Wolf picked up the first book from his shelf.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1p2lZNvJZQ
Herbs and You by the Church.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm39fp9qrH8
Hmmm. Herbs were something he'd gathered in the past with his sister. It was mostly a boring topic. But if he was serious about alchemy, this would be necessary knowledge.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgnag6C9nOC
He opened the book, determined to at least try to learn.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL1g7pm96gc
Herbs are often overlooked as just plants. Normal people do not need to gather them or understand their real value. But herbs are powerful ingredients in many things—from food to drinks, even potions if applied to alchemy. Though we won't be covering that here.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7BVHFDZR4u
Wolf frowned at those words.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrcj2Ge888A
Why no alchemy? He understood the danger of abuse. But couldn't they at least teach the basics?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3vG20xTz9l
He skimmed through the rest of the book. It was organized alphabetically, A to Z—all known herbs listed in detail. What surprised him was that it even broke down magical variations of many herbs. But it stressed repeatedly that these were seen as poisons and should not be eaten unless properly prepared by a professional.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu4FdGkq8H9
He fell asleep reading.
The next day was mostly uneventful. Wolf went on reading when he could.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOkiYCqCgz7
Nina stopped by a few times to pester him—asking what he was doing, trying to pull him away to play or help with deliveries. Len also checked in to make sure he was okay, bringing him food and water.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiiU8jqWRz1
But overall, he was left alone to read.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNvZbvhEFdm
It was only a few days later—when Wolf was losing interest in the dense text—that Coby finally came to visit.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvV98UlWEIv
Wolf was eager to catch up with his missing brother.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfoLwM5KApw
"How have you been, brother?" Wolf was happy they finally got time alone after so long.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIutfPMTw9K
"Been fine," Coby said.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡivHj2fuYB9
But he spoke passively, distracted. His eyes scanned the area with keen focus—constantly moving, watching the treeline, the paths, everything around them.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6nonzXlybi
Wolf was surprised by his intensity. "What's wrong? Is something coming?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT815BJ9dDE
Coby looked surprised by the question. Then he refocused on Wolf. "Nothing's wrong. Just scouting."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlRk4APGKMs
"Here?" Wolf didn't understand. They were near home. Nothing dangerous had ever happened here.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ4OonhmWJx
Coby smiled at Wolf's confused face. "It's a habit I developed with Dad. We always watch. Always observe. There are always dangers we must watch for."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTGR5UoPXqS
Wolf nodded, not sure how to respond to that. "Okay... but even here?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvzxvZKqV7Y
"Yeah, even here." Coby's smile grew wider, excitement filling his eyes. "But I got a secret to share too!"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrbHBxouZLu
Wolf got excited with him, wondering what it could be.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNwL2B286Zn
Coby was silent for a moment, building the tension deliberately.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIG2h3jNax9
"I learned wind magic."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ56isCEPKih
Wolf nearly passed out from shock.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5xxJjZ4IZj
Magic.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH1vf8YQDtv
His brother had magic!403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqOZ7Cfic6z
Wolf grabbed Coby's shoulders, excitement flooding through him. "How do you know?! Are you sure?! Did someone check you?!"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNipajB1jEr
Coby laughed. "It happened during a hunt. I shot an arrow and it was going to fall short—I messed up my draw on the bow." His eyes shone with the memory. "I was frustrated. So I just... willed the arrow to fly better. And it went from falling halfway to flying straight and true!"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Ka8NgQ3uT
"No!" Wolf couldn't believe it.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHB71Q2q9hK
"It's true!" Coby grinned widely.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs8Ca02Ct3b
Wolf could see the pride radiating from his brother. But he needed to know more.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1PXerSFgIw
"Do you feel different? Having magic?" Wolf started circling around Coby, examining him closely. "You don't look different."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUiXPaqZkI0
He proceeded to scout all around him—looking for physical changes, glowing auras, anything. He even poked Coby a few times to check if he felt different.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhMXNvatiRM
Coby just laughed. "That tickles! Stop it!"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcAhiDiM0sy
Wolf finally relented when Coby agreed to demonstrate.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw6AbevhVIl
"It's still not that good," Coby admitted. "But it's usable."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxt2uhyHhWq
He looked around and found a small rock. Tossed it up and down a couple of times, testing the weight. Then he threw it upward—403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2W0pmTHIBq
The rock shot forward horizontally, as if it had a mind of its own. Like it was tired of being played with as a toy and decided to escape.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBrZT2Wq5Fr
Wolf felt the wind brush past him as the little rock flew by.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb5mnpnX8VT
Magic.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7tNHzN4bcI
He wanted to feel only pride for Coby. But he couldn't stop the nagging feeling—the desire burning in his chest. He didn't have any power.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtxBpYMDDCH
"You know..." Wolf's voice was quiet. "I'm jealous. But I'm still happy for you." He looked at Coby honestly. "If only one of us could get magic, I'm glad it's you, Coby."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡarv7mzh92k
Coby saw the pain in Wolf's eyes. He wasn't happy with how this had turned out.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuQA9dfsdHV
"I forgot how much magic meant to you." He paused. "Well, no. I remembered. That's why I wanted to show you." His voice grew apologetic. "But I forgot that maybe... there's a chance you don't have any magic yet. Sorry, Wolf. That was rude of me."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnoEeGgxSAS
"What? No!" Wolf protested. "I meant what I said." He took a breath. "It's just... Dad reminded me the other day that magic is rare. And I hated being reminded of it." He looked at Coby firmly. "But that's not your fault. Not you or your gift."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS2h4RLB0HB
Wolf smiled, trying to mean it. "Besides, the gods see you fighting to protect everyone. I'm sure this is their way of rewarding you. It just means I have to push harder."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcAepCtkHNW
Coby nodded thoughtfully. "You know, there's a seer at the church who can tell you if you have a blessing."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZLrstvs6NK
"WHAT?!" Wolf shouted. "How do you know that?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC1KC07T5Ci
He saw Coby getting fidgety, looking a bit embarrassed.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3TFO2pUNb4
"Well... I left this part out from before." Coby rubbed the back of his neck. "But when I made that arrow work? I couldn't do it again afterward. I told my dad I wasn't sure what had happened. So he took me to the church to get checked."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWCYdILUK60
Wolf leaned forward eagerly. "And?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjN0FV2qThg
"They confirmed I have level two wind magic."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhwq73EuHsW
"Level two?" Wolf remembered hearing Teva mention her level once, but it had slipped his mind to ask what it meant. He hadn't realized there was depth to magical blessings—different levels of power.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj0QsDWHZqc
"Yeah, surprised me too." Coby smiled. "The bishop explained it a bit. He even offered me a book about it, but I wasn't interested in reading." He shrugged. "He said he has level one light magic—he can do some things, but gets tired easily. Level two is stronger. A lot more control, but still limited."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB6PP4mRxNf
Coby's voice grew more serious. "He said level three and beyond is the true blessing from the gods. That's when you can really master the element they gave you."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKPu6MEwOT8
Wolf felt excitement surge through him. All these different magical possibilities existed! Different levels, different powers!403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSCkdYVFwks
But then fear crept in. Even being blessed could mean only a minor blessing. A weak level one that barely worked.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8FqvAxOsrm
He pushed that thought away quickly. Even a single spark of magic was still magic.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAzAMb5Q17I
The conversation tapered down after that. They agreed to go to the church tomorrow—it was getting a bit late today.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXicujWl57O
Coby also let Wolf know he only had a couple of free days. The hunts took longer to prepare and scout for now.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVapRc1zcHl
Wolf reflected on how strange it was. Everyone drifting away, always busy. But he understood—it was part of growing up. He'd done the same thing, telling others he was too busy when he wanted his own time.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSSNIHpZClb
Still, it felt lonely sometimes.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt79ZvPOtJ4
Coby hugged him goodbye. "Don't worry, brother. A day or a year can pass—we'll still be brothers."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxfJdxfZH5A
Wolf laughed at that. "Yeah. A day or a year, we're still brothers."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL9ce6x0CG5
Before Coby left, Wolf decided to tell him about Nina. How she was part of the family now—his second big sister. Maybe they'd all get a chance to hang out more later in life.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTVX7hfrTxE
Coby seemed mildly interested but didn't care too much. He nodded politely and waved as he headed home.
