"STOP FIDGETING, MOM, and let me feed you soup!"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgxzR1GfRr0
"I'm not a child, and give me the spoon. Shouldn't you be at the shop helping your father? Or go bug Nina. She loves attention."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV7iVLjG7ta
Leenia sighed and stopped trying to force her mom to eat. She was worried since she'd dropped the bowl a few times before and didn't want it to happen again, but the glare her mother was giving said otherwise.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPkwhLDtTx9
"Mom, Dad is fine, and Nina went to see Wolf. I think he wanted to look for herbs at the lake. He left in a hurry, so that leaves me helping you today, okay? I'm worried."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ41V9QvPNeU
"Oh, hush, child, you're always worried. If not about me, then your brother or the shop. I love you dearly, but you need to live a little for yourself."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6FKoArYwGX
"Not this again, Mom. I made my choice. I want to help the family, okay?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRJ4AHDQ5Lb
Her mother brushed her face, smiling even as Leenia pouted, when a low voice spoke, breaking the moment.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4A131CaxDU
"I'm sorry, Len… I failed and let him get hurt…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡStp1JNk7rg
Both Mom's and Leenia's blood ran cold. Soup forgotten, they both looked and saw Nina.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXkBhbfeFMt
She looked defeated and broken, as if she'd lost a battle they didn't even know she had to fight.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFhK1zHpDHY
Leenia ran over and held her, unsure of what was happening. "What do you mean?" Then the realization hit from her words she'd just said. "Where's Wolf…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Wq6kH5I7I
After many tears from all of them, the story was slowly told. They were relieved Wolf was going to be okay, but each had a different guilt plaguing them.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZhXIzKGHy6
Mom, knowing her sickness got her son hurt trying to help her. Leenia, unable to be there for her brother. And Nina, for being too slow to protect the new family she loved.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzyYN3c6fuW
Mom was the first to recover and speak.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1UqNsbha6F
"Leenia, let your father know. Nina, please help me clean up since I know Len will want to see Wolf at the church. Let's give her a chance. When Dad gets home, you can leave, but I would appreciate not being left alone like… this."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLbyPmyZAFf
Leenia protested at first, not wanting to leave her alone, but Nina agreed. Wolf was… hurt. But not dying. He'd be home before tonight. He just needed time to heal or a very expensive potion.
Wolf awoke disoriented.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAov9cJRMYD
This isn't my room. Where am I?322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI7UmNmgw49
He knew he'd had a bad dream of death coming for him. Of… death… smashing… his… leg?322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs6R3opawgl
He pulled the blanket off and looked. Normal. He was still in his normal clothes, but he noticed blood. And when he tried to move his leg, it jolted in pain.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGCj38o4JbZ
He was starting to panic when a voice spoke.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUi4bKwevhc
"Easy there. You got hit pretty hard and are still recovering."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiLjLs9YLS2
He looked in a panic and saw the shadows move, and out of the darkness was a man he'd never seen before.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu4QbBWlMvP
"Sorry, I tend to use darkness so much that I make myself into shadows to pass the time." He went halfway into the hall. "ZIALA, HE'S AWAKE!" He turned and faced him. "You hungry? We can get you some food."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD4NgvXHgwA
He shook his head, still stunned, when a new voice shouted back.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7hd3SvjciJ
"STOP YELLING. THIS IS A CHURCH, AND HE WAS RESTING. SO ARE OTHERS. Great, now you got me doing it…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ85z7Q8hIbb
Turning into the room was a young wolf beastkin girl with a serious look that softened upon seeing him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuJWknc5jnZ
"Hey, Wolf? Are you okay? Need anything?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXXl25gvNve
He vigorously shook his head, not knowing what was happening or what to do.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxMuqy6KQph
"Where am I?" He tried to compose himself. He needed answers.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAgrUmc41OT
"The church. Your sister brought you here?" the girl wolf said with concern.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6s4bCvIpEW
"Len did?" he asked, unsure.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNwPjlGw7pl
They both looked at each other, and the man shrugged. "Dunno her, sorry. The girl said her name was Nina and she was a foxkin. Had a stone power too, from what I remember."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqA98QEIdNX
He looked upward, lost in thought. The wolf girl offered him a glass of something. He refused, but she was insistent. So he drank and choked. She tried patting his back to help him, and the boy was laughing.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX0VO7dDhtP
"Got to be careful," the man spoke while laughing. "You don't realize magic healing tends to dry you out. I had to start bringing a water pouch between all the heals I got."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5pUpzzYRQ6
Ziala glared at him but went back to focusing on Wolf.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrU8TIdstKC
