The trip back was simpler than Wolf expected. He managed to reach the road much easier this time, his carved marks guiding him true.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCvUEB1jCMo
He saw the same people he'd noticed earlier—but now that he was closer, he could see them clearly. Foxkin. And not just any foxkin—Nina and Nebo.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5NZbGmok3B
He approached, curious why they were still here.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI7gCmWLAiP
"WOOOOLF!"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvRl3F1HqzR
Nina rushed him, practically tackling him with excitement. "We're helping!"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvgV9060KpF
Wolf nodded, not entirely sure what she meant, as she hugged him. He was still processing when Nebo caught up, his expression calm as always.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4feiexwdvZ
"I saw you heading toward old Herbert's part of the woods," Nebo said. "You had business with him?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0x6arTXWQR
"No. I didn't even know he was there." Wolf shifted his basket. "I was just looking for herbs."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhUCqVGuC5H
"I thought it was odd you ignored us," Nebo continued, glancing back toward the forest. "I assumed you had business with him and didn't want to be disturbed."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrd9ELeXodL
Nina's ears flattened as she glared at her brother. "Brother wouldn't let me go after you. Said we were working."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8BDp5U8hKl
"We are working," Nebo replied, his own ears going flat. "You asked if we could gather herbs to help Wolf, not run off and play."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6oKi8sDRNr
"I can do both," Nina huffed. But despite her flat ears, her tail kept wagging as she stared at Wolf.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZViOi42Xoc
Wolf felt happy seeing them. He wished he hadn't been in such a rush earlier, thinking it was some kind of competition for herbs.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTUs7e3uj0Z
"Herbert always looks for herbs," Nina said casually, breaking into his thoughts. She was just happy he was there. "He asks everyone he sees, but tends to rely on others to spread the word."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCUBl34pcNm
Nebo studied Wolf for a moment. "I assumed you were making a delivery. You seemed pretty confident walking into his part of the woods."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMlZ4JBXpRE
Wolf felt his face heat slightly at being told he'd looked bold. "I was just exploring for more herbs. For myself." He paused. "I never knew there was someone more serious about herbs than me."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwUmD3Bm4bW
"Well, I'm glad to hear my sister wasn't an influence," Nebo said dryly, watching Nina from the corner of his eye. "She tends to leap first, then think."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIKfkitVs93
"Hey!" Nina pouted at him, trying to look angry. But it didn't last long—she turned to Wolf instead, ignoring her brother entirely. "Don't worry about the hermit. He's harmless. Can be a bit gruff, like my brother—" She stuck her tongue out at Nebo to punctuate the insult. "But he's never hurt anyone."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFyRYQEc9jk
Her tail wagged as she finished.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoz41W4i8dj
"Thanks for the info," Wolf said. Then, almost without thinking: "He also offered to teach me alchemy. But I dunno if I want to."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5e5fGkFckG
Nina's interest sharpened immediately. "Why though? What makes you special?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz9yDAbIEAZ
She was watching him curiously, head tilted.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7WxsZQUy8X
"Nina." Nebo's voice held a note of warning. "That's rude. Talking to the hermit is rubbing off on you, it seems."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ71vXta8PBC
"Sorry." Nina's tail and ears drooped instantly. She hadn't meant it like that.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4CW7mW2pMO
Wolf didn't mind—he'd been wondering the same thing himself. "It's fine. I know you care. I was just wondering too." He smiled slightly. "I want to know why he picked me."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6HbVHLlxM2
Nina perked up immediately at that. Wolf was amazed at how easily she bounced back from disappointment.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQz8T5YGhau
This was turning into more of an adventure than Wolf had expected in one day. He thanked them for their insights about Herbert and started back toward the shop.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuDd2GLSu3s
"WAIT!"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQWCpLMNxTX
Nina grabbed his arm before he'd gotten far. "You're just leaving? After we're doing all this to help you?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAtB7LgitJU
She looked close to tears. It surprised him.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡygZjiYPIul
"Nina." Nebo's voice was calm—a stark contrast to his sister's intensity. "We chose to do a job. Just because Wolf showed up doesn't change the work we agreed to do."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiNi3Ls2jwU
He was always like this, Wolf noticed. Measured. Responsible.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRPytd8dvF1
But Wolf felt bad. He was blowing them off too easily, wasn't he? After they'd been kind enough to explain about Herbert...423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4KVZ0QSs0X
"I'll stay," he said. "Help you gather. Then we can all go back together."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3uSvz8JJ7N
Nina's face lit up immediately.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjfFKSm4EAl
Nebo frowned slightly. "You shouldn't encourage her impulsive behavior."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmSfgtTGPFp
But Wolf had already made up his mind.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeBqZC3NYN3
The gathering itself was easy enough. Mostly quiet, except for Nina randomly bringing up new topics as they searched—asking about his favorite spots near the lake, whether he'd seen any interesting animals, what other herbs he was looking for.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzX3TB7NTSx
About an hour passed before they decided they'd gathered enough. The three of them headed back to the shop together, baskets full.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU2NeHG5hUt
Nina chattered the whole way.