The next day started early.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgK2I2JbGYv
Wolf barely slept. His mind kept racing with possibilities—what if he had magic? What level? What element?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcHxd4lqIAk
He said goodbye to his mother and left early to meet Coby at the church.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfOiSIGEUMs
He was worried it might be too early. But when he met up with Coby along the way, his brother assured him it was fine.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdkZo8Hokwp
"That's why the priests live at the church. Night or day, they can always help people."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvnqrnhXe6g
As they approached, Wolf was surprised to see how busy it was.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJVmSd95bUT
Lots of people were coming and going. It seemed more people used the church than he'd given them credit for. He'd never really believed they were that important—just a place for prayers and ceremonies.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiMnlR3ykre
But seeing it now showed things differently.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvHy9AQ7UDS
There were sick people seeking healing from magic. Others just here to pray. Some brought offerings. A few were asking questions about blessings or guidance.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ75VcaxGlRh
The church was alive with activity.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYiwCWhtJ6H
They found one of the black-robed priests near the entrance and approached respectfully.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaXi42kXVZd
"Excuse me," Wolf said. "Is the bishop available?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEVPLAemqcY
The priest smiled kindly but shook his head. "I'm afraid not. He left for the city this morning. Business with the main cathedral." He tilted his head. "Is there something I can help you with instead?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Xudnx9Ly9
Coby spoke up before Wolf could answer.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO4PJ3Wubl2
"We're here to see if my brother has a blessing," Coby said clearly.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2rNPzdzCmq
The priest nodded in understanding. "Did he show a sign of having a blessing? Some manifestation of power?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVhB6EQpThr
Wolf felt embarrassed. He'd forgotten that people had their own lives—they weren't just here to serve every whim.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb6dnBy9vtU
"No," Coby said steadily, not nervous at all. "But I received my blessing recently. And he's my brother. I'm sure he has one too."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbH9nz39egX
Wolf felt a surge of pride that Coby spoke up for him so confidently.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD7939FCLTI
But the priest was frowning.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgLRYDWNt3t
"I'm sorry, but we can't check every person who asks without some indication." His voice was gentle but firm. "Our seer would faint from exhaustion if we did. She tends not to say no to young people, so it's unfair to put that burden on her when we don't have something specific to look for."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRyA6kFeXMM
"Does it take that much power?" Wolf asked before Coby could speak.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7TippDv57Q
"No... well, not for stronger practitioners of darkness magic." The priest explained patiently. "But she's only level two. It's much more draining for her to search for magic when she doesn't know what element to look for. Searching blindly exhausts her quickly."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqRSZnYCAx6
Level two darkness magic. Wolf needed to know more.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfbNuc1g3pH
"Isn't darkness evil magic?" Wolf blurted out.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfv21VeIYEM
The priest laughed at that—a genuine, amused sound. Then he quickly covered his mouth and looked around, ashamed at his outburst.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUBycE2YLRx
"Sorry. That was rude of me." He composed himself. "I felt joy at your ignorance, and that was wrong of me."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBTlNFG1Ytd
Wolf wasn't mad. He just didn't know any better. He looked at Coby—his brother seemed equally indifferent to the laugh, not understanding why darkness would be funny.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbTAkGwXiRk
Both Wolf and Coby shook their heads to show no offense was taken.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8QSOcsUUeK
"It's okay," Wolf said earnestly. "We didn't know. Please teach us."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDAD6YuCrVg
He felt Coby shared the same curiosity. They both wanted to understand.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡseEZBCZiGf
The priest smiled, pleased they were such receptive students. "The misunderstanding about darkness is common. It's not evil—just different from light." He gestured as he explained. "Darkness can manifest as shadow magic, which allows people to hide within shadows. But darkness magic can also see through shadows. It helps perceive things others cannot."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT4GAlRnCRw
He paused. "In the seer's case, she uses it to see magic itself. The more magic flowing in a body, the easier it is for darkness to perceive it. She can see the currents of power that run through blessed individuals."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4IfK6rleRy
Both Wolf and Coby were amazed at what could be done with magic.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWFAjR17Tej
Wolf felt his heart sinking. But he couldn't give up now. Not when he was this close.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsObPrDX4EX
"Are you sure you can't let us see her? Please?" His voice came out more desperate than he intended.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN38ax5g1BA
The priest watched him carefully, studying Wolf's face for a long moment before speaking.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlAZSjMdW03
"How old are you?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcZnyttP5w6
"I just turned fourteen recently." Wolf stood straighter. "That should be old enough to receive a blessing, right?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0T6bOkJT8w
"True. You're more than old enough for a blessing to manifest." The priest seemed to be considering something. Then he sighed. "Alright. Let me go ask her."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqvx8OMryX8
Wolf felt hope flare in his chest.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpkuqgcUtrX
The priest held up a hand. "First, understand—she's been busy with mundane tasks today. Filing records, organizing donations. Nothing of a magical nature. Perhaps checking you could even be a break for her, since using magic is a different kind of strain than physical work." He gestured toward the pews. "Wait here among the others who are praying. Keep your voices low while I go speak with her."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc1wYjUTsPI
The priest turned and disappeared through a side door.
