The trip back was simpler than Wolf expected. He managed to reach the road much easier this time, his carved marks guiding him true.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡffRBYwFtpt
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqvYZIppf8f
He approached, curious why they were still here.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrW3N0fX27q
"WOOOOLF!"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ157q3ayv7y
Nina rushed him, practically tackling him with excitement. "We're helping!"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpHlUK2cMFx
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpdE1lV9Qgl
"I saw you heading toward old Herbert's part of the woods," Nebo said. "You had business with him?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJcLRzKbP4
"No. I didn't even know he was there." Wolf shifted his basket. "I was just looking for herbs."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWPhnXD3IEK
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1aeCBEhgao
Nina's ears flattened as she glared at her brother. "Brother wouldn't let me go after you. Said we were working."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL47nn5RsUu
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp0HMl0fPTG
"I can do both," Nina huffed. But despite her flat ears, her tail kept wagging as she stared at Wolf.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡefeYX0ZAfS
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb6e1gIFzdV
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIxz6UaipEz
Nebo studied Wolf for a moment. "I assumed you were making a delivery. You seemed pretty confident walking into his part of the woods."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWTvXgfntEO
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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFa7zYFpAd7
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3vtfd9LyKB
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡexNNyq7dA6
Her tail wagged as she finished.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8y3aJjrF1q
"Thanks for the info," Wolf said. Then, almost without thinking: "He also offered to teach me alchemy. But I dunno if I want to."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsErO2soDOY
Nina's interest sharpened immediately. "Why though? What makes you special?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzX504P7lht
She was watching him curiously, head tilted.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTMR1gN9fF1
"Nina." Nebo's voice held a note of warning. "That's rude. Talking to the hermit is rubbing off on you, it seems."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJl70cme8JD
"Sorry." Nina's tail and ears drooped instantly. She hadn't meant it like that.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlVDw9hcMzt
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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVMvgmiOzqs
Nina perked up immediately at that. Wolf was amazed at how easily she bounced back from disappointment.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgi1VtEJoBL
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6oqP90R0Bi
"WAIT!"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1nmOcy5SZO
Nina grabbed his arm before he'd gotten far. "You're just leaving? After we're doing all this to help you?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdkQbjArg3W
She looked close to tears. It surprised him.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOIATQNQUFh
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡORiSRGYfmD
He was always like this, Wolf noticed. Measured. Responsible.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwDc3dVtA8j
But Wolf felt bad. He was blowing them off too easily, wasn't he? After they'd been kind enough to explain about Herbert...328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡopN6FVGfJG
"I'll stay," he said. "Help you gather. Then we can all go back together."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAZD7Mia6qf
Nina's face lit up immediately.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLGqEt0N64H
Nebo frowned slightly. "You shouldn't encourage her impulsive behavior."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrewjDTx6RJ
But Wolf had already made up his mind.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb1hI9p0w3U
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRDSbTBeLOq
About an hour passed before they decided they'd gathered enough. The three of them headed back to the shop together, baskets full.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Hx3ktzpeX
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZb1Hvfg2ut
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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe4kANmx2KO
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2CI9fGcCgC
When Wolf told Len about his adventure with Herbert, he was surprised by her reaction.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Psl300k1x
"You know the hermit too?" Wolf was amazed. His sister explored more than he realized, even with all her work responsibilities.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxq5YpqYh2a
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZmezzS808O
"He said he named himself Herbert," Wolf added, still finding it amusing. "Said it was a play on words."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE6Nk20x84S
"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?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbioP48droX
She was watching him curiously.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoM0ycCGGGf
"Yeah! And he even offered to teach me alchemy!" Wolf's excitement bubbled over now that he had time to really think about it.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXGldt4m3bA
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe3nlJLXNrB
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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlNexQOXY8n
"I agree," Nebo said from nearby.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0UpfFKgZGM
Wolf turned, surprised. Nebo was stocking a shelf and usually never commented on things that didn't concern him directly.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Jym6pffDV
"What do you mean?" Wolf asked, confused.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjlLZ2TaOft
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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ5g99Fd7oO
"Won't that be why he teaches me?" Wolf didn't understand the problem. "So I learn to be careful?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZQvDr9oyc3
