"STOP FIDGETING, MOM, and let me feed you soup!"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0KXXedgzXJ
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ6jfnbfGLs
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4hk3RXvvLi
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5kEsUkHeQy
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1l3ceuZ9D6
"Not this again, Mom. I made my choice. I want to help the family, okay?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjkvY79HNvu
Her mother brushed her face, smiling even as Leenia pouted, when a low voice spoke, breaking the moment.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡigjr7F2CGx
"I'm sorry, Len… I failed and let him get hurt…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhQ5K83OEaV
Both Mom's and Leenia's blood ran cold. Soup forgotten, they both looked and saw Nina.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRKrc4t9eFg
She looked defeated and broken, as if she'd lost a battle they didn't even know she had to fight.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaDYMRCwa35
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…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkPnYJ4zzcL
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkqVQneQbAE
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoEJBGU47FN
Mom was the first to recover and speak.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjWT9aOTBeQ
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfBkKF1hpN2
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqhsgRrohFs
This isn't my room. Where am I?345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDV9VbD4rBY
He knew he'd had a bad dream of death coming for him. Of… death… smashing… his… leg?345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdLefq09NZi
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZfEXvR3e2Q
He was starting to panic when a voice spoke.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyaBBlz5GHt
"Easy there. You got hit pretty hard and are still recovering."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4g6TYTnvYV
He looked in a panic and saw the shadows move, and out of the darkness was a man he'd never seen before.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI5wsYq8r1B
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVSNAwG6zMo
He shook his head, still stunned, when a new voice shouted back.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTEQNri2p0O
"STOP YELLING. THIS IS A CHURCH, AND HE WAS RESTING. SO ARE OTHERS. Great, now you got me doing it…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBGiqWZ5IVz
Turning into the room was a young wolf beastkin girl with a serious look that softened upon seeing him.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡityreBNsU3
"Hey, Wolf? Are you okay? Need anything?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZYLJG356n4
He vigorously shook his head, not knowing what was happening or what to do.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0yp7kpFLlh
"Where am I?" He tried to compose himself. He needed answers.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrdDI9bqB95
"The church. Your sister brought you here?" the girl wolf said with concern.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1iTywYIapr
"Len did?" he asked, unsure.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmV7zKA9ZEi
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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAUWhmDxtti
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Bcr1bUHwX
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡywWURcrzcs
Ziala glared at him but went back to focusing on Wolf.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIEYcN4NSjs
"We could not heal the leg all the way. We lacked that healing power, and normal potions wouldn't be strong enough."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIjsFHZnBTB
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqk6IwIrr3Y
Drawn to all the noise, Bishop Light entered the room.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxhuPMi1CT5
"Sorry, child, I did try, but I fear, despite my name, I lack the gift in the light."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPe42caSZWH
He looked more hurt than Wolf felt, which made him feel guilty.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqwp6WqUU4P
"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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQBd2FXbSTb
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡurPnlxADrD
She smiled at Wolf, trying to reassure him, and he did feel better now that he'd gotten some water, and she did help.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8BLVsnvaFt
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAeE3CYAblT
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlr8l7UkAp2
As he lost himself in thought, he heard a voice in the distance.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSqI0iYtep6
"He has black hair, about this high. He was injured and brought here. Have you seen him? He's my brother."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9xDmHkRzw3
Arlin heard a reply with something he wasn't sure of, but he soon saw her.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKC0OMKgABA
And was stunned.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw6nq5MYQsr
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCAuq7eTHYf
He froze, unable to move, as she walked up to him. His heart hammered in his chest.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsz5D4X7tN0
And she walked past the door with indifference, never once looking at him.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ7lDlE9NzZ
He was stunned, not sure what to say when he heard her speak.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxKidd5seem
"WOLF, you idiot, what have you done? Do you know how worried we all are? And Mom is sick! What were you thinking?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjuU32gQAHn
"I know… If I weren't weak, I would have been able to help Mom. You don't need to remind me…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSDNhmw2Dj2
"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?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ3noAcrc1v
"I'm not a child, Len. I made a choice. I made a mistake. It's over. Let's just go."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu5xmPie2No
He refused to look at her. He knew he'd messed up, and there was nothing he could do.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡABHcz5K1Br
