Akg leaned back on the couch, a satisfied grin on his face as he channel-surfed through the TV, one hand patting his now full stomach. The food had arrived just in time, and after that intense transformation, it was exactly what he needed.
His new body felt incredible—every movement was effortless, his senses sharp, his strength immense. It was still surreal, but also thrilling.
Suddenly, he heard it—a gentle knock at the door.
"Hmm? Who could that be?"
He stood up, feeling unusually light and energized, and walked to the door. With a quick glance through the God Eyes—yes, he could see through the door easily—he saw Shizuka, standing there with a soft smile, holding a neatly wrapped box.
Akg blinked.
"Shizuka?"
Opening the door, he greeted her with a surprised but genuine smile.
"Hey, Shizuka. This is unexpected."
Shizuka's eyes lit up when she saw him, her gaze lingering for a moment longer than usual—something was... different about Akg. His posture, his presence—it felt stronger, almost magnetic.
She quickly looked away, hiding her sudden flustered expression.
"I... I made some cookies and thought I'd bring them over. You've been helping me a lot with school, and..." she paused, holding out the box, "I thought it might cheer you up."
Akg took the box, his heart warming. "Thanks. You didn't have to, but I really appreciate it."
Her mother's words echoed in her mind: Say hello to Akg for me. Shizuka nodded.
"Also, my mom says hello... and to be careful eating too many sweets." She giggled softly.
Akg chuckled.
"I'll be sure to pace myself, then." He stepped aside. "Come in? I've got cold tea and some extra food if you're hungry."
Shizuka hesitated, then smiled and stepped inside. As she sat on the couch, she glanced at Akg again. His face seemed sharper, his eyes brighter, and she could even see faint lines of muscle through his t-shirt.
"Did you... start working out or something?" she asked, tilting her head.
Akg froze for half a second.
"Uh... yeah, I guess you could say I've been training a bit," he said, scratching his cheek.
DING!
[System: Host, that was smooth.]
"Quiet, you." Akg muttered under his breath.
"Hmm?" Shizuka blinked.
"Ah, nothing! Just talking to myself." He quickly changed the subject. "So, what kind of cookies did you make this time?"
As they both sat comfortably, the soft chatter of TV in the background, Akg felt something he hadn't in a long time—peace. Despite the power flowing through his veins, this moment was warm and real.