"We could not heal the leg all the way. We lacked that healing power, and normal potions wouldn't be strong enough."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn5KWFy5kaw
He wanted to laugh at that. Even his one ability wasn't good enough to help him. Then what was the point of any of this? he thought.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDmu0gQH3e5
Drawn to all the noise, Bishop Light entered the room.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx85DTXVlhV
"Sorry, child, I did try, but I fear, despite my name, I lack the gift in the light."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV1F32Z1LCs
He looked more hurt than Wolf felt, which made him feel guilty.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCPCAD1ZWrE
"You still helped me, Light, so thank you. Um… thank all of you?" He wasn't sure who they were and how they'd helped, but they were here with him, so it did matter to show gratitude.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx3sei98MSN
"It was fine," the shadow man spoke. "We are new here. It was a shock of a welcome, but I'm glad we could help. I'm Arlin, and this is my stepsister, Ziala."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6ChehqwF5X
She smiled at Wolf, trying to reassure him, and he did feel better now that he'd gotten some water, and she did help.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXWJpqLJ61d
Bishop checked on him with light touches and saw he would be okay to move and left him be, saying when they could, please open the space for others.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3pzHTLARL4
Arlin felt it was rude to say that but understood. Since he'd lived at a church at one time, there was only so much space, so he always felt alone. Nobody stayed but those who had nowhere else to go.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjZxtAVclBL
As he lost himself in thought, he heard a voice in the distance.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBSRRREMKR0
"He has black hair, about this high. He was injured and brought here. Have you seen him? He's my brother."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPeMns94JLF
Arlin heard a reply with something he wasn't sure of, but he soon saw her.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrLeJ46PpLK
And was stunned.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQeYDJVDOB1
She was an angel. He'd seen girls before, but none ever caught his eye. She had long black hair that caught the light from the candles, a thin frame, a slightly tanned face, and she reminded him of moonlight with how she seemed to glow to him. There was worry etched in every line of her posture, but even that looked beautiful.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiGWSUfaVsu
He froze, unable to move, as she walked up to him. His heart hammered in his chest.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzTGzALdfYy
And she walked past the door with indifference, never once looking at him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU15NRdNcdI
He was stunned, not sure what to say when he heard her speak.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQQWWBnbFFJ
"WOLF, you idiot, what have you done? Do you know how worried we all are? And Mom is sick! What were you thinking?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6FhjW1tF6p
"I know… If I weren't weak, I would have been able to help Mom. You don't need to remind me…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdTlJ9YBc1w
"Wolf…" She deflated. "I'm sorry. That's not what I wanted to say. You know we love you. I was scared and not sure how to handle it, okay?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnXHWTXhKGB
"I'm not a child, Len. I made a choice. I made a mistake. It's over. Let's just go."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7AfbcSjgZB
He refused to look at her. He knew he'd messed up, and there was nothing he could do.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGWD7LnlQFm
She was hurt, and taking it out on him wasn't the way, so she regrouped. She was going to help him, not mock him. She would find a way.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzpwbeFbePx
"Okay, brother, we will talk more at home. Nina should be here soon, and we'll go then, okay?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpuzXcEA10h
Arlin watched it play out. He felt awkward knowing this was their moment. He felt worse knowing he wanted to find a way to get closer to her.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU8F6PLfCwa
When he saw Ziala glaring at him: "What?" he said defensively.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeMg3ggltWY
Leenia looked over at that, noticing them for the first time. Arlin's heart skipped a beat, and he saw her green eyes look at his for the first time.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMm53vzJffe
It was amazing.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Q9uST8d2E
"Forgive my rude brother and me. We were watching over him. We were close by when Nina brought him to the church."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP1ilAKCbCq
"I c-can help if you want," he tried to take control and be included, but his sister shook her head and grabbed his arm, confusing him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsndONblkfz
"My brother and I are leaving. Sorry we could not be of more help. We are staying at the guildhall if you ever need us."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbJLv3UPuMT
Leenia slowly nodded. "Thank you for helping my brother."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9dXsI1mkoC
She had an enchanting voice, Arlin thought. Not able to control his heart, his sister pulled him away, leaving the other siblings alone.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9VTWVYhCbY
When she was far enough away in another room, she spoke. "What's wrong with you? You never act like that…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmoutYPyoQj
"What? I always talk to people…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVB62uCJNPo
"No… you're acting different. Moody, maybe. Cocky, sure. Acting like you were lost and she was saving you? Never…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCYWyENuowa
"Whaaat? Noooo… I'm acting normal… Do you think she noticed?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ93IK63HENe
"OH, GODS, do you like her?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPDEApvCsJo
His sister was shocked. He'd never shown interest in anyone, even them as kids. It was more of an escape from the church than needing them or love.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5sctwNAWVR
He fidgeted, looking away and trying to find the words, making it very obvious what he thought.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGuvYqUSdKx
"So I like her. I mean, she's got to have a boyfriend. So it doesn't matter. And I don't think I could compete with whatever guy she picks. Got to be a strong guy who wins her heart."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9X1PGoGw8K
He stared in the distance, dreaming what if…322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt97WidXWG8
His sister watched, annoyed, as he fumbled over himself.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2KRCsmwsp1
"Brother… she just found out her brother is hurt. You should show more care. Especially if you're wanting to have her notice you, it won't be by ignoring the hurt family…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqnz2DxcWTV
He flinched at that. "Yeah… I got a little lost in the moment. I'll keep it in mind, thanks, sis. Let's find Mom. Best I stop while I'm ahead and don't ruin any chance I might have. I mean, the guy has to be really good. If not, I think I can take him and show her who is the better man, right?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMFSIPEgc1e
His sister glared at him as they left for the guild hall. The events had unfolded, making for an eventful day.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWvjxcfDArD
As things settled and Leenia waited with her brother, a hidden catkin watched amongst the shadows. She was sad for the child. She had not seen him in maybe years, but he did not change much. More handsome perhaps, but the same to her.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTpVdz4lj8s
She cared more for her niece. She still mentioned it from time to time, even as time made them grow distant. She knew her niece would want to know and visit if she was brave enough.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1abFqSHowf
But that would be on her. She would at least do her part and let her niece know. She was owed that much, even if it went nowhere. They were still friends, or were once.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeSzHEU0WtX
Nina showed up with Dad and helped Wolf walk. Well, unfortunately for Wolf's pride, his dad carried him more than he walked, embarrassing him, making him feel like a child.
Later that evening, they were taking turns yelling at him and saying how happy they were he was safe. Even his uncle had a panic attack.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbYR0hCdWzp
And he assured the family that since Wolf got hurt, he swore they'd hire guards to watch the dungeon to avoid this happening again.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXZ20XxP9o5
His mother was glad her son was safe and made him promise never to try again.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkSjALf9gFw
Beyond his shame, he agreed to.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrPHcVvot6h
Leenia, feeling guilt at knowing her brother wanted nothing more than to help them, swore she would make time to pray to the gods and hope for the best. She had no power, and their chance was she could get the weakness or she could get a gift.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq3qzUQ96yy
She would try tomorrow and see if she could be blessed. If not, she would try again the next day. She'd heard they reward persistence, so persistent she would be. For her family.
Coby wiped his brow. Summer was warmer this year. He used the wind to scout. It was safe. He knew dungeons could bring monsters, but due to their persistent hunts, they seemed to be avoiding the worst of it.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHLACHnJAm4
"Dad, it's been a while. Can we make time for me to see my brother Wolf today?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZkY8Cf4r8j
His dad was carrying a bag of furs they'd managed to get from their hunts. He managed a half-shrug, looking at their fellow hunter and then beyond among the trees.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXIj0HcJEva
"I suppose we have been gone for a while, and we have been keeping the peace. Plus, I'd like to know more about the dungeon that formed. It would be good for us to rest for a week or three. We'll see."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtUmSM31I4f
He was happy to hear his father agreed. He knew his brother was often busy with his potions, but he still liked to see him. He missed their little adventures.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVf9oBxJxiD
The wind flowed to him, bringing a new scent on the breeze. The wind flowed more unconsciously these days, but he still paid attention to what he felt or smelled as the beast scent traveled in the winds. As it was today, just a pleasant summer breeze cooling some of the sweat. Beyond the normal smell, everything was fine.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡANvKx68Tb4
After the normal busy affairs were taken care of, they stopped at the inn for a meal before seeing their extended family at their brother's place.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKpqrWZ1Pvl
The inn was more lively than he remembered, and they saw a lot of new faces.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5SL0ZasHr4
"What do you need, kid? We're busy, so forgive my lack of banter," the bearkin said while serving drinks and food to random patrons.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8uYVnSwSvD
"A simple meal and drink, please."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6024t5t4gh
His dad and the hunters who'd managed to join them were fine with the same.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡROAXcp5K3M
