Ryo returned to the bakery loaf in hand just as the villagers began to gather outside.
Ryo said What now? I just saved a giant wolf and bought bread That's it.
But the villagers weren't listening They were busy hanging colorful banners and setting up tables.
Villager Elder said Ryo! You must join our celebration! You saved the village!
Ryo froze Celebration? He looked at the decorations Uh… I didn't exactly fight anyone.
Boy from before ran up holding the tiny wolf pup But you saved the wolf too! Everyone thinks you're amazing!
Ryo sighed Amazing is… a strong word I just did what anyone would do.
The villagers laughed nervously No you're special! You're the supreme protector of our village!
Ryo rubbed his temple Supreme protector… okay Guess I can't argue.
He walked over to the main table The baker still staring at him in awe offered a freshly baked cake.
Baker said Please Ryo Accept this as thanks!
Ryo took the cake and examined it Perfect layers Fine I'll eat it But only because it's edible.
As he bit into the cake a commotion arose near the forest edge A group of bandits had appeared clearly intending to loot the village.
Ryo yawned Really? Right after cake?
Bandit Leader shouted Everyone get down! The village belongs to us now!
Ryo walked forward casually holding his half eaten cake With a subtle wave of his hand the bandits froze in place mid step
Ryo said I don't want to ruin your day but the village and my cake are off limits
The bandits blinked then slowly collapsed to the ground completely unconscious
Villager Elder gasped Ryo… even your smallest effort… is incredible.
Ryo sighed and brushed crumbs off his hands I'm really just here for a snack people.
The villagers continued their celebration decorating the pup with a tiny scarf and cheering for Ryo For a moment he felt… oddly content.
Ryo muttered Maybe being the strongest isn't so bad if everyone just wants cake and bread.
But deep in the forest a faint shadow watched Something or someone had taken notice of Ryo's effortless power.
Ryo didn't see it yet For now he just enjoyed the cake.
And that was enough.