Reborn as a Vending Machine, I Now Wander the Dungeon Episode 2: The King Frog Fiend Appears
Manga volume 6-10
Oshimeter
5 Fans
READTHROUGH
Pity's Shell and Hakkon's Eclair
The journey begins with Hakkon as a vending machine and Lammis talking with Hyuulumi and Muniera. They introduce Pity, cloaked in a large pink shell, whose "Weight Blessing" grants her control over objects' mass. Muniera hints at Pity's past heartbreak with Keri-oil's band, setting a somber tone for their destination. Pity, depressed and afraid, receives a chocolate eclair from Hakkon, a small comfort that briefly lifts her spirits as the group nears the island.
The Binocular View
As Lammis spots their destination, Hakkon transforms into a pair of mounted binoculars. Through his lenses, Lammis confirms Keri-oil's ship docked among stilted huts, a clear sign they have arrived. The atmosphere tightens, moving from travelogue to the cusp of confrontation. This simple transition builds tension effectively.
Keri-oil's Family Stand
The group enters a hut to find Keri-oil with his family, including Filumina and their twin sons. A quiet but firm standoff commences as Lammis seeks answers about Keri-oil's past deeds. He appears resigned, but his family's defensiveness speaks volumes. Hakkon observes, a silent witness to the strained dynamics of history and loyalty.
The Survey and the Truth
Instead of drawing weapons, Lammis produces a scroll detailing public opinions about Keri-oil, collected by Hakkon's survey. The nuanced feedback, ranging from understanding to forgiveness, stuns Keri-oil and his band, momentarily defusing the tension. Hakkon reflects on the world's surprising acceptance of difference, then Keri-oil confesses: his son was taken hostage, forcing his obedience to the Netherworld King. The group's anger shifts to a potent sympathy.
Slulim's Icy Entrance
A violent eruption of ice shards shatters the hut floor, as Slulim, a Netherworld King subordinate, makes a dramatic entrance. She clutches Keri-oil's son, now cursed and in pain, proclaiming her intent to reclaim her "tools." Slulim dismisses any attempts at reconciliation, asserting her need for obedience, not loyalty. Her ice magic engulfs the area, immobilizing the group and showcasing a formidable, cold adversary.
Fire Against Ice
The Burning Chairman, an Ensei-bito, steps forward, igniting his body in defiance of Slulim's ice. Their elemental clash fills the hut with steam and explosions, a spectacle of opposing forces. The Chairman urges Lammis to focus on the child's rescue while he holds Slulim at bay. He struggles against Slulim's blizzard, empowered by the Netherworld King, yet his fiery presence remains a steadfast beacon.
Unconventional Weapons
Hakkon devises a plan, transforming into a coin locker to dispense lubricant onto the icy floor. Slulim's minions slip and fall, disoriented by the bizarre tactic. Lammis capitalizes on the chaos, pushing Hakkon forward. In a moment of bravery, Pity uses her blessing to make her shell impossibly heavy, pinning Slulim's attack and creating a crucial opening. These unexpected maneuvers begin to turn the tide.
The Counterattack
Lammis, with Hakkon on her back, charges through the slippery battleground. Hakkon dispenses pressurized cola bottles, which Lammis hurls like grenades, adding sticky, carbonated chaos to the fray. Inspired by this determined effort, Keri-oil and his band join the fight, their resolve strengthened. The hut erupts into a full-scale melee, pushing the advantage against Slulim's forces.
A Costly Retreat and New Resolve
Frustrated, Slulim prepares a devastating ice spell, but Hakkon counters with a high-pressure stream of hot tea, melting her defenses. She retreats through a portal, taking Keri-oil's son with her, swearing vengeance. The immediate threat passes, leaving a unified but solemn group. On the beach, as the sun sets, Keri-oil expresses his gratitude and formally asks for their help. Hakkon watches, the silent observer of their new, shared mission.

