The tree hollow was large enough to accommodate an adult and suited Zarude's build. Su Hao only had to lower his head slightly to enter.
Compared to how it looked from outside, the interior was a whole different world.
There was ample footing inside, while tough vines blocked the path deeper in.
The scar-faced Zarude followed closely behind Su Hao.
It raised a hand slightly, and a blue-green glow lit up along the vines wrapped around its arm.
The tough vines blocking the way retreated as though they were alive, revealing a passage leading further inside.
To Su Hao, it felt like a bank vault door that only the scar-faced Zarude could open.
Further inside was an unexpectedly neat and orderly "treasure pavilion," arranged in a pleasing manner.
Its structure was entirely carved and assembled from natural wood produced by the giant tree. It preserved the tree's original vitality without lacking clever touches.
As soon as he stepped inside, his view widened dramatically.
Layer upon layer of wooden stairs and platforms spiraled upward. Each level was carved with exquisite railings and patterns. The only flaw was that, for privacy, almost no sunlight entered this place.
Extra lighting was needed just to see the surroundings clearly.
"This was based on the advice of some guy we captured from the Sakura Nation Alliance. They said he was called the 'Carpenter Immortal.' I rebuilt the whole thing myself."
Zarude introduced it to Su Hao with considerable pride.
"It shows."
Su Hao nodded in agreement. This style truly did not seem like something the somewhat "barbaric" Zarude tribe could have designed.
Still, to avoid slighting Zarude, Su Hao naturally kept that thought to himself.
After all, it had carved this place with its own hands. Judging purely by its craftsmanship, it was already quite