When Wolf made it to his room, he went straight to bed.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA0B0O82qfB
Even though it was still early in the afternoon, the events of the day swirled together. They became too much. He needed to escape into sleep.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcYvFBvOOwg
But sleep brought no peace.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSPq9SMnmOc
He dreamed of monsters. Of powers destroying the world. Cities burning, people screaming, armies clashing in fields of fire and shadow.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZBAEf0fxV2
And among it all was him.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGp25vDETTi
In chains.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3h0qVGs8i6
Unable to move. Power enough to save kingdoms coursing through his veins—but unable to do anything except watch as it all burned.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkvMaK71aci
That was his gift. A balance of seeing everything and being able to do nothing.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp5PjajG88B
Wolf woke in a cold sweat.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbcHLptuXjW
His heart was pounding. His sheets were damp and twisted around him. The afternoon sun had faded—it was early evening now.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYHZ2SqzlM4
He needed a bath. Needed to wash away the nightmare clinging to his skin.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCLZ8kDefZp
After cleaning up, Wolf did feel better. The cool water had helped clear his head. He was planning to read the church book—maybe find some answers about his cursed blessing—when he heard a light knock on his door.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM0NSCiurzM
He knew it was Nina. Len would just walk in without knocking. So would Mom.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡberFwe2ZPG
"Come in," Wolf called out.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfb4e2lXVzD
Nina stepped inside and closed the door gently behind her.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKQHW1vQW8K
"You okay, kiddo?" she asked carefully, watching his face.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡItJDNqE2Vf
Wolf hated that he couldn't hide anything from her. Or from Len. Or Mom.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡozpOPtaBWx
Was that some gift women had? Some magical ability to see right through him?355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNsfsrcFtbA
He wanted to deny it. To say he was fine. But if Nina already saw through him—if she already knew something was wrong—the secret would come out eventually anyway.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrZN9Wtt62N
Better to just lay it all out.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDisfM2fTnZ
"I went to the church today," Wolf said quietly.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWpt6LN0pGb
Nina sat beside him on the bed, listening intently.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4y1Y3vj6DW
"They looked at me. To see if I had a gift from the gods."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSG0Erb4C8B
Nina's expression shifted—concern mixed with hope. "And they found nothing?" Her voice was gentle. "It's okay, kiddo. Not everyone has a magical gift. You could even still have time for it to awaken later—"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMNDTjP24E7
She smiled, rubbing his back comfortingly.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoCwMrjX1KS
"No." Wolf cut her off. "Worse. I do have a gift."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwGYcFFZgJJ
Nina froze, confusion crossing her face. "That doesn't make sense. Can you explain?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0RQhIbNkyn
"Yeah." Wolf took a breath. "I have level four power. According to the church."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNyt2CzrPIe
Nina's eyes went wide. Her hand stopped moving on his back.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡizbJk1HqPF
"That's a very powerful gift!" Her voice rose with excitement. Then she saw his face and confusion returned. "So why are you upset? Is it not the element you hoped for?" She started guessing. "Darkness or light? Maybe you wanted fire?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjoA9aWUggu
Wolf laughed bitterly as she tried to guess.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXH2nhbiYx7
"No. Worse." He paused. "Balance."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1rBtMqcyRI
Nina went completely still.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa2zvzNd7ak
"Balance..." she said slowly, carefully. "Balance is a very good blessing to have. Extremely rare, even among beastkin." Her voice grew more confused. "Why is that bad?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSLOHwxMChp
Wolf looked at her directly. His voice was flat. Defeated.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGOXdIoDlXx
"I. Have. No. Power."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNcbMu6tZwF
He let that sink in before continuing.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeciHBWHXDi
"I wanted magic I could use. Not magic trapped inside me. A power nobody even knows what it can do. A magic that can never win a fight—not even against a level one mage of any element who can actually cast spells."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbxCNV8dI35
His voice cracked. "I got what I always wanted. Magic. And now I can't do anything with it."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5TJQGG89pF
Nina was lost for words.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcqVT69SZB5
She stayed quiet. Waiting. Maybe hoping Wolf would say more—would explain further or find some silver lining.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡefnBX0a10p
But Wolf refused to say anything else. Just sat there, staring at his hands.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0cfkJ97QMc
Finally, Nina relented. She spoke softly.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKdYSYm2lie
"Remember when we first met?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ltqyItWhI
"Yeah. Why?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfyCVcEtwUX
"Well..." Nina paused, choosing her words carefully. "Me and my brother... we were living a bad life before we came here. A life that saw magic as everything."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfBofQtCnlc
She looked down at her hands. "When I saw how carefree you were—just running around, playing, exploring—I wanted to be part of that. When I met your sister, she was so kind. So loving. Especially when she talked about you." Nina smiled slightly. "She told me about all your adventures together."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTSXpUcfZdh
Wolf just listened.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3RdsMakAbt
"I wanted that as part of my life more than anything," Nina said quietly. "Since I had nothing like it before."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHHLxB1oqnE
Wolf was confused. That didn't make much sense yet. But he kept listening.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWBbHzqxN9L
Nina took a breath. "Where I'm from, magic is what determines everything. Your rank. Your worth. Your entire life."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWbBK8RRROI
She looked at Wolf seriously. "You're either a nobody... or the elder. Based entirely on your power."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj7D9lAnw7f
Wolf was surprised at that. "That seems broken. Like it would lead to a lot of trouble."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK6DDiasDr5
"You're right." Nina smiled sadly. "Kind of. Everyone was loving. Everyone worked to help the tribe. But it did lead to a problem when someone wanted to just be a kid. Be free. And the tribe wanted them to be the elder instead."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVLeL895z3p
Wolf thought he could guess where this was going. "So your brother was made to be elder? And you both ran away to protect him?" His eyes widened. "Is that why he's so smart? They trained him to lead?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2voTiV5N9Q
"Close, kiddo." Nina's voice was barely above a whisper. "They let us go. But they trained him to serve me."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjhbALIemqQ
It took Wolf a moment to process what she'd said.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8OFnzxxg42
Then he frowned. Surely she was kidding. Some kind of joke to make him feel better.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzHq52DnT04
But when he looked at her face—saw her eyes glistening, near tears—he realized this was real. This was the secret Len had known and never told him.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMGaNluY22i
Wolf had to know more. He asked in a whisper, almost afraid to speak.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8C66xC87e9
"Why?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6bIxU53TsN
Nina's voice was barely above a whisper. "Because I have level four earth magic. A rare blessing. And it manifested when I was young."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMAwo57YhX5
She looked at Wolf with tears in her eyes. "I never got to be a normal kid."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX2dNhFGrS5
Wolf's blood ran cold.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0A5KOnozHz
A child. She'd been a child with the power to rival armies. And unlike him—unlike his useless blessing—she could actually hurt people. Shape the earth. Crush enemies. Fight.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1wDI92dald
"But..." Wolf's voice was confused. "I've never once seen you use magic. How?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGhlLNaOwpl
Nina laughed bitterly. "I told you—magic is not always a blessing."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxpv9G8hhQX
She wiped her eyes. "My brother was always training. Always studying. Right up until we left the tribe." Her voice grew softer. "He agreed with the tribe's ways, you know. Even though he left with me in the end."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡExS9vL9j2S
Wolf wasn't sure what to say. Would she have been... what? A king? A queen? Elder? What did beastkin even call their leaders?355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLJNsFNXpLF
"Was it that bad?" Wolf asked carefully. "Being in charge? You said they let you go..."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDyMO2WcI1v
"No." Nina shook her head. "At first, it wasn't the leading that broke me."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo0SGPiKDJ5
She took a shaky breath. "It was the endless worship. Never seeing me—just a title. Just power." Her voice cracked. "Even Teva wouldn't stay my friend. She couldn't see past what I could do. And my brother kept his distance to serve me properly."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYkFPEGVtTx
Nina's tears fell freely now. "It was just too much. Too lonely. So I asked to leave. And they let us go. Said we were free to choose our own path after all."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡldXaZzlMwv
Nina smiled at him through her tears. "It's better now, kiddo. That's why I can talk about it."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhO0MtzQOtX
She wiped her eyes. "They weren't cruel—just trying to do what they thought was right. But I still don't want to go back."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2KvNo4ZaXQ
Her voice grew stronger. "I still want a real family. Want to be a kid sometimes. So finding you and your sister—so carefree, so happy—it was a lifeline. For both me and my brother."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVQGDSN4ofa
She smiled. "Nebo never shows it. Not really. But he's happy too. Happier than he ever was back there."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOBlTJHuSpW
Nina looked at Wolf directly. "I know you feel like you got the short end of the stick. But the gift you got? It just might be the greatest blessing of all."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBHOH71dHzI
Wolf wasn't sure about that. But he appreciated her trying to help.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq7FqSFbtJP
"Don't worry, Sis. We already made you part of the family." The words came naturally. "You're with us now. That's what matters. I'll get over this magic thing in time. Just need a few days."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZlxgShTrkd
Nina's eyes went wide. Her whole face lit up.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7KkVjwnjHe
Then she started to squeal.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaMYVohPLTz
"BROTHER!"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqjgnU1xfl9
"Wait—" Wolf tried to respond, but Nina was already grabbing him and pulling him into a crushing hug.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMprwuGBuPA
"Get off!" Wolf protested, trying to push her away.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡecxL1TOCFK
But she didn't listen. She just kept smothering him with affection—holding him tight while babbling about how much it meant to her that he still called her sister even after learning her secret, how happy she was, how they'd always be family no matter what.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡer0GEw8E2x
Wolf cried for her to let go, but she completely ignored him.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPInxWRdo4f
He spent the next half hour fighting—wrestling to push her off his bed as she refused to release him. Every time he almost escaped, she'd grab him again and squeeze tighter.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx5wtkhsKFT
It probably would have gone even longer.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8FwaMdiaeK
But Mom showed up with food.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFjXXFRu5Cf
The door opened.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9WT9onHj4o
"I tried to give you your space," Mom said, standing in the doorway with a plate of food. "But I kept hearing roughhousing and figured you were feeling well enough to eat."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmzs1AUEBRa
She raised an eyebrow, looking at the scene before her. "I take it you're doing better, son?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAYtcyMTlNc
Wolf tried to look up and respond, but he was currently in a headlock. He was pulling desperately on Nina's tail, trying to make her let go.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEhZLBXlqa0
Both of them froze when they realized Mom was watching.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3rJb2vCTuz
They straightened up immediately, trying to look innocent.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrDy3uwSk42
"Sorry," Nina said, blushing. "I got a little carried away."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ZFhpr7DoD
"I'm feeling better," Wolf added quickly. He was also blushing—embarrassed at being caught acting like a kid when he wanted to be seen as more mature.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyBL6s9QYbm
Mom smiled warmly. "It's okay. Kids should be allowed to play. As long as nobody's hurt, it's fine."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiJkqwwR09D
She walked over and set the plate on his dresser. "Here's some food when you're ready for it."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmUALkZaONe
Nina stood up, smoothing down her clothes. "I should go check on Len at the shop. It's close to the time for them to come home. I want to make sure they're okay."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfBzR1lGKyi
Mom nodded approvingly, watching as Nina left the room.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGr1kRIzz5U
Then she turned back to Wolf, her expression gentle but knowing.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6ht8WlwwSN
"Anything you want to tell me, dear?" She paused. "If not, I won't pry."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfzpX2veVJV
Wolf smiled at her. "It's fine, Mom. Just a long day. A bit of growing up caught up with me, is all."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmriEX2T5JQ
Mom smiled back and walked over. She reached out and gently fixed his hair—smoothing down the parts that had gotten messed up during the wrestling.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1wiDnBOyvZ
"Okay." Her voice was soft. "Enjoy your food. You know we love you and are here if you need us."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtHwZ7Tmwos
"I know." Wolf's voice was quiet but sincere. "And I won't forget what you've given me. I promise."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpzkmtaltdB
Mom looked uncertain. He could see it in her eyes—she wasn't sure what he meant.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVFSyJ65cM1
So Wolf elaborated, still smiling. "You gave me a choice. That's a gift I won't forget."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyNqyqUb29j
Mom's expression shifted. Understanding dawned, followed by warmth and a touch of sadness. She touched his cheek gently.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOcc5NS8XFL
"Maybe you're more grown-up than I realized, little wolf." Her voice was tender. "Just don't try to rush it, okay? You'll have plenty of time to be an adult."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ8SUTh7NMH
She left with those words, closing the door softly behind her.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu3RssbsYjc
Wolf ate in peace.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqlqy9OshXm
The food was warm and comforting. His mother had made his favorite—simple but filling. As he ate, he found himself relaxing for the first time since leaving the church.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡROaWfAcG32
He reflected on the day. The devastating revelation. Nina's shared pain. Mom's gentle understanding.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB2Y6LiT0IJ
Maybe things would be okay eventually.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHziGpma70B
The door opened, and his sister Len entered quietly.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmWQOH71dZs
"Hello, brother." She smiled softly. "You okay to talk?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡob803DGReQ
Wolf could see the concern in her eyes. He hated everyone babying him—was thankful Dad never did that, at least. But he relented. This was part of being family.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvgvHY9P93k
"I'm fine, Len. Thanks for asking." Wolf set down his plate. "It was just a long day. Nina stopped by earlier and made me feel better."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB4Xb8UuhIM
"She told me." Len walked over and sat beside him on the bed. "But you're still my brother. I wanted to make sure too. For myself."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL4f2M4ZJEw
Wolf smiled at that. He hated being treated like a fragile child. But he was still happy to see his sister. Happy she cared enough to check.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3obsRvhVJo