When they entered the shop, a few people were talking to Len and gathering supplies. Wolf waited for her to finish helping them while Nina and Nebo unpacked their baskets and started organizing the herbs they'd gathered.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCD9ITXI5F8
Finally, Len turned her attention to them. "Mom already left for the day. But she left extra bread and cheese and tarts for us." She smiled. "There's plenty if you want some."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBocvX1Hgou
Wolf ate a little bread and cheese, but he wasn't particularly hungry. Nina, on the other hand, devoured a good portion—earning a glare from Nebo, who only took a modest amount.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn50ppBXlix
When Wolf told Len about his adventure with Herbert, he was surprised by her reaction.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡivHU6uQyO5
"You know the hermit too?" Wolf was amazed. His sister explored more than he realized, even with all her work responsibilities.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiLGvgVfCo2
"I've met him a few times," Len said thoughtfully. "He keeps to himself. Doesn't like traveling much, I think. It's been a while, so the details are fuzzy." She shrugged. "He seemed harmless. Nobody complains about him, at least."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnmAnrHMpQe
"He said he named himself Herbert," Wolf added, still finding it amusing. "Said it was a play on words."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7fdlvd5Oqx
"Ah." Len's face brightened with recognition. "That's right—that's what he went on about when I met him. Asked you the same thing, I assume? About why you're called Wolf?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIjLEaeu7rx
She was watching him curiously.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnWamFR2o5Y
"Yeah! And he even offered to teach me alchemy!" Wolf's excitement bubbled over now that he had time to really think about it.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNdOfBm97GS
Nina saw his joy and immediately chimed in. "I agree it would be good for Wolf!" She was trying to show support, her tail wagging.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWxJVbYFAHc
Len's expression shifted. She frowned slightly. "Hmm. I don't know about that. Mom and Dad won't like it." Her voice was careful. "Alchemy's not something to play with."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcHzPHSWc6E
"I agree," Nebo said from nearby.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR0VsppwJPd
Wolf turned, surprised. Nebo was stocking a shelf and usually never commented on things that didn't concern him directly.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfPgMWvENPv
"What do you mean?" Wolf asked, confused.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNgAl96DtIr
Nebo continued working, his voice calm and measured. "Alchemy is potions and elixirs. Not food to make or something to play with. You can hurt yourself or others if you're not careful."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5NhqrztPIY
"Won't that be why he teaches me?" Wolf didn't understand the problem. "So I learn to be careful?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAuSmNiiouP
"No." Len's voice was firm. "That's why he wants to teach you. Because he thinks you're ready. But that doesn't make it safe. And it doesn't mean you actually are ready."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡER8LQMJyrW
Wolf felt anger flare in his chest. His sister was treating him like a child. He should be old enough to choose what he wanted to do.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXQniKjWp1O
Nina reached out to comfort him, but he jerked away.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJEdGR680fP
"I'll just ask Dad," Wolf said, his voice tight. "I don't need you to decide for me."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtuWEUtsWuS
Len looked hurt. She was upset he felt that way, but she didn't want to push the issue further.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ucK7gTsAU
They all left it at that.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZKgLXHeyp8
Wolf stormed out of the shop, his mind racing. He needed to think about how he could convince Dad to let him study alchemy. He didn't even really care that much about it—but being told no made him want it more.
