Don't quit being a hero!

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Aiko stood in front of Ethan's door, listening to the counting that was coming from inside.

'Is that Ethan?' She asked herself, leaning her closer to the door to get a better hearing, 'Ya ya ya, there's no way, this is Ethan we're talking about'.

Aiko took a deep breath…

Knock knock!

She knocked on the door, "Ethan, it's me Aiko, are you busy?".

"No, not really, come in…" Ethan responded.

As Aiko opened the door, she entered the room cautiously, her voice filled with apology, "I'm sorry for intruding." However, her words trailed off as her eyes fell upon Ethan.

Seated on the floor, Ethan's shirtless form was partially obscured by his hair cascading over the side of his face. Before him, two rocks were meticulously positioned side by side.

Aiko stood frozen, her cheeks reddening as her gaze fixated on Ethan's sculpted chest and masculine physique. Her voice quivered as she managed to stammer out, "W-What... are you doing?!" Instinctively, she covered her face with her hands, leaving small gaps between her fingers to steal furtive glances.

"Uhn? What do you mean?" Ethan responded.

"Why aren't you wearing anything?!" Aiko exclaimed, her voice filled with shock and embarrassment.

Ethan's expression shifted to bewilderment. "Oh, I was just working out," he explained casually.

Aiko let out a sudden sigh, lowering her hands from her face, though the traces of embarrassment still lingered. She walked towards him, gracefully kneeling in front of his seated figure. "Honestly," she began, her voice softening, "I never took you for the kind to work out."

Ethan quizzically raised an eyebrow. "Uhn? You don't work out?"

"That's not what I meant," Aiko clarified, her words trailing off as her gaze once again fixated on Ethan's bare chest.

Almost involuntarily, her hand rose slowly from the ground, drawing nearer to Ethan's sculpted torso. With gentle curiosity and a hint of happiness, she allowed her fingers to graze against his skin, her eyes capturing every detail.

"It's... firm," Aiko murmured softly, her hands continuing their delicate exploration of Ethan's chiseled chest.

Ethan broke the silence, his gaze fixed upon her. "Um... do you have a fascination with men's chests?" He inquired, a hint of curiosity in his voice.

Aiko glanced up at him, her expression neutral at first, but then a sudden realization washed over her. "I-I'm sorry!" She exclaimed, her face flushed crimson as she hastily withdrew her hands, embarrassment flooding her features.

"I don't mind, I was just curious." Ethan spoke back.

"I'd appreciate it if you forgot what happened just now." Aiko muttered under her breath, her eyes fixed to the side.

"As you wish," Ethan rose gracefully from the ground, retrieving a dry towel from the bed and draping it around his neck. He made his way to the wardrobe, his movements confident and purposeful. "So, is there a specific reason why you came here?" he inquired.

"Oh, right!" Aiko positioned herself attentively. "Tomorrow, we're heading to a town called Deikin. It's currently under attack by monsters... I felt it necessary to inform you, considering you're often left out of the details."

"Ah, it's fine," Ethan responded nonchalantly, slipping his shirt back on and using his hand to sweep his hair back. "That information doesn't hold much value for me, anyway."

Aiko's eyes widened, her gaze fixed on him. "What do you mean by that?" she pressed, seeking clarification.

"Well, you see, I plan to quit being a hero.. no, quitting won't be the right word to use." Ethan began, his gaze wandering around the room as his hand rested thoughtfully on his jaw. "To be honest, I was never truly part of it to begin with."

Aiko's voice interjected, her expression filled with shock. "Wait a moment," She uttered, her face contorted with disbelief.

Undeterred, Ethan continued, "In any case, I've heard rumors about a fascinating kingdom in the East, and I thought it might be worth exploring."

"What are you…?" Aiko interjected again, her voice now edged with frustration.

"And, um, I was wondering if you had any insights on how to..."

"What in the world are you saying?!" Aiko snapped, rising abruptly from the ground with a burst of force.

Ethan met Aiko's gaze, his expression still serene. "Is something wrong?" He inquired, his voice calm and composed.

Aiko approached him, her tone filled with concern. "What's all this talk about quitting?" She murmured, drawing nearer. "If something has happened, you know you can confide in me."

Ethan shook his head. "No, there isn't anything specific that comes to mind," He replied.

"Then why?" Aiko pressed, her voice tinged with confusion.

Ethan hesitated for a moment. "I don't…exactly have a reason.." He admitted.

"Then stay!" Aiko's voice rose, her hand instinctively placed over her chest. "I'll ensure no one bothers you. In fact, I'll personally take care of you!".

Ethan let out a weary sigh. "I appreciate your concern, but have you ever considered the impact it could have on your own reputation? If people misunderstand our relationship, it might affect you... possibly."

"Leave that to me!" Aiko seized Ethan's hands, placing them against her own chest. "People gossip incessantly; it's not something I'm afraid of."

"You're surprisingly persistent" Ethan acknowledged.

"Yes, I am," Aiko replied resolutely.

"I see."

...

The following morning arrived, and the heroes were already busy making preparations for their journey to the neighboring town.

Awaiting them outside the castle were four majestic carriages, each drawn by a pair of mighty land dragons. The carriages stood regally, ready to embark on the upcoming adventure.

Aiko surveyed the scene, her eyes filled with anticipation. "The carriages and dragons are prepared. It seems we're all set for our departure," she exclaimed.

Aiko, the valiant priestess, nodded in agreement, her emerald eyes filled with determination. "Indeed, everything is in perfect order. Let us not delay any longer and proceed swiftly to Deikin, where our noble mission awaits its completion."

Her gaze shifted to the surroundings, seeking the presence of the other heroes. "By the way, where are the others?" Aiko inquired, her voice carrying a hint of curiosity.

Almost as if summoned by her words, the remaining heroes emerged, their countenances reflecting their unwavering resolve, accompanied by their loyal priestesses.

Leading the group, the pretty hero, Veronica, clad in an alluring dress, stepped forward. "Yello! We are here, prepared to embark on this quest," She declared, her voice resonating with cuteness.

The priestesses, draped in flowing robes and exuding an air of mystic power, stood steadfastly behind their respective heroes, their gazes filled with devotion and unwavering support.