Months passed, and their life slowly returned to normal. But the family never again went near the balete tree. Every Friday night, they continued to offer food and prayers.
One afternoon, while Maricel was sweeping the yard, she saw a small shadow dart behind the tree - quick, quiet, but clearly visible.
She smiled and nodded.
"Thank you," she whispered.
From then on, they were never disturbed again. But in that town, every house holds a story. And every story is a reminder: there are beings around us that cannot be seen but must always be respected.