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAsVAVOpCgX
"Okay, brother, we will talk more at home. Nina should be here soon, and we'll go then, okay?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1upsPpW1YF
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKtQazoCIYq
When he saw Ziala glaring at him: "What?" he said defensively.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZRfPAOMbO3
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV79D32vtbu
It was amazing.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnOCl7phjqh
"Forgive my rude brother and me. We were watching over him. We were close by when Nina brought him to the church."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0EQGioh5p6
"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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqYLzx9jDaF
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgsl0tdr2eO
Leenia slowly nodded. "Thank you for helping my brother."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw8M5MQP1qf
She had an enchanting voice, Arlin thought. Not able to control his heart, his sister pulled him away, leaving the other siblings alone.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeVYoJz2tg8
When she was far enough away in another room, she spoke. "What's wrong with you? You never act like that…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAAsBUpGI6A
"What? I always talk to people…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQUGjaYyn2G
"No… you're acting different. Moody, maybe. Cocky, sure. Acting like you were lost and she was saving you? Never…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeNECwxnXOR
"Whaaat? Noooo… I'm acting normal… Do you think she noticed?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGTVeaPaRmh
"OH, GODS, do you like her?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtdKjtQLdGR
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDK2EFPHfed
He fidgeted, looking away and trying to find the words, making it very obvious what he thought.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc89IO4ihb0
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡab2bfOqs1z
He stared in the distance, dreaming what if…345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtPT8z8bnV0
His sister watched, annoyed, as he fumbled over himself.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc3NAczdfIi
"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…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjOmjcyRyFp
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?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxZJVvdy7zJ
His sister glared at him as they left for the guild hall. The events had unfolded, making for an eventful day.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3oWajJuKhj
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj0f8mdxrE7
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmgSGPwVb59
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbWapW1GgMn
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLRkBY8oZf6
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPSEnCnhWOj
His mother was glad her son was safe and made him promise never to try again.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJRUMIrNuWD
Beyond his shame, he agreed to.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcZbvkwF6lO
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv3jdiYx2XM
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuSdJSeSaSZ
"Dad, it's been a while. Can we make time for me to see my brother Wolf today?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5HNldyl82B
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGV9OmHKD5V
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAVFPWQQxGS
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYXx43yIP9b
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt4FrVn91ni
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWCnu0npSkH
The inn was more lively than he remembered, and they saw a lot of new faces.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUVyt4dLjEG
"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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz13pUVZ1Yn
"A simple meal and drink, please."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq39aL2M2Nf
His dad and the hunters who'd managed to join them were fine with the same.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5NpbHUlpSt
"Lots of new faces, I see?" He was trying to be casual and get some info.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcV149SNl4n
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNbIl3GY199
He nodded, not knowing the bearkin had a family.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ9zbuPeW9c
"Heard anything new about the dungeon? We just got back from being on a long hunt."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHOibNz4eps
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaTw1rFTbu8
He was surprised there were already issues from the dungeon. Who was hurt, he wondered.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeiK4qHIYnv
While he sipped his drink, it was a berry drink that Wolf had introduced in the past. Good stuff.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFxmltTYtvG
"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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo2WgZZonLS
It was then he also noticed the one server that his brother had liked all those years ago still serving drinks here.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYO5aMpHzHy
"Mind if I join you at your table and find out more?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOCM8rvOxDP
He wasn't one for gossip, but he didn't like anyone getting hurt when he was trying to protect the place.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJjOTgT4wzp
"I don't mind if my sister doesn't."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Baqdt7nlf
He saw the female wolf girl shrug her shoulders with indifference, so he let his dad know he'd joined the new table.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXQYyDZutzN
"Thanks, um… My name is Coby. You?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1OCupYfEx5
"Arlin, and my sister's name is Ziala."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡom7cjf6eHp
She nodded curtly and drank from a mug. It had a sweet scent in the air, something with honey, he noted.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDqqUSOWBIG
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8yLGNzrVXW