Coby whispered to Wolf while Wolf was lost in anxious thought. "Don't worry. I'm sure she'll see you."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvyZcTDm6bf
"Who is she?" Wolf whispered back.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjqgDidQHBA
"I dunno if it's the same person who checked me." Coby shrugged. "For me it was a girl dressed all in black. But I don't know if it's the same seer every time."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzc9joJ0XMS
"What was her name?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsctzaK1ucZ
Coby thought for a moment. "Dunno? They just called her 'Seer.' And I was too nervous to ask." He smiled slightly. "Magic was never a big deal to me before. But now that I have it? It feels different."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlHhzXivy6w
Wolf knew that feeling intimately. He was feeling it right now.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9yJN2XnaRD
The idea that he could have magic—but might be told no? It hurt him deeply. More than it should.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8QFDsBBY7r
He had friends. He had family. But he didn't have magic.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXIJr5L2JMc
Coby saw Wolf's dejected spirit and tried to encourage him. "Cheer up, brother. We didn't come this far to give up. We'll find a way, even if it takes years."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Ld2Er1Ih1
Wolf flinched at those words. Years.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6798TQsrMB
Then a wave of cold fear washed over him. Or never.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzl8wTWv6Jp
Coby saw his attempt to help had only made things worse. So he kept quiet and instead silently prayed.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTuMD7znEzx
I know you all exist. And you know I don't care about magic. So please—help my brother. He's a good friend to me. And though he may seem selfish sometimes, he's never once denied me anything I asked for. Please.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq37kg1oG8h
Wolf felt saddened watching Coby pray.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuGD7jiDnOc
He knew Coby was doing it for him. His brother had never been big on the gods or prayer—he just did his work and lived his life.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMimhVmdaXO
It helped Wolf feel better, knowing he wasn't alone in this.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXnmwjzo8Ol
But at the same time... he knew he was never alone. He had family. Friends. People who cared about him.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk5Og2kpO6S
But that was different. None of that was magic. The one thing he wanted most.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡljf6OP4ghV
Wolf knew he was being selfish. But he couldn't stop thinking about it.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmGoefCm31E
He tried to pray too. Bowed his head like Coby. But he couldn't even focus—couldn't form the words properly. He knew it wouldn't be sincere. Just begging to gods who already knew exactly how he felt.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXLDmTHh0Sv
What was the point of praying when they'd already decided his fate?
What felt like hours—but was surely only minutes—passed in tense silence.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOOeRzUfv6D
Then the priest returned.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAywRfH9uxB
He was smiling.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqcgpaeMZeD
Wolf's heart leaped.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMjbDz302Ip
In a low voice, just above a whisper, the priest spoke: "She's in good spirits and says she's willing to help." He gestured toward the side door. "Please, follow me."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLimi5dbMob
Wolf and Coby quietly followed the priest down a side hallway.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM0jOKWHet6
Grey-robed acolytes moved through the corridors—carrying books, organizing shelves, sweeping floors. They all seemed lost in their own tasks, not noticing the small group passing by. It seemed they were used to people coming and going through the church constantly.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9fsQjbgGs
The priest led them to a door at the end of the hall.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc5yfDwq57O
It was plain. Unremarkable. Wolf couldn't sense anything special from it.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNUqDPAv0Ej
His heart was pounding.
As they entered, Wolf was surprised by how dark it was.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoTkgYnVktP
The room had many windows—he could count at least four oversized ones surrounding the space. But they were all covered by heavy drapes, blocking out most of the light.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOewmUZR1xW
There was illumination, but it came from a soft, ambient glow. Not very bright. Almost like twilight.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjHsqY1usWN
Wolf's eyes adjusted slowly.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzbJ0gI87lS
There was a desk off to one side, covered in papers and books. But in the middle of the room, when Wolf focused there—403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3XcgtBXbRb
He saw her.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtleVgcIfkC
The seer was dressed entirely in black. Even her face was covered by a dark veil that obscured her features completely.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi235sk11zk
Wolf thought he saw a tail flicking behind her—quick movement in the dim light. But he felt embarrassed to stare, so he looked around the room instead.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwRLvN4BPuo
Besides the four oversized windows, the chamber was nearly empty. Just a small bench near the desk. A couple of chairs in the corner.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ093BdAEMzY
What kind of place was this?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmCYn4gOXmt
"This is the boy," the priest said gently, touching Wolf's shoulder.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuMbZm7eihQ
The seer gave a soft smile—visible even through the veil somehow—as she watched Coby bow slightly and sit in one of the chairs without being prompted.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbK198VjIbL
He'd been here before. He knew the routine.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvCzm7sWExO
The priest also bowed respectfully. "I'm sure you can find your way out after. If not, just ask one of the grey robes."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdBDFU0RZUz
And then he quietly left, closing the door behind him.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIWLnbeaNzD
Wolf suddenly felt very alone. Very exposed.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqQeTl9AOBP
Standing there while this veiled figure watched him in the dim light.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz3wvGPVwXR
Wolf stood alone in the center of the room. He felt exposed. Watched.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡadjmsnAiBe
He bowed quickly. "Hello. Nice to meet you. I'm Wolf."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXDuDk3JV2C
The seer was still smiling—he could somehow sense it despite the veil. When she spoke, her voice was lovely. Gentle and melodic.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuSZuUPEfua
"How well-mannered." She tilted her head slightly. "But I can see the turmoil in your soul. Which is tragic. I do wish you peace, young one."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWkEXmmmN2e
Wolf wasn't sure how to respond to that. He breathed deeply and let out a shaky sigh.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6erU9NS3HP
Then the words came tumbling out—quick, before he could stammer or take them back: "Please check me for magic. And if I don't have it, please help me earn it if you can."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡimWSAXKuXp
He bowed down low after saying it. Refused to look up. Afraid to see a disapproving expression on her face.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhgNvEQOBMX
"Hmm." Her voice was light, thoughtful. "I would assume the bishop already told you—we cannot bless others. The gods choose who receives their gifts, not us." She paused. "And if you think the gods listen to my prayers more than anyone else's... I fear I will only disappoint you."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2z3OeS9Ns4
"No," Wolf said bitterly. He was already regretting his words.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn57LexOVmB
He was expecting too much. And for free? When he knew the gods frowned on that kind of greed.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMXKKy1221s
"I misspoke. I..." He struggled to find the right words. "I just really care about magic. And I feel like it's always beyond my reach. No matter what I do."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfhsDWsqKXH
"I understand." The seer's voice was warm with empathy. "I never cared for magic myself. But I could see it in others. For me, being able to help others find their path—that was the blessing. And I embraced it."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡspUm124I4K
