Chapter 176

As the spring of my second year draws to a close, it feels like quite the eventful season is fading into summer. Thanks to the World Tree’s influence, crops have flourished and taste better than ever, making this spring’s farming incredibly prosperous—not just for me but for everyone! With the Valley of Starwind already boosting agriculture, adding the World Tree made farming so effortless that failing at it would practically label you as an idiot.

The entire village is bathed in a warm, peaceful atmosphere, partly due to the World Tree’s calming effects. Despite growing populations and occasional incidents, people adapt quickly and enjoy their lives here. The village’s growth has been remarkable; construction booms, vacant lands are rapidly being developed, and the Public Bath has become a community hub akin to a small town square. Meanwhile, the Post Office struggles with increasing demand, and bicycles—now essential items for all residents—are used by everyone regardless of age or gender.

Especially among children, following Yul, Lucy, Jack, and Bell riding bikes has become trendy. Even though Yul now rides Bell instead of her iconic pink bike, kids still chase after her eagerly. A large group of young admirers trails behind them.

Yul, without realizing it, leads a massive fan club of children.

“Hey… can you check my outfit?” Suddenly, Anne hops over and proudly displays her white shirt and neatly ironed brown skirt. She looks elegant and beautiful. “You look great today,” I compliment her. Smiling brightly, she confirms, “No issues for work then?” “None at all.”

Recently, we completed a textile factory—not because I’m particularly interested in clothing businesses, but since Anne loves making clothes, I decided to support her hobby by setting up a facility where she could mass-produce garments under her name. It’s another perk of having some power: providing resources for those you care about.

Anne happily spins around, thrilled at the prospect of distributing her creations widely. Her talent for designing clothes suits her well, whether catering to fairies, humans, elves, dragons—or even Bell! While preparing outfits for Bell at home, Anne inspires dreams of expanding her craft.

“Let’s walk together today.” She naturally loops her arm through mine, sending subtle sensations down my elbow. Her smile tilts mischievously. “Alright?” “Yeah!” “Don’t overdo it though, okay? You’ll rest more come autumn,” I remind her gently. Pregnant and energetic, Anne plans to make the most of these days before slowing down later.

Evangelin enjoys light strolls since discovering she cannot ride a bike. Contentedly staying indoors, she finds joy in cooking meals for our family, finding fulfillment in simple pleasures.

Walking arm-in-arm toward the factory, Anne radiates happiness. After dabbling in flower shops and cooking lessons, she finally settled on tailoring—a choice that seems perfect for showcasing her talents.

“Listen…” On the way, Anne softly speaks to me, her voice carrying the scent of spring blossoms. Curious, I respond, “Hm?” “This is a gift…”

Could a voice be this enchanting? Anne’s shy tone alone captivates me. She hands me a narcissus flower, symbolizing herself, hiding it cleverly until now. Smiling sweetly, she pins it near my chest, its fresh fragrance filling the air.

“It’s a narcissus, right?” “Yeah… how do you like it?” “It suits you better than me, actually.” Chuckling coyly, she secures the flower closer to me. “We’re one, aren’t we? So now, Minho also fits the narcissus image,” she declares playfully before closing her eyes briefly, hinting for a kiss.

Our lips meet softly, her warmth lingering like fruit-tinted morning freshness. Breaking away, she grins triumphantly before skipping ahead energetically, dragging me along with her linked arm.

With the narcissus pinned to my chest matching hers, I imagine calling ourselves the ‘Narcissus Couple.’ Walking together toward the factory brings immense joy, her cheerful waves visible even as she enters work mode.

Thinking about their future child, named Love, fills me with anticipation. How lively will they be?

—

* * *

[Guardian!!] The World Tree’s voice occasionally interrupts my thoughts. Since allowing free communication, it shares both trivial and useful tidbits regularly. Though still young, I always respond attentively.

“Yes?”

The sound resonates directly in my mind, though verbal responses please the World Tree more. [Friends resembling Yul are coming to the village!] “Friends resembling Yul?” [Yes!]

Recalling the previous visit from Beoseugal, a demon who mentioned seasonal travel times aligns somewhat with this timing. Regardless, details don’t matter much.

“Where are they?”

[They should arrive today!] “Got it.”

Curiosity peaks thinking about these demons. Imagining interactions between local nobles, mages, and these newcomers excites me. How will demons perceive this world? Will they recognize themselves as such when knowledge of demons is scarce?

Even if initial impressions are negative, no problem. With enough influence, I can reshape perceptions. Especially since Yul is already accepted as normal despite being a demon, maintaining harmony seems achievable. Should any trouble arise, quiet handling suffices.

Ideally, they’ll integrate seamlessly into the village without issue.

“Mm…?” My musings seem to wake Evangelin.

“No need to get up yet.” “Okay…” Her drowsy voice exudes sensual charm rather than innocence, as she cozies deeper into my embrace. Quietly breathing steady, she drifts back asleep while I continue conversing privately with the World Tree.

“When will the elves arrive?”

[It might take longer—they’re preparing!] “Understood. How many elves?”

[Hmm… more than a hundred. Lots and lots of hundreds gathered.] Adorable guesses aside, numbers hold little significance given the forest’s capacity.

Gradually, the village transforms into pure fantasy. Fairies frequent our home, spirits dwell nearby, elves share the woods with wildlife, dragons and Demon Kings play alongside sages’ daughters, soon joined by numerous demons. Magic users and nobility flock here thanks to the dragon allure.

Despite potential chaos, surprising peace prevails. Even powerful nobles respect village laws, perhaps because unruly ones were swiftly expelled long ago.

Gently stroking Evangelin’s soft hair, green magic glows faintly—an expression of my wish for lasting happiness.

A fairy peeks through the window. Opening the door slightly, she giggles entering. Preemptively casting noise-canceling magic near Evangelin’s ears prevents disturbance.

“Fruit human!!” “What is it?” “Demons are in the forest!” “In the forest?” “Yes! Yes! Little demon friends arrived!”

Fairies’ expanding territory becomes evident here. Safely guarded by knights, they explore fearlessly. Past attempts against them ended disastrously for attackers.

“Thanks for letting me know.” “Yes! Yes!” She flits over, plopping beside Evangelin. Aware of who makes tasty treats, fairies appreciate Anne’s seasonal fashion trends and Evangelin’s culinary skills. First-generation fairies distinguish themselves by owning multiple outfits and discerning palates, teasing newer arrivals with pride.

Their innocent nature fosters unique quirks. Essentially tamed by Anne and Evangelin, they prioritize their words over mine now. Second and third generations still heed me more, but that dynamic may shift anytime.

“World Tree.” [Yes?] “Are demons heading to the forest too?” [Yes! Some to the village, others to the forest!] “Let me know once they’ve all arrived. I’ll relax a bit first.”

[Of course! Trust me completely!] Its cheerful tone mimics fairies, likely influenced by their constant presence. Infectious innocence indeed.

Continuing to stroke Evangelin’s flowing locks, I savor this lazy afternoon. Demons arriving feels routine now. No event important enough to disrupt this bliss exists. Large-scale demon migrations have simply normalized into everyday occurrences.