Inside the shop, Nina watched Wolf leave with worried eyes. "Should I go after him?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlfONJexC1L
She wanted to be there for him. But Len shook her head, thinking he needed space.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpj1EdBsedK
It was Nebo who stopped Nina from following. "It's part of growing up. You had to learn that lesson yourself."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn6ExC338Zl
Nina didn't like that answer. But she bent to their judgment, hoping Wolf would feel better after some time alone.
Later that evening, when the family settled for dinner, Wolf broached the subject. He told them about his day—and that he wanted to study alchemy.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHT22w3PAE7
Mom looked surprised. But Dad seemed oddly calm.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkP8Vveq4GB
Wolf's stomach sank. His sister had talked to Dad first. He felt betrayed all over again.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0CSwiL8806
"I know how you feel, son," Dad said carefully. "But potions aren't a game. You don't even know what most herbs do yet, and you want to brew them into new things?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2LE3iFme9p
He was trying to be reasonable. Wolf could hear it in his tone.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMaTdZRdFnS
"That's why I'll learn," Wolf countered.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjXM9FSfgQT
"You can't learn if you don't do anything but explore," Len said.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPGpOGYo5aP
The words came out harsher than she probably meant, but they still stung.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMhe4EqoC44
Mom remained quiet, not voicing an opinion either way. Wolf noticed Len looked a bit sad. Why was she sad? She was the one stopping his dreams, not the other way around.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkdC9nZ52DD
"If you want me to believe you're serious about this, it's going to take time," Dad said. His voice was calm but stern. "You wanted to run out of this house the moment you could barely walk. You begged to help at the shop. And now, the first chance you get, you're already chasing something else."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGFuMSlSNWr
"That's different!" Wolf protested. "My potions would be sellable in the shop! I do help out. You said you don't even need me!"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡohSFdTD7ij
He hated how his own words were being turned against him.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIDqZgFCoL6
"We do need you, son." Dad's voice was patient. "But we want you to be able to choose your own life. So we make do without forcing you into things."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8n4QsocmT7
He paused, letting that sink in.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6sO50mUoIZ
"Did you not think about how much your mother and sister do while you go on these adventures?" Dad continued. "It's why we hired help."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPvINI5c5LK
Wolf had no reply to that.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4UnndFInhX
"I've been training Nebo for distant trades for a while now," Dad explained. "We've even expanded enough that we can start making trips to the city to sell goods. Your mother can focus more on accounting. And your sister—" He glanced at Len. "—can choose whatever she wants to do in time."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡENd3UTpgML
"Since we have Nina also helping to ease the burden," Dad finished. "But right now, we still need help."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxHh64Hr2hc
"What if I help more?" Wolf asked desperately. "Will you trust me then?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA0NGyDAjmG
Dad sighed. "It's not just about trust. You need more education. More time to understand things." His expression was gentle but firm. "Everything is an adventure to you right now. You're not mature enough to pick up a powerful skill that can save lives—or hurt them."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ9o56KLSi8
Wolf felt like his heart was breaking. His sister and his dad were both against him.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE7KoMElhNo
He turned to his mother, voice small and wavering. "Do you think so too, Mom?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1DSgtOLJBB
He was wondering if anyone cared that he was losing his dream before he could even try to dream it.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNBF4IAJHA4
Mom gave him a sad smile. "My son, I believe you can do anything and more."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ44N3VWCY4t
There's always a 'but,' Wolf thought bitterly.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMiEGMasQjw
"But you are young," she continued. "And the world is still new to you. I do support you. And when you're older, we can't stop you." She paused. "But we need you to understand what it is you're asking for."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm1bLoJUR1W
Her next words felt like a knife.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrEYaGAFHgb
"The fact that you see us trying to hurt you instead of love you? That's proof you're still a child."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoBDp7AwNxz
Wolf wasn't sure if that was supposed to comfort him. But it felt like the final betrayal. Even his mother saw him as a baby—worth little, needing to be watched over.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRtz0uMAIjR
"May I be excused?" His voice was barely a whisper. "I'm not hungry."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq0381DP2wx
Dad looked like he wanted to protest, but Mom gave him a look. He frowned, then nodded reluctantly.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbYiYJHs6zh
"We'll see you in the morning, son. Goodnight."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKiGi9I8m2q
"Night," Wolf mumbled.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKJbs8ju3OB
He slunk away to his room.