She moved slightly, her robes rustling softly. "I fear it's the same for you. But with no road to travel, you feel lost. Adrift."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiK7Hg1OHAM
Wolf was still bowing, but he nodded. That was exactly how he felt.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGqYNRQedh7
Well, mostly.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY0esocQVOW
Wolf hesitated, then asked the question that had been bothering him. "May I ask... why is it so dark in here? Does it help your power? Darkness magic?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡySGRTEcHLM
The seer laughed lightly at that. A pleasant, musical sound.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnl96756Ld7
"My power is indeed born of darkness. And I must hide my eyes from bright light to see deeper into the magical currents." She gestured around the dim room. "But I don't need to hide from the Light God's blessing. The gods are equal and love all their children. Why would they deny me or others for having a single element?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYpayrBnBdH
"Single element?" Wolf gasped at those words.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZjEVIVwE1C
He raised his head from the bow, looking directly at the seer. "So people can hold more powers?! Light and dark and fire all at once?!"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtQMoGU1pKX
She shook her head sadly. "No, child. You misunderstand. The gods don't hate each other—so why would they hate us for not being blessed by one particular deity? They don't punish us for our element."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxFt9VL7CBZ
"Ah." Wolf felt dejected, realizing he'd misunderstood again.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoCE81eFp7C
"Though..." The seer added, as if it were an afterthought. "There is one god who blesses others with all elements."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDGCHLY5KuP
Wolf felt his heart stop.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ98mUVOdnIo
All elements. All of them.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ioCzQmrgE
He wished he could be numb to all this casual information—secrets of the gods spoken as if they were common facts everyone knew. But as he looked at the seer's veiled face, he realized once again he was misunderstanding something.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbsCQCWoouK
"The god who grants all powers is the God of Balance." Her voice grew more serious. "But to balance the gift of having all elements... those blessed cannot use them the same way as others. They will never have the same gifts as single-element wielders."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHfpFfqj1db
Wolf wasn't sure he understood. "So... they have all the power. But can't use any of it? How does that work?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVrYHC2giIk
"That," the seer said gently, "is part of the balance. They may find a way to use the power. But they cannot do it the same way others can."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAxKutlKmej
She said those words still smiling, as if it all made perfect sense.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr4NnwkFyWR
But to Wolf, it all felt backward. Why give someone more power only to take away the ability to use it? If not to punish them?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYKzHeEg3n3
"Balance is a rare god to give blessings," the seer continued. "Many look down on them, even though they're needed most of all. So Balance picks very carefully who they bless."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeSvqe5wZ9r
Wolf hated the idea. Being blessed with power but never able to use it properly?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhGrmhNp5Pq
"How is that different than having no power at all?" The words slipped from his lips before he could stop himself.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡprcnOZ29fX
The seer frowned at that. "I'm sorry," Wolf added quickly.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl11BeiyuSA
But she shook her head. "No. I understand your fears." Her voice was compassionate. "But we are all the same in the eyes of the gods. This is why Balance tries to help us—by limiting magic. Without limits, we would lose ourselves to power. Wage wars once more, seeking ever more."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgICmOvffaj
Wolf knew the concept of war. But he couldn't picture it. He'd only ever known peace.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFW7WtSGiiv
So even small conflicts felt enormous to him.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9yU9uR5lkS
Wolf took a shaky breath. "Thank you for your time. No matter the outcome... I'll accept the truth."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn0YRdXXy0F
Coby spoke up from his chair in the background. "You'll be fine, Wolf. The gods have eyes—let's at least wait to see what she finds before we decide your fate."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLehqRhoQZT
Wolf smiled weakly at those words. The seer smiled too—he could sense it.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDO9MRiw4S7
Then she finally approached.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxKGL8Fnsnp
She was slender. The black robes were loose and free-flowing, but tied at her waist, showing her form as she moved. Wolf was dying to know how she could see anything behind that thick veil. But he kept quiet, waiting to see where this would go.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7VEQRMYNyw
As she got close, she looked him up and down—examining him like a puzzle to be solved.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUiaUCcCwW5
When she spoke, her voice was soft. Almost reverent.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLqCU9504B6
"So young. And yet trying to bend fate to your will." She paused. "Dangerous. But that is the path you seek. The gods have witnessed your desire. Now we shall see if they agree with it."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX9VqVaHnK1
Inside, the seer knew she was playing it up a bit. Being dramatic. But she was having fun with it. And she genuinely hoped this wouldn't end like those other times—young people with desperate hopes but no blessing to find.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNBxPnQvpCq
Wolf was enchanted by the way she spoke.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHK5pBCrpkf
It sounded like an unspoken oath. As if his longing wasn't a petty desire, but a challenge to the gods themselves. As if he was demanding more from fate.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZUMsMkS9qz
What if they had listened?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk3sQKp0KUn
He felt scared now. Scared of the judgment.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡifV2xyeQTU
Scared they would deny him. Scared they would say he was worthy. Both outcomes terrified him.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy6JCxtP2be
The seer placed her hands on his shoulders, steadying him.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBH3tCS5OmA
Then her eyes began to glow behind the veil.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA8zePg9yU1
A dark, otherworldly light. Like the God of Darkness itself was looking through her—staring directly at Wolf. Judging him. A mere child trying to understand the mind of gods.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYytvi1FHTI
Wolf was paralyzed. Unsure what to do. Unable to move or speak.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4iUnROb5xn
The seer looked into Wolf's soul with her darkness sight.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOZAdDBsuZk
At first, she saw very little.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE6YpDW3AtY
It felt like the other times—when young people came with desperate hopes but no magic to find. Empty. Unremarkable.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL7WtUxqTGz
But she gave it a better look to be safe. She wasn't doing much anyway—the grey robes usually spoiled her with easy tasks. Checking one hopeful child wouldn't hurt.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBwLM32RGAe
Her eyes of darkness remained clear and focused.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVa0pUUlXrf
"Hmm." The sound came out as a low, surprised murmur. "That's... different."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3JQkjb6Zta
Wolf was afraid to speak. He just watched as her hand moved slowly from his shoulder down to his chest. To his heart.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeRqARkZbbr
Then he felt it.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjqr7LIQGqw
A building pressure. Like her hand was the only thing holding back a door. And beyond that door, something was gathering. Building. A feeling he'd never experienced before.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSx383XRVvf
Power.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKmVEqJssqy
The seer was shocked.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxOEqAGmmPB
She'd seen nothing at first—had been about to tell him gently that he had no blessing. But then a trace appeared. Faint at first. Then it began to grow, spreading like roots through his body.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡehnTY1WJLq
She tried following the lines of magic with her sight. They all led to his heart. Converging there.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD98hdLVUFI
It was an amazing thing to witness.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxrEuoX4TEx
She'd never seen the birth of someone's power before. Only the aftermath—magic already settled in the body, or the emptiness where it would never be.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡco6mcRDkYe
But this? This was awakening in real time.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXC0za8ngAE
"Oh my!" she exclaimed in a low, awed voice. "Awakening now? You must have stirred the gods themselves with your desire."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡINQ5IPlSg3
There was mirth in her tone—genuine delight at witnessing something so rare.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRYsDDTcEtY
Wolf was unsure if she was joking or telling the truth.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcZErcxDjFi
Was he going to get powers of darkness? He didn't particularly want that. Though depending on what he could do with it, it might be interesting. So he didn't protest.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiBrp8ahQUS
He just stood there, feeling the pressure building behind his heart.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5hydIVp5E9
The seer's hand stayed near Wolf's heart, unmoving.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfk9JzSIZNY
The flow wouldn't stop building. Growing stronger. More intense.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEI3ZRdSmZT
Wolf wasn't sure if it was her doing or the blessing itself. But as the pressure grew near painful—unbearable—something shifted.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkSwlJn6ctY
It felt like melting ice.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyraIh5mdw7
Warmth began to flow into him. Then it became a flood.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFKSisGDU2i
Heat. Blazing fire coursing through his veins.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡszqNzRsRc7
Darkness. Deep shadow wrapping around his bones.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvIBCSOuoxS
Light. Brilliant radiance filling his chest.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ5YHIxbDp9
Wind. Wild, untamed air rushing through his lungs.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8952ideLK3
Earth. Solid, ancient strength settling in his core.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfrDO5HshxJ
Water. Cool currents flowing beneath everything.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqmgxO7AkHz
Everything. All of it. In a strange, perfect balance.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2hMb7Ds5wd
The elements sank into his body. He felt them embrace him—welcoming him, claiming him as their own.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxZZ1Di6OUr
And then—403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEMnvMtBXWP
It was gone.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ztjBLtO3R
As if it had never been there at all.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBuDqGbcGcx
Wolf felt empty. Like he'd just lost everything. Like something precious had been ripped away the moment he'd finally grasped it.
The seer watched with wide, tear-filled eyes behind her veil.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXeDYuwMAMP
It was a sea of colors.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwdjweOtuLC
Beautiful. Beyond anything she'd ever witnessed.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEOA6hM6M0s
She couldn't help it—a single tear rolled down her cheek beneath the veil. The display was too magnificent. Too rare.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCDh8Wt4zgL
So much power. More than she'd ever seen in one person. Spreading through his body like rivers of light and shadow intertwined.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlBAHy2xWA2
She was finally witnessing balanced power. The blessing of the God of Balance in its raw, unfiltered form.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiBckpPQv7r
She was awed. Humbled.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu45djIQ2JX
She wanted to gauge his strength properly. To measure it. To let him know what she'd seen—the incredible gift he'd been given.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Y4S42GZgs
But it faded.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTJvhgnOCBS
As fast as it had appeared, it vanished. Suppressed. Hidden away.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSfsO5fwyuO
The rare sight was gone.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvlunhcgCA8
Disappointment washed over her, even as wonder remained.
Wolf looked up at the seer, confusion and desperation in his eyes. "What... what happened?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNhLM1vsO7G
She frowned behind her veil. "You're not ready yet, it seems." Her voice was gentle but sad. "But the gods did indeed favor you. They won't take away a blessing—they've just suppressed it until you're ready to bear it."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt9HbCndt1I
She'd heard such things could happen. It was rare. Incredibly rare.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNUWcFzpb6K
Now she knew what it looked like.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzQGVjL3CbE
"What do you mean?" Wolf's voice trembled. "What did you see?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLqRbW1GU86
He stared at her. The glowing eyes of darkness he'd seen so clearly before were gone now. Just plain dark cloth was all he could see.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5eREGm4LEm
The seer's hands moved back to his shoulders. She breathed in slowly. Then exhaled.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiZJy06ViCl
And collapsed.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVOe6v0qaYV
Her body crumpled, falling to the floor before Wolf or Coby could react or understand what had just happened.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYrc7aonf9A
"No!" Coby's shout broke the frozen moment.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡruzkj3ZLLB
He ran over and carefully lifted the seer's head onto his lap, cradling it gently. "Get help, Wolf! We need a priest! Now!"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6NE01tx6Gz
Wolf couldn't move.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Jhs3fKXq1
He stood there, staring at her collapsed form. His mind was screaming but his body wouldn't respond.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjHlPBN4aLM
How did things end this way?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnpvKSMGRZs
Had she been punished for helping him? But why? He'd only wanted magic. He hadn't wanted to hurt anyone—especially not someone who'd only tried to help him.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmCY1BtxR93
"WOLF!" Coby's voice cut through his paralysis. "Go! Now!"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTaLiudq6DS
Wolf finally broke free. He turned and ran.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡExl0wz4Kr8
His legs felt weak. His vision blurred with tears. Fear and confusion consumed him as he burst through the door into the hallway.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8iAzbVRdbf
They all tried to warn me, he thought desperately. Dad. Mom. Everyone.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCjAdmSrtSc
His desire for power had hurt someone.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ25viNYjZJ1
And worse—someone who only wanted to do good. Someone kind. Someone innocent.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnpqEMCLsIB
"Help!" Wolf's voice cracked as he ran through the church. "Please! Someone help!"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqp4CT4AsTd
He found a grey robe in the hallway—a young acolyte organizing books. Wolf grabbed them by the shoulders, probably too roughly.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2UmwcMV93U
"Please! She needs healing! The seer—she collapsed! We don't know what happened!"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsekWhzRyz6
The acolyte's eyes went wide. They dropped the books and ran toward the chamber, shouting for others.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD5YuOQbW2E
After that, everything became a blur.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡquqmXjU8oZ
Grey robes rushing past. Black robes appearing from other rooms. Voices overlapping—concerned, urgent, commanding. Someone pushed Wolf aside gently but firmly. Coby emerged from the chamber, his face pale.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKyTcbhBEMe
The chaos swirled around Wolf like a storm.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPIku1NUXkj
He stood there, numb, as events unraveled around him.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdTTkRkwcTS
How did a blessing—something meant to be a gift—lead to this?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjOZ9jYQxWC
How had his dream become someone else's nightmare?
