"Man, when there's absolutely nothing happening, it actually starts making you curious, huh?"

"Mii."

It turned out the reason for the massive invasion of monsters was because they were being controlled by someone. Ivy said it was likely orchestrated by that ogre-like creature who had targeted me directly.

If that’s the case, it means that monster was trying to destroy the town of Akoup. If it was acting under orders from the Demon King, it wouldn't be surprising if another wave or two of attacks came our way.

So, despite the added complications, we've decided to stay here in Akoup for now. We have many acquaintances and friendly folks around, and it's hard to beat the comfort of living in a gifted hideaway like this.

That said, nothing has happened since then. The monster activity has dropped significantly thanks to Ivy’s efforts, and things are even safer now than before.

Apparently, there are even talks of establishing better relations with the neighboring Theocracy of Célie.

I don’t know the details, but I hear they’re dealing with their own turmoil—political upheavals and whatnot—causing chaos throughout their Marquisry. It seems like every place has its own problems.

In the midst of this, I can’t help but feel a little guilty for living so lazily.

But the Marquis of Endlord and Jennifer have done so much for us. Besides, leaving here would undoubtedly lead to more complications. When faced with that, neither Ivy nor I are masochistic enough to jump into unnecessary trouble.

(Trouble, huh...)

I stood up and stretched. Ivy, now in her smaller size, floated up and perched on my shoulder.

I playfully tapped her tiny forehead with my finger.

"I'm heading into town for some shopping—need to stock up on veggies, fish, and other supplies."

"Mii!"

"Got it," she replied, still floating as she drifted back into her nap in her compact form.

Ivy has become quite the celebrity. Her massive form during that battle was apparently visible from within the town itself.

Because of that, Ivy can no longer freely roam the bustling streets of Akoup.

She still loves going out, but insensitive people hurling unkind words at her make it hard. Even though it doesn’t happen often, just the possibility stresses her out.

Those types don’t seem to realize that Akoup avoided any monster damage thanks to Ivy—or that we have the backing of the Marquis of Endlord. Either they’re unaware or too cowardly to acknowledge the truth.

I can’t stand seeing Ivy’s spirit deflate every time she’s hurt by those comments. That’s why she stays behind whenever I need to go into town for errands.

To make up for it, maybe I’ll bring her a little gift—something she can enjoy.

"Let’s go, Sanshita."

[“On it, boss!”]

With a polite nod, Sanshita, my loyal griffon, knelt to let me mount. Together, we soared through the skies, descending toward the town of Akoup.

As I strolled through the town, children swarmed Sanshita, offering him snacks.

"Wow, it's Sanshita!"
"I have cookies! Eat them, eat them!"

Sanshita happily devoured their offerings, his proud demeanor contrasting sharply with the adorable scene of him being hand-fed by kids.

While he entertained them, I slipped into the usual vegetable stand.

"Hey, Bruno, the usual?"
"Yes, please."
"Got it."

Though Sanshita survives just fine on the meat he hunts, I’ve grown up on vegetables and bread, being a farm boy at heart.

Ivy, though omnivorous, is even more particular about balanced nutrition than I am. She insists on a varied diet with plenty of root vegetables and leafy greens. Thanks to her influence, my meals are now surprisingly colorful and healthy.

Recently, even Sanshita has started eating vegetables. He might be the world’s first omnivorous griffon.

Shopping done, I made my way back through the bustling town square. Ivy would surely be pleased with the little accessory I’d found for her—a tiny trinket perfect for her smaller form.

But as I walked, I felt the weight of many eyes on me.

(...This never gets comfortable, does it?)

In Akoup, I’ve become somewhat of a celebrity, though Ivy is undoubtedly the town’s most famous "celebrity tortoise."

Lately, some have even started calling me a "hero."

Hero? That’s a fairy-tale title if I’ve ever heard one. It's kind of embarrassing.

Although, I guess I can endure it. If Ivy were here, she’d have to put up with even more—fearful stares or outright hostility from some folks.

For now, it’s a bit suffocating living in Akoup, even for something as simple as running errands.

Hiring help might solve the problem, but I doubt anyone would want to work for someone like us.

"Ready, Sanshita?"
[“Let’s roll!”]

With my shopping done, I mounted Sanshita again. As we flew back home, I waved at some townsfolk who smiled and waved at me. I returned their gestures with a friendly grin.

Playing the hero is exhausting work.