Later that night, Len came to visit him. She said she was sorry he felt that way, and that she'd help him where she could.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5MqrYF6pQy
But Wolf didn't believe her.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqMYqluJYx9
He mostly ignored her as he lay in bed, restlessly trying to sleep. His mind wouldn't stop racing—replaying the conversation, the betrayal, the hurt.
Nobody woke Wolf in the morning.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRCvhSkmX28
Not that they normally needed to—but today he overslept, and they left him be.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4bq26NezUw
He was thankful and insulted at the same time. Thankful for the space. Insulted that they were showing him pity, treating him like a child who needed time alone.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaIxrlXBfP7
He sighed, staring at the ceiling.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVn5tUQ06Sq
Was he proving them wrong? Or proving them right with how he was acting?423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0UEvDvkroo
They'd always loved him. And the first time he didn't get his way, he'd hated them for it.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS74KsiXGFQ
Who was really the bad guy here?
Mother was the only one still home when he finally dragged himself out of bed. Wolf walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her in a big hug.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuxDFK7ylTE
"I'm sorry," he mumbled into her shoulder. "I guess I really am still a child. I care more about what I want than about my family—even after you gave me the freedom to explore."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeVrRWaciYt
His mother's arms tightened around him. She made a small sound, and he realized she was crying a little.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsj3vLyIxgH
"It's okay," she said softly. "I support you no matter what you do."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXj8UyDyrSu
That made Wolf tear up too.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtla1o1ajtn
After a moment, he pulled back slightly. "Is Len mad at me?" He was worried about how he'd treated her.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzjcUtErol8
"No, dear." Mom brushed his hair back gently. "And your father knows how hard life can be. He and Len—they've both always worked. So to them, it feels normal." She paused. "But your dad knows we're better off than most families. We can choose how we live."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT3VvKaamOu
She held him close, thinking about what else to say.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡULAeqafDUo
"So he wants to let you both live freer lives," she continued. "But it seems Len doesn't want that freedom. At least not right now." Mom smiled slightly. "It was a surprise to all of us that you were so different from your sister."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSL2Gn9PLRA
She touched his cheek.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhNn2jDtewB
"Just like your name, Wolf—you want to be free. To wander."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV4iy3AyL55
Wolf had a lot to think about.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4kPu96SLf6
"I do want to run the shop one day," Wolf said slowly. He was searching for the right words. "But I want to make it my shop. Not Dad's or Len's."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcVSTcT3c38
He looked up at his mother.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTPfZZKl6US
"They're happy with a general store," he continued. "I want something different. That's why alchemy sounded like something new I could try."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb80O1vHiNP
His mother sighed, brushing his hair back gently. "You know the church has been having classes? About the gods and magic?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBxlWoSLog8
Wolf nodded hesitantly.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxePGDDPbyz
"We were just waiting for you to be a little older to send you," Mom explained. "Len already went and learned the basics from them. I think Mrs. Crow was planning to send Coby too." She studied him to make sure he was listening. "We were thinking it would be good for you soon as well."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvXL5bPsO02
Wolf was still paying attention.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIsviK5yUSh
"But that's not the only reason we tried to stop you from studying alchemy," she added. "You also need to learn more than just basic reading and writing. There are numbers to understand. And the gods."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjHPK3uksMZ
Wolf sighed. He'd known it. He remembered seeing a tutor come for Len, remembered her always leaving for lessons. He'd thought it was just for shop business—but now he realized she'd actually been busy learning. And she wasn't even that much older than him.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3h38n9PaqQ
"Okay, Mom," he agreed, defeated.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0DRlmeRwP5
Then a thought occurred to him. "Can I still see the hermit? To let him know I have to do more grown-up stuff first?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAEILqOwLbx
Mom smiled. "He may be old, but he's still healthy. You have time." She paused, amusement in her voice. "Besides, I think he forgets things. According to your father, it's why he's always asking for more herbs."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbhJvKUe8cj
"I bet it's because he makes super potions," Wolf speculated. "And that's why he uses so many."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrKlQycZLTX
"Maybe," Mom relented. "But that's not something we need to worry about right now." She gave his bottom a light pat, shooing him away. "Go wash up and help me with these chores. Then we can bring some food to the shop for everyone."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqC9oWQ9wgl
She smiled at him warmly.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmGN9obZyTe
"You can make up with your sister and work out where to go from there."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYr0xKSI8q9
That seemed like the end of it.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxR7qrbbMs8
Wolf wasn't happy with the way things were. But he also didn't want this to become a wedge that divided his family.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuNefMMyY9I
Being a grown-up meant making choices. And he didn't want to choose being apart from his family just because they wouldn't give him everything he wanted, whenever he wanted it.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9vkJ0VQNrL
That wasn't what mattered most.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYmEca7rC6m
The chores were easy and went quickly. Wolf helped make jam bread—a treat, and a peace offering for his sister.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSu9aiJQoYQ
While they worked, Mom made a nice meal with meat and bread. Wolf ate his portion before they left. Depending on how the conversation at the shop went, he might not be there long. And he didn't want to lose his appetite if things got difficult again.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7gBGBhz4jY
He was also starting to feel the lack of sleep from the night before. Even after sleeping in, he was tired. He didn't want to add hunger on top of exhaustion.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNvDRnaOpiE
If it gets really bad, he thought, I guess I know where to find berries.
The trip to the shop was quiet.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8p79GRWkil
Mom never talked much—much like Len. She was happy just being near family. She didn't need to fill the space with noise to be content. She enjoyed the quiet moments just fine.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9lDLwzuB5w
Wolf appreciated it today. His thoughts were too jumbled for conversation anyway.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIKxk5VbLEx
When they arrived at the shop, Len wasn't there—she was running an errand. Nina and Nebo had the day off, leaving just Dad behind the counter.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu1kYtUl3AJ
Wolf took a deep breath.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgjfnzBAr5c
He'd start with Dad.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGMEdCMEHEM
Wolf approached the counter slowly.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIOnPocviwW
"Sorry, Dad." He kept his head down as he spoke. "I had time to think. And I know I'm still a kid." The words tasted bitter. "I know I need to grow up more before I try to act like an adult."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY69IvTXO3O
He didn't like saying it. Didn't really believe it, even if it was true.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyFPbkY85D5
He felt a hand on his head. Then Dad pulled him into a hug.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEdHm6TVng8
"Son, you're not a child," Dad said gently. "But you are young. And you're in too much of a hurry to grow up."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCON7WXFGLs
Wolf pressed his face into his father's shirt.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSZnxaAnvRv
"You're putting the cart before the horse," Dad continued. "And wondering why it's not working."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiLjQDCrqOD
It was a weird saying. But Wolf couldn't disagree with the idea behind it.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOhOFcnXjnx
"I'm not sure if your mother talked with you," Dad said, pulling back to look at him. "But we want you to get more schooling. Like Len did. She had a tutor to help her understand the basics." He paused. "We also want you to go to the church. To learn more about magic and the gods."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWybdILMFAb
Wolf pulled away from the embrace, slightly embarrassed. He'd noticed a few people browsing the shop, watching them.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdXVEIa3a9x
"I understand," he mumbled.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqCmRdWVDJf
"Besides," Dad added, his tone brightening, "it's not like learning can't be fun. You'll have your friend Coby there. Maybe you'll even meet some other kids."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnRK8xZXpN0
He smiled warmly.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjToggkDinX
"You explore alone so often. They might join you on adventures. Or if nothing else, they'll be people you sell to one day when you're running your own shop."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Vy6InFxDm
Wolf smiled at that—but it was halfhearted. He'd seen other kids around the village, sure. But he didn't want to play with them. He had Len and Coby. That was enough.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHQO1uOKoF1
I guess Nina too, he thought.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsye0dhRGUr
"I still need to talk to the hermit," Wolf said. "To tell him I can't study yet."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE6UzSp9qdo
Wolf explained his plans—what he'd worked out with Mom that morning. He wanted to visit Herbert, let him know he couldn't study alchemy yet. That he needed more education first.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7IQgluKltA
Dad listened carefully, then nodded. "That's fair. That's mature of you, son."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm7aH8DVUj4
He didn't disagree. He accepted Wolf's request.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCeZgnSxfK6
They'd work out the other details—tutoring, church lessons—as they went.
