Chapter 243: Birth of a monster

Alva's heart pounded as she weighed her options. The tree-like being's words seemed sincere, and the urgency of the situation compelled her to make a decision. She knew she couldn't leave the injured girl behind, and if this being truly wanted to help, it might be her best chance.

"Fine," Alva said, her voice resolute. "Help me get her to Master Nikol. If you try anything suspicious, I won't hesitate to defend myself and this girl even if it meant I have to burn all the trees here."

The tree-like being nodded solemnly. "I understand your caution, Alva. I bear you no ill will. Our intentions are aligned against Jormungand, the great serpent that threatens this land."

Together, they carefully lifted the wounded girl and started moving through the dense forest. Alva couldn't help but look behind her to see a figure following them jumping from tree to tree without even bothering to show any sort of reaction to what just happened.