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmSLKmwwVfS
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYosMvF8ggZ
Nina reached out to comfort him, but he jerked away.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaq9lOEMK2D
"I'll just ask Dad," Wolf said, his voice tight. "I don't need you to decide for me."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTsMh14VM5y
Len looked hurt. She was upset he felt that way, but she didn't want to push the issue further.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQLTg2dguMD
They all left it at that.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlgZsfjKN8q
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?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAa4PijuHpi
She wanted to be there for him. But Len shook her head, thinking he needed space.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCOtrmCbnhF
It was Nebo who stopped Nina from following. "It's part of growing up. You had to learn that lesson yourself."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSfU7np0JQ7
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8hldl6hoQd
Mom looked surprised. But Dad seemed oddly calm.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEuRHjvojqD
Wolf's stomach sank. His sister had talked to Dad first. He felt betrayed all over again.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPXkm9iZJG1
"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?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3mXkw2Xrke
He was trying to be reasonable. Wolf could hear it in his tone.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMO0WgLsUuu
"That's why I'll learn," Wolf countered.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaKOCKvSKAb
"You can't learn if you don't do anything but explore," Len said.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiinmkTq0o4
The words came out harsher than she probably meant, but they still stung.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAUTCpaASqV
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡepb99WCaS1
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡADulo9d039
"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!"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2QDfBiKqI7
He hated how his own words were being turned against him.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡatmI6DekVW
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMC5HrwkrLO
He paused, letting that sink in.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaUVKCx5TJp
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIk96jV7wPb
Wolf had no reply to that.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhxxxgGp7ph
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmyJhYvFOEK
"Since we have Nina also helping to ease the burden," Dad finished. "But right now, we still need help."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBi3L6WBfBU
"What if I help more?" Wolf asked desperately. "Will you trust me then?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAsB6eoiFTQ
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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyVGsFiC3TH
Wolf felt like his heart was breaking. His sister and his dad were both against him.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0POc6EHUfw
He turned to his mother, voice small and wavering. "Do you think so too, Mom?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGxSrOgA9PK
He was wondering if anyone cared that he was losing his dream before he could even try to dream it.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcnByzJ8JeS
Mom gave him a sad smile. "My son, I believe you can do anything and more."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhFRYpG1gvt
There's always a 'but,' Wolf thought bitterly.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMrUQYrk7kn
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Gx1wSDc5k
Her next words felt like a knife.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY2Np6kWXFs
"The fact that you see us trying to hurt you instead of love you? That's proof you're still a child."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAggida3fAG
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKrJt3QoL8F
"May I be excused?" His voice was barely a whisper. "I'm not hungry."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSsNX06gm0S
Dad looked like he wanted to protest, but Mom gave him a look. He frowned, then nodded reluctantly.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOgQjwman14
"We'll see you in the morning, son. Goodnight."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYgTOPLODQv
"Night," Wolf mumbled.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA1IDfdd9O9
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0bPENkCWfr
But Wolf didn't believe her.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkVQqIZKbYo
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU0LTroUbiV
Not that they normally needed to—but today he overslept, and they left him be.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxjJdyKMbFJ
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVxsT2Calq4
He sighed, staring at the ceiling.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDnsgzfftOo
Was he proving them wrong? Or proving them right with how he was acting?328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNlytG9qYbN
They'd always loved him. And the first time he didn't get his way, he'd hated them for it.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC0tpGIjvXb
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNDstIaaCH3
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZdDk9g5lkX
His mother's arms tightened around him. She made a small sound, and he realized she was crying a little.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdqDptV2f8X
"It's okay," she said softly. "I support you no matter what you do."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ivdzebuCT
That made Wolf tear up too.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCgrWuV1NAd
After a moment, he pulled back slightly. "Is Len mad at me?" He was worried about how he'd treated her.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡziqzSLEVn1
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyqOnCQA40D
She held him close, thinking about what else to say.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtHoWhgd23k
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLqkRq1vVEy
She touched his cheek.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyTnd4VYP7U
