Herbert was annoyed.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Tp79FrA93
He was always annoyed these days. Because he always needed more herbs. The deliveries were never enough. Never on time. And people refused to listen when he said he needed drake root—drake root!—not mandrake root!365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0dbtPOXxt9
Did they want him to make fire oil? Or a potion that helped with motion sickness?365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcT5zm3vc9A
Because those were two very different things.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3DXk151prP
Herbert sighed, crouching down to examine a cluster of moss growing near a fallen log.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5j77rleOCU
Most people who delivered herbs didn't buy what he sold. So they didn't understand what any of it was worth. But the sailors he shipped to—the ones still new to the water, still getting violently seasick on every voyage—they understood. They paid good coin for his motion sickness remedies.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdW10o6bTAv
If only he could get the right ingredients.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJaHszwosSW
Herbert kept squinting at the ground as he walked, scanning for anything useful. He knew magic was growing stronger in the area. Herbs had been appearing more frequently. Growing more easily than before.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc3UQd9rTbe
It was always exciting to find something new. Something that grew on its own, wild and untouched. To test it. See if it could be used in any potions.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIyAjpcyzSl
Herbert was lost in thought, examining a new green leaf plant. It reminded him of a thistle—but with deep blue hues spreading from its center like veins of color.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuko5yDZd7M
Interesting. Very interesting.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq9z5g9TXOe
Then he heard footsteps in the distance.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXpVV3Q85A9
Herbert looked up, squinting through the trees.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7wlAQCBGcF
Who was that? No deliveries were scheduled today. Or were there? Had he mixed up the times again?365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT7QESAmGzX
No matter. He always needed more supplies anyway.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjfmCjYam4E
Herbert turned and followed the sound of footsteps.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡasDxBjfHZf
He was surprised to see a young boy walking toward his home. Moving slowly, cautiously. The kid looked lost—checking the trees for guidance, trying to orient himself.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwiXHjXhTK5
Herbert frowned. The boy was only a few meters away now. But he was completely ignoring Herbert. Walking right past him as if he wasn't even there.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0cou1yJ6zp
Herbert was about to shout—What are you doing?—when he remembered.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBIBhFSC9jn
Ah. The blasted magic again.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3s9kKEqAFf
He was blessed with darkness. Level one. A pathetic, useless blessing that only did one thing: hide his presence.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH1pVWZ5Aem
Herbert had never wanted to hide. But after years of wandering the woods alone, gathering herbs in dangerous territory, he'd needed to avoid predators. Wolves. Bears. Worse things.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGcAAKVsDyi
And the God of Darkness had "blessed" him for it.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaR0QpiiPwV
Herbert sighed heavily.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXdttzwPCFV
When he did, he saw the kid stop at the sound. But the boy didn't look Herbert's way. His eyes scanned the area—confused, uncertain—as if the magic itself willed him not to see the old man standing right there.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIvVW1Urtq9
"What are you doing here, kid?" Herbert called out. "Do I know you?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡursjl79wxK
The boy jumped, spinning around with wide eyes.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSNYzAtPFhh
Herbert was mildly amused. He tried to soften his tone—make himself seem less gruff. He wasn't trying to be mean. Just... he wasn't used to visitors anymore.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtChKlXlX3I
"Are you here for a delivery?" Herbert continued. "Because yes, I do always need more herbs. So if that's why you're here, you heard right."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA1doPrHWtV
The boy seemed to be recovering from the shock. He shook his head, then spoke.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxdnyU8pTbt
"I've been here before. But it's been a while."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyOy2heFHVc
"Really?" Herbert was surprised. This kid had been here before?365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJmXYbhbeTr
He studied the boy more closely. An orphan? No—he looked healthy. Well-fed. Not lost or desperate.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb31DUGPyIh
Maybe... what was it Herbert had said before when he'd met a child? That was so long ago he could barely remember...365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGb1S94jG9L
"You offered to train me before," the boy said. His voice was uncertain but determined. "But I was too young then. I've since learned about herbs. Matured." He stood straighter. "I'm ready now. You even told me your name. Herbert. I'm Wolf."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpCeubVMlNB
Herbert blinked in surprise.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡslN4zMk0NP
"Really?" He scratched his beard. "Well. That is... interesting."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡraZA43iCze
Why would I have done that? Herbert thought, trying to remember. When did I ever—365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4rGJvJr6IW
He saw the boy's face fall. Looking defeated. Like he'd been told no before and expected it again.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ8rvw4GIi7
Wolf's shoulders slumped. "I guess it wasn't a real offer. Sorry I bothered you."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ypBh98fjM
He turned to leave.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkNFYb4Xn6Z
"BOY!"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5UEowOXFJY
Herbert's voice cracked like a whip. Sharp. Commanding.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxUwfrUgDKO
Wolf froze. He slowly turned back to face the old man.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJn3jOZuS4R
Herbert stepped forward, his eyes intense. "Never give up easy."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBKl13acw2b
His voice was firm. Almost angry. "If I offer you such a thing—training in alchemy—it requires a strong will. Focus. Dedication." He pointed at Wolf. "You can't be giving up at the first sign of doubt. You need to want it."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUVkaSQjDLm
Herbert straightened, almost boasting now. "Alchemy isn't for the weak-willed. It's not a hobby. It's a life's work."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTBY3tZctrm
Wolf watched him, not sure what to say.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr0B5iv4tgA
Herbert stared at him for a long moment. Then spoke again. "Well?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBziDQKftrM
"Um..." Wolf blinked. "Well what?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7tWQ6x68BP
Herbert felt his annoyance rising. "Are you going to say you want to learn? Declare it? Or are you just going to walk away like a coward?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOe7HYTYTK6
Wolf straightened up. His voice came out stronger this time. "I... I want to learn alchemy!" He took a breath. "Please. Sir."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO41fz4zWFA
"Heh." Herbert couldn't help but be amused.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡumQSO5gNwe
Maybe he'd been alone too long. It was easy to forget what other people were like. How they needed encouragement. How they needed someone to believe in them before they could believe in themselves.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdUANRHrTfI
"Okay, kid. I like you." Herbert nodded slowly. "And if I offered it once before, then I can do it again. I'm a man of my word, even if my memory's gone to rot."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRgVBYXmVFP
He crossed his arms. "I'll start small. Keep it basic. The things I need for my own research are far beyond you right now. But simple things? Useful potions? Those you can learn." He shrugged. "It'll be fine. You'll be fine."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjrVR1i1v3I
Herbert gestured toward the woods. "Now come on. We're wasting daylight. And I still need to find that damned blue thistle before some animal eats it."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhtjT0FqaYn
As they started walking, Wolf hesitated. He wanted to ask something but wasn't sure how to phrase it.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLTHM2SxH7M
"What is it, kid?" Herbert glanced back. "Speak up. Don't mumble."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXjX71vu1gp
"How... how do you sneak up on people like that?" Wolf asked. "It happened before too. When I first met you. You just... appeared."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMGTPtbfbBK
"Eh?" Herbert looked confused for a moment. Then understanding dawned. "Oh. That."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2psi7eggVJ
He waved his hand dismissively. "Bah. It's nothing. A meaningless trick that helps me avoid beasts when I'm out gathering." He snorted. "Though it's not really needed anymore since the hunter keeps this area safe from dangerous animals."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtXlqkTV4Xj
Herbert looked at Wolf seriously. "I have a darkness blessing. Level one. It's annoying, but it's life."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqGXJNtSKsL
Wolf's eyes went wide with wonder. Magic! The old man had magic!365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbvJha9gdNK
Herbert saw the look and quickly crushed that excitement. "Don't get all starry-eyed, kid. It doesn't always work. And animals can still smell you even if they can't see you properly." He gestured to his herb-covered clothes. "That's why I cover myself with strong-smelling herbs. Masks my scent. I also keep pepper on hand just in case something gets too close."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4pmUPbcCln
Wolf suddenly understood. "That explains why you smell so strongly of herbs."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkkfQrkSXZu
"Hah!" Herbert laughed. "That, and I spend all my time working with them. Hard not to smell like your work when you live in it."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAamcwElIyB
He started looking around more carefully, scanning the ground as they walked. He really wanted to find that blue thistle herb before something else did. It would be tragic to discover a new type and then lose it because he'd wasted time talking.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9a3nl7dlTB
As Herbert scouted the ground intently, Wolf spoke up behind him.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcOpC0KmzHQ
"Um... is this part of the test? Or training?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1ep1hwKX4x
"Eh?" Herbert didn't understand what the kid was talking about. "What test?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxxD50QcEXu
Then it clicked. "Oh! Right! Yes!" He laughed at himself. "You're my apprentice now! Haha, sorry kid. I got lost in thought for a moment there."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ102SADndoB
Herbert waved his hand. "No test. No trials. You want to learn? You learn. Simple as that."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6rI4OcqKB4
He pointed around them. "Right now I'm gathering a new herb. Going to study it. Make something from it. See what it does." Herbert looked at Wolf. "That's how alchemy works. Discovery. Experimentation. Trial and error."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHSmuTSTzwY
"Can I help?" Wolf asked eagerly.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdO5M4as7JJ
Herbert wasn't used to having company. Most of his interactions were simple transactions—someone delivers herbs, he pays them, they leave. This was different.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrsP2EJHqhD
He was taken aback for a moment.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZZFfVHH4XU
"Aha. Yes. Sure." Herbert waved his hand in a general direction. "Go over there. Scout the area for anything that looks worth gathering. We'll take what we find back to the hut and go from there."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJbDClgjHIM
Wolf nodded and moved a little further into the woods. He started scouting the ground carefully, just like he'd been asked.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEk2uvwGn2v
Herbert watched him for a moment. The kid actually listened. That was refreshing.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1K0HKicrKi
Herbert went back to searching for the new herb he'd spotted earlier.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ29zAYAOmeU
They spent the next two hours combing through the forest.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7SEOOtiMBC
Herbert would occasionally forget Wolf was there—get so absorbed in examining a plant or digging up a root that the boy's presence slipped from his mind entirely. But he never forgot why Wolf was there. Never forgot his new apprentice was learning by watching.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8kFXcfETrR
They managed to find mostly herbs Herbert already knew. Common things. Useful but unremarkable.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPfMMZlswCx
But they also found two new specimens.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV3zUIzp0mQ
The first was the blue thistle leaf Herbert had been searching for. Up close, it was even more fascinating. The deep blue hues radiating from the center almost seemed to pulse with faint magic.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ5xRRb0lsW
The second was a surprise. A red root buried deep in the soil. When Herbert pulled it free, it gave off an intense smell—sharp, acrid, like standing too close to a fire.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡndNYQvYbBd
"Strong fire magic in this one," Herbert muttered, examining it closely. He made a mental note. "I'll call it fire root. Simple. Easy to remember."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZWkxQX0YZL
After another hour of searching, Herbert noticed Wolf was slowing down. The kid was getting tired from all the bending and straightening. Searching the ground was hard work—especially for a young body not used to it.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2gRiB4gnNQ
"We're close to the hut now, kid," Herbert called out.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXHsLHNE1EA
He brushed dirt off his hands. "I'll make you a simple brew when we get back. Cures most aches and pains. Gives you a little pep in your step." He started walking. "Nothing fancy. I sell it mostly to laborers who work long shifts. Easy to make, but the herbs are a pain to gather."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡisruiJHPH5
Herbert sighed heavily. "Everything is too rare for what I need. Too hard to find." He looked at Wolf. "We need a dungeon, kid. When that happens? Herbs become common as dirt."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaGIIAb9McX
He laughed at his own joke.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4OcOoxSPVH
Wolf just nodded slowly, not entirely understanding what a dungeon had to do with herbs.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCL6e2doGLM
They headed back toward Herbert's hut in companionable silence.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ9SxFgTQWT
Once inside, Wolf stopped in his tracks.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2YywQoG4z9
His eyes went wide. He gawked and stared at everything as if he'd walked into a wizard's tower from one of Len's bedtime stories.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTZIyX9qiUg
"It's all old, kid." Herbert moved past him without ceremony. "Don't break anything." He paused. "Well, most things are enchanted anyway. Hard to break. But that doesn't mean you should try."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIWk7WmmKTN
Wolf slowly turned in a circle, trying to take it all in.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYBLQC6ek89
Herbert's house was large—surprisingly spacious for a hermit's dwelling. But every available surface was covered. Wall to wall, floor to ceiling.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyr8vyNr2tr
Random notes were pinned everywhere. Scrawled observations. Sketches of plants. Chemical formulas Wolf didn't understand.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOmaGTEsrht
Vials of every size and color lined countless shelves. Some glowed faintly. Others were completely dark. A few seemed to swirl with movement inside.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbhK2CjLX6i
