Chapter 111

As the end of autumn truly sets in, it becomes clear that planting the final seeds on the farm marks its close.

It happens on the 46th day of each season or later.

Planting seeds anywhere outside a greenhouse at this point is futile, as crops will freeze and wither under frost when winter arrives.

Thus, it seems natural for fairies to start grumbling around this time. Unable to plant new things, they lavish extra care on what’s already growing.

And so, as seasons transition…

I’ve come to understand why certain crops gain the high value tag of “Fairy Crops” during these seasonal changes.

[Advanced Farming Level 10 (+1)]

Even though farming should have stopped at level 9, it was boosted further by the mysterious influence of Spirit Valley Pagoda—just like last time. This boost doesn’t break through barriers but instead refines skill and experience.

By nightfall, another level would likely be gained—not just for me, but for everyone affected. Mining, construction, farming, security—all abilities improved across species friendly to me.

The reason Spirit Valley Pagoda was built quickly? Its compact design made it deceptively fast despite requiring intricate materials.

This progress unlocked more wonders:

Spirit Valley Pagoda.

Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa.

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque.

Cluny Abbey.

While catacombs are underground cemeteries and grand mosques seem impossible megastructures, Cluny Abbey feels most approachable.

Materials required were similar to Spirit Valley Pagoda but slightly higher quality.

Permanent effects:

– Disease resistance +80%

– All holy-related effects +25%

– Amplified feelings of piety, reverence, etc.

– Wound regeneration +50%

Building Cluny Abbey would benefit everyone, not just individuals—a boon against disease especially.

“Pii!”

“That’s right, we’ve got Suri too.”

Suri, who reads my thoughts now, perches proudly on my shoulder, looking regal despite once being adorable. His claws gently rest on me while folding his wings neatly.

What new skills did he gain? I imagine Baby Charm +1 applied back then…

He’s still cute now, accepting food only from me, chirping like an infant. When he closes his eyes enjoying my touch, it reminds me of his fluffy baby days.

Walking through town with Suri…

At the center stands Spirit Valley Pagoda, radiating quiet strength—a landmark casting long shadows.

Workers take immense pride in building it, feeling empowered by its presence. Conversations buzz about newfound abilities.

Positive rumors spread organically; word travels far even without legs.

Perhaps this pagoda could attract visitors. Once Cluny Abbey is built, clergy might follow too—for healers, priests, spiritual leaders are essential for healthy communities.

“Pii!”

“Alright, let’s go this way?”

“Pii.”

Suri gently tugs my clothes with his beak, leading somewhere. Trusting him fully, I follow.

Always charming, Suri sometimes draws jealous looks from Anne and Evangelin—but thankfully, he remains unfazed, preening calmly amidst their glances.

Today, he leads toward the forest, our primary wood source. Flying ahead, he waits patiently for me, anticipation gleaming in his wings.

What awaits us?

Passing through autumn’s golden hues and towering trees, beyond lies a majestic mountain range.

Never crossed before due to game restrictions or lack of need…

“Pii!”

Suri guides me toward the mountains. What could possibly be there?

Pushing aside thick foliage, the cool breeze feels refreshing.

No unusual sensations or lifeforms register within my perception radius.

Are we nearing something? Suri’s wingbeats quicken.

Suddenly, I sense it—a faint, fragile life force, a tiny heartbeat.

Sure enough, where Suri lands reveals a small unconscious child lying among the leaves.

How far does Suri venture alone? Truly impressive.

Reaching the child, I find a tiny, frail figure, perhaps four or five years old, with small horns protruding from either side of their head—an intriguing sight.

Though Starwind Valley blends medieval fantasy with modern conveniences, unexpected surprises remain.

A demon… Such beings existed here?

Discovering something new feels both exhilarating and bittersweet.

Approaching cautiously, I hold water and channel healing magic softly over the child.

Why did Suri bring me here? Looking at him, all I see is innocent curiosity and a slight bow seeking approval.

Trusting him completely, I stroke his feathers and confirm the healing magic works. The child stirs, groaning softly.

“Ahh…”

“You’re awake.”

“Uh?”

Confused, wide-eyed, the child takes the offered water eagerly, then hesitates, sizing me up like a wary kitten.

“What happened out here?”

“Demon language! Are you a demon?”

Adorable pronunciation betrays youthfulness.

“No, I’m human.”

“Humans…?”

Uncertainty flickers upon mentioning humans. The child whimpers softly, conflicted emotions swirling.

“Not all humans are bad.”

“N-no! They’re all bad!”

Sadness lingers in those words.

“Not everyone is bad.”

“Wahh… Nooo! All bad!”

Shaking their head vigorously, tears well up. Concerned, I check for nearby guardians.

“Do you have parents or a guardian?”

“Yes… Alone…”

Heartbreaking sorrow spills into tears. Carefully approaching, I comfort them.

Tears flow freely now, triggering sobs. Gently cradling the child, I rock them soothingly.

“Here.”

Offering sweet melon calms them instantly. Eyes widening, they munch happily, forgetting worries temporarily.

Despite dirt smudges, wiping their face reveals striking beauty—fiery red eyes, glossy black horns, jet-black hair.

They seem well-cared-for normally, so how did they end up here?

Resisting the urge to pry further, I focus on immediate needs.

“Do you have anywhere to go?”

“Mm-hmm…”

Nodding reluctantly, they indicate yes.

“Would you like to come with me for a little while?”

“Humans are bad!”

Insistent refusal makes abduction unthinkable. Yet leaving them here feels dangerous.

Thinking quickly, inspiration strikes regarding their horns. Carving small wooden ones and attaching them to my own head creates a passable imitation.

“How’s this?”

“Eh…?”

Success! Confused fascination leads them to touch my makeshift horns.

“Will you come with me now?”

Feels almost like kidnapping, but intentions are pure—just offering temporary shelter until proper arrangements can be made.

“Now that you’ve got horns and speak demon language, come along.”

“My name’s Minho. And yours, little one?”

“I’m Yul!”

“Yul?”

“Yep!”

Thus began my unexpected encounter with young Yul, a demon child, deep within the mountains.