Simulated 19th Year

[Late at night, you visited Ōtohime's chambers, granting what she had long desired.]

[The next morning, Ōtohime emerged arm-in-arm with you, her demeanor uncharacteristically gentle. Her subordinates stared in disbelief, astonished that someone had finally tamed their formidable leader.]

[That same year, you briefly left Oni territory to locate your former tribe. Discovering Gobura as the current chieftain, his excitement upon seeing you was palpable. Through your persuasion, they joined your domain.]

[Year Thirteen: Your growing strength attracted resentment. As a Lord-class entity with personal territory, many Oni harbored ill will, frequently sabotaging your subordinates and hindering domain development. Aware of these schemes, you bided your time for the perfect counterstrike.]

[...]

[Year Eighteen: Your rapid advancement enabled you to match weaker Lord-class beings - or so you let others believe. In truth, you had reached mid-Lord-class strength, thanks to unparalleled skill mastery surpassing most Oni elites.]

[As your power became undeniable, former adversaries gradually disappeared, some even attempting to curry favor. Though capable of retaliation, you maintained strategic patience.]

[That year, you ventured beyond the Monster Beast Forest to Konar Plains, successfully rescuing Kaina. Your fearsome appearance frightened everyone except Kaina. Addressing her visible apprehension, you remarked softly: "You're half-elf, not fully human."]

[Kaina stared in shock - her elven heritage, carefully concealed, had been instantly discerned.]

["My assumption was correct. Come, I'll take you where you belong. The human world hasn't been kind to you."]

[After a moment's hesitation, Kaina agreed: "I... understand. You saved my life. I'll follow your lead."]

[Returning to the Monster Beast Forest, you brought Kaina to your domain.]

[After settling Kaina, you contemplated explaining the situation to Ōtohime, knowing you intended to marry Kaina eventually. However, Ōtohime discovered Kaina's presence sooner than expected. Surprisingly unangered, she calmly stated: "Taking another mate is acceptable, provided I remain your primary consort."]

[You agreed without hesitation, appointing Kaina as your personal secretary.]

[Sharing your study, Kaina observed her surroundings nervously. The luxurious architecture defied her expectations of monster dwellings. The respect shown by Oni and high-level monsters during your journey heightened her wariness. She couldn't comprehend why an elite demon like you would appear in Konar Plains to rescue someone insignificant like her.]

[While you read at your desk, aware of Kaina's tension, you refrained from comforting reassurances. Maintaining normalcy, you simply acquired a capable assistant.]

["Kaina, fetch the seventh book from the left, third shelf of the second bookcase."]

[Following your instruction, Kaina retrieved the book, surprised to find it written in human language. Though curious about a demon studying human knowledge, she dared not inquire.]

[You offered no explanations, knowing your simulated memories might transfer to your real self. Thus, you diligently expanded your knowledge base.]

[Year Nineteen: Having fully adapted to her new life, Kaina frequently stole glances at you. Recognizing her growing affection, you decided to address your relationship.]

[One evening, observing Kaina's proper posture, you remarked: "Kaina, I hear you've been studying alchemy. Aspiring to become an alchemist?"]

["Yes, Lord Goburo. It's been my lifelong dream."]

["Feel free to read alchemy texts during leisure hours. Consult me if needed - I have some expertise. By the way, have you brought your alchemy books? Let me review them."]

[Kaina's heart raced. Despite a year in your service, she had maintained distance, quietly observing your uniqueness among monsters - your elegance, studiousness, fairness, and respect for talent.]

[Nervously approaching, you gestured to an adjacent chair: "Sit."]

[Kaina trembled slightly at the proximity but soon immersed herself in your alchemy lesson. Concluding the session, you offered: "Master this book within a week, and I'll grant you a reward. Anything you desire."]

[Kaina's calm shattered, her heart pounding anew: "A reward... anything?"]