"Lots of new faces, I see?" He was trying to be casual and get some info.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBa18kLmf7v
"Yeah, I finally get to be with my wife and kid after years. And now I'm too busy to even see them. Gods are funny like that."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKysbUzR40m
He nodded, not knowing the bearkin had a family.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH6LnoSzjBl
"Heard anything new about the dungeon? We just got back from being on a long hunt."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdFWDHWAP6B
"Hmmm," he set drinks down and poured, "Well, word spread, some kid got hurt and almost died, so they're setting guards. Beyond that, been quiet. Be about twenty minutes for food. Bit backed up."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgLjqTXR88n
He was surprised there were already issues from the dungeon. Who was hurt, he wondered.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ikypPXyz6
While he sipped his drink, it was a berry drink that Wolf had introduced in the past. Good stuff.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHz3ptzsnfA
"I saw the kid who got hurt." A voice spoke from a table off to the side. It was a man who seemed to blend with shadows even when you looked right at him. A young wolf girl was with him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsyypMVMkHv
It was then he also noticed the one server that his brother had liked all those years ago still serving drinks here.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUZfyvgh7jK
"Mind if I join you at your table and find out more?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX4IrCaYOo6
He wasn't one for gossip, but he didn't like anyone getting hurt when he was trying to protect the place.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP8QssPrKXa
"I don't mind if my sister doesn't."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4f66XjFkGk
He saw the female wolf girl shrug her shoulders with indifference, so he let his dad know he'd joined the new table.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHcRdNtwMap
"Thanks, um… My name is Coby. You?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ18oSFu0n8R
"Arlin, and my sister's name is Ziala."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8nj11b8TVG
She nodded curtly and drank from a mug. It had a sweet scent in the air, something with honey, he noted.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8KHk3v8kfz
"Kid got his leg messed up bad. We tried to get a potion for him, but Mom, being stingy, said no. She said it cost too much, and pain is a good teacher. I think she worried I'd need it, so she kept it in reserve. Dunno if she has more than one. Won't say."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUXQLQzQ7Y9
He looked into the distance, lost in thought.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuGV91o3SLx
His sister shook her head before speaking. "He assumes too much. I help with guild logs. The really strong potions take time and high-grade crystals, which is why it's a rarer brew, and it's better to save someone from near death versus a few months less recovering."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfY4yAFKRYH
He nodded. It made sense. Arlin smirked, not agreeing, it seems.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFMxr1y8LCw
"Do you know the child's name or age? How young was he?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZxvMD4t2oE
"Um… around my age, I guess. He had black hair and a baby face. I think his name was Ralph. He had a foxkin sister and a human sister. I really wish I remembered their names…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeStpgN1anf
Coby's blood went cold. He only knew one person with black hair and an adopted foxkin sister with a human sister.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIH5jtCuPoY
Ziala spoke up as he was afraid to ask. "It wasn't Ralph… You were blinded by the girl. It was Wolf, I remember, since it was an interesting name to me."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHMiUSzhAgU
He dropped his drink.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYDLROorl2c
"Hey!" Both Ziala and Arlin panicked as the juice started to flow toward them.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfnDzhQghGt
Luckily, the maid was close and cleaned with her water magic, but she too had a concerned face.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdrkQKJavqr
"Wolf? He was… is my friend. Is he okay? I always wondered what came of him since he never visited."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYxStERekCA
Coby wasn't listening anymore. He got up and pulled the wind to leave. He needed to see his brother.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuMal9uf1or
Arlin watched the boy who was just at their table dash away. He even felt an unknown wind help pull him away faster. Crazy…322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq1LMjTD4RP
"Do you think it was something I said?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc7NZTnMrFW
The hunters at the bar heard some of the talk and looked grim, watching the boy that left. Arlin wasn't sure what was happening till the taller one spoke.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGZdp4ZN6Q5
"You said Wolf was the boy hurt?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqKNethF77r
Arlin nodded and shrugged. The kid was recovering, so he wasn't sure why they were making a big deal of it.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr24J3lbLv5
"Coby, my son, is his friend but loves him as a brother and calls him such, so you know."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTY2eGUviZh
Arlin at least knew a bit more now and felt a little bad being indifferent. He'd never had so many people love him like that when he was broken. It was just another day, and he'd recovered from that, so this was different to see.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPQn6M5P6TJ
The rest of the day passed with mixed feelings for them, never really knowing what else was transpiring.