He looked into the distance, lost in thought.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYxjxsUDX9
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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNruCNFRaYQ
He nodded. It made sense. Arlin smirked, not agreeing, it seems.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNq72AxFyxT
"Do you know the child's name or age? How young was he?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdXUprIvaJ3
"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…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPArMsZcPEc
Coby's blood went cold. He only knew one person with black hair and an adopted foxkin sister with a human sister.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW7nEbGDFU6
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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFZwNxuqFHi
He dropped his drink.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz6TUHPqbBB
"Hey!" Both Ziala and Arlin panicked as the juice started to flow toward them.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcJZ9kns206
Luckily, the maid was close and cleaned with her water magic, but she too had a concerned face.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq49QiUjvaK
"Wolf? He was… is my friend. Is he okay? I always wondered what came of him since he never visited."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTNgm6Ojpst
Coby wasn't listening anymore. He got up and pulled the wind to leave. He needed to see his brother.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoySCETlX8L
Arlin watched the boy who was just at their table dash away. He even felt an unknown wind help pull him away faster. Crazy…345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRkNbp3RUmI
"Do you think it was something I said?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGjSgAcIqJT
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4T0wmBA23U
"You said Wolf was the boy hurt?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJCCm0IHoZi
Arlin nodded and shrugged. The kid was recovering, so he wasn't sure why they were making a big deal of it.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTbmmrsWL8B
"Coby, my son, is his friend but loves him as a brother and calls him such, so you know."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqnLCYw7zP0
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK5OF3aAflC
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtGnrKAt1bo
She saw Grump cooking, so she powered a spell and splashed the back of his head.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZRwul40QiD
"Bloody hell!? What?" He turned to see what hit him and saw Teva looking ready to fight, surprising him.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGPSA6jEiZM
"What's your problem, cat? I did nothing to you, ugly mug…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpMlvrbgKcn
She splashed more water on his face.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqxdtJp4ClK
"I'm sorry, kid. Don't make me angry. What is this about?!"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdGV5Dwx8oQ
"You knew Wolf was hurt and didn't tell me!"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKTsMZf8mlP
"Who?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP9SoCRQCwx
Another splash in his face, and he stumbled back.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡipjTgtHsJz
"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…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ90dIP2K7jD
He watched her lose her anger and look about to cry. He wasn't sure why. He'd never touched her.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZH6vScW1B
"Kid, want to talk about it? Honestly, you lost me…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUwcogPAIKl
"Wolf, my friend. It's why I started working here…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdvxePQCSpA
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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB0wpVPO6BV
"I'm sorry, Grump, but I… thought you knew and didn't care."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ69GcKQ2jp
He felt bad for her, he did, but the inn was busy and needed to work.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAxun2L1QQq
"Kid… take a day off. We're good, even without you. Come back when feeling better. See you then."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgoX4hL6kIi
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmjxkdcdJh2
"I knew he was a fierce boy, but foolish? No… I'm glad he is well," Teva's mother spoke, sipping tea.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4z3i6iyykW
"He was trying to make a cure for his mom too… The poor child expects too much, regardless of his skill," the aunt spoke.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJOHUEMgly5
"A cure. What do you mean?" The mother's interest was piqued.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw4cHFJCPP6
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLpaRMkpg0X
"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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxmgdbame4o
A bang came from the front door, startling both until they saw Teva, distraught, staring them both down.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgtL7Yb132g
"And you, when were you going to tell me?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeLlCTZXnpG
"Oh my! So fierce. The cat came to play with the mice…" her mother replied.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhi1zEfP4dr
Teva was not amused, still wanting answers.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6NpG1xMTx1
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzcLTg7m9Dv
She heard her sister giggling over the phrasing, but Teva just deflated.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm3199qpTll
"I thought you were closer to him. What happened?" the aunt asked.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1uomjjjrIF
Teva shrugged. Then said, "Been busy. He sometimes stopped by, then less…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYUXoXusC5S
"And you went to his place how many times?" the mother asked, amused.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl1oCpjF0f7
Teva blushed at the thought but said, "Not once…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO0vqTyg7Gk
That got a frown from both mother and aunt, neither understanding why.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVVHDBBmahY
"I did not want to push him."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0xKC4u5Kqb
