When Wolf made it to his room, he went straight to bed.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS3w1twWcQE
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRf95mgO9gd
But sleep brought no peace.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEfzo2cjZeQ
He dreamed of monsters. Of powers destroying the world. Cities burning, people screaming, armies clashing in fields of fire and shadow.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsIND5aUqlO
And among it all was him.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6QB4RwhqP4
In chains.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡySIRBNyQ6x
Unable to move. Power enough to save kingdoms coursing through his veins—but unable to do anything except watch as it all burned.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNX1pd5WD5A
That was his gift. A balance of seeing everything and being able to do nothing.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQr8nHME7wa
Wolf woke in a cold sweat.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl2EZo0QHkf
His heart was pounding. His sheets were damp and twisted around him. The afternoon sun had faded—it was early evening now.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLujNkl5HGi
He needed a bath. Needed to wash away the nightmare clinging to his skin.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0uQCDgJGld
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOGGh5zxY2s
He knew it was Nina. Len would just walk in without knocking. So would Mom.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHsdwRdubYM
"Come in," Wolf called out.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZPB25RNuG8
Nina stepped inside and closed the door gently behind her.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKpNO3ssnI0
"You okay, kiddo?" she asked carefully, watching his face.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjHTl7X2ukD
Wolf hated that he couldn't hide anything from her. Or from Len. Or Mom.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfDSUbElZ0Y
Was that some gift women had? Some magical ability to see right through him?390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRhmxyP9rxV
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3TsuAluWzX
Better to just lay it all out.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ZZhgU3qUJ
"I went to the church today," Wolf said quietly.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAOSHgXjZdZ
Nina sat beside him on the bed, listening intently.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrcDNtggMfr
"They looked at me. To see if I had a gift from the gods."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgKI45pPg2n
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—"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZQS0tEm2pC
She smiled, rubbing his back comfortingly.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxUEFlC9Whe
"No." Wolf cut her off. "Worse. I do have a gift."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyVBqXRM2wk
Nina froze, confusion crossing her face. "That doesn't make sense. Can you explain?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡak6ySSmGFP
"Yeah." Wolf took a breath. "I have level four power. According to the church."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC7ltLxFQpm
Nina's eyes went wide. Her hand stopped moving on his back.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWzjepfzg3h
"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?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzD8WbT5RUo
Wolf laughed bitterly as she tried to guess.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOjbYIULi5c
"No. Worse." He paused. "Balance."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZhq4m075jl
Nina went completely still.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDeArTUDtcy
"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?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzAQ1FGrbY0
Wolf looked at her directly. His voice was flat. Defeated.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡobUKOjBD9b
"I. Have. No. Power."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRAcmAxnKBj
He let that sink in before continuing.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNauajpQBPM
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ16CfE5xLMs
His voice cracked. "I got what I always wanted. Magic. And now I can't do anything with it."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYT5ztsO1I2
Nina was lost for words.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYnAW5leC4V
She stayed quiet. Waiting. Maybe hoping Wolf would say more—would explain further or find some silver lining.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqPUM2TbIij
But Wolf refused to say anything else. Just sat there, staring at his hands.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaZbLYiZEdL
Finally, Nina relented. She spoke softly.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡufhkdWrsd8
"Remember when we first met?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhWcHZgUfql
"Yeah. Why?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqColinLBom
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFNYzk73oPp
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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0uwF4wbX0m
Wolf just listened.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoQgNVUfYTP
"I wanted that as part of my life more than anything," Nina said quietly. "Since I had nothing like it before."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKNDdJW9bg8
Wolf was confused. That didn't make much sense yet. But he kept listening.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTKQJ2zkmIt
Nina took a breath. "Where I'm from, magic is what determines everything. Your rank. Your worth. Your entire life."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwZxLlBjak4
She looked at Wolf seriously. "You're either a nobody... or the elder. Based entirely on your power."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvPCbUBzNBO
Wolf was surprised at that. "That seems broken. Like it would lead to a lot of trouble."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIkgzS53Llj
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUTnkjSXwRg
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?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ2JyqGFEVu
"Close, kiddo." Nina's voice was barely above a whisper. "They let us go. But they trained him to serve me."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtEo2cQHFuU
It took Wolf a moment to process what she'd said.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc1NGlnx4WQ