Len settled in and started talking about her day—the shop, the customers, Dad's grumpy mood from lack of sleep. Small, mundane things.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ahib3dBhG
Wolf listened in peace. He knew she needed this just as much as he did. Needed to talk, to connect, to feel close to her little brother.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFipZhWPMzx
So he let her have her moment.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOD434ZB1ZV
After thirty minutes or so, Len had said her peace. She seemed satisfied that he was truly okay. She kissed his forehead and left him to his night.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPOpH7nIPNz
Wolf was alone again. But it felt different now. Less crushing. Less empty.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLMqsFNoWu7
He had people who cared. People who understood, at least a little.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9WNFOIq9dO
Wolf figured now that things had calmed down, he should read while he could.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsYSnEQ29WG
He grabbed the silver book from where he'd set it earlier. It wasn't glowing anymore—at least not visibly. But he knew the magic was still there. Preserving it. Protecting it.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX8XGT8Mgf9
He couldn't help himself. Wolf lifted the book and sniffed it.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU84qcsbdTU
It didn't smell like magic. Just like a book. Leather and old paper.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTokCyeBmCI
Then again, he didn't know what magic was supposed to smell like. So it was a pointless test. Done purely on impulse.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhyDyLZHSog
Wolf opened the book and read the title page. He felt less than impressed.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGYl3pVq2Kc
Magic and the Gods: Level One to Five By the Church355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw5YwGPe5Zr
This information is necessary and contains important teachings. Do not share with others—some knowledge can lead to harm if misunderstood. The information presented here is to help you understand the nature of magical threats and help others control their power responsibly.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxRMPxfYK20
Wolf began to read.
Understanding the Levels of Power355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbTKuxXYaMr
First, you must understand that while not commonly listed, the first true level is Level Zero. All creations start at this level. Do not misunderstand—Level Zero is magic. It is simply so weak that no matter the blessing, it cannot manifest in any meaningful way.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvPnC74wZvr
The reason this is important to note: humans, and very rarely beastkin, will be blessed at this level. Many see it as a curse and desire more power as a result. We cannot say why the gods choose to start some individuals with less. But they do have magic in their souls and should be encouraged to find peace with their blessing, not feel cursed by it.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKQr9uVsbds
Level One is the most common, but also the most misunderstood. Many assume they are Level Zero—not knowing their element, or worse, not knowing what they can do with the element they possess.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1ib4hhhr0V
Level One is limited in how the power can act. It can be hard to control depending on the specific ability. Those blessed at this level often find it very difficult to discover what their power even is. Many assume they have no power at all, or that it's meaningless.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMJvnxgzqku
At this level, we must try to help them find their gift. To help them is to do the gods' will and help them know peace.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdL9K9LtaHQ
Level Two is uncommon but not rare. This level grants more freedom in how magic can be used, and blessed individuals can accomplish more with their power—though it still requires effort.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB42t41GbgZ
Many, if not all, Level Two individuals find their gift comes naturally with little training. This seems to be a common trait at this level. The church should still help them if able, but most tend to find their own way.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1lYLiDnavv
Level Three is rare. Many see those at this level as truly gifted. It is extremely rare for anyone at Level Three not to know they are blessed, and rarer still for them not to be dangerous—regardless of which element they possess.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ78EiMoOkj8
They should be watched, but not feared. Even Light-blessed at this level can be formidable. They can still be stopped, and most seem to want to live in peace. Still, be wary—they can be very hard to stop if pushed to violence.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuRMXRpMMjH
Level Four is very rare among beastkin and almost unheard of in humans. To be blessed at this level is nearly a curse. The power becomes a weapon that can be used against anyone with terrifying ease.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTuHBugC1Ax
That said, they should not be feared. If the gods trust someone at this level with such a gift, we must do the same—lest we create the very monster we fear they might become.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjtoEKu90xt
At this level, blessed individuals are mostly spoken of in rare cases. But if you encounter one, remember your training. Show respect unless forced to do otherwise.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNdAQzOYyqL
Level Five exists only in written legends from the past, recorded in the most ancient texts. It is said that only the rarest beings—beasts, humans, or beastkin—ever held this level of power.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2KXE5ACk5a
And wherever they went, only death followed.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrht3vztAWn
The gods regretted granting such power and never gave it again.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSfheAo4vaJ
Woe to all if the day comes when the gods think it needed once more.