Len showed up a while later, returning from her errand. When she saw Wolf, her face lit up. She came over and hugged him without hesitation.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBg0z6MlZBc
It surprised Wolf. He'd thought she might hold a grudge for how he'd ignored her the night before.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Lo11J0zn3
But she just held him, happy he was there.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ9iNhlKlkN
It made him feel worse. He'd been mean to her when she'd only shown him love.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ53YMVvigEe
"I made you something," Wolf said quietly, pulling back. He handed her the jam bread wrapped in cloth. "A peace offering."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf0G3UMDdLk
Len's smile widened. "You didn't have to do that." But she unwrapped it eagerly and took a bite. "Mmm. Thank you, brother."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw6ll50z903
As she ate, she told him about her mini-adventure that morning—delivering goods to various houses around the village, chatting with neighbors, helping Mrs. Crow carry water.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEEuem8dUfZ
Wolf was happy hearing about it. Even when they were apart, they both had their own adventures. He hated that they couldn't always share them together. But he was learning to treasure the ones they did get.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuwRJORAkBY
Instead of always wanting more. Like a child.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKKRHlLlXSt
He wanted to grow up. And this was the first step.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGVTHwSJF8K
As he thought about it, Coby was mature like Len. Neither of them complained about what they had to do. Coby even embraced hunting with his dad instead of trying to find something new all the time.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQRPTrCvz37
Maybe that was what being grown-up meant.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrRsq38wM0k
"Thank you," Wolf said suddenly. "For always being there for me."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEGCG3QgfRR
Len laughed, surprised. "Dear brother, I will always be here for you." She ruffled his hair. "You're a rare treasure. We all love you."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZeS1tbXJHq
Wolf smiled at that.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG78t9C61ul
He needed to treasure his family more too. And he would.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqC5dLoCh37
The more Wolf thought about magic and the potential of potions, the more he swore to himself that this was how he'd give back. How he'd help.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡywzigSHogB
Maybe it was still a child's view—thinking he could solve everything, that it would all work out.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdPJQxSFqpb
But it was all he could see for now. And that was enough.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEmkreEE8pk
He'd worry about what came later when it was later. Rushing had only made him fight with his family instead of getting his way. So he'd be more patient.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcIgX02X59u
He'd learn first. Then he'd prove himself.
The trip to Herbert's part of the woods was peaceful and quiet. Nothing dramatic happened—just Wolf following his carved marks through familiar territory.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTGyrhXxNyg
Before he could get lost, he found the marks from the day before and kept close to them.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFaEBDQ2N1I
But something was different. He couldn't find Herbert's home.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZpardLAFAR
Maybe it was because he couldn't smell the herbs this time? That small change made it harder to navigate. It seemed like he'd wandered too far.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaJP5cC1LxI
Wolf was about to double back when a voice spoke up behind him.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2PHlOxPEUe
"You lost, boy?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJfp1ds0VyG
Wolf screamed and spun around.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeLyRWzt92L
"Old man!" he shouted, unintentionally loud.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Xjzycl3Ke
"Yes," Herbert said slowly, squinting at him. "I'm a bit old. But that doesn't answer my question. What brings you here, kid?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC7H28dJ3yg
Wolf was surprised. It had only been a day. Did Herbert really forget already?423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo14gw8sIfq
"We met yesterday," Wolf explained, watching the hermit carefully. "I'm Wolf. You offered to teach me alchemy in exchange for herbs."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwRG54gpg1A
"OH!" Herbert exclaimed, genuinely surprised. "That does sound like something I'd do!" He leaned closer, squinting harder. "A little, yes... yes indeed! I do remember you."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqCGaOc7gwA
"So that was fast," Herbert said, still squinting. "You're taking me up on my offer already?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS6rFt5NRN3
"It won't be easy, you know. You'll need to study before I teach you anything." He scratched his chin thoughtfully. "Can you read?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbCdPQTwDnw
"About that—" Wolf started to say.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡis3BzcdZdP