Then he frowned. Surely she was kidding. Some kind of joke to make him feel better.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZpXUTPZQyj
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAhLFTOipFC
Wolf had to know more. He asked in a whisper, almost afraid to speak.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyvNigMaECe
"Why?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDromU83L8z
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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEbRMLfVSTd
She looked at Wolf with tears in her eyes. "I never got to be a normal kid."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjZHegoQPEA
Wolf's blood ran cold.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXoK8e2fWyh
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Yqp25wP8K
"But..." Wolf's voice was confused. "I've never once seen you use magic. How?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNQkJ05ylg5
Nina laughed bitterly. "I told you—magic is not always a blessing."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbGhnCarxKF
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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCXtcmts6OB
Wolf wasn't sure what to say. Would she have been... what? A king? A queen? Elder? What did beastkin even call their leaders?390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXdW5lQZwtZ
"Was it that bad?" Wolf asked carefully. "Being in charge? You said they let you go..."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYNArIsXbuI
"No." Nina shook her head. "At first, it wasn't the leading that broke me."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhdELR73XKQ
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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpTC3nW5apG
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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ28WIrRQh7Q
Nina smiled at him through her tears. "It's better now, kiddo. That's why I can talk about it."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlOgbzCtUqi
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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpdDRzx90uR
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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJOuToyWMNM
She smiled. "Nebo never shows it. Not really. But he's happy too. Happier than he ever was back there."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSohIpkbfwH
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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBamBAB7qFT
Wolf wasn't sure about that. But he appreciated her trying to help.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSS5oO1C3dx
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIafgyxaEzi
Nina's eyes went wide. Her whole face lit up.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6LCbWhkXC8
Then she started to squeal.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDPksdy3ukS
"BROTHER!"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfjTmkL4pXv
"Wait—" Wolf tried to respond, but Nina was already grabbing him and pulling him into a crushing hug.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡulXgEMXrcL
"Get off!" Wolf protested, trying to push her away.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVD0VQjSID2
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU4MBSUtlFs
Wolf cried for her to let go, but she completely ignored him.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKhRQrtOCay
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEvDPfaJZFl
It probably would have gone even longer.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7MCE3bbkmM
But Mom showed up with food.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbH0ymEvnUh
The door opened.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpOeA75PWu1
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOtk8Luy1Ts
She raised an eyebrow, looking at the scene before her. "I take it you're doing better, son?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvW8jvzmRkk
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCCdYViG9fR
Both of them froze when they realized Mom was watching.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQgkUuvmWUr
They straightened up immediately, trying to look innocent.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLMxkGWO9Ij
"Sorry," Nina said, blushing. "I got a little carried away."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0uLDL4cvbk
"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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRDRTJRx1Gu
Mom smiled warmly. "It's okay. Kids should be allowed to play. As long as nobody's hurt, it's fine."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAyjmieAby5
She walked over and set the plate on his dresser. "Here's some food when you're ready for it."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ90yW8eq0VL
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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUrR1Jye0Lb
Mom nodded approvingly, watching as Nina left the room.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn5hJknFyCe
Then she turned back to Wolf, her expression gentle but knowing.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWlPQBPDey4
"Anything you want to tell me, dear?" She paused. "If not, I won't pry."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy2wvShUxoW
Wolf smiled at her. "It's fine, Mom. Just a long day. A bit of growing up caught up with me, is all."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8er9P7CwZB
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY0iWNrk9Aa
"Okay." Her voice was soft. "Enjoy your food. You know we love you and are here if you need us."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP2FC2ZBFlj
"I know." Wolf's voice was quiet but sincere. "And I won't forget what you've given me. I promise."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8cno5K2Cvh
Mom looked uncertain. He could see it in her eyes—she wasn't sure what he meant.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Z76UncNjI
So Wolf elaborated, still smiling. "You gave me a choice. That's a gift I won't forget."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhZN8JycFf2
Mom's expression shifted. Understanding dawned, followed by warmth and a touch of sadness. She touched his cheek gently.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRp3Mzy7PfN
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMIeImCPp5Z
She left with those words, closing the door softly behind her.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvPiEvhKgnf
Wolf ate in peace.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqUJqEYxxy5