Wolf closed the book for a moment, processing what he'd read.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy4o52yPRxs
He was Level Four. Nearly a curse. A weapon. Something to be watched and respected out of fear.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOTVDf7QfhC
The gods trusted him with this power. But could he even use it?355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡba2iGxUrU1
He flexed his hand, trying to feel the magic the book said he should sense easily at his level.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHRbChiKQYC
Nothing.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKaMsoo0Ph8
The book said Level Four individuals would know their gift. Would feel it naturally.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtBOEOAhj9A
But all Wolf felt was emptiness.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtresudQdyV
He tried to think back to the church. To that moment when the seer had touched his heart. He remembered something—a building pressure, elements flooding through him...355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu0PQx57LQj
It's not time yet, the seer had said. The gods suppressed it until you're ready.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWVoX4ZoPGm
Wolf wanted to know more. Needed to understand what "ready" meant. How he could unlock what the gods had locked away.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyPKE5EChsJ
But his eyes were growing heavy. He'd been reading between thoughts, and exhaustion was catching up.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Gi65kmkjD
He opened the book again and began reading the section he hadn't finished.
Understanding the Gods and Their Blessings355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoT7HoixlOw
The information on the gods is not restricted, though much has been lost to time. Many things are assumed from ancient texts. But one thing all scholars agree on: the gods gave us magic, and the gods desire balance above all else.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzzsieXab9R
This book is meant to guide you. Freedom to choose is paramount to the gods, so we as the church must embrace the same truth. Remember: no god is evil. We abuse their gifts and make what they give us evil. The gods themselves are not to blame.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbKfUSDmivJ
With that said, use this as a reference to help those new to magic have an easier time learning.
The Light God355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Bfy24oDnn
Loving and peace-seeking, Light wishes to spread illumination throughout the world. The main gifts from Light tend to be healing, though barrier magic, light spells, and even body strengthening are possible.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5H0PRlxnx3
Light's main desire has always been selflessness. The more you give freely to others, the stronger the blessing becomes. Please note: Light does not want submission or worship—merely a desire to help others.
The Dark God355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNAsIvjfcc4
Often misunderstood as evil or hateful, Darkness seeks balance almost as much as the God of Balance itself. Dark magic tends to grant shadows and the ability to see what is hidden from others.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ41WmpAnA5z
Darkness tends to bless those who seek to hide or be left alone while still pushing forward in life. Those gifted in darkness are most frequently abused by those seeking to hurt others—but this is not by design. It is simply the nature of evil itself to corrupt what it touches.
The Fire God355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRrC8SdOtao
One would assume Fire wishes all to burn. But its desire is more about passion than destruction. Fire tends to bless those seeking power and ambition, offering flames or physical enhancements to the body.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF8oByuuaj1
Like Darkness, Fire is often abused by those of evil nature. But the Fire God simply wishes for excitement and growth. The more ambitious you are, the more likely Fire will bless you.
The Water God355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaD1TP9qAd1
Water is closest to Light in its desire to heal. It is unclear what determines who receives Water's blessing—it seems to simply follow its nature and let things flow. Many think Water's blessings are random, as there are no texts explaining what influences its gifts.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdQgot0EDQW
Those blessed with Water tend to be strong healers or fighters who wield water magic. There has even been talk of water breathing and water barriers, though these reports are unconfirmed. Water blessings tend to be quite rare.
The Air God355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqAxcwCVgLS
Air tends to bless those who don't care—the more aloof and carefree you are, the more likely you are to be blessed. Air doesn't mind who follows them and cares more about living free, like the wind itself.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQBnhukOw52
Those blessed with Wind tend to have strong wind magic, enhanced agility, and the ability to sense things through air currents. Despite these gifts, Wind is notoriously hard to control. Like nature itself, it can be fickle and unreliable unless properly focused.
The Earth God355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNSeX6RFB11
Earth wishes for things to be grounded and stable. The more you desire to stay in one place, or the more you hold a single unmoving conviction, the more likely Earth will bless you.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY4e8Sl157Z
Earth magic tends to be immovable—like solid rock, hard to break. Those blessed with Earth are considered more dangerous than other elemental blessings, as they can both defend and attack with less effort and greater power than others.
Wolf paused reading. He thought about Nina. Level Four Earth magic. Immovable. Dangerous. More of a threat than other gods.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgKFDjZCx5B
No wonder her tribe made her their elder.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQZO315gvIt
He kept reading.