Teva ran to the back after Coby flew away. She wanted to do the same, but she was working. And why did no one tell her!? She was finding out in such a roundabout way.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡirhMEgI11S
She saw Grump cooking, so she powered a spell and splashed the back of his head.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtXCw4wBEHN
"Bloody hell!? What?" He turned to see what hit him and saw Teva looking ready to fight, surprising him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsvBCfGTQ0q
"What's your problem, cat? I did nothing to you, ugly mug…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjK9sGPWboR
She splashed more water on his face.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3eJwQ4Ij5j
"I'm sorry, kid. Don't make me angry. What is this about?!"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhG7bWLhNdH
"You knew Wolf was hurt and didn't tell me!"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJr3rhYUpJW
"Who?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbf56dWmyvi
Another splash in his face, and he stumbled back.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJent3fzzLN
"Kid, you need to talk since you lost me. Did you get in a fight over a boy or something? I did not break up any cats fighting over you…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2pgkRtyryW
He watched her lose her anger and look about to cry. He wasn't sure why. He'd never touched her.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVJghgZKlMc
"Kid, want to talk about it? Honestly, you lost me…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEfUCjyUhSo
"Wolf, my friend. It's why I started working here…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQt4DHcr5Vj
He thought back. "Oh… OOO, that kid was hurt?! I don't know the details. Talk was just rumored. It just happened from what I heard, I swear."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWsirFv7twj
"I'm sorry, Grump, but I… thought you knew and didn't care."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5BGS5nTQOD
He felt bad for her, he did, but the inn was busy and needed to work.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnkexLLWPrf
"Kid… take a day off. We're good, even without you. Come back when feeling better. See you then."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡehsvnP28NH
She wanted to protest, but she knew her aunt lived at the church. She wanted answers and felt she was not getting them, so she thanked him and left to try to find something about her friend from the past.
She was enjoying her visit with her sister. It was a pleasant tea despite the dark news as they kept speaking of the events that transpired.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1xHAMoTJzB
"I knew he was a fierce boy, but foolish? No… I'm glad he is well," Teva's mother spoke, sipping tea.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyJtvHW8ACc
"He was trying to make a cure for his mom too… The poor child expects too much, regardless of his skill," the aunt spoke.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf11L2ETV8g
"A cure. What do you mean?" The mother's interest was piqued.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ88yuYVV1Fq
"It's why he hasn't seen my niece in so long. He's been pushing his craft. You never wondered why we never fought for the medicine for our cramps? He helps increase supply."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡelyp7R1pxS
"No! You should have told me sooner. I would marry that child to be with someone with that gift." She smiled, tail swishing. "Well, and to torture my daughter, knowing I took her man." She giggled in thought even as her sister glared at her across the table, unamused.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡStc3K5Qv7a
A bang came from the front door, startling both until they saw Teva, distraught, staring them both down.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR2kYamTIDj
"And you, when were you going to tell me?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr5fejUqrZY
"Oh my! So fierce. The cat came to play with the mice…" her mother replied.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPwepZVriYt
Teva was not amused, still wanting answers.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVCybKlU9f8
"Niece, I came here to tell you. It just happened last night. And you already left for work when I did arrive. I was just resting before I left to see if you did not leave for work earlier. Yet it seems I underestimated loose lips and gossip."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMDeHC36OaG
She heard her sister giggling over the phrasing, but Teva just deflated.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBJjlzsljwB
"I thought you were closer to him. What happened?" the aunt asked.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyaiJvbd6oB
Teva shrugged. Then said, "Been busy. He sometimes stopped by, then less…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1PYWAD7QTC
"And you went to his place how many times?" the mother asked, amused.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn4hLCZHwo8
Teva blushed at the thought but said, "Not once…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ14QEyVIxOZ
That got a frown from both mother and aunt, neither understanding why.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlAqMGlSnjA
"I did not want to push him."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjQICatfGwf
"So instead, he drifts away, daughter. I warned you of that."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9rBURBpuNy
She knew, yet she was afraid. She wasn't sure how to move forward, and now it felt like too much time had passed. She wasn't close enough to be with him even when he was hurt.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu4ctOvk812
Her aunt held her while her mother looked away, no longer enjoying the game.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzbkHGCd4hs
"I can't say how he feels, but right now… it might be too much, but it's not too late. No new girl came for him. Though there were a few there."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDciEWVVpaE
"WHAT?!" Teva did not believe.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFSaPPiztYo
"OH MY!" The mother now was invested once more. "Do tell, do tell."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXIOPxp5pZO
The aunt, seeing her niece's distress, spoke slowly. "Well, one was his sister, and another was Nina, though he sees her as a sister…" She pretended to ponder, and Teva was annoyed and was feeling played till… "The last was a new, young, lovely wolf girl."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVy6i5xLKIo
She could see the fire in her eyes, and she smiled knowing she was hooked. The mother was also loving every minute.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRYUaI4s135
"Stayed by his side. It's why I stayed hidden to see how it played out," she said slowly in a near whisper.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkZW4SK4YnJ
"Who… was… she…?" Teva slowly said with a calm before a storm.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWgbHbYv74D
Her aunt, seeing she was better and not moping, confessed. "A new girl in town, but she just helped him recover. She was there when Nina brought him in hurt."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE7mTiX2I0r
Hearing that, she was racked with guilt. Now was not the time to be petty. Her friend was suffering from many things and did not need a third wheel vying for attention.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQrjwcmMbP5
Her aunt was worried her plan to inspire her niece had failed as she watched, but soon relaxed when she saw the look of conviction.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW13gcVm0Jt
"He needs time and space to help his family, but… I will not keep waiting for a mouse to play. I will be the one to hunt in the end."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡilniEmnSk9
Her mother laughed with joy upon hearing those words. "My daughter, you make me proud. You will win, I know it!"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMtTz2Kok8E
Her aunt did not feel the same but was happy her niece had a purpose. Even if nothing came of this, at least she had her ending versus always wondering.
