"What kind of ridiculous vitality pill is this? Did they make it for kids to play with?"
Ryuuto crossed his arms, scowling. The more he looked at the little white capsules in his hand, the angrier he got. "Seriously, if this was a real life potion, I could sell it worldwide and probably become the richest guy in the universe!"
[Master, you're wrong this time—the vitality pill actually works!] Shion's cheeky voice chimed in, almost mocking him.
"Shion, don't try to fool me! I know your tricks."
[No joke, Master! Think about it carefully. Maybe you don't need it for yourself, but give it to friends—anyone irritable or drained—they'll instantly feel energetic, calm, and rejuvenated. Even lifespan gets a boost!]
"Well, then hurry up and hand over the three pills—don't waste my time!"
[Alright, but numbers are limited. Use them wisely, Master!]
In a blink, a small pill bottle appeared in Ryuuto's hand. He shook it gently, and the crisp rattle confirmed the contents: three small, milky-white pills.
"Ryuuto… is this some kind of magic?" Gwen peeked over, curious about the tiny, mysterious bottle.
"Nothing magic, just a few pills. Don't know if they taste good, wanna try?" Ryuuto asked with a sly grin.
Without hesitation, he popped the lid, and a fresh, invigorating scent poured out, clearing the fatigue from the air. Anyone sniffing it could tell this was no ordinary thing.
"I want one!" Gwen squealed, snuggling close to Ryuuto, holding out her small mouth expectantly.
"Hold on, let me test it first—don't want any weird side effects." Ryuuto dropped one pill into his mouth. The effect was instantaneous: a surge of energy and clarity, like every cell in his body was singing.
"Whoa… this is incredible!" Ryuuto grinned, feeling the vitality coursing through him. "Gwen, try it!"
Gwen eagerly popped a pill into her mouth. Her eyes lit up, sparkling like the city lights around them. "Delicious! Ryuuto… this must be expensive! Where did you even get it?"
"Not expensive at all. If you like it, I'll get it for you anytime, anywhere." Ryuuto hugged her gently, voice sincere.
Before they could savor the moment further, a squad of black-clad figures approached. Leading them was Natasha Romanoff, striding confidently in her sleek tactical suit.
"Smells amazing! Ryuuto, are you holding candy? I want some too!" she called.
"Of course," Ryuuto said, grinning. He handed her the last pill and gave her a warm hug.
"Long time no see! Didn't expect you'd be on a mission again."
Natasha popped the pill in her mouth and glanced at the unconscious Jett Storm and the immobilized Mopper Bandits. "You and Gwen handled all this? Impressive. I knew you'd fix it."
"Naturally," Ryuuto said with a playful nod. "Natasha, I'll leave the cleanup to you. I'm taking Gwen home first, and we'll touch base later."
With a quick exchange and nods to the New York police and Natasha, Ryuuto whisked Gwen away, leaving the Mopper Bandits tied up and their leader thoroughly humbled.
"Today was amazing!" Gwen chirped as they strolled. "Not only did I survive Osborn's work, but I got to punish some bad guys. I'm really starting to love being Spider-Man!"
Ryuuto chuckled, holding her close. "Well, you're officially a competent superhero. Keep that arrogance in check, dear." He cupped her face, eyes serious yet warm. "And remember—never reveal your true identity to any enemy."
"I promise!" Gwen squeezed his hand, her trust unwavering.
"When you're at Osborn, take care of yourself. Be vigilant. Call me if anything happens."
"I will," Gwen nodded earnestly. "Is it dangerous there? Are there really bad guys?"
"I'm not sure yet. Just be careful, okay?" Ryuuto said, smiling faintly.
After waving goodbye, Gwen headed home, excitement slowly giving way to calm. Ryuuto turned, ready to head back to catch up with Katie Dee and Susan, already planning their next move.