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWF0f8Dl2GZ
He reflected on the day. The devastating revelation. Nina's shared pain. Mom's gentle understanding.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl64nrsxYjC
Maybe things would be okay eventually.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaWsVJW8kuY
The door opened, and his sister Len entered quietly.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvFw3c8A3JJ
"Hello, brother." She smiled softly. "You okay to talk?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ImHjfkIoO
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd9v9dbQ9Rz
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLwcz75i1Tw
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAS2uaXHHkB
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡefnxz82cGB
Len settled in and started talking about her day—the shop, the customers, Dad's grumpy mood from lack of sleep. Small, mundane things.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIJvr0DVG0C
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoamjkrFpri
So he let her have her moment.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYdcEILNICQ
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcuob8GIFzc
Wolf was alone again. But it felt different now. Less crushing. Less empty.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9pJaaLDe4n
He had people who cared. People who understood, at least a little.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcujAmb6xQg
Wolf figured now that things had calmed down, he should read while he could.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡys8X1wRCof
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCSe5eYlyOv
He couldn't help himself. Wolf lifted the book and sniffed it.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhJ1Ugjtdpj
It didn't smell like magic. Just like a book. Leather and old paper.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡle8d5fSv7a
Then again, he didn't know what magic was supposed to smell like. So it was a pointless test. Done purely on impulse.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRJTqjBAUxQ
Wolf opened the book and read the title page. He felt less than impressed.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM8nIxewhkg
Magic and the Gods: Level One to Five By the Church390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4yqVOXg7WD
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡORAZhH62XA
Wolf began to read.
Understanding the Levels of Power390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9xMy4ZKzP6
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9CzQ22KJzw
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3TwiMdeHHf
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpdGReZU5nh
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlfPqmeFr6Y
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfqnFHkAaUs
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFFTJpmiuI9
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ39HlMpJZeP
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbnkas4KEVQ
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7PV6UBiliD
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBZhczFcjnL
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvZRXiKjsjM
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2lDLX0NoST
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDbJdBv6r24
And wherever they went, only death followed.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwmMF9mLkuN
The gods regretted granting such power and never gave it again.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcfc0sE8g2Q
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHY1ycpRaMY
He was Level Four. Nearly a curse. A weapon. Something to be watched and respected out of fear.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡecq3eMNYr6
The gods trusted him with this power. But could he even use it?390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2zo3AMZhbj
He flexed his hand, trying to feel the magic the book said he should sense easily at his level.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1CeyuGJjXy
Nothing.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡItbUKs0ZVJ
The book said Level Four individuals would know their gift. Would feel it naturally.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8dOGeUa2DU
But all Wolf felt was emptiness.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOBF94OB0Z6
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...390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbo64HBDCfm
It's not time yet, the seer had said. The gods suppressed it until you're ready.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtEfJhLAgYt
Wolf wanted to know more. Needed to understand what "ready" meant. How he could unlock what the gods had locked away.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjoKSQuWk9V
But his eyes were growing heavy. He'd been reading between thoughts, and exhaustion was catching up.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjlestm6i27
He opened the book again and began reading the section he hadn't finished.
Understanding the Gods and Their Blessings390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAJ7ioeNhvo
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9moqwdIhuy
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIgdxReIRYH
With that said, use this as a reference to help those new to magic have an easier time learning.
The Light God390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuc9HiVKP4s
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgIG299Yn1D
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 God390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOdbSjkBrw1
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8YB69frqpX
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 God390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ65xSVz9SoI
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrOClfweYnh
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 God390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw5mPzwdRnX
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiDxjlzb0Ii
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 God390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ1LCrLc6dZ
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ajiFa9Q0u
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 God390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnHsGxy1W3k
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZZpLX5JmE3
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEYEDdaTlco
No wonder her tribe made her their elder.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWufOo4bE30
He kept reading.
