"Your mom couldn't escape the Brown Wolves once they decided to capture her."
"They say she was shot in the stomach with a silver bullet."
"So, I'm sure your mom might be the child of a werewolf and a human. Maybe her mom or dad was in the third rank of the Black Wolves. Only Black Wolves are affected by silver bullets."
"Brown Wolves aren't affected by silver, Tiya?"
"They are, but you have to stab them in the heart with a silver dagger. Only a stronger pack of werewolves can do that."
"Oh, Tiya? Are there higher ranks of werewolves?"
"The next ranks are the Gray Wolves and the White Wolves. We'll talk about that later. For now, I want you to understand your potential rank, being the child of a Black Fang and an Wise Wolf."
I shivered at Auntie's words. I hadn't thought about it since my parents told me the story. Hearing it from Auntie now, it felt like a light bulb went off in my head.
"Iseng guided you well. That's why the beast inside you remains locked. You can use some of its physical abilities, so it's no wonder you have unusual strength compared to ordinary people."
"Yes, Tiya, I've noticed I'm really strong..."
"And you can get even stronger," Auntie interrupted before I could finish.
"Listen, Leia, dear... The real reason your father wanted you to study here in Manila is so I could guide you. I know the powerful prayers and incantations to keep the werewolf beast inside you locked. It won't be long before Iseng's spell on your back breaks."
"W-what will happen when Dad's incantation breaks?"
"You might become dangerous to others, hurting or even killing them, as you lose your sanity. The beast's anger from being locked away for so long will seek revenge. That's why I want to gradually release the beast, so you can use it for good and influence it with virtues to be on your side."
"So, from now on, you'll stop your penance."
"B-but, Tiya, I've gotten used to it. I can't just stop!"
"The strongest Angel is on your side, Leia. Your father Iseng guided you well. Please follow your father's wish for me to guide you. Your virtues need to be tested. Without tests, you won't grow mentally or spiritually. You need to be human, Leia. You need to experience joy, sadness, pain..."
"But Tiya, isn't all we need in life to be happy?"
"Happiness (saya) is shallow, just for material things and earthly desires. The word 'siya' has a deeper and broader meaning. Happiness gives and is gullible in its excess, but 'siya'' is stingy and defensive. I want you to embody both virtues."
I didn't fully understand what Auntie was saying about virtues. She noticed and handed me a small book.
"That's a booklet of chants. They work when you recite them once. The stronger you chant, the stronger the effect. Discover it for yourself."
"But Tiya, what if it has unexpected effects?"
"Don't worry, I'll give you a medallion to wear, clean, and pray over before bed. That will be your new penance."
"But Tiya, what if I lose them?"
"You won't lose them because you have virtues. Your dad Iseng prepared you from the time you were in your mother's womb! He actually knew your mom was pregnant right away, but says not, because he was excited to claim you as his child! And he loved your mom!"
I was speechless at Auntie's words, but I felt a thrill and happiness for my parents. I missed them and got a bit teary-eyed.
"Now, put on this medallion and keep the booklet safe. And there are your uniforms, I've mended them. Try them on to see if any adjustments are needed."
And so began a new chapter in my life.