Dried herbs hung from the rafters in bundles. Fresh herbs sat in containers on tables. Rare specimens were preserved in jars filled with strange liquids.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpLHpVQh07F
And miscellaneous items were scattered throughout—mortars and pestles, scales, measuring instruments, books stacked haphazardly, boxes overflowing with mysterious contents.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu4nzMVFFqf
It was organized chaos. Or maybe just chaos.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzAuTIyDpsR
Wolf couldn't help himself. "How long have you been here? This is... this is a lot of stuff."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAmFGQsuJ8C
"Eh?" Herbert looked up from where he was examining their gathered herbs. He wasn't sure how to answer that.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG185FRq5zo
He'd never really thought about time. Only about the research. The experiments. The next discovery.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVtyd9ue0OW
"I dunno." Herbert scratched his chin. "Well, I suppose the hardest part was waiting for the people I paid to build this place. After that?" He shrugged. "Dunno."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYf0vlAT7CJ
He said it honestly, not entirely sure about the passage of time. Days blended into weeks. Weeks into months. Years? Maybe. Probably.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6h4WxehAiZ
Herbert walked to a side shelf in the corner and grabbed his personal notebook. He needed to write down his findings while they were fresh.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0QDq95IxlJ
He opened to a blank page and began writing in quick, cramped handwriting:365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCyRmih4jE0
Thistle herb variation - study needed. Blue bulb center vs normal violet color. Higher chance of magic affinity. Possible uses: unknown. Further testing required.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmj993TPJLk
Red root - strong fire magic. New type. Needs extensive study. Smell indicates high potency. Do not ingest raw.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnbCgUrkF7c
Herbert closed the book with a satisfied snap.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWnRmgzEvBf
Then he saw Wolf standing there, watching him awkwardly. Not sure what to do with himself.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5hQx1OYRSB
"Where's your book, boy?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLw1RUFRiXC
Wolf blinked. "Um... I didn't know I needed one."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRPZgrxGwoP
Herbert stared at him in disbelief. "Bah!" He scoffed loudly. "You cannot learn if you don't have the proper tools!"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡteU7zYZ0ca
He gestured emphatically. "What do you do? Just pick herbs and hope for the best? Memorize everything? Trust your fallible human memory?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlOU4f0aBap
"I... I guess I do?" Wolf said uncertainly.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGOmFXoFRJY
Herbert was nearly too shocked to speak.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhHnOUH9VIV
"My boy," Herbert said slowly, deliberately. "That. Won't. Do."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqGGbGL2W5Y
Wolf braced himself to be yelled at.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡETJ0AketRD
Instead, Herbert turned and disappeared into a different room. Wolf heard shuffling. Things being knocked over. Items being kicked aside. The sounds of chaotic searching.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYAewdR0uOK
Then Herbert's voice echoed from the other room: "I know where it is!"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwDzajZImpy
More things crashed. Something glass shattered—though Herbert didn't seem concerned about it.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLdykvTEFLL
Finally, the old man emerged carrying a small, beautiful leather book. It had a securing strap and looked far too fine to belong in this messy hut.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKscukFtTJ1
"I was given this many years ago," Herbert said, holding it up. "A gift. For helping research a new potion at the time." He paused. "It's common as dirt now. But back then it was a big deal."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI3UTdrCWz9
Herbert looked at Wolf seriously. "It helped reduce gas."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGl5xoyhfnd
Wolf couldn't help it. He laughed.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyXEXTftCgR
Then immediately covered his mouth, worried he'd offended the old man.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ77MqBprzwb
"Sorry—"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6KnC8rGYB4
"Don't be, boy." Herbert waved his hand. "It is funny. Nobles in terrible pain, bloated full of trapped gas, begging an old hermit to help them fart less. And with no cramps afterward." He chuckled at the memory. "It was quite amusing to me too."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrp7yNKRkvz
Herbert's expression grew more thoughtful. "But that's what alchemy is for. Helping with things we don't think about until they affect us. Solving problems people are too embarrassed to talk about."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdCcNyDP3fM
He held up the notebook. "This book was their gift. At the time, my notes were a jumbled mess."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXeJhsUXWwx
Wolf glanced around at the scattered papers and notes covering every surface. He said nothing.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiMRIbZje0J
Herbert saw the look. "That's different, boy." He pointed to a random wall covered in scribbled observations. "This is my study. My workshop. Back then, I had nothing but a single room at an inn. Everything crammed together."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaWsDYKxZ0K
He shook his head. "It was hard to keep track of things. Research notes would get lost. I was never sure if people stole them or if I'd just used them and forgotten where I put them."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHdQKlcTjRn
Herbert looked at the leather book with a mixture of pride and old bitterness. "Anyway. The potion got made. Took a few months of trial and error. They were happy it was finished. Very grateful." His voice hardened. "But they weren't happy about how long it took. So they gave me this expensive book to 'help me keep better notes.'"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNIYdkUWT7a
He sneered. "I was insulted. So I never used it."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvFI082hV0i
"Why?" Wolf asked, confused. "It seems like a nice gift..."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRNxMFjOf8c
Herbert's eyes flashed. "They think alchemy is magic!" His voice rose with old frustration. "That you just slap two herbs and a bottle together, tell it what to do—poof!—and you get the cure you wanted! The buff you wanted! The power you wanted!"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPlPU4OPZ21
He paced back and forth, gesturing wildly. "They don't understand the careful work! The precise measurements! The hours of testing! The patience required!" His voice grew more heated. "Alchemy takes time. Real time. Days. Weeks. Sometimes months to perfect a single formula. But they expect it done in an afternoon like it's some parlor trick!"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcBJguqKqOp
Herbert stopped pacing and looked at Wolf directly. "They gave me this book like it was my fault their potion took time. Like better organization would somehow make the herbs brew faster. Make the testing go quicker." He shook his head bitterly. "They didn't understand—and most people still don't—that alchemy is a science. Not magic."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1SORpTjvGP
He took a breath, calming himself. "The point, boy, is this: Alchemy is about what you put in. The care. The precision. The dedication." He tapped the leather book. "You follow the same steps, use the same ingredients in the same amounts? You always get the same result."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN4HVblD5ga
Herbert's voice grew almost reverent. "To me, that is the greatest magic. Not random chance. Not divine whim. But reliable, repeatable, knowable results."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmKjnDu5DKp
Wolf thought about that. Then asked, "What about the magic variation of herbs? The ones with stronger properties?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWGD0fIVfUb