"So instead, he drifts away, daughter. I warned you of that."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg2NZGx05SY
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbkeMaPSYsx
Her aunt held her while her mother looked away, no longer enjoying the game.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1XZdXd73mj
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsCppz4eYUe
"WHAT?!" Teva did not believe.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKthDzeWJvn
"OH MY!" The mother now was invested once more. "Do tell, do tell."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVbIrdngLb8
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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuOcUVA7e9z
She could see the fire in her eyes, and she smiled knowing she was hooked. The mother was also loving every minute.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLlQTca6oiY
"Stayed by his side. It's why I stayed hidden to see how it played out," she said slowly in a near whisper.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVMl8CbwC9g
"Who… was… she…?" Teva slowly said with a calm before a storm.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG0i53FJgTf
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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhMOU1jCOGO
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡetQEbfU1mW
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkuXvsOsLiX
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcti4rQiHdA
Her mother laughed with joy upon hearing those words. "My daughter, you make me proud. You will win, I know it!"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCbr8eDivLa
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTXwIffVoaY
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmt1fibwj9u
Breathing hard, he finally made it to the house and wanted to rush in, but feeling like a trespasser, he knocked instead.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFgFyTdCYiR
Nina answered the door shortly after. "Oh, Coby? Why knock? Your family. Is everything okay? You look horrible!"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡor9Q27BNq9
He felt it as he barely managed to steady his breath. "I… I heard… about Wolf," he said between breaths.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPKuSDxRjac
"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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhiZxegIO7z
"He's in the room if you want to see him. He's okay, at least physically."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJw0EAUbk7P
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN2r08pYCpA
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ01PDC0Lvne
"I told you I can feed myself. I don't care that you want to visit, but stop staring. It's getting old."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqGRm1mjzyQ
Coby smiled at that. "Good to see you're doing well."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqQySoSxjwD
Wolf flinched and dropped his book. He looked down, wanting to pick it up, but his leg prevented him.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ukx6qwCFI
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXsg3yFyibZ
But somewhere in the silence, he finally spoke.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwMPGlqeyoX
"I thought I could heal her…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXgwuJfRawn
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpwuIwqJ9Qw
"You will, but you're not alone. We're family."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA5EBJeYLgG
"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…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSdmIBbx5Ou
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHabyDoaCLf
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRjCFtVX8BG
Wolf jerked at those words. "What did you say?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSsRTFCtOtV
"Um, you have us?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiI81CXvsGp
"NO! The other part!"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqIpiR05qgK
"Uh…" he thought for a second, "trying to make something new?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡimC1mUEBkc
"YES, THAT!"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFXmgybG0Ps
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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhkYvQUVA40
She watched him, and he did seem to have a gleam in his eye, almost a scary madness.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAnXcSezPED
"I figured it out!" he shouted with more conviction, even though both Nina and Coby had no clue what he was going on about.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd9GTWtFybT
"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!"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIWBjv0KfdB
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡraGDM1XOwU
He started laughing, and they were not closer to the truth of understanding their mad brother.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrpphKZf0C4
"Wolf, Mom's sleeping. Please calm down a bit."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbSpEaWXR29
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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqZDrLcVG1L
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ50Eun6wUOb
He did it.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4A0U04AV0U
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCsuhAHfxEV
"Try it, brother. Nina can't test it. Her magic is too strong, but maybe it will work with you."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFcYFKXUWJK
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4yYjZXz8sH
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQmieigXtlj
"This stuff could get addictive if not careful. But I do feel better. It's working."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFtILKWb711
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd0zINh3RAZ
So just as quickly as he felt empowered, he remembered he could do nothing to help his mother.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡikNKCmgqtG
Coby, noticing his defeat, wasn't going to let it go at that.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA2v06g98e6
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtpxWfMhwrB
Wolf smiled weakly at that. It was just talk. He'd faced the monster. He knew his place.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN2hJ2oAozf