The Balance God355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAyLBHKlQId
The most misunderstood and ignored god is perhaps the strongest of all. Some ancient texts hint that the gods themselves need Balance to exist, and that is why they sought balance with humans and beastkin in the first place.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvihNInVF5J
Balance is the rarest blessing. It is hard to say what Balance desires or why certain individuals are chosen. It is theorized that all gods must agree before someone can receive this blessing.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBUIMdEbwKw
Because of its rare nature, it is unknown what influences who receives it and why.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu5X6Ztg0gC
What is known: in not one text—ancient or modern—has anyone used Balance to affect the world the way other gods' blessed can. Balance cannot buff the body. Cannot cast magic like flames or water or wind.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡltrrTBniDD
This is odd, considering that to be blessed by Balance is to have all the gods' power. Where no other god will bless a person twice, Balance grants all blessings at once.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡENqZ9jTECP
In exchange for such a handicap, Balance grants the greatest power to alter items.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq1ENrdCL2G
The texts are unclear on the specifics. Some say weapons. Others speak of giving blessings to others or upgrading existing blessings. Since these accounts come from ancient texts, we fear the god may have changed how Balance magic works. Perhaps the god did not approve of how the power was being used?
Side note to any priest who reads this: Please remember this is meant as a guide. All magic grows and changes with time. The gods are not bound to our understanding—they seek balance with us as we seek balance with them.
Wolf closed the book slowly.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdu3nHt9nSD
Alter items.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDs2yzlG0Bl
That was it? That was what his Level Four power could do?355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI7tPHpuCJe
He couldn't shoot fire like Teva. Couldn't control wind like Coby. Couldn't heal like Light-blessed priests or shape earth like Nina.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS70b1fc2qF
He could... change things. Make weapons better? Give blessings to others?355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXExIEYc930
The book wasn't even sure. It said the texts were old. That maybe the god had changed how it worked.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡon4nPcsav3
Wolf tried once more—reaching for that feeling from the church. That moment when all the elements had flooded through him before vanishing.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnAjzlhl430
Nothing came.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIvG7jt5S1K
Just emptiness where power should be.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBA8uagSB3B
The gods had suppressed it. Until he was "ready."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq5HcHV7rtl
But ready for what? How was he supposed to learn to use a power no one understood? A power that might not even work the same way it used to?355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIaG1Weafig
Wolf set the book aside and stared at the ceiling.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAilbKbvIBP
He didn't want to dwell on it anymore. On the blessing he couldn't use. On the power locked away inside him with no key to unlock it.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsztbQYnUbV
He needed sleep. Needed to stop thinking.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrClzK4uVDS
Tomorrow, he would find a new path. Something he could do.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXeGNGrPHZR
Wolf closed his eyes and let exhaustion take him.
The next day, Wolf woke up late.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvzCMsaXzFU
For once, he didn't rush. He took his time getting dressed, eating a small breakfast that Mom had left out for him. She and Nina had already started their day.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡssSzumb9nX
Wolf had a plan. A purpose.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ05TtxVH29d
He was going to the shop to talk to Dad.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVOUazX1F9F
When Wolf pushed open the shop door, a small bell chimed above his head.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTUFFyCqClO
It was a slow day, it seemed. Only a few customers browsing. Dad was restocking shelves while Len worked at the counter, organizing receipts.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbINIagRpIP
Dad looked up when he heard the bell. Surprise crossed his face when he saw Wolf.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGEE96atAe4
"What brings you here, son?" Dad set down the box he'd been carrying. "It's rare you just visit. Not that I'm complaining."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoFsBythGPG
Len nearby smiled knowingly, waiting to see what Wolf would say.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsDAIUmzdfD
Wolf took a breath. He'd practiced this in his head on the walk over.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1hD1FVplfe
"I know I was too impulsive before," Wolf said clearly. "But I'm ready to learn alchemy now. Properly. If you'll teach me."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTCAJoW1Z0H
Len looked at Dad, her expression curious. But she said nothing, letting Wolf speak for himself.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNfLRiCz5WX
Dad didn't respond immediately.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡebygyZFg5m
Instead, he turned around and started moving items on the shelves. Organizing things that didn't need organizing. His back was to Wolf.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtEKA9OeeoQ
