A few weeks passed in the same routine.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSpXc04oFdn
Wolf had gotten used to waking early—after the sixth or seventh time of Len shaking him awake, his body finally started to adjust. Though all the walking still wore him down.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMhz4FBEHiL
Mr. Crow and Dad had finally worked out a time for the boys to meet and play. More importantly, they trusted Wolf to go alone now. Well, with Coby—but that was practically alone.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBMiPbodXrl
He felt a little sad leaving Len behind, but she had Nina now. And she'd been putting off her own things to watch over him at the shop. This was good for both of them.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQvLQctjwAx
She'd promised she'd miss him, that they could do things together later if he still wanted. Nina had been upset she couldn't join him too, but she understood—she had work, and she'd still have Len.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw43c0hQaln
That was good enough for Wolf.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpJeb4zxHUa
After weeks of working at the shop, he finally understood what went on there. He was ready for something more.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6af1UmUvbm
He left the house to find Coby and was surprised when his friend met him halfway down the road. It wasn't planned—just happened that way. They grinned at each other and embraced.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDbIU4ARhgA
"What are you doing here?" Wolf asked. "I was going to meet you at your house."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpqBT5tqRyC
"I tracked you!" Coby said excitedly.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwilmiNfrSr
"What?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiEyslUH85s
"Well—not tracked exactly. More like I assumed you'd be coming from home." Coby looked a bit sheepish. "My dad's been teaching me how to track animals. I was trying to practice in the village earlier, but it doesn't really work. Everyone's footprints look the same."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZhP3yBrjR7
Wolf listened intently. This sounded fun—and it could lead to real adventure.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1QGmFJugKe
"Okay! Let's try it out while exploring!" Wolf took off running before he'd even finished speaking.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYraxICVpZa
Coby laughed and raced after him.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1wHKuVubcQ
Wolf wanted to head to the lake—his usual spot—but Coby convinced him to go the opposite direction instead. "I can show you the hunting trails we use."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡipxzjrPeLq
Wolf agreed easily. New territory to explore.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm6gCi811TQ
Being surrounded by forest felt strange at first. Everything looked the same—trees and more trees. It felt magical in a way, but also overwhelming. He could get lost so easily here.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD28i2Nru10
His friend noticed his nervousness. "Don't worry. We leave marks to keep track of the trails. Makes it easy to get back." Coby pointed to a nearby tree with a line cut into the bark.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqZFua4SN5c
Wolf understood the concept, but something didn't add up. "How do you know where the marked trees are? Everything looks the same."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPuM2PhWrQs
"Hmm. Lots of ways, I guess." Coby thought about it. "The angle of the sun helps. The wind direction. Sometimes it's just... a feeling?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6KuGOO1MkV
He said the last part like a question, and Wolf started to doubt this whole trip.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgyMXHWL18A
Then Coby added, "I've been out here for weeks. Well, months really, with Dad. But I've explored and hunted alone for a few weeks now. You can trust me."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBxnLgbYhQ0
Wolf stopped walking. "You've been alone for weeks?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Lx00MZUzr
Coby laughed at his shock. "As part of my training! Dad has me forage, track, scout for animals—all that stuff." He pulled a small whistle from his pocket. "He told me if I ever got really lost, I should blow this and wait. He'd come blow his whistle to guide me back."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2JvtdMrJjQ
"Has that happened?" Wolf asked, curious.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvq2jJJmiUr
"Well... I did get lost. But I didn't blow the whistle." Coby looked embarrassed. "I found my way back on my own. It only happened twice." He patted the small pouch at his side. "I've gotten better since then. And I carry rations now, just in case."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1lSq88aJJt
They chatted while wandering deeper into the forest. Wolf felt himself tiring despite all the walking he'd been doing lately.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjabBDX38n2
Coby was still bouncing with energy. "Rest here," he said, pointing to a large tree. "I'll forage for berries and be right back."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAQk7PGSR35
Wolf sank gratefully against the trunk. While catching his breath, he noticed some odd herbs growing nearby—unlike anything he'd seen before. They stood out with a strange yellow color, almost glowing in the dappled sunlight.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuvXjMjigBf
He was examining them closely when Coby returned, shaking his head. "No luck. Nothing's ripe yet."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgBPhQl07ZY
