Ling Yu nodded lightly. "Yes. The corruption within this forest isn't something your people can sense anymore."
Her words made a visible shiver pass through the group. Some younger elves exchanged uncertain looks; even for them, who had lived all their lives under the Tree's protection, the mention of corruption felt like an omen.
Seeing their unease, Ling Yu, once more, unconsciously softened her tone slightly. "You needn't worry. Just protect the sacred glades. I'll take care of what lurks beyond the reach of your songs."
The elves hesitated, but they saw the faint sigil glowing over the back of her hand, the same one that marked her bond with the Tree's spirit. It pulsed softly, like a living heart. It was enough to convince them.