It took time, but Coby managed to pull the wind to speed ever faster.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhoQZ0lfBYi
It would have been an amazing new experience if not for the despair, knowing he'd let his brother get hurt and not been there. He hoped Wolf would understand.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4FcSuv4UQd
Breathing hard, he finally made it to the house and wanted to rush in, but feeling like a trespasser, he knocked instead.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSZFd1qIZ0z
Nina answered the door shortly after. "Oh, Coby? Why knock? Your family. Is everything okay? You look horrible!"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp2lwPzjPa3
He felt it as he barely managed to steady his breath. "I… I heard… about Wolf," he said between breaths.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGtw4FOm2TM
"Aha." For her, it had been over a day to recover and have things settle. Coby must have just found out, and from a rumor. She knew how that could feel, and she was there.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOGUazizXXc
"He's in the room if you want to see him. He's okay, at least physically."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡof4I5tSrSS
He nodded and slowly went to the room he knew very well. There was a scent of many brews he'd never smelled before moving past to the door.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8lCe0uF6OW
He saw shelves with potions and books from all the work he'd been doing. Wolf was in bed with a book, reviewing notes. He saw a bowl of soup nearby.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfPHQQM81SM
"I told you I can feed myself. I don't care that you want to visit, but stop staring. It's getting old."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfoSTH72lw6
Coby smiled at that. "Good to see you're doing well."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPmvRLdkCFR
Wolf flinched and dropped his book. He looked down, wanting to pick it up, but his leg prevented him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxXJX3wNk4E
Coby walked over and handed it to him. He stared at the book, not wanting to talk, so Coby didn't force him. He was happy he was okay.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPiJJ33tIWA
But somewhere in the silence, he finally spoke.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPhO8F0sBlZ
"I thought I could heal her…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9AWEerWZc
He wasn't there when it happened, but Coby knew what he meant. The hunts had just been keeping him busy with no time to address it. He felt bad.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0tKSRn2r6a
"You will, but you're not alone. We're family."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNZPRQw9Uqr
"No. What I need is only deep in a dungeon, and the weakest monster almost killed me with my own weapon. I'm powerless, and the power I do have… is doing nothing so far for my potions…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFmLfhvfFmn
Coby knew Wolf had a balance blessing, and a strong one, but even after all these years, they'd never been really able to make it do… anything.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIcxFjYA1G3
"As I said, you got us. We will get it for you, and then you make something better. I'm sure that's why it never works. You're trying too hard to do it like something new versus letting us help you."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3zy7QJ4lGE
Wolf jerked at those words. "What did you say?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHNzFaEcEsu
"Um, you have us?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG1rV7vJL3j
"NO! The other part!"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡak89MP2vx6
"Uh…" he thought for a second, "trying to make something new?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV76CjGRQyx
"YES, THAT!"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhOiuLItlQn
Nina's voice came from the hall into the room. "Why are you yelling so much? I was trying to give you space to feel better. I guess now you're fine."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOGWeSnpUrG
She watched him, and he did seem to have a gleam in his eye, almost a scary madness.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvPVMOp2o1Y
"I figured it out!" he shouted with more conviction, even though both Nina and Coby had no clue what he was going on about.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTIF5sKuWE8
"The trick I have been missing all these years! I have been trying to make something new! But that is not how balance works! I need to make what already exists!"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡangThTqx6A
His hands were shaking, not from fear but excitement. Years of failure, years of staring at his hand wondering why the gods blessed him with useless power, and it was there all along. He just had to stop fighting it.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡufVEeuca7c
He started laughing, and they were not closer to the truth of understanding their mad brother.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8eVrwEedAy
"Wolf, Mom's sleeping. Please calm down a bit."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOC7KW3K5lT
He slapped his mouth and got a bit ashamed. "Sorry, you're right. I just need a test. Please hand me the light blue mana potion and a vial of water, so I can be sure."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt89N5nvqrN
Nina wasn't sure but did as he asked, and he focused. They saw what looked like him staring, then the water turned light blue, and they were shocked.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrCTEcDs8e6
He did it.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB53DvALzpg
Years of feeling like he had no power, and the gods gave him the most powerful magic known to man. Able to make potions from will. He just needed to balance it with one he knew how to make.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGfsDdTztk2
"Try it, brother. Nina can't test it. Her magic is too strong, but maybe it will work with you."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFUmB5G5arP