Wolf gestured to his discovery. "Look at these. Ever seen this kind before?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVFN1HyrldT
Coby crouched beside him, studying the yellow herbs. "Never. That's... strange."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmlyla90ZGd
"Think it's poisonous?" Wolf asked, a bit too excitedly.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9cUIn1saoA
"Hard to say." Coby tilted his head. "We could ask the hermit. Or my dad. Either of them would know better than me."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡihavwG5GJ2
"Hermit?" Wolf was confused.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwdt8PqSew2
"Yeah. He lives apart from the village—doesn't like people much. But he's good with herbs." Coby straightened. "I see him sometimes when I'm hunting. Or smell him."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ghpzPySHP
Wolf laughed. "You smell him? Does he stink that bad?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdgHsSkFDCZ
"No, no." Coby grinned. "He just smells strong of herbs. If the wind's right, you can smell him even when you can't see him." He shrugged. "I tend to leave him alone. He doesn't bother us, so we don't bother him."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqT0cdcFrsw
That made sense to Wolf.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTNCCOvvuoh
He looked back at the herb, uncertain. "Let's leave it for now. We can always check on it later—if someone else doesn't find it first."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ911jUurmFI
The rest of the day was spent adventuring—running around the woods, seeing what they could find.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0j76R4f1km
Surprisingly, Wolf was starting to see patterns in the trees. The random marks Coby had shown him helped guide them well. It would take a long time before Wolf felt safe exploring alone, but at least the forest didn't feel like a vast, endless maze anymore.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV65U2nVCVj
As they headed home, Coby made a suggestion. "Tomorrow we should practice shooting. Target practice with my bow."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ64qSTQQ7KM
Wolf's eyes lit up. He'd seen weapons before, even held knives. But never a bow.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJgCmmlkdsx
"Yes!" he said immediately. "Let's do it!"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcRg88L31Aq
The next day, Wolf packed a light lunch. He managed to get almost to Coby's house before his friend met him on the road—this time with Mr. Crow beside him.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg03dOIs7a0
Mr. Crow nodded when he saw Wolf. "Morning."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsDhpVwlwa1
"Morning, Mr. Crow."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5qXB44gci9
"Coby told me you two are practicing shooting today." His voice was firm but not unkind. "Mind your surroundings and each other."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTqxlW4fHgN
"Yes, sir."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFQHX07Asyw
"I'll be out late. Been following a trail—want to see what I can find." He clapped Coby on the shoulder, and his son hugged him goodbye before Mr. Crow headed off into the forest.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxEEOVHomI3
Wolf followed Coby back toward the house. Mrs. Crow was outside carrying a bucket of water. She stopped when she saw them, a smile crossing her face. "That was quick, son. Already found your friend? Your tracking's improving."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvwE9q6UdNg
Coby grinned. "I am getting better. Though Wolf was close by, so I didn't get much chance to practice today."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNojs5ixuCr
"Ah, well." Mrs. Crow turned her attention to Wolf. "Are you hungry? The boys already ate, but there's stew for later. Or bread, if you want something now."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBl1Bj4Cw4B
"I'm okay, thank you, Mrs. Crow." Wolf patted his pack. "I brought lunch."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtRJq511YIT
"Such a good boy." She smiled warmly. "Now you two stay safe. And be sure to wash up before you eat—I know what you boys are like when you get busy." She started toward the house. "I need to take care of a few things, but speak up if you need anything."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3R5gJJypvU
Both boys chorused, "Okay!"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLeWL7pmJEA
The area behind the house had a few trees growing apart from the main forest. Coby explained as they walked, "We usually use the shed as our target. Standing near the trees helps judge distance—gives you a feel for shooting in actual terrain."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnI7ZCnj1s8
The distance didn't seem too far. Maybe fifteen yards.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp9hgZDpLZG
Coby gave Wolf a brief lesson on how to hold the bow properly, how to draw without hurting himself. Then he demonstrated. The arrows flew clean and fast, hitting the shed with solid thunks.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLjWs7Wjwmm
It was amazing to watch.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhhPzKApL56
Wolf tried to copy him. But drawing the bow felt like trying to hold back a weight with just his fingers. When he finally released, the arrow flew true for a few yards—then dropped into the dirt well short of the target.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡByfipWQJPL
Coby laughed. "It takes more pull than you'd think. But you were close."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh8yM2x5XQb
Frustration flared in Wolf's chest. Embarrassed, he nocked another arrow and pulled back harder—anger mixing with determination.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxvM4QNahoX