An hour passed in a blur.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUP7j2qazlT
At first, everyone clamored to help. To solve the problem. Grey robes rushed in with water. Others brought blankets. Someone fetched healing herbs. Another ran to find a more experienced priest.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9XdcMYqo7j
They were all tripping over each other—well-meaning but chaotic. Each person trying to fix things but getting in each other's way.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeiYx0XiFlY
It was only when the black-robed priest returned—the one who'd brought Wolf and Coby to the seer—that order was restored.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFFnQfCjrF2
His voice cut through the chaos like a blade. "Everyone, calm yourselves! Give her space!"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡldasi86jcM
The grey robes fell back immediately, still hovering anxiously but no longer crowding.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX8DVWUqzDe
The priest knelt beside the seer, checking her breathing, her pulse. He placed a hand on her forehead, muttering something under his breath—a prayer or a diagnostic spell, Wolf couldn't tell.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXDI3PHepAi
After a long, tense moment, the priest stood.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf3bxIge2JH
"She's fine," he announced to the room. His voice was firm, reassuring. "She strained her magic and pushed too far. That's all. She just needs rest."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9FgfO5IlPe
Wolf felt his knees nearly buckle with relief.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ79CTBmvqpe
But guilt immediately followed. That's all? She'd collapsed. Because of him. Because he'd been selfish.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnX6eYm6jDH
The priest proceeded to shoo everyone away from the small side room they'd managed to secure for her to rest in. "Out, all of you. She needs quiet. Go back to your duties."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnVdMperg0s
The grey robes filed out reluctantly, casting worried glances back.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPUkwbpnggk
But Wolf and Coby stood firm.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYBcqp05JEs
"Please," Wolf's voice was hoarse. "Please let us stay."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5C9NXsHQyy
"We can't leave," Coby added. "Not like this. We were the cause."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuQXKNpci6I
The priest looked at them both—two young boys, one filled with desperate guilt, the other with loyal concern.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkVRPd6mJN8
He sighed heavily. "Very well. You may stay." His tone became stern. "But you will behave. She needs rest, not noisy children hovering over her—even if you want to help. Do you understand?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZWNwjQExJe
They both nodded quickly. Eagerly.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf9O5SYYQTT
"Yes, sir. We understand. We'll be quiet."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBm3iAOWc5s
The priest gave them one last warning look, then left them alone.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk4Vaaov9mS
Wolf and Coby quietly sat beside the seer's resting place, waiting.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSCFce9K79O
Waiting for her to wake. Waiting to know she was truly alright.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGk00atG0TV
Waiting for a chance to apologize.
Another hour passed in near silence.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLcfFOZMzHY
The only sounds were distant footsteps in the hallway. Muffled prayers from the main chapel. The soft rustle of the seer's breathing.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCcyNEIkn0x
Wolf finally felt brave enough to speak. His voice came out meek, barely above a whisper.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtC2JobWIga
"It's my fault, Coby."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZqpbvfS3Bn
"What?" Coby turned sharply, his whisper harsh. "Why would you say that?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6eKYidGmqH
"She was trying to help me." Wolf's voice cracked. "And the gods punished her for it. Because of what I wanted. Because I was greedy."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSsQTasmwjd
"No." Coby shook his head firmly. "No, that's not what happened. She used too much magic, and it weakened her. That's all."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ7D8joAeGU
He leaned closer, speaking earnestly. "I've done it before with wind magic—pushed too hard. It made me sick for a bit. I needed to rest, drink water, eat." He paused. "I even heard there's a potion that helps, though I don't know the details."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ipinrKpX0
Wolf felt tears threatening again. He wasn't sure what to say.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx7VQYNzGrq
He'd gotten his wish—kind of. He had magic. A blessing from the gods themselves.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVcBxWffthk
But the details were lost to him. Whatever it was, it had hurt someone. Hurt someone innocent and kind.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrGcTlcCx7W
The one thing his dad had warned him about. And Wolf had ignored it with complete indifference.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB3Wk9mHFrO
Who else would I hurt? The thought was like ice in his chest. How many others will suffer for my pursuit of power?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj6oFRIGrS7
It wasn't worth it. The magic he desired, the goal he'd obsessed over—it was dangerous. Maybe even evil in a way.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTj5vEgzXvL
Wolf felt crushed. Depressed.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiMYHvcREan
How could he keep pursuing magic if it meant hurting others?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqQ6gPpaKEw
Coby saw the devastation on Wolf's face. Without a word, he wrapped his arm around his brother's shoulders and pulled him close.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhnTA3MyW31
They sat like that in silence. Neither wanted to speak. Neither knew what to say.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvgxiYVmAp4
They'd come early in the morning. So they had time to wait. But what if she didn't wake up until night? Or tomorrow?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLOqRUmuaIY
Wolf thought they could come back and apologize later. But it felt hollow—wrong—if they weren't there when she woke.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwvtnIGI5ZJ
As if stirred awake by that very thought, the seer moved.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZz9wz0jbze
Her eyes opened slowly.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOnKJDUpObP
"Oh." Her voice was groggy, confused. "Why are you in my room? Did something happen?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7M3RlyFr4R
"Uh..." Wolf started nervously. "This isn't your room. At least, I don't think it is?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR6Q6DmJf8M
He wasn't entirely sure. Everything had been such chaos.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeFnAr6qk5T
Coby spoke up clearly. "To clarify—you fainted while helping us. Do you remember?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvAa64xWnTP
"Hmmm." The seer's voice was thoughtful, memories returning. "Yes. The blessing was very strong. It drained me completely." She paused. "I remember... your power eclipsed mine. I couldn't maintain my sight properly. That was a first for me."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaqvoxG9Q3H
Inside, she was trying to make sense of it.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRLiKldrLiL
She'd seen level four blessings before without issue. There was no way a simple level four would overwhelm her like that.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcY2RISOY64
She must have just pushed herself too far. Been too eager to witness the rare awakening.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqVprQGDyio
That had to be it.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfnHgrImY64
Wolf wasn't sure how to feel about that explanation.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ep1lFV88l
If her power had been eclipsed... did that mean he potentially had level three magic? Or maybe a strong level two?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Dyhlf9oHj
He felt shame rising in his chest. But he had to know.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLBT2csZOjq
"You never said what my gift was."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6AU2KbURkP
Coby's head snapped toward him. His brother frowned with clear disapproval—a look that said Really? She just collapsed and you're asking about this?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeG1f9vO76L