Coby was skeptical. He knew how they worked but had never really drunk them before. He trusted his brother, so he took it to drink. He saw Nina get what he knew was an antidote to be safe.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Si0tanqYD
He drank the vial and felt his mana return. He even felt it grow a bit, causing him to feel a little lightheaded but good.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzhzuSB04w9
"This stuff could get addictive if not careful. But I do feel better. It's working."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ39ywv35c9l
Wolf beamed at that. Just like that, he'd found his power. But he still needed a made version of the cure, and he had no way of doing that.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmuHMtoenW4
So just as quickly as he felt empowered, he remembered he could do nothing to help his mother.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJQRkoaE8IW
Coby, noticing his defeat, wasn't going to let it go at that.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoxABV3MUQR
"Brother, this is a powerful magic. Kingdoms would kill for that kind of on-demand power. You will get the cure, and you will be a hero."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxyctuwP5nE
Wolf smiled weakly at that. It was just talk. He'd faced the monster. He knew his place.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7fnEE6lcPy
Nina wasn't letting it go either.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8oMb3DbAqo
"You're not even going to try and ask?" Nina spoke up. "We literally have a guild hall where we can get more help and get whatever you're missing. I'm sure you know I'm not weak. Just ask, and I will help."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTamFU3P21i
"I got at least a week, up to three, Dad said so," Coby chimed in. "I will find a way to help. The two of us will find a deeper stuff. More is always better, but we got two. We can get more."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqsbuuNliE9
"Thanks, guys. I… I just need time," Wolf spoke slowly.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ66fDAkoYzX
They spent the rest of the day bonding and learning what they could.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBQvWNDSGal
When Leenia came home from work and praying, she was happy, but like Wolf, was depressed she could not do more. She'd been left behind when her brother needed her more than ever.
Wake up early, bathe, and make breakfast. Help resupply the shop, check on Mom and Brother, make sure both are fed, pray, go home, and help make dinner. Repeat.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO3VVRkA6NH
That was her routine for over a week, and time was blurring together. She wasn't eating as much from the stress, and she was no closer to helping her brother. Even as her stepsister and stepbrother plotted ways to help Wolf, she was lost, and praying wasn't working.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjstNb7MzK9
It was one of the times at church that Bishop Light saw her and spoke.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIKR7o26tZt
"I know you are seeking magic. I prayed and got such a thing, but know even if it works, it might not be the magic you want or very strong. The gods are fickle when and to whom they gift it. Part of the test, I believe."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNKOiqTJhgg
She nodded. She'd heard the same from grey robes and others from times she came before.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8RSkGOnOYW
"Thank you. I understand nothing is granted just because we pray, but I need something to help my brother, so I pray…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtGJwYmL4il
"I do not judge, child. Merely speaking advice. Do with it what you will."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡemJZXZX1AD
He bowed and left. The silence was deafening. The low glow of candles offered her no solace.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqS1XslJZ1L
She sighed as tears gently fell. "Please, I ask not to empower myself but to help my brother. If I had that power, I would use it to also help others. I swear. You do know he's trying to make a potion to heal the weakness curse? He can't do it alone… and I don't want him to do it without me. We're family. You blessed him with something beyond him, so balance it with me…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoyQf5YwEQq
Maybe she was arrogant or expecting too much from the gods, but she could feel that Wolf had a power beyond him. She wanted to be there to help him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA9QFaa9wQo
A gentle stir in the air.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw5C6P0VYiC
She went cold. She could feel this. Once they listened, and they were in judgment.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe8X6gZpuaS
The candles flickered. The air itself seemed to hold its breath. She was afraid to move, to think, lest they dismissed her out of spite. She felt each element brush her and pass. Fire, a brief warmth. Earth, solid and heavy. Water, cool and flowing. Wind, a whisper that faded. None seemed to want to stay. She was about to break from that rejection, tears already forming.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIOUxrhq6uJ
When the light touched her.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzUPcTShjrE
She stiffened, waiting for it to pass too, but it stayed. Gentle upon her shoulder. Warm, like sunlight through clouds. Then into her breast, and she gasped.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7hxZShNXqx
A light flooded her lungs and bathed her inside with such warmth. A power that could heal but also could be a weapon. Everyone assumed the light was just healing, but she could feel even it had destruction, and she knew why the gods always hesitated to hand mortals gifts. It was so easy to abuse once given.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFyPegcePwv
But they trusted her, and she cried with joy.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDC4bTxN50B
They trusted her.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHbqlK8IV7M
She got up and bowed. She spoke words, and they agreed. Now it was time to prove it with action. She would help her brother with this newfound power of light.