"Why do you want to learn alchemy, son?" Dad's voice was calm but firm. "Depending on your answer, I'll still say you're just a child playing pretend."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkzIL51lEUf
Wolf understood. Dad wanted proof this wasn't a fickle desire. Alchemy wasn't something that should be treated like a game.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnUzMJtS0ln
"I've been reading the herb book," Wolf started. "And I trust the hermit. He was a little weird, sure. But he never caused problems in all the years he's been near the village. He wouldn't teach a child anything dangerous. Anything that could hurt others." Wolf watched his dad's back, still stacking items. "And I could use alchemy to help—"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwiMqf7jDFY
"Help what?" Dad didn't turn around.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX8WmFO88zN
Wolf tried again. "I feel this is something I can do. Something I'd be good at. And I could help the shop with it."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGZ7uHuPNTW
Dad interrupted him. "You can already help the shop. You just never want to."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZwZMLhujYc
"I don't want to do what you do," Wolf said, frustration creeping into his voice. "That doesn't mean I can't help. This lets me go my own way. Have my own thing." He paused. "Maybe one day, even my own shop."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT0dMRponW1
Dad finally turned around. His expression was unreadable. "Ambitious. For someone who never stays in the shop unless forced."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTpxDJ0W9xd
"Because it's not what I want!" Wolf's voice rose slightly.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf59JozzO5V
"Like a child," Dad said flatly. "You just want to get your way. That's not very mature, son."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ZYPoafnbq
Wolf felt trapped. No answer would be correct. Nothing he said would convince Dad he was serious.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvYwey6P8G8
He opened his mouth, then closed it again. What could he possibly say?355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ5PJVXATnz
Wolf's sister saved him from his despair with a lifeline.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzr66xn1lKb
"Dad." Len's voice was firm. "I trust Wolf. And he's done everything we asked of him. He went to schooling. He went to the church. He's never defied you or caused real trouble."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX98fQztEVV
She looked at Wolf, then back at Dad. "He deserves a chance."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3DV9sXly4H
Wolf felt a surge of gratitude. Len was defending him when he couldn't defend himself.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb6PsayNdXF
Dad sighed heavily. He turned to face Wolf fully, his expression dead serious.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPxbFcKbqbz
"This is not about trust, son." His voice was low and intense. "This is about responsibility. You make potions? You can harm people. Maybe even kill them if you make a mistake." Dad stepped closer. "It's not something you can take back. Not something you can undo with an apology."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZqLCVFkoft
He crossed his arms. "And assuming you do learn it? Assuming you get good? You'll be sought after non-stop for that gift. People will come from all over wanting your services. Wanting potions, remedies, cures." His eyes were hard. "Unless you plan to run away and hide like the hermit did. Is that what you want?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLFn8bR3BPa
Wolf swallowed hard. He hadn't thought about that. The weight of responsibility. The danger.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfiCXtxT0y7
But he needed to prove he was serious. That this wasn't a child's whim.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIDLv8Sxi9k
"Dad..." Wolf took a breath. "I got blessed by the gods."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXvIjnPv9Se
Both Dad and Len went still. Surprise crossed both their faces.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYitF6m3BaO
"How do you know, son?" Dad's voice was careful now. Cautious.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY7jRNRNYaq
"I went to the church the other day." Wolf stopped, looking for the words. He hadn't planned to tell them like this. Not here, not now. "They checked me. The seer."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbT4xKbQZVI
"I see." Dad's expression softened slightly. "Well, that would explain why you were sad when you came home." He paused. "Which god blessed you?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfqSHJq0Y1u
Dad turned back to the shelves, already losing interest. Probably assuming it was a minor blessing. Level one or two at most.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCjoPM5Ebiv
Wolf spoke clearly. "Balance."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuI6ooX5oeX
Dad went completely silent. Unmoving. His hand froze on the jar he'd been reaching for.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5scqt66CN2
Len covered her mouth in surprise, her eyes going wide.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIt7ocRujxn
The silence stretched for a long moment.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaoVCCpJ24Y
Finally, Dad spoke. His voice was quiet. Almost sad.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJaZ1Fc4pU7
"A rare blessing, son." He looked at Wolf with understanding. "But I can see why you didn't want it. Can't do anything with it. At least not like other magics work."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZqdrylFJXy
Dad looked at Len, then back at Wolf. He could see his son hurting.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4NQdI7bznN
Len moved quickly. She walked over and wrapped her arms around Wolf, pulling him into a gentle hug. She didn't say anything. Just held him.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnmER5GpYKr
