Forest arrival

The flight is uneventful, and you can’t even talk much because of the wind noise. Ruka seems happy to be close to you, however, and you certainly can’t complain about having the curvy dryad hugging you for a few hours. When you finally land, it’s a bit past noon.

Ruka retracts the vines, and Daigo let’s you climb down, before transforming again. Seeing you looking at him curiously, he chuckles. “It’s easier to move in the forest like this. Probably not polite to knock over trees in Koras’ home.”

You nod. “It’s probably a good idea not to antagonize the forest god when we want to have him as an ally.”

Ruka nods. “And I want to hear what he has to say about…you know.”

You give her hand a squeeze. “I do. I hope he has a good answer for you.”

Ruka smiles at you. “I guess I’m glad we’re doing this together. I would never have the courage to confront him myself.”

Daigo nods. “I’m coming too. Koras had better have a good reason for holding back like he has. Like you said, Josh, this is a fight we all should be involved in. It’s rare to have a clear cut good and evil side, but it seems pretty obvious here.”

You sigh. “I don’t want to puff myself up, but I like to think I’m doing the right thing.”

Ruka squeezes you hand. “Of course you are. Do you think we would let you stray towards being a bad guy at this point?”

You laugh. “Good point. Regardless, let’s not keep Koras waiting.”

Ruka and Daigo nod, and the three of you head into the forest.