"Tree Demons!" Vera became slightly cautious when seeing the approaching figures.
The reason it was only "slightly" was because the three of them had been roaming the sixth level for some time, and naturally knew that ever since the Tree Demons had gone into symbiosis with Puki, they would often come out of the Secret Forest but, like Puki, they would not attack actively.
However, this time their intention was clear as they walked towards the group, causing Vera to instinctively grip the knife handle tightly.
Unexpectedly, Sirean stepped forward to greet them, his emerald eyes full of wonder.
"There are Tree Demons here too? And..." He examined the wrinkled bark of the Tree Demons closely, "They are growing mushrooms on them, instead of the usual moss!"
One of the taller Tree Demons extended a gnarled branch, lightly entwining it around Sirean's wrist as if testing.
Vera's heart tightened, "Hey, is it okay?"