"Just like your name, Wolf—you want to be free. To wander."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNEQJdjaJt9
Wolf had a lot to think about.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwLKtoVjQzh
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsQr2j4caVl
He looked up at his mother.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa9lAsuQBaw
"They're happy with a general store," he continued. "I want something different. That's why alchemy sounded like something new I could try."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlqpzJkdFJw
His mother sighed, brushing his hair back gently. "You know the church has been having classes? About the gods and magic?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdkz5F3A7C9
Wolf nodded hesitantly.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxjhQzk7VJh
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH2o1rjVbaz
Wolf was still paying attention.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2cCrfD5HtV
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEZbb2xvM55
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ86NYww71ya
"Okay, Mom," he agreed, defeated.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5h2d1vzNKT
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?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJosGjKQGeD
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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM8cSxZ6gBj
"I bet it's because he makes super potions," Wolf speculated. "And that's why he uses so many."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFGJxhM2tn6
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfjXejUza0Z
She smiled at him warmly.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlI44iaJTg6
"You can make up with your sister and work out where to go from there."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOrrkg6fCmv
That seemed like the end of it.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUArRWpsrFd
Wolf wasn't happy with the way things were. But he also didn't want this to become a wedge that divided his family.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8n8C0scPuT
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlLep9nfhsg
That wasn't what mattered most.
The chores were easy and went quickly. Wolf helped make jam bread—a treat, and a peace offering for his sister.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX9zkUCCT6Y
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6P30ebHLI9
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmiaAKb5LcU
If it gets really bad, he thought, I guess I know where to find berries.
The trip to the shop was quiet.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUgvITsJv9u
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN5dl5fCEhI
Wolf appreciated it today. His thoughts were too jumbled for conversation anyway.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn3E7gCxG2Y
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxrmIr2R3Nd
Wolf took a deep breath.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPn43IxNods
He'd start with Dad.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC8ivBrmRhW
Wolf approached the counter slowly.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG200UjGfLx
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMAvdjKwIEZ
He didn't like saying it. Didn't really believe it, even if it was true.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXfYauC6y5T
He felt a hand on his head. Then Dad pulled him into a hug.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuXgjceoh3l
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXmSzxMuzui
Wolf pressed his face into his father's shirt.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3olHAk3VsP
"You're putting the cart before the horse," Dad continued. "And wondering why it's not working."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡteSp32vQOe
It was a weird saying. But Wolf couldn't disagree with the idea behind it.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnbspCG4pXX
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpOCrMhWiQ5
Wolf pulled away from the embrace, slightly embarrassed. He'd noticed a few people browsing the shop, watching them.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP94UquWbRk
"I understand," he mumbled.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgtfEwVCaRe
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdZMdEWsCh0
He smiled warmly.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhVKxT8PYNo
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7xsuWTYGpj
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡczKas15wOR
I guess Nina too, he thought.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzcUkEmQ6fr
"I still need to talk to the hermit," Wolf said. "To tell him I can't study yet."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLFYGe1aGoD
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuhXz8nlpLx
Dad listened carefully, then nodded. "That's fair. That's mature of you, son."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSiC2ZBkHL2
He didn't disagree. He accepted Wolf's request.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHIquyM8eCU
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6addWpD918
It surprised Wolf. He'd thought she might hold a grudge for how he'd ignored her the night before.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGNsQRshF0o
But she just held him, happy he was there.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfFn59c96iJ
It made him feel worse. He'd been mean to her when she'd only shown him love.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjRoydCVatD
"I made you something," Wolf said quietly, pulling back. He handed her the jam bread wrapped in cloth. "A peace offering."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWD06Eafif0
Len's smile widened. "You didn't have to do that." But she unwrapped it eagerly and took a bite. "Mmm. Thank you, brother."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk5nTl8rl6F
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYevRu3liF3
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx5IawVwINr
Instead of always wanting more. Like a child.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvygCNeTnqb
He wanted to grow up. And this was the first step.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWCtWF3v51w
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw3fLHCpUlt
Maybe that was what being grown-up meant.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9TmsFrbn5
"Thank you," Wolf said suddenly. "For always being there for me."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8L5Yqi7HQd
