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174 - A Spirit Connection

Author: Sakiah Zee
last update Last Updated: 2025-01-17 06:47:06

GILDEON

He trailed behind the two as they approached the massive tree, his gaze fixed on Tree Man. Perhaps lingering in this memory would reveal what kind of being this creature truly was.

The tree’s gaping hollow was enormous, easily allowing Tree Man’s towering frame to pass through. Inside, the space was surprisingly human in design. A bed woven from thick, intertwining roots and padded with moss leaned against one wall. Tree stumps, their surfaces smoothed by years of use, served as tables and chairs.

From the ceiling hung baskets stuffed with dried vegetables, fruits, herbs, and fish strips. Their pungent aroma was thick, hitting hard—earthy and sour with a sharp, fishy tang. Even Kana wrinkled her nose, quickly covering it with her hand.

Tree Man noticed, his bark-like face shifting slightly, as if attempting an expression. For a moment, Gildeon could have sworn it was an embarrassment.

“Sorry,” Tree Man said, his rough voice awkward as he gestured vaguely around the room. “Hous
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