Little ones, please hear me. We do not wish for there to be further violence between us.
Whether you want us to, or not, we will be continuing into the forest. There is an object of great importance we must recover. This object will help stop a great evil, and save many lives.
Your friend is hurt, but she still lives. She spoke of your "master," and sounded as if this person holds some power over you. Who oppresses you? Can we help?
I propose an exchange. Tell us what lies ahead in the forest, and make no mention of our arrival here to any others; we will return your friend to you and leave you in peace