The trip back was simpler than Wolf expected. He managed to reach the road much easier this time, his carved marks guiding him true.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgmftdrp7wD
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ84dBuZLkMB
He approached, curious why they were still here.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6rXXOIsByp
"WOOOOLF!"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg6vLXPFWvO
Nina rushed him, practically tackling him with excitement. "We're helping!"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9j1UMpUj91
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNIlYEAPxK7
"I saw you heading toward old Herbert's part of the woods," Nebo said. "You had business with him?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwj9NUwxHNR
"No. I didn't even know he was there." Wolf shifted his basket. "I was just looking for herbs."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ssneKLQlZ
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrecEOCt1Nq
Nina's ears flattened as she glared at her brother. "Brother wouldn't let me go after you. Said we were working."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ57rbFriXAv
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpkWYSMx990
"I can do both," Nina huffed. But despite her flat ears, her tail kept wagging as she stared at Wolf.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkDsvDPEJt6
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡenMhvN3GL3
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFR2CSFLdE6
Nebo studied Wolf for a moment. "I assumed you were making a delivery. You seemed pretty confident walking into his part of the woods."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNWA4mKStel
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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqCFF4pPyhU
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrrtw6towJI
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpXGRGLKrKd
Her tail wagged as she finished.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM7fyNjI0hs
"Thanks for the info," Wolf said. Then, almost without thinking: "He also offered to teach me alchemy. But I dunno if I want to."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMZZ5kctk5S
Nina's interest sharpened immediately. "Why though? What makes you special?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlXJeEjJMY6
She was watching him curiously, head tilted.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBdClxd54n5
"Nina." Nebo's voice held a note of warning. "That's rude. Talking to the hermit is rubbing off on you, it seems."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ORvmoerxL
"Sorry." Nina's tail and ears drooped instantly. She hadn't meant it like that.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyNKS2YKyeI
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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLmWG80f2FP
Nina perked up immediately at that. Wolf was amazed at how easily she bounced back from disappointment.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbKen5S3WwR
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSya8lYFGx0
"WAIT!"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQHfQMMtkXr
Nina grabbed his arm before he'd gotten far. "You're just leaving? After we're doing all this to help you?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCCv0q1VTeX
She looked close to tears. It surprised him.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0xfCYocvDd
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdw7u1iHiLB
He was always like this, Wolf noticed. Measured. Responsible.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHJxWPAkdB5
But Wolf felt bad. He was blowing them off too easily, wasn't he? After they'd been kind enough to explain about Herbert...450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfD44alI2xw
"I'll stay," he said. "Help you gather. Then we can all go back together."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPx8qhteaKs
Nina's face lit up immediately.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ9wxCfxOQJ
Nebo frowned slightly. "You shouldn't encourage her impulsive behavior."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoQimFlAtC5
But Wolf had already made up his mind.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz7HSpr97AI
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf8fY2NvzUk
About an hour passed before they decided they'd gathered enough. The three of them headed back to the shop together, baskets full.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡADVIUiMmz7
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPyVxCr5Rd5
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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKRDnWTP4CM
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ23cEXEjrHv
When Wolf told Len about his adventure with Herbert, he was surprised by her reaction.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJI2ZH17RYV
"You know the hermit too?" Wolf was amazed. His sister explored more than he realized, even with all her work responsibilities.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNlUpwlvORs
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyaEYckaJxh
"He said he named himself Herbert," Wolf added, still finding it amusing. "Said it was a play on words."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm4sT0kgtfT
"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?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZPXmZm1fUS
She was watching him curiously.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe8Gl3QZOzl
"Yeah! And he even offered to teach me alchemy!" Wolf's excitement bubbled over now that he had time to really think about it.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJQmYgaecpt
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpfENx5cHjS
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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYZIFo65jXq
"I agree," Nebo said from nearby.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFR1ihDBZSt
Wolf turned, surprised. Nebo was stocking a shelf and usually never commented on things that didn't concern him directly.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSmwQF892nC
"What do you mean?" Wolf asked, confused.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMIpiMluT1T
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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYb9BmGF5mp
"Won't that be why he teaches me?" Wolf didn't understand the problem. "So I learn to be careful?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRoS4h35wnk
