Ken's face beamed with happiness as he stood before the group, exuding a sense of contentment. John's confusion was visible in his furrowed brows and quizzical expression as he asked, "Ken, is that you?"
The mysterious figure nodded slowly, confirming his identity. "It's me, in the flesh."
Chris stared at Ken, his curiosity and concern warring within him. His eyes flicked back and forth, taking in Ken's changed appearance. "Dude, what happened?" he blurted out, worry coloring his voice. "The horns, the mark... and you look, well, like you aged ten years overnight!"
Mina, her gaze unwavering, wasn't about to let Ken off easy. Her voice held a steely edge as she pressed him, "Ken... Tell me you didn't do what I think you did."
Ken's lips curled into a knowing smile, a mixture of happiness and determination in his eyes. The group sensed a weighty revelation in his smile.