The arrow struck the shed. Not the center, but solid.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcKIcvc9e2h
"Nice! That's fast improvement."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnFsSEqVRYv
Wolf felt warmth bloom at the praise. "Well, I had a good teacher."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGiSuNEh3aO
They both laughed.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmnSkPU7EFC
Coby kept shooting for a while longer, but the novelty wore off for Wolf. It was an amazing tool—impressive, even exciting. But the constant aiming and drawing exhausted him. And arrows cost money.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6F3kXSlAMs
He lost interest quickly.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡENfGvG4dhr
It was nice seeing his friend know exactly what he wanted, though. Coby had passion for this. Wolf liked the shop well enough, but just standing around was boring. Yet running around shooting arrows wasn't for him either.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcvgjtX7fAX
He needed something to add to the shop. Something to make it more fun.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNt0MMsQ96w
While Coby lined up another shot, Wolf noticed mushrooms growing near one of the trees. Maybe that's it—I can sell food!519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPURAHMRDzx
Then he deflated. Cooking was what Mom did. That wasn't fun either.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMlnhfMVCBB
But it was closer to something he could actually do...519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpVencMPo3Z
Coby noticed his friend staring off into space. "You okay?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF7me0qbB62
"I'm fine. Just... planning for later."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLovTTRUVf6
The conversation drifted to new places they could explore after lunch. The rest of the day passed uneventfully, but Wolf's mind kept circling back to the mushrooms, the herbs, the possibilities.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhJipariXkv
A few more weeks passed with some changes to the routine.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyXmOz07OmY
Wolf spent more time with Coby now, though he still made time for Len and Nina. Dad only needed him at the shop on random days when Len was needed elsewhere—deliveries, errands, things like that.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOi0njAjrVG
Summer was in full force. Everything felt more lively. Dad mentioned he was trying to rely less on the kids for work. Len had insisted she and Nina could handle things. "Let Wolf find himself," she'd said.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYQDViy8jDf
So Wolf had freedom. Real freedom.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa4WLDlUl7K
But he was starting to realize something unsettling: his new freedom was... boring.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYb1Gn6vGy
He went to the lake one day, exploring the familiar paths. But it just felt like the same woods he'd seen a dozen times before. He tried making an adventure out of searching for herbs, but even that felt hollow. He wasn't using the herbs for anything. Just picking them to pick them.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrdEouEiKLt
The day was barely half over when he gave up and headed back to the shop.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ74lSRAuYrW
Better to help than be bored.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdotvwUEDVI
Nina was happy to see him when he arrived. "Wolf! You're back early."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyXoNaSW3k6
"Yeah. Didn't find much." He looked around. "Anything I can do?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ02WXvd8B7S
There wasn't much. The shop was quiet, and Len and Nina had everything handled.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIGLq8Jw89c
Then Len brightened. "I have a small delivery to the inn. Want to come with me?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡucl0ppoNfq
Wolf nodded immediately. Anything was better than standing around.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR5zyI3JaHy
Len loaded a small backpack with wrapped packages—meat, by the smell of it—and they set off together.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡycqyEolfGI
Wolf hadn't paid much attention to his surroundings beyond running between the shop, home, and forest. So he was surprised to realize the inn was close—only a few buildings down from their shop, right near the main road.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZJnVD2XL6b
Smart placement, he thought. Catch the travelers as they arrive.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxMVGlV56Is
The inn itself was massive. It made their shop look small by comparison.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv8eA28Khit
Getting inside was easy enough. The main room had lots of tables scattered around, with stairs in the distance leading to a second floor. But there wasn't much business.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNHIRiapo43
Len spoke up. "We're looking for the innkeeper."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwD0kAOMlym
Wolf spotted him behind the counter—and froze.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQPJB1zS4GU
A bearkin. Massive, covered in dark fur, with a build that made even the counter look small. Wolf knew beastkin came in all types—he'd met Nina and Nebo, after all—but seeing a bearkin in person was completely different.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVyCHRIDIvA
The innkeeper didn't even look up from the glass he was inspecting. "You got my meat, kid?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy4KFCr7AFa
