiter:
"Welcome! Here's the menu. Call me when you're ready."
He scurried away.
Lia (smiling):
"Danna-sama, anything catches your eye?"
Ken (shrugging, eyeing the options):
"I'll just have what you're having."
Lia (blushing faintly):
"O-Okay! Then I'll pick something special!"
She raised her hand.
Lia:
"Waiter!"
The boy returned promptly.
Lia (pointing to a picture):
"We'd like the Frost Lily deluxe sundae, please."
Waiter:
"Coming right up!"
Just then, the shop door chimed again.
Daichi's voice (from outside):
"Leo-senpai, look! It's an ice cream shop!"
Leo (calm):
"Hm. Looks bigger than I expected."
They entered.
Shop Owner (bowing, sweating):
"W-Welcome, Heroes! Please, please, take a seat!"
Gasps and whispers rippled through the shop.
Ken's eyes narrowed. Still disguised, he shifted slightly in his seat — his leather bag resting by his side.
Lia (whispering):
"Danna-sama… those two…"
Ken (low voice):
"I see them. They don't recognize me. My disguise is undetectable."
He watched quietly as Daichi and Leo were seated. Their presence turned the room electric.
Moments later, the sundae arrived — a mountain of chilled fruit, whipped cream, and magic-frozen syrup swirled in layers.
Waiter:
"Here's your order! Enjoy!"
Lia (sparkling eyes):
"It's beautiful…"
Ken (thinking):
That actually looks amazing.
She scooped a spoonful and offered it toward him.
Lia (smiling):
"Danna-sama~ say 'ahhh~'!"
Ken (grumbling):
"In public?"
Lia (cheeky):
"I don't care~"
He gave in.
Across the room, Daichi paused mid-bite.
Daichi (quietly):
"Leo-senpai… do you think Ken-senpai will ever come back?"
Leo froze.
His spoon lowered slowly.
Leo (quietly):
"…I don't know. But I want to believe he's alive."
Ken silently finished his bite of ice cream, setting his spoon down beside the half-empty sundae.
He stood, lifting his heavy bag back over his shoulder like it weighed nothing.
Ken (to Lia):
"Let's go. Time to visit the guild."
Inside the Shadow Fangs Guild, adventurers filled the lobby with noise and energy. Ken entered, his massive leather bag slung across his back, Lia beside him.
They reached the appraisal desk, where the same receptionist from earlier looked up and grinned.
Receptionist:
"Ah! Ray-san. You're back."
He gestured to a small pouch and a written form.
Receptionist:
"All items checked and verified. You've got quite the collection."
He slid the pouch forward.
Receptionist:
"Ten gold, ninety silver. That Minotaur horn alone nearly broke our scale."
Lia (murmuring):
"T-That much…?"
Ken (stoic, calmly placing the pouch into his bag):
"I told you. I collect."
He leaned in slightly.
Ken:
"Next time… I'll bring something legendary."
Receptionist (laughing):
"Haha! I look forward to it, Collector Ray."
They shook hands.
Ken turned, bag thumping against his back as he walked away.
Outside the guild.
Ken (casual):
"Back to the inn?"
Lia:
"Mhm! Let's go, Danna-sama."
Ken:
"Hold my hand."
She did. With his fingers raised to his forehead—
–WHOOSH.
They vanished.
–WHOOSH.
Appearing again inside Ken's room, where the candlelight flickered gently against the walls.
Lia (eyes wide):
"W-What was THAT!?"
Ken (shrugging):
"Teleportation magic."
Lia (stunned):
"You can just… do that?!"
Ken:
"If I've been to a place before, I can picture it and go."
Her arms wrapped around him instantly, pressing into his chest.
Lia (blushing hard):
"You're sooo cool, Danna-sama…
Ken (stoic as ever):
"…Yeah, yeah."
He set the leather bag down beside the bed with a soft thump and stretched his arms.
Ken:
"Tonight, I'm crashing the ceremony."
Lia (on his chest):
"…What about after?"
Ken:
"Back to the dungeon. Floor 51. I still have growing to do."
Lia (quietly):
"And then…?"
Ken (smiling faintly):
"Then I defeat the Demon Lord. And take his throne."
Lia (blinking):
"Wha—?! D-Danna-sama! T-Take the throne!?"
Ken (nodding):
"Someone has to rule better than the trash in that castle."
Lia (smiling):
"Then… I'll support you. As your first wife."
Ken:
"…That means I need to get stronger. Much stronger."
Location: Outside the Inn – Middle District, Kingdom of Gloria
The moon hung low in the sky, casting a silver glow across the cobblestone street. Lanterns flickered in quiet rhythm along the path, and the distant hum of nightlife echoed from the lower districts.
Ken stood outside the inn, dressed in his new black jacket, white tank top, and martial pants — fresh from the boutique. His massive leather bag hung across his back, sealed and strapped tight, yet still effortlessly carried.
He exhaled slowly.
Ken (low voice):
"…I'm going now."
From behind, Lia stepped forward into the moonlight, her hands clasped nervously at her chest. Then, she reached up and gently cupped his face, her fingers soft against his cheeks.
Lia (whispering):
"P-Please be safe, Danna-sama…"
Ken stared into her eyes — big, shimmering with worry. He gave her a small, reassuring smirk.
Ken:
"Don't worry, Lia. I'll be back later."
Without a word, she leaned up and pressed a soft kiss to his lips — slow and trembling.
Then she pulled back, her breath still warm against his face.
Lia (voice barely a whisper):
"…Go now, Sixth Hero."
Ken nodded once.
Ken (calmly):
"…Yeah."
He took a step back, raised two fingers to his forehead.
–WHOOSH.
In an instant, he vanished — leaving only a swirl of air and the quiet flutter of Lia's dress in the night breeze.
She stood there, fingers lingering near her lips.
Lia (thinking):
Come back to me, Danna-sama… no matter what.