"Dangerous." Herbert's voice was flat. Then he sighed. "But necessary. As much as I hate to admit it, there is good that comes from magical herbs." He looked at Wolf. "I suppose we can thank the God of Balance for that."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmEbDWUtp71
"Things must be equal," Herbert mused. "Non-magical and magical potions. Both have their place. Both serve a purpose." He nodded to himself. "Balance."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi7uFB7XmVK
Wolf nodded, happy to be learning something real. Something important.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ30QvmQlKtO
"Make sure you always keep notes of your work," Herbert continued, holding up the leather book. "Document everything. The results. How it helps. What didn't work. Failed experiments are just as valuable as successful ones—sometimes more so."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk4cGJOiXpV
"Um..." Wolf hesitated. "How will I know what works? I've never made anything before."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjvs0KrcPZC
Herbert scratched his chin, thinking. "True. And it would be a waste to have you repeat experiments I've already done. Better for us both to be making new things than trying to repeat what the other has already accomplished."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPopUIQMym2
He trailed off, lost in thought. Wolf waited patiently.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAebSTTIWnd
After a few minutes of contemplation, Herbert walked to a nearby desk. He rummaged through stacks of papers and supplies until he found what he was looking for.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiyt1a3taDW
"Aha!" He pulled out a thick textbook. When he lifted it, dust exploded into the air.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyKtne1TFHB
Herbert blew on the cover, causing even more dust to billow up. He immediately started coughing—great hacking coughs that shook his whole body.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXabk3zZw1H
Wolf waited awkwardly while the old man recovered.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTUlkCb4RIe
Finally, after wiping his eyes and clearing his throat several times, Herbert held the book out to Wolf.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZIrMhmxqlL
"It's a bit dated," he admitted. "But it covers everything an amateur alchemist would need. And then some." He tapped the cover. "Study this. Learn the basics. When you feel you can handle anything in this book, come back. We'll work together then."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNYxIw5oozJ
"But..." Wolf looked at the book, then at Herbert. "How is that teaching me?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTmhbLR1jfI
Herbert laughed. "What, you want me to hold your hand through every step? How can you experiment and learn if I just tell you what to do?" He shook his head. "No. This book will be enough foundation. And when you come back, we'll see what you learned. And then—" He grinned. "—we'll make it better!"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9mKIcYVGhO
Wolf nodded slowly. But he looked defeated. Disappointed.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhXoxzkb1hS
He'd come all this way. Finally found the courage to ask. And now he was just being sent home with a book to read alone.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3N7Zs2vqOX
Herbert watched the boy's face fall. Saw the dejection in his posture.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeuu9rVyz6n
The old man felt something twist in his chest. Guilt? Sympathy? He wasn't sure. He'd been alone too long to recognize the feeling properly.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9NA68KXkeW
This wasn't much of a teaching, was it? Just shoving a book at the kid and sending him away.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXKOzCG8EZ0
As Wolf started to turn toward the door, clutching the dusty textbook, Herbert relented.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg4xumP7e2n
The boy had come to him for knowledge. For guidance. Not to be shooed away like an annoying peddler.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoQRyHfd7DF
"Hold on, child."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb2LJsh5A91
Wolf stopped, looking back hopefully.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo8vaWionL2
Herbert sighed heavily. "You did come here to learn. So I suppose I can actually teach you something." He scratched his beard. "But only a few lessons. Part of the joy of alchemy is the adventure of discovery. I won't rob you of that."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡadIpbp6cUo
Wolf's face lit up. He was beaming now.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfMCLmRsiVX
Herbert was surprised by how much that pleased him. When had he started caring what some kid thought?365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHdtqW3fx3C
"Alright, alright. Don't look at me like that." Herbert waved his hand. "Let's get started before I change my mind."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo5m4fOXZho
Herbert nodded decisively and disappeared into a side room.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtYurisNl8c
Wolf heard things being moved around. Glass clinking. Metal scraping against wood.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzvXn9JVtHq
The old man emerged carrying a mixing set—mortar and pestle, small glass bottles, measuring spoons, a shallow mixing bowl.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlJqPGIYecj
He walked to a side counter lined with containers and jars. After a brief glance at his collection, Herbert began picking herbs. He mumbled to himself as he selected them, weighing his options.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYjqiCQBQkd
"Drake root... no, mandrake... wait, no, that's for the fire brew... need the drake root for motion sickness... where did I put the Night Lily..."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYWbPAn1jOo
Wolf watched as Herbert gathered various herbs with practiced efficiency, despite the muttering. The old man clearly knew exactly what he was doing, even if he second-guessed himself out loud.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDplgx5KIRz
Finally, Herbert laid everything out on a table near Wolf. Arranged neatly so the boy could see each component clearly.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNrZvXjVv4L
"We'll do three simple brews," Herbert announced. "To show you the basics. There are far more complex things listed in that textbook." He gestured to the dusty book. "But follow what it says, and you'll be fine."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAefGD20q4x
Herbert looked at Wolf seriously. "Now. When it comes to magical herbs, the same principles apply. But with one strong deviation."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaFquuFXTtQ
He held up a finger. "With magical ingredients, your potion's strength is based on the magic level infused in the herb. Not just the herb itself."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHarOtpIsTX
Wolf leaned forward, listening intently.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjTD1jje9ar
Herbert continued, warming to his lecture. "Magic level is hard to determine just by looking at an herb. But the more magic infused into its essence, the easier it is to see." He pointed to a glowing vial on a nearby shelf. "You'll notice it glowing. Faint light. Sometimes pulsing. That's magic."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTkcUNXubBP
He picked up a mundane-looking herb from the table. "Non-magical herbs can also be powerful. Very powerful. But they're not as easily changed or enhanced. So what you make with them—the vast majority of the time—will always have the same results."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIN6ktPKFM1
Herbert set the herb down. "Very rarely, minor factors can alter the outcome. Temperature. Time of harvest. Lunar phase, if you believe some of the old texts. But even then, if done correctly, you'll still get the same basic effect. Just maybe stronger or weaker."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAZ51oml8nu
He looked at Wolf to make sure the boy understood. "Consistency is key in alchemy. Repeatability. That's what separates us from magic users who rely on divine whim."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHtBViKxtFP
Herbert picked up the first herb. Long, dark stems with delicate teardrop-shaped tips.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnxfsT5ECK3
"Night Lily." He held it up so Wolf could see clearly. "Named because the tips glow faintly at night. You can see them in the darkness if you know where to look." He set it down carefully. "By itself, it can cure mild illnesses. Stomach upset. Light fever. Nothing dramatic."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQwNYrcsZqa
He picked up the second herb. A deep red root, thick and gnarled.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbV9xBJHlhf
"Drake root. Not found around here naturally—I have to buy it from traders." Herbert looked at Wolf seriously. "Combine these two in a bowl. Grind them both down to powder. Add water. And you get a cure for motion sickness."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKMOR99qLRE
Wolf nodded, trying to memorize every detail.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1A0gegjZp2
"Its value is lost on most people," Herbert continued. "Unless you're on a ship. Then it's worth its weight in gold." He pointed at the drake root emphatically. "Keep in mind I said drake root. Not mandrake. They look similar, but there's a crucial difference."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1CrKzaZ0oO
He pulled out another root for comparison. "Mandrake always has a dark line running down its center. See?" He traced the line with his finger. "Drake root doesn't have that. Clean surface all the way through."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLb3TZ4PCU0
Herbert set both roots side by side. "This matters. Because if you use mandrake instead of drake root, you'll get a very different result."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡABcPw0zQFQ
He picked up the mandrake. "Mandrake grows buried in earth. Look for a grass sprout standing alone in a radius of bare dirt—that's your sign. Dig it up carefully." He tapped it. "Can be used as a base for fire effects. Grind it, add water, and it becomes an oil. Useful for many things. But not the effect we want for motion sickness."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6xxQ0hNxOx
Herbert looked at Wolf. "These three herbs—Night Lily, drake root, mandrake—are uncommon. But not rare. If you look hard enough, know where to search, you'll find them."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeI8M01AFG7
Herbert moved to the second set of herbs. Three different plants, each unique in appearance.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5duEhVUf7r
"This brew is simpler. But extremely valuable." He picked up the first herb—small, translucent leaves that caught the light. "Teardrop leaves. They get mistaken for water dew in the morning when they bloom. Look closely and you'll see the difference."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWmuppQ9hhz
He held one up to the light. "Strong healing effect. But be careful—too much can make you sick. Dosage matters."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyVsdlEVpN0
Herbert set it down and picked up a clump of pale green growth. "Lime moss. Completely harmless. Even edible, though it's a bit bitter." He crumbled some between his fingers. "Used mostly to balance potions that require many ingredients. Keeps them stable."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOxqIItQOlk
Finally, he picked up the third herb. Tiny stems with delicate, tear-shaped leaves barely visible against his palm.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcApDiBy0GX
"Pixie tears. These tend to grow near mushrooms in shaded areas. Most people ignore them because the stems are so thin. Easy to miss." He brought it close for Wolf to see. "But the leaves look like little teardrops. Hence the name. They taste very sweet. Mild healing properties."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzpPt6GfdPM
Herbert gathered all three together. "Boil these together as if you're making tea. Doesn't take much to produce a large batch." He looked at Wolf. "This potion helps women with monthly pain. Also heals minor cuts and food poisoning. Very versatile."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH6NcNWjZiD
He smiled slightly. "It's my best seller. Helps me fund buying the rare herbs I need for experimental work."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdiPcXQw6jh
Wolf looked unsure. "Will it really help with my family's... um... monthly pain?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd8TtlGBWLh
Herbert nodded calmly. "It will. I assure you. Your mother and sisters will appreciate it greatly."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcVRsv04dhv
Wolf nodded, joy filling him knowing he could help his family.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9aPy2g6Bes
Herbert picked up the last ingredient. A small, vibrant red root that seemed to radiate heat even without being touched.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGKF3BJGpnl
"One more. Dragon bite." He held it carefully. "Common as pepper in some regions. Can be used the same way—as a spice. But be warned." Herbert's expression grew serious. "It's very hot. Even to touch. Handle with care."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡexYuyuYhGn
He pointed to the red bulb. "It grows buried in the ground. Look for a very small red ball poking through the soil. When you find it, dig carefully and pull up the root. That's the dragon bite."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvtv9MxVsWd
Herbert set it down on the table. "It can be served as is. Ground into food. But trust me—use only a pinch. A little goes a very long way." He tapped the root. "It can also be added to any potion for various effects. Adds heat. Stimulates the blood. Increases potency in some cases."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqywrOuj549
Wolf nodded, memorizing everything.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNdUr7qbaRZ
Herbert stepped back and gestured to all the herbs laid out on the table. "Now. For your first lesson." He pointed to the dragon bite. "Grind this into powder. Bottle it. You can keep that or sell it—innkeepers love the stuff."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj1sRU5o3w4
He pointed to the other two sets of herbs. "Brew these as I described. Make them as gifts for your family. I'll oversee your work. Make sure you do it right."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKvgzPgtIFg
Herbert crossed his arms and watched as Wolf approached the table hesitantly.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnTJyA1me2p
The boy looked at the herbs. At the mortar and pestle. At the small bottles waiting to be filled.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSYAAFedMpT
Then, slowly and carefully, Wolf began to work.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBR421TPgpm
Herbert watched in silence.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwsuNOEeDcb
Wolf moved cautiously. Testing the weight of the mortar. Examining each herb before adding it to the bowl. Grinding with slow, deliberate motions—worried about making a mistake.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU0MxFUJukl
Herbert couldn't help but smile.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSqxOkiwNBv
It brought back fond memories. When he himself was just learning. When everything was new and exciting. When he was terrified of messing up, of wasting precious ingredients, of disappointing his teacher.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUARLVL896d
Now everything seemed a bit mundane. Routine. He spent his days searching for new discoveries because the old knowledge no longer thrilled him.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHCVPSnILdz
But watching this boy? Seeing alchemy through fresh eyes?365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf9BoMumSzg
That brought back some of the wonder.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl1yMp0TwbC
Herbert had purposely picked potions that would be useful for Wolf's family. Things they could actually use. And they were simple enough that a beginner could manage them without too much risk.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQmLhm5jBat
He wasn't sure if Wolf's family liked spicy food—the dragon bite might go unused. But they could always sell it. Innkeepers and traders paid good coin for quality spices.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyg6occ0KbW
That was important too. Alchemy would be costly if Wolf couldn't fund his own research. Better to learn how to make some coins now than struggle later.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgXFL46LTyT
Wolf didn't need much help.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvoeS8zsJL5
He ground the dragon bite carefully, keeping his fingers away from the hot powder. Set it aside in a clean bottle.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyp9KQm62YY
Then he moved to the tea brews. Measured water. Added the herbs in the correct proportions Herbert had described. Set them to boil over the small flame Herbert had prepared.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyFzHHPolIX
The boy was careful. Methodical. Paying attention to every detail.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBzapJETcvS
Good traits for an alchemist.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyi4sOBiQMV
Time flew by.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0LfNbLVuOU
Herbert occasionally stopped watching Wolf to check his own notes. To gather a few ingredients for later experiments. To jot down observations about the new herbs they'd found.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZdZihAlAr5
But he always kept one eye on the boy.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2WId6VFYq2
Eventually, Wolf stepped back from the table. "I... I think I'm done."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY3LpW8KQ79
Herbert approached and examined the results.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIkASGSrwg0
Seven vials sat on the table, neatly arranged. Each one labeled with a piece of parchment Wolf had found and written on.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi16NkEmhdN
Herbert picked up the first vial. The dragon bite powder.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ08TaWVLPa
"This turned out well," he said, holding it up to the light. The powder was fine and even. "Maybe a little more grinding next time—you can see some larger chunks here." He pointed to a few visible pieces. "But the quality is good. This will work fine."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1N9O5PsG43
He set it down and picked up the next four vials. The women's remedy.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4axCnLzMcW
Herbert held them up, examining the color closely. The liquid was pale blue. Translucent.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfFo2Fu6zJB
"Hmm. These needed to brew a little longer." He pointed to the light color. "See? They're a light blue. But they should be a deeper blue. Like this." He pulled a vial of his own from a nearby shelf for comparison. "Darker. More saturated."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFpwDvtuaiF
Wolf's face fell. "Did I ruin them?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpJuPcPxmM9
"No, no." Herbert shook his head. "The effect will still work. Just weaker. Your family will need to drink more to get the same result. Maybe double the dose."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ6XYx96VS6
He set the vials down. "Next time, brew the tea longer. Watch the color as it develops. You can't brew it too long—just add more water if it starts to boil out." Herbert looked at Wolf seriously. "Though if you boil it far too long, you can ruin the herb's effect entirely. You'll know when that happens because the brew won't even turn blue anymore."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsrAX7irmp2
Wolf nodded, taking mental notes.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzn7YKlp7pe
Finally, Herbert picked up the last two vials. The motion sickness remedy.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfyQGo1mVf2
He examined them closely. Swirled the liquid. Held them up to the light.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn87c7oplGu
A slow smile spread across Herbert's face.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnR1RoTKtRt
"Now these..." He looked at Wolf with genuine approval. "These are a perfect blend. The color is exactly right. The consistency is ideal. The ratio of ingredients is spot on."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGrzhmK2bvs
Herbert set them carefully on his own shelf. "I'm going to keep these. I can sell them to the sailors who come through." He looked at Wolf. "Consider it payment for the lesson. And to help cover the cost of the tools I'm about to give you."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEqJwoDZkrA
Wolf's eyes widened. "I... I wasn't expecting anything."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ08ANz0Sjil
"I know." Herbert turned and began gathering items from various shelves and drawers. "That's why you deserve them."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk5q65cIW2j
Herbert rummaged through a storage chest in the corner. After a moment, he pulled out a small leather satchel. Worn but well-made.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡev9CmgAG86
"Here." He handed it to Wolf. "To hold your book and bottles when you're traveling. For gathering herbs or delivering potions. Whatever you need."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTMTog1Yqec
Wolf took it carefully, running his fingers over the leather. It was a good satchel. Valuable.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8YpLLi7P5Y
Herbert wasn't done. He retrieved a wooden box from a nearby shelf. When he opened it, Wolf could see it was divided into compartments. Each section held basic alchemical tools.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡySOErT2COY
"This has everything you need to start," Herbert explained. "Mortar and pestle. Measuring spoons. Small bottles. A grinding stone. Basic supplies." He closed the lid and handed it to Wolf. "Take care of these. Good tools are expensive."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt2BQVXmgk4
Wolf clutched both gifts to his chest. "I... thank you. Thank you so much."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNE8vq8hZcr
Herbert waved his hand dismissively. "Just make sure you take notes. Use that leather book I gave you." He pointed at Wolf seriously. "And follow the textbook. It already has all the foundational information. No point repeating things I've already documented."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfGWUDXPsxL
Wolf nodded eagerly. Then hesitated. "The potions... are they safe for my family? Will they really work?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMaXegprId0
Herbert softened slightly. The boy cared about his family. That was good.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2PxgxdiJe4
"They're completely safe," Herbert assured him. "I've made these remedies hundreds of times. Sold them to countless people. Never had a problem." He held up a finger. "Just remember—for the women's remedy, double the dose. Since you made a weaker batch, they'll need to drink more to get the same effect. Understand?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT2fhxb8VRL
"I understand." Wolf looked down at the vials carefully wrapped in cloth. "Thank you, Herbert. For everything."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRJtX7iW0ST
"Go on, then." Herbert made a shooing motion. "Share your newfound treasures with your family. Make them proud."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfLgyFN7Cs5
Wolf beamed. He bowed respectfully—awkwardly, with his hands full—and headed for the door.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡANDZhK9FvX
Herbert watched the boy leave, disappearing down the forest path with his arms full of supplies and potions.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRXjylka6GF
The old man stood there in his doorway for a long moment. Alone again.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtB5PUQDk30
Then he turned back to his chaotic workshop. Back to his research.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrhYw8T75hk
He still had work to do. Important work.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4g9R8mlET1
But he was missing a key ingredient. The only ingredient that truly mattered for his most important project.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ8cSyhMrwQ
Herbert had tried everything. Every substitute. Every variation. Every possible combination.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYJOMNFrrUe
All of them had failed.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcjkCAcruZm
He walked to his main workbench and stared at the half-finished notes scattered there. The research on mana sickness. The cure that remained just out of reach.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPC6F5bmjOj
"Damn it all," Herbert muttered to himself.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrl1lhafYox
He knew what he needed. Knew it was the only thing that would work.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ21TvWDqkWZ
Mana bloom.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg8Y8iEDE01
And he couldn't get it.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo2Gwq4CJl9
Herbert looked up at the ceiling of his workshop. At the dried herbs hanging from the rafters. At the countless failed experiments lining his shelves.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQWhzJRMtb2
"Is this your doing, Balance?" he asked the empty air.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeVDXFWLzVY
He knew the God of Balance didn't like mortals trying to remove magic from alchemy. Trying to make cures purely mundane. Accessible to everyone without the need for rare, magical ingredients.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡojApX67OjV
So the god had found a way to make magic the only cure for certain ailments. Forced reliance on dungeon herbs. On rare blooms that could only grow in places saturated with magic.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbG7mfvHAWq
Herbert thought it was cruel.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUbsU7xn1p6
But he understood the logic. It was balance, after all. Magic and mundane. Power and limitation. Abundance and scarcity.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9l4JimViXQ
Just... balancing the scales.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2G5Uqw58TV
Even if people suffered for it.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ968vgOf8cv
There was a knock at the door.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfF2Brf9rf5
Herbert looked up, confused. Was the boy back already? Had Wolf forgotten something?365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmRRLDzxEw3
No. Surely not. He'd only just left.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ64AAe6tF3r
But who else would be visiting?365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDGRKqAVBco
Herbert walked to the door and opened it.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVUoIwpX4U8
He was only mildly surprised by who stood there.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOxEmtW77fv
Bishop Light. Dressed in his formal church robes, the white fabric almost glowing in the afternoon sun. But the man looked exhausted. Dark circles hung under his eyes like bruises. His smile was tired. Strained.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEfmf387pCA
Herbert already knew why he was here.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj0Uf4mrpVy
The bishop stopped by at least once a month. To ask about a cure. To pray for hope. And every time, Herbert had to tell him the same thing: no progress.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx9DlD12ybl
It left them both bitter.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkzOHruQ39M
"Come in," Herbert said, stepping aside. "Let me brew you some tea. Help you recover a bit while we talk." His voice was gruff but not unkind. "You won't like what I have to say either way. But at least you can be comfortable while hearing it."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Yocmf5c5R
"I understand." Light's voice was gentle. Resigned. "That you try at all is enough. That you haven't given up."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx0gPl4yL83
Herbert said nothing to that. Just gestured for the bishop to enter.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAGr1A9WLQh
After a few minutes of silence—while they settled into chairs and Herbert prepared tea over a small flame—they were finally ready for another conversation.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzoXKVTAQtj
One that seemed as pointless as it was necessary.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6dc72DM5JD
Light sipped his tea gratefully. The warmth seemed to bring a little life back to his tired eyes.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3N9PMseJQI
Herbert sat across from him, his own cup steaming in his hands. He waited.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRlgBG4c23b
The bishop always spoke first. Always asked the same question, even though he already knew the answer.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFgc4CKSwz1
"Any progress?" Light asked quietly.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlYVQf6jEIh
Herbert shook his head. "I've tried. Really, I have. I keep buying rarer and rarer specimens. Testing every variation I can think of." He set his cup down hard. "The one I need—the only one that works—isn't for sale. It's on lockdown by the Alchemist Guild."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkyQlObkclr
Light nodded slowly. He'd heard this before. "I know. They'll sell it. But not at a price we can afford if we want to heal everyone." His voice grew bitter. "So many suffer needlessly for their profit."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy94jDwxyvO
Herbert grunted. There was some truth to that, yes. But it wasn't so simple.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMhlMn0aVUm
"It's not something I can just... make appear," Herbert said. "If I could, I would've done it tenfold already. But the key ingredient is mana bloom." He looked at Light seriously. "And it only grows deep in dungeons. Places that are being farmed daily for other potions. Ones worth far more money than a mana sickness cure."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgzMqJZGQHQ
He leaned back in his chair. "Add to that the rumors it's getting rarer? Harder to find even in established dungeons?" Herbert shook his head. "We're in trouble."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvmT80H0pW2
Light stared into his tea cup. The liquid reflected his troubled expression.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnFXEUIEAfg
"I know," he said quietly. "But it seems like more people get sick every day. And with a new dungeon growing here..." He looked up at Herbert. "It's going to spread. Given enough time, I'm not sure we'll be able to heal everyone. The cost will leave many suffering for years. Maybe decades."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWiTNrOKIbt
He set his cup down. "It depends on how the new dungeons spread their influence. And if we can ever catch a break trying to harvest the herbs inside them."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡplCuVwpnZE
Herbert spoke solemnly. "I know. Just as I know you've tried many times to heal mana sickness away with your magic. And Balance refused to let you."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX5mLgRcjlF
Light flinched slightly. That was true. His light magic could heal almost anything. Almost.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEFnnbcILpm
But not this.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUle1EHOfPU
"Just as I can't brew it away with mundane ingredients," Herbert continued. "The God of Balance made sure of that. It weakens the sick but never kills them. The gods gave us time." His voice grew hard. "But they also demanded we earn the cure."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKbN0UaH9HP
"The gods know best," Light said softly. "Even when we don't agree with their methods." He looked down. "But it doesn't make it easy. Watching people suffer. Wanting to help. And being unable to."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVe6ZZCWskx
"You are helping," Herbert said firmly. "The new dungeon forming will be a blessing. And a curse." He stood and walked to his window, looking out at the forest. "We'll finally have more herbs available. More ways to get them. But we'll also have new dangers. No way of knowing who will try to control access to those herbs. Or if people will even bring them out for others to use."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2m0FBSLmmr
Light spoke up from behind him. "They're building a new guild hall here. Right now, before the dungeon fully manifests. So by the time it happens, the Alchemist Guild can't get a monopoly stranglehold like they did in other cities."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhrgJmTeojY
He stood as well. "The key will be figuring out how to brew the cure. Versus just trying to obtain the herb."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzszQmqZJnw
"Bah!" Herbert turned back. "I'll have it figured out and brewed in less than a day once I get my hands on mana bloom. The brewing isn't the problem." His voice rose with frustration. "Getting the herb is everything."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcFtS4Dt0Jv
Light nodded sadly. "Well." He moved toward the door. "Thank you for your time, Herbert. I was hoping this visit would be different. But your tone..." He paused. "There was a finality to it. I fear my prayers alone won't change anything now."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3AoqDmJnL2
Herbert felt a spike of guilt. "You know I would help if I could. It's not for lack of trying..."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsajy6bsgpP
"I know." Light turned back and gave him a gentle look. "I meant no judgment, my friend. We both seek the same thing—to help others. To ease suffering." He bowed his head slightly. "Thank you for the tea. It helped."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ17Gf74Tv1k
He saw himself out.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Ho6GdqLIj
Herbert sat back down at his workbench, alone once more.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNsd9AAgDMl