Dad sighed heavily, watching the display. His stern expression softened.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOapAhWdg93
"I guess it makes sense now," Dad said slowly. "You think alchemy might be tied to your magic somehow. That it?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhbZFA9tp1z
Wolf was surprised. He hadn't thought of that at all.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡypbJX1D1hw
"No, Dad!" Wolf's voice came out louder than he intended—though not quite shouting. "I swear it wasn't that! I just..." He struggled to find the words. "I accepted that my magic is useless. I didn't know how to tell you about it. But alchemy?" His voice grew passionate. "Alchemy was like magic to me. Even before I knew I had any blessing."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4GxP5BPlwe
Len gently released him, stepping back but staying close.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZqUyMCkE3Q
Wolf looked directly at his father. "I'm not a child." His voice was firm. "Young, maybe. But not a child. The gods blessed me—that's why I brought it up. As proof." He stood straighter. "They see me as worthy of power. Even if I can't use it the way others can."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGzXYIJESkw
Len sensed Wolf was getting worked up. She could see it in his face, the tension in his shoulders. She gave him a look—gentle but cautioning.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnRJbPMbm4s
Wolf saw it and forced himself to calm down. She was just trying to love him. So was Dad. They weren't his enemies.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbw8zbLm5oT
"Sorry, Dad." Wolf's voice was quieter now. "But I mean it. I'm not a kid anymore."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY5ssB7BkLE
Dad just stared at him for a long moment.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxiSd0EvysJ
Wolf held his gaze. Didn't look away. Didn't back down.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnjpYSwrBfE
Finally, Dad's shoulders slumped slightly. "I suppose I do push you too much." His voice was tired. "And then I give you freedom and complain when you do nothing with it." He rubbed his face. "That's not fair to you, is it?"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaA3kIWY2tg
"Dad—" Wolf started.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4bzyNdJDym
"Okay, son." Dad's voice was defeated but accepting. "I'm just tired. Tired of working long hours. Tired of arguing." He managed a small smile. "Maybe you can make me a tonic or potion to help with that. Make your old man feel less exhausted. I think I'm getting old."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJWbfbdga5J
Len squealed with joy for her brother.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhy3KmD2V77
Wolf couldn't help himself. He rushed forward and grabbed his dad in a tight hug.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1l1pnRc8QK
"I promise I'll train hard!" Wolf's voice was muffled against Dad's chest. "I'll make you stronger again! Help you not be so tired!"355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ31SlEb1kum
Dad laughed—a genuine, warm sound. He hugged Wolf back.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHtoF8AUqPB
"I said something to help me feel less tired, son. Not make me young again." His voice was amused. "I know I said I'm getting old, but I'm not that old yet."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBFnGbCXNRg
Len, still beaming with happiness, had a thought. "Why not just drink coffee? That helps with energy."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVi2Uxli912
Dad made a face. "Yuck. Never liked the stuff. Too bitter."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2JYPzTf1hW
"You could add sugar—" Len started.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcozSMWmkPl
"Still terrible," Dad protested. "Besides, energy drinks exist. Potions specifically made to restore energy and fight exhaustion." He shrugged. "They just cost too much to drink like water. But if my son can help his old man out? Well..."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAbewwrVkAQ
He trailed off, looking at Wolf with a mixture of pride and hope.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkuwHWb0XEJ
The good mood turned somber.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3eHJ2gmG3G
Dad's expression grew serious again. "I know the hermit is still around. He's one of the shipments I get randomly—herbs, reagents, the occasional odd request." He paused. "But how do you know he'll still train you? He could already have an apprentice by now. Or he might have forgotten he even offered."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV0jXLI9Tne
Wolf felt like he'd been slapped in the face.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoghML1k6Lu
That cold truth hit him hard. He hadn't thought about that. The old man wouldn't have just waited around for Wolf to show up. If someone else went to him first—some other curious kid or desperate adult—would the hermit even want two apprentices?355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGwmDRU0v81
Wolf feared the answer. But he'd have to know.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEo2r8sxcoU
"I'll go tomorrow," Wolf said with determination. "I need to find out."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsdZtDNgZBC
He thanked his dad and sister—Len with another quick hug, Dad with a nod of respect.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRlBMJ20dLD
"Today I want to read more," Wolf explained. "Prepare myself. So I'm ready when I see him tomorrow."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAJxIBscZOY
Dad nodded approvingly. "Smart. Don't go in unprepared."355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU1LfuAsUpf
Wolf left the shop with purpose in his step.355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡklUvLexjxE
Tomorrow, he'd face the hermit. And find out if his path forward was still open—or if he'd missed his chance.
355Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBgSHpPre4p
and then Add to home screen.