"Many of them..." Arthur swallowed hard, trying to keep his composure, but his hands were slick with cold sweat. They were surrounded by many "people," though that term felt inadequate. These human-shaped beings came in all forms—some tall, others small, dwarf-like—but none of them appeared lesser than the rest. Each exuded a terrifying aura, whether consciously or not; no one could tell. Fortunately, they were protected by Professor Emilia's aura.
Arthur looked around. Some of these people were grouped together; there were even children observing them with wide, curious eyes. According to Aurelen's earlier words, they were divided by families. Twenty families had gathered in elevated balconies within the tree-castle, all of them staring at the students. These, like Arthur, struggled to remain steady. It was no wonder—the human-shaped beasts watching them didn't just seem noble... they were.
