Aurora continued to stand quietly behind Asher while the forest settled into an uneasy silence.
The little bear girl had stopped crying by now and remained securely nestled in the arms of one of the bear beastmen, though her reddened eyes kept drifting toward Aurora every few seconds. Every time their gazes met, the child would quickly look away before sneaking another glance moments later.
Eventually, one of the bear beastmen stepped forward. And unlike before, there wasn't a trace of hostility left in his expression.
He respectfully lowered his head toward Asher first.
"Alpha Asher."
Then, to Aurora's surprise, he turned toward her and bowed as well.
"My apologies."
The remaining beastmen immediately followed his lead. Only then did Aurora get a proper count. There were six of the bear beastmen, plus the little girl. So her earlier estimate had been correct.
The bear who seemed to be leading the group straightened before speaking again.