But Wolf had to risk it. Now that he knew she was okay, he had to know the truth.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgQd7Sh64Eb
I'm not as mature as I thought, Wolf realized bitterly. First chance I get, I go right back to my old selfish ways.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFtDkbxqmE6
He'd promised himself he would change. But apparently not today.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2V7zY8S4RQ
The seer stared at them both for a moment. Then smiled beneath her veil.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTHcYtH0Iyy
"Yes, I did fade before I could speak, didn't I?" She sounded thoughtful. "Hmmm. Well, your gift is one of the very rare ones. Not the rarest, I don't think?" She paused, suddenly uncertain. "Or... maybe it is?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡubW8TRF1mJ
She stopped herself, realizing she was starting to ramble. "Sorry."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ76NsCuJQjl
"It's okay," Wolf said quickly. "I was rude to ask. You needed to recover—you still need to recover. You don't have to tell me."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ74wb7954DC
He hated saying that. But it felt necessary. He'd gotten what he wanted—a blessing from the gods. Now he needed to learn not to hurt others, even unintentionally.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2f4jU3GTI2
"It's fine," the seer said in a sleepy, gentle voice. "Let me explain."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡulSxwBo7Qx
She shifted slightly, getting more comfortable. "The rarest gifts—and the most dangerous—are level five. The power of a level five blessing is enough to stand against entire kingdoms alone. And win."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQEmGf4nQhB
Wolf's eyes went wide. The power scale went that high?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH78MDosDHW
"Your gift, child..." The seer's smile grew. "Your gift is level four. You won't topple kingdoms on your own. But it's enough to challenge armies alone and emerge victorious."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb7mGtVnthz
Wolf went pale.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhSDJ5PD0AN
Armies. The word echoed in his mind. Such immense power.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYNlFE8jQp6
And she was smiling as she said it. Which surprised Wolf even more.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNtO4arWiVv
"Why would you be happy that anyone had that kind of power?" His voice was barely a whisper.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyyxDaD0xxK
The seer's smile faded slightly. "I'm sorry, though."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeSFt05I70L
"Uh..." Wolf blinked. "Why? Why are you sorry?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEH8KI0MOok
"I'm not sure which god you hoped would bless you." Her voice grew softer. More sympathetic. "But it seems Balance chose you."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGDioLCitd3
She paused, letting that sink in.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVXRu0cOUNO
"So though you have enough magic that entire armies would fear you... you will never be able to use it directly."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoS3broWNKE
It took Wolf a moment to process what she'd said.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEkhdukflz1
Then—slowly, terribly—understanding dawned.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7zSbMIHy5h
He almost laughed.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4mOTgl0kPd
The irony was... perfect.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4bh2UaRa1I
The gods had listened. They'd agreed with his desire. They'd even given him more power than most people would ever see in their entire lives.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzd4wYHxzwI
And then they'd chained him with the inability to ever truly use it.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaziN2TOyuy
It was a master stroke done just for him.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWUxkeVAveg
What better way to humble someone obsessed with power than to give them exactly what they wanted—with no way to wield it? To dangle it before them, just out of reach, forever?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvOZxZWrJPr
The gods had heard his prayers. And they'd answered with the cruelest possible blessing.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhIZO9XmJGR
One that had no use and could do nothing.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMWZbllheiR
Wolf saw Coby's face—filled with amazement. The complete opposite of what Wolf felt.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1KQyervFMD
"Wow!" Coby's eyes were shining. "I'm level two, and you're twice that!" He laughed with genuine excitement. "That's amazing, Wolf!"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL3eIxgLrTJ
Wolf forced himself to respond. "Yeah... amazing."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMWYGa5nOzs
His voice did not reflect his brother joy.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhNl7DzMnK2
The seer saw his devastated expression. She opened her mouth to say something—to offer comfort, perhaps, or explanation.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcTNGsRUN4y
But the door suddenly burst open.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo4XQnWPxOg
The black-robed priest stood there, his expression stern. His voice was a harsh whisper. "I told you boys to keep quiet! I was passing in the hall and heard laughter and talking. Why are people making noise when someone is supposed to be—"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡptiHL1Aih7
He stopped abruptly when he saw the seer sitting up, awake.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmy5zPbQkXF
"Are you well?" His stern expression melted into concern. He rushed to her side, feeling her forehead gently. "Should I fetch the healer? Water?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwuw6KlqDQg
"I'm fine," the seer assured him. "Just tired. It was a very strong blessing that drained me." She glanced at Wolf and Coby. "Nobody did anything wrong. I'm okay."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvtrywZxBjz
The priest nodded, though worry still lined his face. "Be that as it may, you still need proper rest." He turned to the boys. "You got to see her. She's fine. If you want to visit her again, please schedule another time—perhaps next week. We're busy with many things, and she needs to recover fully."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6TzdmdpYgB
His tone made it clear: this was not a suggestion.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ98eyzoJGGl
"It's okay," Wolf said quietly. "Thank you for your time. You were a big help."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxaSJiom2Da
"Thank you," Coby added, bowing respectfully to the seer.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWE01FrIZZb
The seer didn't want to end things like this—with Wolf so devastated, so lost. Before they could leave, she spoke up to the priest.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡINvVgdPSq8
"Wait. Please bring me the book on magic levels and the gods. The educational one."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOJphVYxBic
The priest's eyebrows rose. He wanted to object—that was a rarer book, meant for specific teaching within the church. Not common knowledge for outsiders.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj3eRTJJuWE
But the seer insisted. "Wolf has a rare blessing. He needs to understand his gift better. Please."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFiJ3o5IMSl
The priest hesitated, then nodded and left to retrieve it.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJfQokK16z4
Wolf wanted to feel grateful. He already knew what mattered, didn't he? He had power he couldn't use. What more was there to understand?403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjENU1fqJbJ
Still, he thanked her. It seemed the right thing to do.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXGRVug0TlR
As the priest left, the seer gave them some parting words. Her voice was gentle but firm.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV4M0TsUb5H
"The gods have eyes. They see everything—our desires, our fears, our hearts." She paused. "They give us blessings for many reasons. You may think this is a burden. But it is a gift. A precious one."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4vnPOFbH6S
Wolf nodded, though he felt nothing inside. Unsure how chains was gift…403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8z1w4YTPeQ
He didn't want to add to her burden. She'd done nothing but try to help him. So he tried to look grateful.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6ktPaGGyqn
Even if he felt betrayed for wantng magic.