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcnYzh1FS1X
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpkLiwUlH2Q
Nina reached out to comfort him, but he jerked away.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPsNcc6680Y
"I'll just ask Dad," Wolf said, his voice tight. "I don't need you to decide for me."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtOGPiiEDjt
Len looked hurt. She was upset he felt that way, but she didn't want to push the issue further.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7h5MltOJcj
They all left it at that.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTySKkJunUl
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?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXUOvBIEc68
She wanted to be there for him. But Len shook her head, thinking he needed space.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFEgVzZ0jHc
It was Nebo who stopped Nina from following. "It's part of growing up. You had to learn that lesson yourself."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzlP5BwP0J1
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3roz9E6aL8
Mom looked surprised. But Dad seemed oddly calm.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgFSqLFXhv1
Wolf's stomach sank. His sister had talked to Dad first. He felt betrayed all over again.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYjowz7FqjK
"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?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1QXW8NtTI2
He was trying to be reasonable. Wolf could hear it in his tone.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ81I8RTChWI
"That's why I'll learn," Wolf countered.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGOwRLHratH
"You can't learn if you don't do anything but explore," Len said.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJDOq7DfwLj
The words came out harsher than she probably meant, but they still stung.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP9lz7FStap
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1zSNB1KYx3
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVmfyFg8hIz
"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!"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjYplwIHMUx
He hated how his own words were being turned against him.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHDMEdrlIOv
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgsBULiH4eK
He paused, letting that sink in.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp82cmBjBRo
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXLJh2fOVGY
Wolf had no reply to that.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIXl5gDLn8y
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqRafnAT3b5
"Since we have Nina also helping to ease the burden," Dad finished. "But right now, we still need help."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzV2iuLOfIU
"What if I help more?" Wolf asked desperately. "Will you trust me then?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeaxpAMbdFw
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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt64hWRtuem
Wolf felt like his heart was breaking. His sister and his dad were both against him.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjtbuIZUMrQ
He turned to his mother, voice small and wavering. "Do you think so too, Mom?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTFAD98YbQ4
He was wondering if anyone cared that he was losing his dream before he could even try to dream it.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUss1JLJBkk
Mom gave him a sad smile. "My son, I believe you can do anything and more."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcn6csSOuj6
There's always a 'but,' Wolf thought bitterly.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡasQUyyi6SI
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhRpjZwZEWL
Her next words felt like a knife.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAdNuRp754q
"The fact that you see us trying to hurt you instead of love you? That's proof you're still a child."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHby7R0SMJv
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNMjd39BfDV
"May I be excused?" His voice was barely a whisper. "I'm not hungry."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtDoFwRUwJk
Dad looked like he wanted to protest, but Mom gave him a look. He frowned, then nodded reluctantly.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp0bvL8Ox7E
"We'll see you in the morning, son. Goodnight."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyrfURqGH2d
"Night," Wolf mumbled.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWXlWsoUmWt
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6m9ac8QsCE
But Wolf didn't believe her.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoKuz4lLVqg
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHL01KAoLE6
Not that they normally needed to—but today he overslept, and they left him be.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ77XX2ndhZc
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmlfJSF2Osb
He sighed, staring at the ceiling.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMMKyfiynoT
Was he proving them wrong? Or proving them right with how he was acting?450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvJPopX9sIF
They'd always loved him. And the first time he didn't get his way, he'd hated them for it.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1udYgdJgHA
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwAcQxnPZ2v
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnbTGDKCeAt
His mother's arms tightened around him. She made a small sound, and he realized she was crying a little.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeMequHUQrW
"It's okay," she said softly. "I support you no matter what you do."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMKJ91Y5PMx
That made Wolf tear up too.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtafZSOpstZ
After a moment, he pulled back slightly. "Is Len mad at me?" He was worried about how he'd treated her.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmI4Vz3kD2j
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz2bxVu9aMS
She held him close, thinking about what else to say.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIndbU2D89n
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiuqpSTm28G
She touched his cheek.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy15Q1IVTQd
"Just like your name, Wolf—you want to be free. To wander."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0G1Sj5yL3M