Nina wasn't letting it go either.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWyU4G3gzdz
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfixmQ6UvBv
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR0TICN1OUS
"Thanks, guys. I… I just need time," Wolf spoke slowly.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQQxtFO0GP1
They spent the rest of the day bonding and learning what they could.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzHPGzlYOcQ
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlJJ4IESvj5
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeiEtiFMUFq
It was one of the times at church that Bishop Light saw her and spoke.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIuN8jxs8hD
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPVn82qCNQm
She nodded. She'd heard the same from grey robes and others from times she came before.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ60cFdsjs4Y
"Thank you. I understand nothing is granted just because we pray, but I need something to help my brother, so I pray…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRRVyx1pPxG
"I do not judge, child. Merely speaking advice. Do with it what you will."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWVDbqjzV4k
He bowed and left. The silence was deafening. The low glow of candles offered her no solace.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQVBl2ZfRzH
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…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfzNLVHYfbg
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvAMqR5yTLE
A gentle stir in the air.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQKImfqsKSF
She went cold. She could feel this. Once they listened, and they were in judgment.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoN16nVyrE2
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJPlQB61gNR
When the light touched her.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPDgg2bHeEw
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoQOwr444q7
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdS8wxvmXJV
But they trusted her, and she cried with joy.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6B1CX3sCYJ
They trusted her.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoqcUBHBCu9
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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0A2bc5yWbm
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF2cvhKRHDV
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLD6yqRgq3E
"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!"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN2mPy9g4OV
"NINA… sister, please, I'm fine, just… fine."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8xZK0R7y39
She wilted at that but sat beside him, looking down. "Ok, brother."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ61RDKsYODm
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…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjG481cGhbe
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlpGpbd3nbC
She decided to try to change the subject.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡawvaY6gmIo
"Where is Coby? Do you think he would hound you more than I do if he were here?"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEoCuDQ8TaE
She flinched at that. What a stupid thing to say. How was that small talk?345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6MkKWHAxTg
He laughed, surprising her. She missed that sound.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIiNHRDDsIm
"Yeah, I suppose he would…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIqSue6YAJp
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPhe9TeaVSi
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBIAC2KFSu9
He did not push her away, so she enjoyed the moment as long as they stayed.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwjh0KZ1cj3
It really was a nice view.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLxltNeUJwy
"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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkFtFBt8o7i
"I did it, brother." She stopped, breathing hard while they watched her, waiting for her to continue.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiI3x7ImXaZ
"Brother, they blessed me too!" She pulled up her hand, and a bright light formed in it, stunning them.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOVIt3563JN
Wolf did not know what to say, and even Nina was lost for words.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjDuxcTZ1bL
"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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKgmy6Rw2Xv
Could it work?345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKbNilvGvvu
She looked over to see Wolf's thoughts. He was just as stunned.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ12DtSPywxP
His sister did not wait for permission. She reached for his leg and touched it with the light.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBcOlcVA6LB
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLAoLcP2oRW
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfnvTqQh4Gb
"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."345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKkPrxeUjkp
She looked at them, beaming a smile, tears falling from her eyes. Relief, exhaustion, and joy all mixed together on her face.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtdcT9GeKmK
"Well, brother… walk!"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK60ynShPZw
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5SLBLLBrmB
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXlDeDhbory
"Thank you, sis…"345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0JdwDLOGkq
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.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTPUv8uhki0
Both sisters laughed with joy. Nina grabbed him and tried to dance with her brother while he protested.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmnHbAJNUfq
Leenia fell flat in the grass and was relieved. She'd had faith. She knew she had power, but was it enough?345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYbJPhPmgwy
She stared at her hand while she listened to them bicker in the background.345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsn2ciSEwR7
We can do this. I can save my family from pain, and Wolf will heal Mom from the weakness curse. Things will be okay…
345Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEkK39WgkSb
and then Add to home screen.