"I can do it myself. Stop babying me."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc8yU8ZfnKn
Wolf tried to shoo away his stepsister, who kept checking his every step. He was feeling better knowing how his gift worked but also trapped staying home. His mom and Nina only agreed to let him leave if he was watched.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVP2g8uH1wg
Humiliating as it was, he had to agree he wasn't ready to walk yet, but he wanted to see the lake. He missed it. The air was fresh and freeing. He loved his herbs and potions, but it was starting to be stifling, and he needed a change.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5fLzO33uUi
"Are you sure you're okay, or do you need help sitting? Want me to get you something to drink? You know I'm here. Just ask!"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7hAwUWzK0N
"NINA… sister, please, I'm fine, just… fine."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSWREtxyTTF
She wilted at that but sat beside him, looking down. "Ok, brother."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9i7fs6VnbT
He sighed. "I know I would be worse off without you, so thank you, really. But I need to be treated like a man, not a child. Yes, I made a bad call, but I made it…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡigUWfPYom0
She wanted to cry. She was so close to him, but now he felt so distant. She missed how it was before and how close they seemed. She didn't realize how much she needed that till it was gone.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSJmCI0sFCP
She decided to try to change the subject.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzQaXJR0eXG
"Where is Coby? Do you think he would hound you more than I do if he were here?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZg6rLRmkm8
She flinched at that. What a stupid thing to say. How was that small talk?322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhbsYBLzaBr
He laughed, surprising her. She missed that sound.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPGMHDArD8A
"Yeah, I suppose he would…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWc267fBvYM
She watched him in that silence, seeing him smile. She wasn't sure why that made him feel better. It even made her feel more distant, knowing she didn't have the same effect.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHYa7WnQdMi
The wind blew, pulling her hair in her face, and she gently tucked it back. They sat in that silence, just resting. It seemed he did not want to talk, so she would not force him. She nudged herself closer to feel him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0uEAlFICjh
He did not push her away, so she enjoyed the moment as long as they stayed.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQzKn081tvh
It really was a nice view.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqb4o6a6lj1
"WOLF!" A feminine voice she knew well sounded in the distance. It was Leenia, and she was excited. Why? She was more depressed than she was just the other day.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhwatP7hSPe
"I did it, brother." She stopped, breathing hard while they watched her, waiting for her to continue.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQhh91Q24Sk
"Brother, they blessed me too!" She pulled up her hand, and a bright light formed in it, stunning them.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhYByCeurhL
Wolf did not know what to say, and even Nina was lost for words.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcCE1aGVwjd
"I did try to heal Mom… it's not that kind of power, sadly, but I feel it can help you!" The joy in her eyes was undeniable.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfODNTuxMW1
Could it work?322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡguokL8qEHt
She looked over to see Wolf's thoughts. He was just as stunned.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB9y5k6Bqnj
His sister did not wait for permission. She reached for his leg and touched it with the light.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxcrlFPinMz
He did flinch, but more out of unknown fear than any pain. Truthfully, he only felt warmth from the touch. Warmth that spread through his shattered bone, knitting what was broken, mending what the skeleton had destroyed. He could feel it working, could feel the jagged edges smoothing, the fractures sealing.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzLRC0RVQdP
After a moment, she tumbled onto her side, breathing hard. Both Wolf and Nina tried to reach for her to help, but she waved them off.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtqECICQoQk
"I'm fine. That took a lot out of me. You were badly hurt. It took a bit of mana and drained me. But I'm okay."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFrPZQuXzN1
She looked at them, beaming a smile, tears falling from her eyes. Relief, exhaustion, and joy all mixed together on her face.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhbuxl4IoY7
"Well, brother… walk!"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwvLuY03WWi
He was scared. He did not doubt his sister, and he did feel the light, but just like that, he was healed? That was too easy.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgEp6O3FNmg
He sighed. He had a power like that too. One that changed things easily. Don't hate your sister for finding a way to help you fix your mistakes.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC0ZJfrVNsI
"Thank you, sis…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx7wJgGoNpw
He slowly tried to pull himself up, but his legs wobbled. Nina reached out to help him stand. He let her. After a moment, his legs gained strength, and he could stand. No pain. No weakness. Just whole.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ10qNoHrImT
Both sisters laughed with joy. Nina grabbed him and tried to dance with her brother while he protested.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYGuuHv8AEC
Leenia fell flat in the grass and was relieved. She'd had faith. She knew she had power, but was it enough?322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKK1CI40DbS
She stared at her hand while she listened to them bicker in the background.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEyxTQy7hzo
We can do this. I can save my family from pain, and Wolf will heal Mom from the weakness curse. Things will be okay…
322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡraNDCjdKtQ
and then Add to home screen.