Wolf had a lot to think about.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnvdlEiA8CH
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCtEeRkqMjm
He looked up at his mother.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcWM3Q6a6nT
"They're happy with a general store," he continued. "I want something different. That's why alchemy sounded like something new I could try."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDWhzyEVjf2
His mother sighed, brushing his hair back gently. "You know the church has been having classes? About the gods and magic?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQCuO54sr36
Wolf nodded hesitantly.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwHGDb1Bfwi
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwMUJ6QcyTY
Wolf was still paying attention.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWOaTWnvTTP
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMlSz2jBumK
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoqByyGwqmI
"Okay, Mom," he agreed, defeated.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ09NEUx0YVi
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?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYzmXpJQXGV
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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0jfYVaOBpN
"I bet it's because he makes super potions," Wolf speculated. "And that's why he uses so many."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNtY2I9fKwx
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyAXpGRA1UN
She smiled at him warmly.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa3vrW52u36
"You can make up with your sister and work out where to go from there."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEmEXBZxUDc
That seemed like the end of it.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbKaGpmklcf
Wolf wasn't happy with the way things were. But he also didn't want this to become a wedge that divided his family.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcEqg1jdHfX
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkRrsJaZuW9
That wasn't what mattered most.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU2jyO9QMWC
The chores were easy and went quickly. Wolf helped make jam bread—a treat, and a peace offering for his sister.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUyQJIYQct9
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNCT14gmkxx
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaRZrcpfxyA
If it gets really bad, he thought, I guess I know where to find berries.
The trip to the shop was quiet.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7YJJjILfhD
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3QOyO0V55L
Wolf appreciated it today. His thoughts were too jumbled for conversation anyway.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbNQqwBNT6V
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT5p4VJSoXe
Wolf took a deep breath.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVK7vWIOi3p
He'd start with Dad.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIWhJnHLeWf
Wolf approached the counter slowly.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxT985HehpG
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGsq2o6svtM
He didn't like saying it. Didn't really believe it, even if it was true.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYm3QoeQgtQ
He felt a hand on his head. Then Dad pulled him into a hug.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7oEQGEDyXL
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDxPk7jlxJC
Wolf pressed his face into his father's shirt.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTqhl5r6YYH
"You're putting the cart before the horse," Dad continued. "And wondering why it's not working."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡif4KgF1y3A
It was a weird saying. But Wolf couldn't disagree with the idea behind it.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSHA7C7LG6d
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmIpnp7i67T
Wolf pulled away from the embrace, slightly embarrassed. He'd noticed a few people browsing the shop, watching them.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUNRj2n3sYt
"I understand," he mumbled.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡISVBSmdfKH
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUvY0Vyvasm
He smiled warmly.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJmqXOOMH7L
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLgtPPStNuL
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpEMUeAqpku
I guess Nina too, he thought.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWNFNet2WEB
"I still need to talk to the hermit," Wolf said. "To tell him I can't study yet."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNv5ADnyun1
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Gh2El6piJ
Dad listened carefully, then nodded. "That's fair. That's mature of you, son."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeXnrkwWYW4
He didn't disagree. He accepted Wolf's request.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9XuiwOb2zJ
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyI755F17AQ
It surprised Wolf. He'd thought she might hold a grudge for how he'd ignored her the night before.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbg6r34k59c
But she just held him, happy he was there.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiShqvzLjtR
It made him feel worse. He'd been mean to her when she'd only shown him love.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN8O1A8k73U
"I made you something," Wolf said quietly, pulling back. He handed her the jam bread wrapped in cloth. "A peace offering."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGN5zHfzoNk
Len's smile widened. "You didn't have to do that." But she unwrapped it eagerly and took a bite. "Mmm. Thank you, brother."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP8x3dIyQIx
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHjEPzwo93U
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB9I5z8dHdU
Instead of always wanting more. Like a child.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpFGKIhUA03
He wanted to grow up. And this was the first step.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaEmWKvnXJQ
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoUTN7FITWP
Maybe that was what being grown-up meant.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJq5Roq2oHi
"Thank you," Wolf said suddenly. "For always being there for me."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjwk3ir2nR8