Wolf's jaw dropped. "How did you know?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC12ZnoWoEi
The bearkin barked a laugh, finally looking at them. His smile revealed rows of sharp teeth. "My nose." He tapped his snout.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1SqCeCiuhw
It was a little scary. But Len just frowned.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2hRunFx1IQ
"Stop trying to scare my brother. He's not used to being around different beastkin."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5YE6vPFe3N
The innkeeper laughed even harder, his whole body shaking. "That's why I like you, girly! You face things head-on. Like a real bear!" He paused, grinning. "Or maybe a wolf? I like it!"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqLcrTk5CLC
Wolf lit up. "That's my name!"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ88rPYK180c
The innkeeper's laughter subsided into a low chuckle. He studied Wolf with more interest. "Oh really? There a story behind that?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1dcUtD0MnM
Len answered for him. "Our mother saw a night wolf while pregnant, exploring with Father."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5DYc4HM9bZ
"They're rare now," she continued. "Hunters tend to keep them away from the village. But she thought it was a sign—that her child would be strong as a wolf. So she went with it." Len shrugged. "Father didn't disagree."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6mcN6dZ9DV
Wolf felt a surge of pride. He'd been seen as strong before he was even born.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIAEC2eDuIT
Then the innkeeper looked down at him.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGMNVgwlgqf
Really looked. With a stare like a beast hunting prey.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPpAt8QGY85
Wolf froze. He'd never known people could be this scary. Or this tall. Everyone back home loved him, smiled at him, treated him gently.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmsetn7yCne
This was different.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkbg2FI4JZz
Len immediately stepped between them, her expression fierce. Wolf appreciated it—but he also wanted to see. Wanted to understand.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMlpnD8EpHH
He peeked around his sister and saw the bearkin was smiling.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTHhBZvDBRb
"Just testing the pup." His voice was casual, almost amused. "Meant no harm." He waved a massive hand dismissively. "How about some food on the house? A sorry for being a little rough on you two. Since you did deliver to me."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiIMKPkqU75
Wolf felt his courage returning. Despite his intimidating appearance, the innkeeper wasn't evil. And Len clearly knew he was just poking at them.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGMc2WhRUBo
Still... Wolf made a mental note. Not everyone was as gentle as his family.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ01bXp3agDe
The innkeeper took the packages to the back. Wolf heard random banging, a few muttered curses, and him calling out, "Give me a sec!"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡERZ7hFbbHY
Then the sound of cooking.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3850YQudOO
He returned soon after carrying two wooden cups. "Won't be much—just a small treat of meat to help you on your way. Here are some drinks too."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFlkHABRs0V
He set the cups down. The liquid inside was golden and sweet-smelling.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3l9dTdFHiQ
"Rose star honey, mixed with herbs and water. Nothing fancy, but sweet and easy to make." He grinned. "Popular with the ladies and kids."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi2GrTD0dm7
Wolf took a cautious sip—then his eyes went wide. It was delicious.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCgejsoGuYG
"You need to teach my mom this! It's really good."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLXk5L8Es8R
Len nodded in agreement, already halfway through her cup.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLRHIIe7XCO
The innkeeper laughed. "One thing I love about this town is you all appreciate the little things."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhBiN29njn4
Wolf tilted his head. "It's not the same elsewhere?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYWL62qpkQp
Something shifted in the bearkin's posture. His smile dimmed slightly. "Eehhh..." He paused. "Well, the people at the crossroad town just wanted more. Better, faster, fancier. I couldn't keep up."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPk45yTgvHL
He scratched at his head. "I wanted somewhere quieter. So when the city wasn't an option anymore, this village was close by." He shrugged. "Rest is history."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1SxqBtLWJ0
Wolf felt a little sheepish, realizing they'd been talking all this time and hadn't even asked. "We never heard your name. It'll be awkward just calling you bearkin."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡldGMRZokuG
The innkeeper barked another laugh. "You're right! I bare my teeth and didn't even bother to say hello. Sorry about that—rude of me." He extended a massive paw. "My name is Icarus."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpVLdAx6fWs
"Nice to meet you properly, Icarus."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIH0ESrSibL
"Likewise, Wolf." Icarus pulled his hand back and gestured toward the kitchen. "I'll be back—meat should be done soon. Need to keep an eye on it before it burns."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFLW6huj6Qa
Wolf had been wondering something. "You've been here before? He said he liked you."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpL29uKd0DS