The priest returned moments later, carrying a book.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8tzx777DAW
It was small and simple. But the cover—a beautiful, glowing silver—immediately caught Wolf's eye.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3hFqqOGefz
"It's magic," Wolf breathed, unable to help himself. He could sense it. The faint hum of power emanating from the cover.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXREt61DOCF
The priest looked genuinely surprised. "Yes. Not many can sense magic in objects at your age." He held the book carefully. "It's light magic, meant to preserve the book. Protects it from wear and tear so it can be passed down through generations."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIZfsFbUaTn
He extended it toward Wolf. "We have other copies, so it's not irreplaceable. But it's also not so common that we'd gift it to just anyone outside the church." His expression grew serious. "Treat it with the respect it's owed."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWYSowUwqfT
Wolf took the book reverently. He felt grateful for the gift.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIpzDnQx8iZ
Even if it came with the burden of a truth he didn't want to face.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtX3iRAPgKc
"Thank you," Wolf said. "I will. I promise."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡexDifQ8jtH
Coby bowed once more to the seer and the priest. Wolf did the same.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7NZ4iX9mSm
And then they left the chamber, the door closing softly behind them.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9dAo0QNe8P
The weight of the small book in Wolf's hands felt heavier than it should.
They walked through the church corridors in silence.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiyNHDEagJg
When they finally stepped outside into the afternoon sun, Coby turned to Wolf with bright eyes. He was still buzzing with excitement from everything that had happened.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTC7lWStExA
"That was incredible!" Coby's enthusiasm was genuine. "Level four, Wolf! Do you know how amazing that is?" He gestured excitedly. "We should celebrate! Go to the lake, maybe explore the forest. Make it a day to remember!"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ38pYYlactE
Wolf looked at his brother's happy face.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡASk0T23GSK
He wanted to feel the same excitement. Wanted to share in Coby's joy.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmNuphdz0bB
But he just felt... drained. 403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxuJY1tckqp
Wolf stepped forward and hugged Coby. Held him tightly.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIDb2IbRMtG
"I appreciate everything you did for me today," Wolf said quietly. "You stood up for me. Prayed for me. Stayed with me when the seer collapsed." His voice cracked slightly. "Thank you, brother. Truly."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbgFZ7TrrBQ
He pulled back. "But I... I need to rest. I need to think. Can we celebrate another time?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHN0Kr5jeiz
Coby's smile faded. He clearly didn't like that answer—wanted to cheer Wolf up, to help him see the positive side of this incredible blessing.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJV7ZttmQWl
But he understood. He could see the defeat in Wolf's eyes. 403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDq1wRtAnHz
"Okay," Coby said softly. He squeezed Wolf's shoulder. "I get it."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡalBl3L4IgK
He paused, looking sad. "It's going to be a while before we meet again. The hunts are taking longer now. More dangerous monsters further out." He smiled slightly. "But I'll make time for you. I promise. Even if it's just for an hour."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYvNQpzgeBz
Wolf nodded, unable to speak, watching his brother walk away. The small magic book clutched in his hands.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPTojMRcHhH
He turned toward his own home, unusre what to think as he walked.
The trip home was uneventful.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmtWP0M4BqH
All he could think about was the seer's words echoing in his mind.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeo97F1ol8C
Level four. Balance. Never use it directly.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYTOP47KTHm
When he finally reached home, he could hear voices from inside. Smell food cooking.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmCaKQgon05
He opened the door quietly.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyzJ86BVwG8
Mom and Nina were in the kitchen together, working on what smelled like dinner. They were laughing about something wolf was hoping to slip by unnoticed while they worled 403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA8Sx667TNW
Dad and Len must still be at the shop.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcqb8CEtgUS
Both women turned sensing a change in the air, as he tried creep away in the house. Their smiles faded immediately when they saw Wolf's face. And wolf knew his stealth had failed.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXlX87MbgSK
"Wolf?" Mom stepped away from the stove, concern filling her eyes. "What's wrong, sweetheart? What happened?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbKjj4ajw90
Nina moved closer too, her ears perking up with worry. "Are you okay?"403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoh3QsBwRU1
Wolf forced himself to smile. Not liking the sudden onsluaght of attenion.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZRmKT1IYPW
"I'm fine," he lied. "Just... not feeling good."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFuzipa3EIO
It was easier than the truth. 403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGxtsGjRFlY
"I just want to rest," Wolf added quickly. "And maybe read some books. Clear my head."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQb0z3OilDc
Mom studied his face carefully. She clearly didn't believe him—could see something deeper was wrong. But she didn't push.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVCvLxKAt2N
"Alright," she said gently. "Go rest. I'll check on you in a bit."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3teKPg60Zc
Nina stepped forward, her tail swishing with concern. “If you want I can bring you some food later, okay?"
"Thanks, Nina," he managed. Slowly walking away. “But I don’t want anything.”403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7KN18dvFO3
Mom touched his shoulder softly stopping him briefly. "I'm here if you want to talk. About anything. If something happened..." She left the offer open.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡacyo8YafNb
"It's okay, Mom." Wolf pulled away gently. "I just don't feel good. That's all."403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS0ctdjrKuh
Another lie. But a necessary one.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJngNZdkiyv
He couldn't burden them with this. 403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyXOfLorNs1
Wolf retreated to his room, clutching the glowing book.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3h0pQmmcBq
Closed the door behind him.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyURF7nMmlD
And finally—alone at last—let himself feel the full weight of his blessing.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHg02nsrsG3
He sat on his bed, staring at the book in his hands.403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQA1VurdGAH
The gods had answered his prayers. Yet also chain him for life.
403Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRqRatiq9tJ
and then Add to home screen.