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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtu7xnDC5y3
Wolf smiled at that.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsuIbnwYDbX
He needed to treasure his family more too. And he would.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3LNI1KVKCa
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrWFAfRFhl7
Maybe it was still a child's view—thinking he could solve everything, that it would all work out.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmwwBN3capm
But it was all he could see for now. And that was enough.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFinLJ8OL2f
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbKHHhGuvgZ
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwHX4wEFKJu
Before he could get lost, he found the marks from the day before and kept close to them.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxx0rLEafQX
But something was different. He couldn't find Herbert's home.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM0yvdb56w3
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRSX239aJll
Wolf was about to double back when a voice spoke up behind him.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Av8WXCz2x
"You lost, boy?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEeqXlaJTwS
Wolf screamed and spun around.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXjyE7bGkVe
"Old man!" he shouted, unintentionally loud.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡROBYe6XnaV
"Yes," Herbert said slowly, squinting at him. "I'm a bit old. But that doesn't answer my question. What brings you here, kid?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2qZMuGUhBG
Wolf was surprised. It had only been a day. Did Herbert really forget already?450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡthvcevEOZp
"We met yesterday," Wolf explained, watching the hermit carefully. "I'm Wolf. You offered to teach me alchemy in exchange for herbs."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU5IPYOdaUg
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDjorENjAMC
"So that was fast," Herbert said, still squinting. "You're taking me up on my offer already?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ4syhxouog
"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?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNTsxUAVaxK
"About that—" Wolf started to say.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxh9ev51Qyb
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!"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp9sSi3pxPh
"But—"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWNgfhTOrnR
"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—"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5umvNu4uBe
He kept going on and on about how things would progress, already walking away as if assuming Wolf would follow.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD4Qc8kuglZ
Wolf had to shout to stop him.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDmmcBg55Lc
"HERBERT, WAIT!"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0wKvsefKRm
"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?450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYxTmO5WAaa
Wolf kept his head down. "I can't. Not now."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPkXqcj5ABd
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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQynzQ0MEi9
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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhCKg3yz18K
He waited to see how the old man would take the news.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyPfZuQuKZN
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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF3TmjTztLg
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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAUWpDTu1Vy
He went quiet again, thinking.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK7T8wxfZbY
"Years, you say?" Herbert finally spoke. "Well, I've been around long enough. What's a few more?"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS7SJiF93Qd
He looked at Wolf directly. "If you get a chance, can you bring me herbs? I'll pay you for them."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOxyRAS9174
Wolf felt relief wash over him. The old man was understanding.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGXP2GC3LpK
But he was also worried. Herbert didn't seem to remember things well. Would he still be okay in a few years?450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzmDGn2AaWR
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkHAlsQSSws
So more knowledge beforehand would be better. Safer.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt6JFoQCMG6
"Okay," Wolf said. "Thanks for your time, Herbert. Hopefully you're still doing fine next time I see you."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGg3Z2qluBC
Herbert's expression shifted immediately. "Don't be a brat." His tone was chiding. "I'm old, not senile."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKeCVtxBc7v
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAe9OBDcHhS
He paused, then added: "Well, non-magical alchemy. Never cared for that stuff. People assume it's better, but—"450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyrHmBGZzzD
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4oVdM9UjMJ
Wolf just nodded, waiting for a chance to leave.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG8JWF1Z92b
After a while, the old man seemed to catch on that his wisdom was being ignored. He finally stopped mid-sentence.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPasoSjpu26
"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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ4fUOPbV6y
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."450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHLvbev6OYJ
Wolf nodded. He agreed—at least to a point.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG9zq2Uw27b
And despite everything... he actually liked the old man. Even though they had their differences.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ8zD0lZcRV
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.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZyA9QxxTz4
He'd come back. When he was ready.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuij3BjuX4q
When he'd proven himself worthy of what Herbert had to teach.450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQRcDszjH9p
450Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxP9CsS96hL
and then Add to home screen.