Chapter 8: Temporary Partner, Little Master of Imagination

"It looks like there are some minor problems with your bodies."

Zed observed the Healing Butterflies lingering on Erina and Hisako. Though cured of the Purple Thorn's poison, their stress and fatigue—common for outsiders—had drawn the blue butterflies.

As they ventured deeper into Healing Country, the girls marveled at its contradictions: patients in recovery gowns shuffling past tourists snapping photos of bioluminescent flora.

"Does it feel strange?" Zed asked, noting their confusion.

"A bit," Erina admitted. "This is a medical city, yet some people treat it like… a resort."

"Healing Country is both," Zed explained. "Saiseiya restore ecosystems, but we also cater to gourmet tourists. The Life Regen Hot Springs here are legendary."

He paused, then cut to the chase. "Now—a proposal. Become my temporary partners."

Hisako choked. Erina's cheeks flushed. In the Toriko world, partnerships were sacred bonds—often romantic.

"Temporary," Zed clarified. "A trial. You're chefs; I handle ingredients. We'll see if we're compatible."

Hisako glanced at Erina. "I… follow Erina-sama's decision."

Erina's mind raced—not with logistics, but shoujo manga tropes. Transported to another world… saved by a mysterious Saiseiya… a partnership proposal… Her imagination painted Zed as a knight shielding her in this savage gourmet realm.

Zed, pragmatic, awaited logic. In Toriko's world, partnerships demanded survival synergy—Toriko hadn't deemed Komatsu a true partner until the Gourmet Pyramid. Yet Erina's blush betrayed delusions of grandeur.

"I accept," Erina declared, chin lifted regally.

[Temporary Partner Bond Confirmed: Erina Nakiri.]

Zed blinked, startled. The Partner System—dormant for years—flared to life.

"Good," he said, masking surprise.