Len sipped her drink. "A few random deliveries."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoEvdvc9bjx
Wolf nodded, then glanced around the inn properly. It was clean—maybe six tables scattered around, with a few booths against the walls. Beyond the bar, stairs led up to what must be rooms for travelers.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdkwXad5jmi
But it seemed like a big place for just one person.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1dUHStw4yG
Len noticed his confusion. "His staff is probably off running errands. Or getting ready for tonight—that's when inns get busy."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm5q4PKBrKP
Icarus emerged from the back carrying two plates. The scent of honey and cooked meat filled the air immediately.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkCNKG4HzSV
"Here we are." He set the plates down. Two thick sausages on each plate, glistening with honey glaze and fragrant herbs. "Honey sausages—my specialty. I've got a preference for meat myself, but I serve other things out of necessity. These though?" He gestured proudly. "This is why I could even run an inn in the city against the competition. The honey makes all the difference."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYS3dVSbJxf
Wolf took a bite.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0AxGBw9tb0
It was incredible. Maybe even better than Mom's cooking—though he'd never say that out loud.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF9IB1RaujG
Len clearly felt the same.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFgGGiXIam9
Between bites, Wolf asked, "You can't be the only one who works here, right?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdb0i7qOjAN
"True enough," Icarus said, leaning against the counter. "I do have staff. Gave them a half-day today since they'll be working tonight. Business was slow this morning, and I'd already handled most things."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuB53TH0Krp
He gestured vaguely toward the back. "That's why I made a mess earlier. They don't leave items in the same places I do—so I tripped over something." He grinned. "I'm assuming you were wondering about the noise and were too polite to ask. But I'm okay, by the way."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzPHpG1zpID
Wolf smiled back, relaxing more. Icarus was intimidating, sure. But he was also... kind of funny.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡocKkHmlv5C
"Glad you're okay." Wolf paused. "Is that why we made this delivery?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpxnz1U7GwB
"No." Icarus shook his head. "More of a friendly favor from your dad. I use him for most of my bigger meat deliveries. Other times I get smaller orders from different suppliers, but your dad's reliable. Good quality."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9rJj5uWbWf
"Really?" Wolf was shocked. He turned to Len. "How come Dad never told me we had a bearkin as a customer?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPtuRPWEdR5
Len frowned immediately. Icarus laughed—but it was a different laugh. Less mirth, more resignation.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtBsqYB6jqQ
"He's not a 'bearkin,' brother." Len's voice was firm. "That's rude. He's beastkin. They're blessed by the gods just like us."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJhfVXwVIp
Wolf's face burned. "I didn't know it was rude! I'm sorry—"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5FQJ5Zfzuw
Icarus waved a massive hand dismissively. "It's no big deal. Most beastkin hear it often enough to know it's not usually said with hate." His expression softened. "More like awe and wonder. Curiosity."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡna9vww7yaZ
Then his smile faded slightly, something harder entering his eyes. "And any who do wish harm?" He paused. "Let's just leave it at that, kid."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUlMrflJ573
The shift was subtle but unmistakable. Wolf suddenly remembered the way Icarus had stared at him earlier—like a predator. Not evil. Just... capable.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2BYme3aYOD
Then the warmth returned to his voice. "I like this town. You all treat beastkin well, so far. Let's keep it at that and a warm welcome, yeah?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuA5OZkAPgx
Wolf nodded quickly. He understood the message: Icarus was friendly because they treated him with respect. That could change.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxnTMNJhFt8
They finished their meal, then thanked Icarus for his time.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5dmWfTzpwP
As they headed for the door, he called after them, "You're welcome here any time, pups! Don't be strangers!"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr6Zu3w9fnY
Wolf waved back, mind spinning. He was happy to meet new people. But he was also realizing just how little he actually knew about the world.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRVAWvtf71Y
The trip back was uneventful. Nina was eager to hear about the delivery, so they told her everything—the honey sausages, the sweet drink, Icarus's intimidating stare.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡINOrqoYLTE
Dad was listening from behind the counter. He smirked but said nothing. Wolf figured he'd known exactly what would happen—that it would be good for Wolf to meet someone like Icarus.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0fSA6fmtka
Len felt a bit guilty for forgetting to warn her brother that Icarus could be... overbearing.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxfAbNTxrgR
As the excitement wore down, Wolf noticed something. The shelf he'd cleaned weeks ago was still empty.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGr4vOmWJd1