But the old man waved his hand dismissively. "No worries, I can teach you! I'll add it to the list of things to learn. Many things to teach! Many things to learn!"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPqAo0tiYju
"But—"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaEVi4UM27P
"No, no," Herbert went on, not listening. "It's fine. Things take time to grow. Herbs don't just sprout—not even the magic ones!" He exclaimed. "Well, some do. But not the ones we'll work with. Those are too advanced for early lessons anyway, and I don't want to teach you those yet—"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUQDUkfb3Qh
He kept going on and on about how things would progress, already walking away as if assuming Wolf would follow.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKHWLt3GeGF
Wolf had to shout to stop him.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe8FPd4u3ya
"HERBERT, WAIT!"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjH6qcTwKTQ
"Eh!?" The hermit spun around, surprised to hear his name. Surprised the kid wanted him to stop. There were things to learn—what was the problem?423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7iKM8yMl8O
Wolf kept his head down. "I can't. Not now."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNy2D0bHmd1
He forced himself to continue. "There are things I have to do first. It will be months..." He hesitated. "Or years before I can train with you."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1bhCYqf9T6
His voice got quieter. "I'm sorry. I was happy with your offer—even if you were just humoring me. But I can't study with you yet."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcR6rSOzNGR
He waited to see how the old man would take the news.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGyfzn01GoA
Herbert was quiet for a moment, squinting even harder at Wolf. "Hmmmm. Yes, I see. You are a bit young, now that I look closer."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSoLfhC9u2J
He stroked his beard thoughtfully. "I guess it's good you're not an orphan. Though it would have made things easier..." He seemed to lose himself in thought. "But it's better I don't have to take care of you. More time for experiments then."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYBmIGR37PS
He went quiet again, thinking.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKHl7mcWtKP
"Years, you say?" Herbert finally spoke. "Well, I've been around long enough. What's a few more?"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdWZlHv2XKe
He looked at Wolf directly. "If you get a chance, can you bring me herbs? I'll pay you for them."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQFWsGd3cOX
Wolf felt relief wash over him. The old man was understanding.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT8TqXZgZTN
But he was also worried. Herbert didn't seem to remember things well. Would he still be okay in a few years?423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd1I2llQnEs
Well, maybe it was for the best. As Dad had said, alchemy wasn't a game. Wolf would be learning how to hurt people as well as heal them.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKxv5EzRnUm
So more knowledge beforehand would be better. Safer.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHKyi1XhRp
"Okay," Wolf said. "Thanks for your time, Herbert. Hopefully you're still doing fine next time I see you."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7wAox6AIz2
Herbert's expression shifted immediately. "Don't be a brat." His tone was chiding. "I'm old, not senile."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmrggt6T9lZ
"Things just get jumbled when I try to do too much," he explained, tapping his temple. "But I still have knowledge that can rival any other master you'll meet. And I'm second to none in alchemy."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpcqzdaUG7t
He paused, then added: "Well, non-magical alchemy. Never cared for that stuff. People assume it's better, but—"423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡufqckMK4t8
Herbert started ranting about things he'd told Wolf the day before. The same arguments about magic versus traditional alchemy, the same complaints about people not appreciating the craft.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjAOKLcjz12
Wolf just nodded, waiting for a chance to leave.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0gWT1hIYpT
After a while, the old man seemed to catch on that his wisdom was being ignored. He finally stopped mid-sentence.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmDC3GSIbWM
"Well, go on then, brat." Herbert waved him away. "If I see you again, it better be with herbs. Or with a willingness to learn and actually listen."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSBpSnsMwFz
His squinted eyes narrowed further. "What I know is worth more than gold. And I won't waste it on beggars who can't even understand its worth."423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf3wIK2O3Pc
Wolf nodded. He agreed—at least to a point.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiglJsDaz11
And despite everything... he actually liked the old man. Even though they had their differences.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv30eAvc68v
Herbert was a lifeline to a better future. One Wolf didn't want to lose before he'd even found a way to reach it.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Jgs1v5w0q
He'd come back. When he was ready.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2O0Eqsmu2L
When he'd proven himself worthy of what Herbert had to teach.423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWtq4gS2Epc
423Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUSqF6sGTIB
and then Add to home screen.