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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW8TGD7wo6Q
Wolf smiled at that.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpwVfK68Smn
He needed to treasure his family more too. And he would.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUv94ZW2eDq
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD5OaE3r7LN
Maybe it was still a child's view—thinking he could solve everything, that it would all work out.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡptNsoU0ylm
But it was all he could see for now. And that was enough.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWjIx8AIUZU
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhQIg9OjRPK
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM7PJS7965y
Before he could get lost, he found the marks from the day before and kept close to them.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz7Ju8Ga6wW
But something was different. He couldn't find Herbert's home.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡclujaslqq7
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ10TqQQUpst
Wolf was about to double back when a voice spoke up behind him.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvkoxdCKiTA
"You lost, boy?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvgTbL4hj79
Wolf screamed and spun around.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCU9DW77SFy
"Old man!" he shouted, unintentionally loud.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuiQJ1ApUtV
"Yes," Herbert said slowly, squinting at him. "I'm a bit old. But that doesn't answer my question. What brings you here, kid?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSSBqeaWWs9
Wolf was surprised. It had only been a day. Did Herbert really forget already?328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDDwqF8ZiyK
"We met yesterday," Wolf explained, watching the hermit carefully. "I'm Wolf. You offered to teach me alchemy in exchange for herbs."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNqWYX7MVaI
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡawK1hN8k3V
"So that was fast," Herbert said, still squinting. "You're taking me up on my offer already?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDNYgoLSyoa
"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?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0748D9Ave3
"About that—" Wolf started to say.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjncJ5rMnhU
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!"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcRVhSlDe5P
"But—"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAnHV1b6nb1
"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—"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4AlxJWwNbK
He kept going on and on about how things would progress, already walking away as if assuming Wolf would follow.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTouK1c0olj
Wolf had to shout to stop him.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCiTdJLVyVa
"HERBERT, WAIT!"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB12LPVpHSS
"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?328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡthjN6KbX89
Wolf kept his head down. "I can't. Not now."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ32H23JBp5n
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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlIqFqL7NBg
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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ58aozq4PFU
He waited to see how the old man would take the news.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIi9nHqOGKg
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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMmHnh3ArHq
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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV3R4k65OY1
He went quiet again, thinking.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1d1LfVLiYD
"Years, you say?" Herbert finally spoke. "Well, I've been around long enough. What's a few more?"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡciiCsPMH1T
He looked at Wolf directly. "If you get a chance, can you bring me herbs? I'll pay you for them."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ30VhSjliOX
Wolf felt relief wash over him. The old man was understanding.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡawd9Hr9mZZ
But he was also worried. Herbert didn't seem to remember things well. Would he still be okay in a few years?328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdQYCDsIMkK
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz3q5t7hDYv
So more knowledge beforehand would be better. Safer.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzCDUHjS5LJ
"Okay," Wolf said. "Thanks for your time, Herbert. Hopefully you're still doing fine next time I see you."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0stRKe40GC
Herbert's expression shifted immediately. "Don't be a brat." His tone was chiding. "I'm old, not senile."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFaSBV8Ht1i
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgDWhCswGT5
He paused, then added: "Well, non-magical alchemy. Never cared for that stuff. People assume it's better, but—"328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPyAuTuk59z
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtfTl7qAuoa
Wolf just nodded, waiting for a chance to leave.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzpiG0TDW9B
After a while, the old man seemed to catch on that his wisdom was being ignored. He finally stopped mid-sentence.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiYzHg5ZsCJ
"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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHmy4gBDiiO
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."328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW5vBacY8oo
Wolf nodded. He agreed—at least to a point.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkrfQ68YhfE
And despite everything... he actually liked the old man. Even though they had their differences.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk3DC3sMnYj
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.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh6kRgwbJvr
He'd come back. When he was ready.328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy3LSwDKY9A
When he'd proven himself worthy of what Herbert had to teach.
328Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ceUtkHAsx
and then Add to home screen.