He approached his father. "Dad? The shelf is still empty. Did you want me to put something there?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpVu8zMHYfS
Dad looked up and smiled. "That's your shelf, son. If you make anything, you can sell it there."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLyZhEOxKL0
Wolf blinked. "Make anything? Like what?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr3AJTeTz5M
"Well, you could make spices. Or herb bundles. Other things too, if you get creative. And you'd keep the money—minus any costs to make the items, of course." He paused. "It would be good to teach you about how business works."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqS1gu4ZNkz
"Really?" Wolf's eyes went wide. "I can make money? Real money?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPU5q9Jh4yb
Dad laughed. "Yes, you can. Len already makes money when she runs deliveries."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxAIn3R5dCB
"Wow." Wolf turned to his sister. "What do you do with it?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡReiewLLArj
Dad looked thoughtful. "Not sure, actually. Save it, maybe? I think I saw her buy a dress once." He scratched his head. "But more often than not, she seems happy not spending it."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkStD2YQosF
Wolf was shocked. He'd always thought having money meant you had to spend it.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWoPgBFJXVj
"So how do I get the right herbs to sell?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNqunJZXb48
Dad looked amused. "You go exploring every day. And you know how to gather herbs, don't you, son?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRqjCDNLHWG
Wolf blushed, feeling foolish. "But those are for home. For cooking and food. Not for selling."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ04uBI8GKfi
"True." Dad nodded. "If you want to help the family, we thank you and love you for that. But if you want to run part of a shop, you need to sell things. That's what makes it a business."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyoHTD5bdIC
It made perfect sense. Wolf wasn't sure why he'd never thought of it that way before.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1I0GckvZ59
"Okay, Dad. Thank you!" Wolf threw his arms around his father. "I'm going to start tomorrow!"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdacBaLH563
He turned to Len. "Will you help me?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTsZAcqX4Yo
She shook her head apologetically. "You know I'm always willing to help, brother. But I've got deliveries to make."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnzVFRh5dhX
"What about me?" Nina piped up excitedly, her tail wagging.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡccRaUr6Lom
Wolf hesitated. He tried to let her down gently. "Maybe another time?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUuTWospWaX
Nina's tail stopped wagging. Her ears drooped. She didn't push further, but the disappointment was obvious.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJPKidGr8jY
Len noticed and tried to brighten the mood. "We can help on our off days." She glanced at Nina pointedly. "Just not right now. Things have been getting busier—more people coming to town, trade picking up."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsyi6XbkX36
Nina's tail started wagging again.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAwW0TZPniL
Wolf was happy too. He had new options now. A real plan. His own corner of the shop to manage.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdJiZj0D3ZM
It was a new day. A new adventure.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWp8dFMWMGe
Unfortunately, Coby was still out hunting with his dad. Len, Nina, and Nebo were all busy helping Dad at the shop. And Mom was doing what Mom always did—keeping everything running.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKifEHMLxED
That left Wolf alone with a whole day to gather herbs.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7sS4oPBvvD
Len had lent him a spare basket. It was lighter than he expected, woven from thin strips of wood.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAf6eZ399TG
He decided to try something new instead of going to the lake. A different direction.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh4vrucl3jr
Traveling through the village had become easier. He'd started noticing things: new buildings, new people. There was a blacksmith's shop he'd never paid attention to before. What looked like a butcher's shop further down the road.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1wjBPRy2wG
As he kept going, the buildings shifted from shops to homes. Most ignored him as he passed. A few waved or called out "Morning!"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsLyzEgMNio
Soon he was outside the village again, on the road heading toward the forest.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZR6YH6TgHV
He was surprised to see other people already there, scattered among the trees with their own baskets.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOuEEP2dSq2
Wolf frowned. If people were already foraging here, he'd need to go somewhere else. He veered right, away from the other foragers.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡozhrchGnL6
The forest was just as dense as always. He remembered Coby's trick about leaving marks. Using the small knife he'd brought for cutting herbs, he carved quick lines into tree bark every few trees.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡctrQ8KokdW
He didn't want to go too far. But with other foragers nearby, he figured nothing good would be close.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzZYYcogjNs
About an hour passed. He'd gathered a few herbs—nothing impressive. His old spot near the lake had always been full of berries and easy finds. Here, everything seemed rare.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmTO0qYEbci
Wolf was about to give up when he smelled something.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyFCem6fT4P
Strong. Overwhelming. The scent of herbs—a lot of herbs.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzpnMZERL6J
His eyes widened. Was there some rare patch nobody else had found?519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKYG05xuign
He followed the smell eagerly. But as he got closer, he started to slow down. The scent was changing. Mixed with smoke now—not burning wood, but herbs being cooked or processed somehow.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmHYyjXTxao
This was deliberate. Someone was making something.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPRJI7pBdxW
Wolf turned to leave—this wasn't what he was looking for—and almost screamed.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP1XRFhdKlL
An old man stood directly behind him.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD5sSsg3E9n
Hunched, squinting, holding a basket overflowing with herbs. His face was a map of wrinkles, his clothes stained with various colors. Wolf froze, mouth open.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2DLpcsWpb3
The old man squinted harder at him.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe30TyGCbTQ
Finally, he spoke. "Well? There a reason you're here?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtKXZoEqWdG
Wolf was still too shocked to answer.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiSv3f7OQ1L
The old man moved closer, peering at him. "You lost, boy?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe3hqZfWcaM
"I—"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg54IJAZ8Zp
"Got a name? Or did nobody raise you to speak?" The words came rapid-fire. "I can guide you back if you need, but I'm not taking you in. I don't like company. That's why we have the church for strays..."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡosln1bR11N
Wolf finally found his voice. "I—I was gathering herbs. To sell."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv0AYd4K1Uv
"Herbs?" Herbert's interest sharpened. "Do you like herbs, or are you just desperate for food?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhUlmWia6g4
He leaned closer, squinting harder. "Are you a street rat?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdRGEssURX0
"A what?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxfHqKSuy2Z
"Kid, do you have a home?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8OPBclATG8
Wolf bristled. "I do. I have a mom, dad, and sister."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡETPlpQ6gWs
"Okay. So why are you here and not with them?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH8C9yCpc3V
Now Wolf was getting annoyed. "I told you. I'm gathering herbs to sell." He gestured with his mostly-empty basket. "I usually scout near the lake, but I wanted to try a new place today. I didn't know anyone was here."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNYGtpnYhlX
He started backing away. "I'll leave. I'm bothering you."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmXfbimwibD
"Wait."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1coKqzj1Vl
Wolf stopped.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDYhx3wIAKG
Herbert studied him. "I'll buy your herbs."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvzAJjOGUr5
"What?" Wolf was genuinely surprised. "Why?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq0i8OMM9Lu
He didn't trust this strange old man. Not yet.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKK6GRyvC9N
Herbert waved a gnarled hand. "I always need more herbs. Don't like going into town—waste of time unless I really need to." He shifted his basket. "I tend to get most things brought to me. But herbs are always in short supply."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp1wqEdl5sz
"What do you do with them?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMmRTB4JJ27
Herbert's face lit up. "Alchemy, boy. The greatest thing humans ever achieved." Then his expression soured. "Before they lost themselves to magic and became weak."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1s0OCH5EEt
Wolf was interested despite himself. But he didn't agree about magic.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRdSrPi8lzh
Still... he wanted to know what the old man was talking about.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡByLCVGLWxA
"What's alchemy? What does it do?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvJaQKtBZIA
Herbert smiled. "Almost anything. Probably everything, if we'd only focused on it instead of chasing magic like fools."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaVyX9Sqf31
Wolf frowned. "How did magic break alchemy?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtXLCJBdwRW
Herbert sighed heavily. "Alchemy is mixing herbs into potions. Making very specific things with consistent results." He tapped his temple. "Knowledge. Method. Precision."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0we2UMJ4zJ
"Magic follows no rules or laws. It can change anything with enough power..." He trailed off, shaking his head.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrIAVz7nVKW
"And that's bad?" Wolf asked slowly.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDHMLc7Bx5a
Herbert looked at him intently. "I can make a potion that heals and cures sickness. The same mix works every single time. Reliable."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA2Xkq6h6Ot
