Yes, it is only fair that you resolve any matters from your human life. But the forest is not safe for such discussions. We should take him into the tunnels.
I nod in agreement, relieved by his understanding.
Turning back to Mark, I see he's still visibly shaken. As I approach, Mark drapes his jacket over my shoulders, and I realize I’m still naked from the ritual. Kruk’s seed is dribbling down my legs.
"Mark," I start, my voice soft but firm, "I want to explain everything to you, but not here. It’s not safe, and it’s complicated." I gesture toward the shadowy outlines of the tunnel entrance. "Please, come with us. I’ll tell you everything on the way."
Mark hesitates, his gaze shifting between me and the looming figure of Kruk behind me. He looks back into my eyes, searching for the Emily he knows. After a tense moment, he sees whatever it is he needs to see.
"Okay, Emily," he finally says, his voice low. "I’ll come with you. I don’t understand all this, but I trust you."
Relief washes over me. I reach out, taking his hand.
"Thank you, Mark," I say as we start walking towards the tunnels. "I promise, I’ll explain everything as best as I can."
As we enter the shadows of the Eldruk territory, I squeeze his hand. Despite everything, it is good to see him again.
Together we follow Kruk into the deep, shadowy tunnels. The air cools, and the soft glow of moss lights our path. I take a deep breath, readying myself to explain the unbelievable.
"They're called Eldruk," I start, "that’s what they call themselves. What we know as Bigfoot or Sasquatch."
Mark’s steps falter slightly as he processes this.
"Eldruk," he repeats slowly, testing the word.
"Yes," I nod, continuing. "They're not monsters, Mark. They’re intelligent, kind, nature-loving creatures. They live here, underground, away from human eyes."
As we walk, I point out small details in the tunnel — the way the moss is cultivated, the gentle architecture of the paths, and the occasional glimpse of an Eldruk moving in the distance. As I introduce Mark to their world, I can see his terror gradually morphing into fascination.
"This... It’s incredible, Em," he admits. "They’ve built all this?"
"Yes," I say. "They have their own society, their own culture. It’s complex and beautiful."
"And they speak through telepathy?" he asks, a hint of skepticism still lingering.
"They do," I confirm. "That’s how Kruk and I have been communicating."
“So how come I can’t hear them?” he asks.
I think back to the ceremony in the pool. The torrent of jizz slapping me in the face.
“You have to partake in a special ritual,” I explain carefully, “it’s not just something they let any human do.”
Thankfully, Mark doesn’t press for more information about the telepathy ritual. Instead, he looks around, trying to imagine the invisible conversations happening all around him.
"It’s a lot to take in," he says.
"It is," I agree, giving him a reassuring smile. "But I’m here to help you through it. Just keep an open mind."
He nods, and we continue walking, his grip on my hand a little tighter.
The three of us arrive at my underground bedroom. Kruk stops at the entrance, his large frame filling the doorway.
I will give you the night to finish your personal business with the human realm, Kruk announces, his voice echoing in my mind. But tomorrow he must leave.
"Thank you, Kruk. I understand," I respond gratefully.
Kruk nods solemnly and then turns to leave.