: The story is noted for being a "cute romance" during this phase, with much of the action taking place within the game world. The tension builds as their in-game bond strengthens, making their real-life friction more painful for the reader to watch.

They are a tight-knit duo, deeply involved in their guild and even considered a couple by their online peers.

, an avid online gamer who discovers that his neighbor is actually his long-time guildmate and online crush. The narrative is available in two formats: Original Web Novel

A massive dungeon break occurs. A winged serpentine boss, the Ashveil Wyrm, escapes into the city. The Guild’s high-rankers are mostly away, leaving Kaito and Iris to lead a desperate defense with mid-tier members. The action is spectacularly described, with Iris burning through her mana reserves to heal dozens of civilians and Kaito organizing a makeshift defensive line. Lucian appears at the worst moment, demanding Iris join him in exchange for his help. She refuses, saying the line that broke the fandom: "I am not a spell. I am not a resource. I am his neighbor."

The story highlights the vast gap between elite guild members and the general public.