He paused. "But magic? Maybe it cures everything. Maybe it won't. Maybe it restores stamina. Maybe it doesn't." His voice grew harder. "Magic is volatile. Prone to endless change. It requires will and force—or it won't do what you want at all."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡij07vgcLdZ
He gestured to his basket. "But my potions? You get the same cure every time. No guessing. No hoping. Just results."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdVGWGwTPBk
Said like that, Wolf could understand why the old man felt that way.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZgi8AeHfZr
But something occurred to him. "What about magical alchemy? People who use both?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTugTiECNbD
Herbert scoffed. "They exist. And they do make passable, watered-down drinks that can help some people." His tone was bitter. "They also profit from people wanting an easy fix."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0bTPT3wdzM
He went quiet for a moment. When he spoke again, his voice was softer. Almost sad. "I don't blame them, really. Everybody wants easy answers. Easy fixes."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnTJkgeGW3V
Another pause. "Even if it means others suffer for it."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ407VSqWW9J
The words hung heavy in the air.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyUu2R3hrvO
Herbert must have sensed Wolf's hesitation. His expression softened slightly. "If you ever wish to know more, I'm not going anywhere. I tend to have deliveries once a week." He gestured vaguely toward where the smoke was coming from. "I also forage for my own herbs to fill in while I wait."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA45STTHBUF
He squinted at Wolf again. "Can you find your way back? Or do you need me to guide you?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGnLxo9M1am
Wolf glanced at his carved marks on the nearby trees. "I'll be fine, sir. Thanks for offering to help."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrh4dCqdjtQ
"Eh?" The old man's eyebrows shot up. "Sir? Me?" He barked a laugh. "They call me Herbert. Or Hermit. Whatever makes you happy."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTmEHs411TS
Wolf blinked. "That's not your real name?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyGRzmxrGdY
"Nope. But I like it, so I use it." Herbert shrugged. "If not Herbert, then Hermit works fine. Not like a lot of people ask about me anyway."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrO05tdpObp
"Herb-ert," Wolf said slowly, realizing. "Like... a herb?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ64dj8k4mMX
"Yeah." Herbert grinned, showing yellowed teeth. "Play on words. Clever, right? I like it."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdATCzuGwws
Wolf couldn't help but smile. It was kind of clever.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaopPHGbMxx
"Okay. Well, my name is Wolf."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFm1Tc0Sb8k
"Wolf?" Herbert looked mildly surprised. "Seems I'm not the only one fond of using unconventional names."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF59uhZkbuR
"Un-con-what?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡavJFfAlTDr
"Heh." Herbert's amusement was obvious. "Just means not a normal name. Not bad—just different."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpCtcEhcxGX
Wolf wasn't sure how to feel about that.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKxbsRLmEGQ
"Let's say I do sell to you. How much would you give me for herbs?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiZyvikMbpi
"Hmm." Herbert scratched his chin. "Well, I prefer barter and trade. But I can easily pay with coins or potions."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXDX0YovhKR
"Potions?" Wolf's eyes lit up.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuyzUFIiG2D
Herbert squinted at him and frowned. "Were you not listening, boy?" He spoke each word deliberately. "I. Am. An. ALCHEMIST. So yes, I make potions. Why else would I offer to buy herbs?"519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbMJOW8aAgf
Wolf felt his face heat with embarrassment. He swallowed his pride. The hermit did have knowledge worth learning...519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfgHgbZpUbn
"Okay. I'll trust you." Wolf straightened his shoulders. "I'll sell you whatever herbs I get."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqRtF71H3lT
"Good, good."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIuGtcEnl6E
"But I probably won't stop by tomorrow," Wolf added quickly. "I want to check near the lake for more herbs first. And I might have some herbs at my dad's shop already—but I want to keep those there. Dad's teaching me how to run the shop, and I need stock to sell."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2wCdo7v35p
Herbert waved his hand dismissively. "That's fine, that's fine. I always need more. Never enough." He shifted his basket. "I'm sure whatever little you find or sell in your shop won't matter much to my supply. This is more about sharing alchemy than anything."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡybtlW7ZuIs
His expression softened—almost wistful. "It's been too long since anyone showed any interest. This could be fun."519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAhpxvx2K0h
Wolf nodded, still a bit confused and wary. But the hermit seemed harmless enough.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYHCjRryo0u
As he turned to follow his trail marks back home, he glanced over his shoulder. Herbert was already walking away, squinting at the ground and mumbling to himself as he searched for more herbs.519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8VFKN7q3wp
Wolf wondered if the old man even knew he was still there, watching him go.
519Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx7gKShrmWO
and then Add to home screen.