He knew that herb. Knew it intimately. Mana bloom had once been as common as dirt. So plentiful that alchemists used it carelessly, in dozens of different potions.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ27Mb95Le2T
But as alchemy's worth grew—as people realized the power it offered—the greed of man had consumed everything. The herb became rare. Controlled. Hoarded by guilds who sold it only to the highest bidder.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7TRB0XWXfD
Herbert was tired. So tired.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW4AgXJKBWe
He wanted to try new things. Discover new potions. Experiment with the blue thistle and fire root he'd found today.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4hKmjlOuqP
But like a thorn in his side, he couldn't rest. Couldn't sleep peacefully knowing there was even a slim chance a different combination might cure mana sickness.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcKh6kUXFfk
He wasn't sure why it had to be mana bloom. Perhaps it simply mattered that it was a dungeon herb—saturated with raw magic. Maybe any dungeon herb would work if he found the right formula.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOPOUVSUlhG
But mana bloom was hard to buy. Nearly impossible now. And what little existed got used for other things. More profitable things.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNxrl9gTbdx
Herbert closed his eyes.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZIXCPJMYE6
He would sleep. Worry more tomorrow.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdW1JMUOgee
The cure would have to wait. Just like all those suffering people.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFVQ4Fl7FIQ
Just a little longer.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKRI8hVZ28l
Wolf made it home safely, his arms full of prizes.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG65HovKLGw
The day had taken a lot out of him. His legs ached from walking. His back was sore from bending over herbs for hours. His hands smelled like dragon bite pepper no matter how many times he'd washed them.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbqlAWOWeAo
But he was happy.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXtcQ7guN3h
When he pushed through the door, Mom and Nina looked up from the kitchen where they were preparing dinner.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8V4nfmd5lT
"Wolf!" Nina's ears perked up. "You're back! How did it go?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡToyUTxybHs
Mom smiled warmly. "We were starting to worry. You were gone so long."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx5Wtog6rpU
Wolf carefully set down his satchel and pulled out the four vials of pale blue liquid. "I made something for you. Both of you."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdVHr43xWNQ
He held them up, suddenly nervous. "It's... um... for monthly pain. And it helps with minor cuts and food poisoning too."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ34YZESi98n
Mom's eyes widened. She set down her knife and came over immediately. "You made a remedy? Yourself?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc5w6UMj5NQ
Nina was already examining the vials, her tail swishing with interest. "These look professional! Like something you'd buy from an apothecary!"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8vJuu07dju
Wolf felt his cheeks warm. "Herbert said they're a bit weak because I didn't brew them long enough. So you'll need to drink more. Maybe double the amount." He looked down. "Sorry. It was my first time."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeiPTOTG9dF
"Wolf." Mom took one of the vials gently. "This is wonderful."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPQau4Lczf6
She pulled him into a hug. "I'm so proud of you."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBLncZMIViM
Nina joined the hug from the other side. "Me too, kiddo! This is amazing!"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi55LqCgIbc
Wolf laughed, embarrassed but happy. "You haven't even tried it yet!"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhD1Vzno97Z
"Doesn't matter." Mom pulled back and looked at him seriously. "You learned something useful. Made something to help people. That's what matters."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBFj6lIq0AK
Nina held up her vial. "Though I will be trying this. Trust me." She grinned. "If it works even half as well as you say, you're going to be my favorite brother."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtAlAujRqGV
"I'm your only brother," Wolf pointed out.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgMC6BqxG8M
"Exactly!" Nina ruffled his hair. "So you better not mess it up!"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3PLMLRGADg
Later that evening, when Dad came home from the shop, Wolf showed him the dragon bite powder.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXmNkWSYhJw
Dad took the vial and examined it closely. His eyes widened.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVnvT7DYZPP
"You made this?" He looked at Wolf in surprise. "Dragon bite pepper?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFlFfQANplw
"Herbert taught me how to grind it properly," Wolf explained. "He said you might be able to sell it. Or we could use it for cooking. I wasn't sure if—"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuolgQug6KH
"Sell it?" Dad interrupted. He was staring at the vial like it was made of gold. "Wolf, do you know how rare this is? The innkeeper has been asking me for months if I could get dragon bite spice. Months!" He looked at Wolf with genuine amazement. "I can sell this for good coin. Very good coin."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl0YDzt9u7F
Wolf felt a surge of pride. "Really?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKOLiL3leHv
"Really." Dad set the vial down carefully, like it might explode. Then he did something Wolf hadn't expected.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzL1Nw6TuDD
He pulled Wolf into a hug.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Q4LV18HZK
"Sorry I doubted you, son." Dad's voice was quiet but firm. "Just from these things alone—these potions, this spice—you've proven you're capable of being an alchemist." He pulled back and looked Wolf in the eyes. "I was wrong to push back so hard. You knew what you wanted. I should've trusted that."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzQauMgiVOO
Wolf felt something tight in his chest loosen. "Thanks, Dad."365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYW3u8PKs8l
Dad smiled—a rare, genuine smile. "Now. Tell me everything. How did Herbert teach you? What else did you learn? And more importantly—" He picked up the dragon bite vial again. "—can you make more of this?"365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2kXzMKENdt
That night, Wolf lay in his bed, staring at the ceiling.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6lopvMtVE2
The leather notebook sat on his dresser. The textbook Herbert had given him was there too, along with the wooden box of tools.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaFcdx1HwK0
Everything felt real now.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMyhmfVwE8P
He was making a change. Something he could see, something he could measure.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS3U100Sfcb
His family was proud of him. His remedies would help people. Dad could sell his work and make money—proving that alchemy could support itself, support him, if he kept learning.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6oiu9dfFSU
Wolf smiled in the darkness.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV5k97VCSNU
And maybe—just maybe—if he kept pushing forward, kept working hard, his magic would reappear. The Balance blessing the gods had given him but locked away.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUVaCitdgFt
Maybe when he was "ready," whatever that meant, the power would finally manifest.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAVPBY4O9Cq
And then? Then he could truly change the world.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIFKJXKvSnA
Wolf laughed quietly to himself. Giddy with the possibility. With all the powerful things he might one day be able to do.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZCaRVxnDXu
Alchemy was just the beginning.365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL56sfsCkX2
He fell asleep with a smile on his face, dreaming of potions and magic and a future where both were his to command.
365Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBzoovx1RJs
and then Add to home screen.