The Balance God390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSyfBoZ4IuI
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSu6jo88ihW
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJcYbgDLsdA
Because of its rare nature, it is unknown what influences who receives it and why.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡacxq69lyIQ
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrh9d9ILoh1
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCKJQmDotag
In exchange for such a handicap, Balance grants the greatest power to alter items.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0GPSt56xA2
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcTLvZ8PSTO
Alter items.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7wE4YgxjzA
That was it? That was what his Level Four power could do?390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzOC8uY6yAa
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPvPGH62YNa
He could... change things. Make weapons better? Give blessings to others?390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4wTiDHQcpI
The book wasn't even sure. It said the texts were old. That maybe the god had changed how it worked.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL6NsLLDOM3
Wolf tried once more—reaching for that feeling from the church. That moment when all the elements had flooded through him before vanishing.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyCUSvTfyJC
Nothing came.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡasS14jil2F
Just emptiness where power should be.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQK7XeonqUp
The gods had suppressed it. Until he was "ready."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjxAN48Lpa9
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?390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo8dy9MI2SU
Wolf set the book aside and stared at the ceiling.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ03DtYoChI9
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1pi9AHbYFl
He needed sleep. Needed to stop thinking.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCbXJ3Q7gLA
Tomorrow, he would find a new path. Something he could do.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl8LdXWBCfe
Wolf closed his eyes and let exhaustion take him.
The next day, Wolf woke up late.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEwuQrih9YU
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0RJcIuK7fi
Wolf had a plan. A purpose.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4f3BpfogcO
He was going to the shop to talk to Dad.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡklUiD0mVDk
When Wolf pushed open the shop door, a small bell chimed above his head.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEf1lzsqkj9
It was a slow day, it seemed. Only a few customers browsing. Dad was restocking shelves while Len worked at the counter, organizing receipts.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvkB3sjXmST
Dad looked up when he heard the bell. Surprise crossed his face when he saw Wolf.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡppXpjGgudY
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlqkjbxhnZA
Len nearby smiled knowingly, waiting to see what Wolf would say.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0GMtuLWa21
Wolf took a breath. He'd practiced this in his head on the walk over.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡetpkK6MnpW
"I know I was too impulsive before," Wolf said clearly. "But I'm ready to learn alchemy now. Properly. If you'll teach me."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOJsGQTwB4s
Len looked at Dad, her expression curious. But she said nothing, letting Wolf speak for himself.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8LnFSOKSH2
Dad didn't respond immediately.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5JuwIviosP
Instead, he turned around and started moving items on the shelves. Organizing things that didn't need organizing. His back was to Wolf.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnNzRrwLpNN
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP0MSRxODJ7
Wolf understood. Dad wanted proof this wasn't a fickle desire. Alchemy wasn't something that should be treated like a game.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCiWpg2QENJ
"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—"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrSVRyjrA5b
"Help what?" Dad didn't turn around.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaCw3nbqXhq
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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC8nTwflTEh
Dad interrupted him. "You can already help the shop. You just never want to."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Y5RlJZw1D
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjriq3JpKlY
Dad finally turned around. His expression was unreadable. "Ambitious. For someone who never stays in the shop unless forced."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZsVgkN7PfF
"Because it's not what I want!" Wolf's voice rose slightly.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYKGwccoipb
"Like a child," Dad said flatly. "You just want to get your way. That's not very mature, son."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOF5GznXR4K
Wolf felt trapped. No answer would be correct. Nothing he said would convince Dad he was serious.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSlchbP2BgO
He opened his mouth, then closed it again. What could he possibly say?390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSefJUVu4to
Wolf's sister saved him from his despair with a lifeline.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoM6KAy9Cn7
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgs5FEMtQBa
She looked at Wolf, then back at Dad. "He deserves a chance."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5lT4jkQOJF
Wolf felt a surge of gratitude. Len was defending him when he couldn't defend himself.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSpfqSXDBWy
Dad sighed heavily. He turned to face Wolf fully, his expression dead serious.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiwRYWUacPT
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJZTrDVCl7
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?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpO0USqEcxz
Wolf swallowed hard. He hadn't thought about that. The weight of responsibility. The danger.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡas5lkrIutg
But he needed to prove he was serious. That this wasn't a child's whim.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsJFvv9dHSD
"Dad..." Wolf took a breath. "I got blessed by the gods."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp26M2NXy2x
Both Dad and Len went still. Surprise crossed both their faces.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY3mdgyGoJO
"How do you know, son?" Dad's voice was careful now. Cautious.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfMpMzyTSAS
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi5SXNi1D3E
"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?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgrbFFZYnYM
Dad turned back to the shelves, already losing interest. Probably assuming it was a minor blessing. Level one or two at most.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMiMomAu3Sz
Wolf spoke clearly. "Balance."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6p90qJ0Kb9
Dad went completely silent. Unmoving. His hand froze on the jar he'd been reaching for.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaiPOp6kO4m
Len covered her mouth in surprise, her eyes going wide.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5l4Ma2lTVS
The silence stretched for a long moment.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIq7gqTMpCq
Finally, Dad spoke. His voice was quiet. Almost sad.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmFzazPi8BB
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo3TULXKAu5
Dad looked at Len, then back at Wolf. He could see his son hurting.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1zqidlUFdA
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUmbLKzzaDD
Dad sighed heavily, watching the display. His stern expression softened.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAnbxSht73X
"I guess it makes sense now," Dad said slowly. "You think alchemy might be tied to your magic somehow. That it?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDlQA8bqn6J
Wolf was surprised. He hadn't thought of that at all.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdWmOE0jxdr
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjAGKP1AVmo
Len gently released him, stepping back but staying close.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvvXNQm6pH0
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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbqahG90gRr
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvxyPHI7Ajj
Wolf saw it and forced himself to calm down. She was just trying to love him. So was Dad. They weren't his enemies.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH3XrewSyC1
"Sorry, Dad." Wolf's voice was quieter now. "But I mean it. I'm not a kid anymore."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlOIteHCDOh
Dad just stared at him for a long moment.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFei9mjTDpG
Wolf held his gaze. Didn't look away. Didn't back down.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkuS7l2SgDW
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?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3UgHktjK8Y
"Dad—" Wolf started.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJy7KFHl0xi
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP9hyWGceOC
Len squealed with joy for her brother.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo9pMAtRXsH
Wolf couldn't help himself. He rushed forward and grabbed his dad in a tight hug.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg31XhKC4qy
"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!"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8bmsZDPMU4
Dad laughed—a genuine, warm sound. He hugged Wolf back.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtSqljz3X9a
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwc7dLKm1u7
Len, still beaming with happiness, had a thought. "Why not just drink coffee? That helps with energy."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPBqOKQjNxr
Dad made a face. "Yuck. Never liked the stuff. Too bitter."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq1xjSIYmo8
"You could add sugar—" Len started.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP4QpG99o2E
"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..."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMsUEtrm8n4
He trailed off, looking at Wolf with a mixture of pride and hope.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd3M9VAlxHa
The good mood turned somber.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrBVsV22Xfj
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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZpF6OiZoXS
Wolf felt like he'd been slapped in the face.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK7ZvTa3i18
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?390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJzGOKo14wn
Wolf feared the answer. But he'd have to know.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdbmsh4FnVW
"I'll go tomorrow," Wolf said with determination. "I need to find out."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMAFmRvoXbj
He thanked his dad and sister—Len with another quick hug, Dad with a nod of respect.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKKik3RduDH
"Today I want to read more," Wolf explained. "Prepare myself. So I'm ready when I see him tomorrow."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQgKvfBSD3k
Dad nodded approvingly. "Smart. Don't go in unprepared."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKnb3MV84U2
Wolf left the shop with purpose in his step.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ45GCxcv21h
Tomorrow, he'd face the hermit. And find out if his path forward was still open—or if he'd missed his chance.
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5tuNfesTSi
and then Add to home screen.