The Villain's explosive return.

Treyni held up a hand, silencing her sister. Her lips curled back into a smile, but there was no humor in it now. "You're observant, I'll give you that. But that doesn't explain why you're really here. Spirit humans don't just let anyone wander into their territory."

"I'm here because I have nowhere else to turn," I admitted, keeping my tone neutral. "The world I come from... it's full of lies. Deceit. Everyone out for themselves. Spirit humans are different—or so I've been told. I figured if anyone would understand, it'd be them."

Treyni tilted her head, considering my words. Kaela remained tense, her glare locked on me as though trying to see through any potential deception.

Finally, Treyni spoke again, her voice softer but still laced with caution. "If what you say is true... maybe you're not as foolish as you seem." She glanced at Kaela, who frowned but didn't argue. "But tell me this: What's your plan if they don't want you?"

I met her gaze, unflinching. "Then I keep searching. But I'm not leaving until I know for sure."

Treyni's gaze lingered on me, her sharp eyes searching for any sign of deceit. Kaela, standing slightly behind her sister, seemed like she had something on the tip of her tongue but chose to remain silent. Her expression was a mix of frustration and caution, her fists clenched at her sides.

The atmosphere hung heavy with tension, the stillness of the forest amplifying every breath and subtle movement. It felt like we were all waiting for someone to make the first move, a single spark that could either lead to understanding or conflict. Treyni's expression softened just slightly, though her guarded stance remained.

"Alright," she said finally, breaking the silence. Her voice was measured, carrying both curiosity and warning. "Let's say I believe you. What's next?"

Kaela shifted uneasily but stayed silent, her eyes flickering between me and Treyni. I took a deep breath, knowing that whatever I said next could tip the scales.

"I've words , words that Monster Baki will destroy the temple shrine of the elves. I don't know the exact time but I want to gain their trust by helping them avoid the disaster.

And before you judge , the monster baki isn't something a mere human can control , I only saw the possibility."

Treyni's eyes narrowed at my words, her playful demeanor vanishing entirely. Kaela finally broke her silence, stepping forward with an incredulous look.

"You expect us to believe that? How do you even know about Baki, let alone that he'll destroy the temple shrine? What kind of game are you playing?"

I held up my hands in a placating gesture, meeting their sharp gazes with as much calm as I could muster.

"I'm not playing any games. I have no control over Baki or his actions—I wouldn't dream of claiming such a thing. But I've seen the possibility, the signs of what's to come. I don't know the exact time or details, but I know enough to warn you."

Treyni tilted her head slightly, her piercing gaze locked onto mine. "And what exactly are we supposed to do with your vague warning? Trust you just because you say so?"

I took a slow, deliberate step closer, ensuring not to escalate the tension. "I understand your skepticism. But I'm not here to deceive you or gain anything for myself. I came here because I want to help. The spirit humans don't deserve to face such destruction without a chance to prepare. If you give me the opportunity, I'll prove my intentions by helping you avoid this disaster."

Kaela scoffed, crossing her arms tightly. "And why would you care? What's in it for you? No one helps without expecting something in return."

"You're right," I admitted, keeping my voice steady. "Most people don't. But I'm not here for personal gain. The truth is, I've seen enough lies and betrayal in my time. I want to do something different—to actually make a difference. If that means earning your trust by helping you protect your people, then so be it."

Treyni studied me in silence, her expression unreadable. After a long moment, she let out a soft sigh, a hint of a smirk returning to her lips.

"You've got a lot of nerve, I'll give you that. But if you're lying to us..." Her voice trailed off, and the threat was clear.

Kaela glared at me, but she didn't object, clearly deferring to her sister's judgment.

"Alright," Treyni said. "You've got our attention. But you'd better make good on your words. One wrong move, and you'll regret ever stepping foot in this forest."

A smirk crept onto my lips as I replied, "Do you know, you two never told me you were spirit humans."

Treyni's smirk faltered for just a second, a flicker of surprise breaking through her otherwise composed demeanor. Kaela's eyes widened, her fists clenching tighter.

"What are you trying to imply?" Kaela snapped, her voice sharp.

I shrugged casually, but my gaze stayed locked on Treyni. "It wasn't hard to figure out. The way you carry yourselves, the subtle mana I can sense radiating from you—it's not human. And then there's your hesitation to outright deny it when I mentioned spirit humans earlier."

Treyni let out a soft chuckle, though there was no humor in it. "So, you're not just an ordinary alchemist wandering the woods, are you? You've got sharp eyes and a sharper tongue. Dangerous traits for someone in unfamiliar territory."

"Maybe," I admitted. "But if I were truly dangerous to you, do you think I'd be standing here making conversation? I could've acted before you noticed me. Instead, I'm offering my help."

Kaela's glare intensified, her suspicion evident. "You're awfully confident for someone surrounded by enemies. What's stopping us from just taking you out here and now? We don't need your help to deal with Baki."

I met her glare with calm resolve. "Because you're smarter than that. If you kill me, you lose any chance of learning what I know. And let's be honest—if you didn't need my help, you wouldn't still be listening to me."