As Kael walked, the sound of running water grew louder, and he quickened his pace. His thirst was becoming unbearable, and he could almost taste the cool, clear water.
Finally, he burst through a thicket of bushes and found himself at the edge of a small stream. The water was crystal clear, and Kael could see small fish darting about just beneath the surface.
He dropped to his belly and lapped up the water greedily, feeling it soothe his parched throat and quench his thirst. As he drank, he felt a sense of relief wash over him.
But as he looked around, Kael realized that he was still lost. The forest seemed to stretch on forever, and he had no idea which direction to go.
He stood up, shaking his fur to get rid of the excess water. As he did, he noticed a small rabbit watching him from a nearby thicket. The rabbit's big, round eyes seemed to be staring right through him.
Kael's instincts told him to chase the rabbit, but something about its calm demeanor stayed his paws. Instead, he approached the thicket slowly, trying not to scare the rabbit away.
To his surprise, the rabbit didn't run. Instead, it hopped out of the thicket and began to sniff around Kael's paws. Kael watched, fascinated, as the rabbit seemed to be examining him.
Suddenly, the rabbit looked up at Kael and twitched its whiskers. Kael felt a strange sense of understanding, as if the rabbit was trying to communicate with him.
But what was it trying to say?
Keal spoke, "Hello? Are you trying to tell me something?"
The rabbit looked up at Kael and twitched its whiskers again. Then, to Kael's surprise, it spoke in a soft, high-pitched voice.
"Yes, young one. I am trying to tell you something. You are lost, are you not?"
Kael's ears perked up in amazement. "How did you know? And how can you talk?"
The rabbit chuckled. "I am no ordinary rabbit, Kael. My name is Riko, and I possess certain...gifts. As for how I knew you were lost, well, it's quite obvious, isn't it? You're a young ShadowWolf, far from home, and you don't seem to know the way back."
Kael's eyes widened in awe. "Wow, you're really smart, Riko! Can you help me find my way home?"
Riko nodded, he big brown eyes shining with kindness. "Of course, Kael. But first, we need to get you something to eat. You look like you're starving!"
Kael's stomach growled in agreement, and he grinned at Riko. "Yeah, I'm really hungry! What do you have in mind?"
Riko in horror and spoke, "Are you going to eat me?" Riko is a rasselbock, which is a rabbit
Rasselbock appreciates:
the Rasselbock is possessed of the head and body of a common rabbit but with a crown of antlers like those found on a male Roe Deer, leading some to state that the normally-docile animal can be dangerous when cornered. Certain accounts credit the Rasselbock as sporting a pair of elongated canine teeth, but it is uncertain whether every instance of the beast owns a pair of these.
Kael's eyes widened in horror as he realized what Riko thought. "No, no, no! I would never eat you, Riko! I'm a ShadowWolf, but I'm not a monster. I promise I won't hurt you."
Riko's eyes, which had grown wide with fear, slowly returned to normal as he regarded Kael warily. His antlers, which had been folded back in alarm, slowly relaxed, and he took a step back, his elongated canine teeth still bared.
"I...I apologize for misunderstanding," Riko said, his voice still shaking slightly. "But I must admit, I am not often approached by predators. Especially not ones as large and powerful as yourself."
Kael nodded understandingly, taking a step back to give Riko some space. "I don't blame you for being scared. But I promise I mean you no harm. Can we...can we start over?"
Riko regarded Kael for a moment, then nodded his head. "Very well. Let us start anew. But please, do not forget that I am a Rasselbock, and I will defend myself if necessary."
Kael grinned, relieved that the misunderstanding had been resolved. "I wouldn't have it any other way, Riko. Now, about that food...?"
Riko, the male Rasselbock, chuckled and nodded his head. "Ah, yes, food! I know just the thing. Follow me, Kael."
Riko led Kael through the forest, expertly navigating the underbrush and leaping over roots. Kael followed closely, marveling at Riko's agility and speed.
As they walked, Riko told Kael about the forest and its inhabitants. He pointed out various plants and berries that were safe to eat, and warned Kael about the dangers of the forest, such as the giant spiders and venomous snakes.
After a while, Riko stopped in front of a small clearing. In the center of the clearing was a small stream, babbling and chattering its way over smooth rocks. Riko gestured to the stream.
"Here, Kael. This stream is full of fish and other aquatic delicacies. Help yourself!"
Kael's eyes lit up, and he quickly set to work, using his sharp teeth and claws to catch a few fish. Riko watched with a smile, pleased to see Kael enjoying himself.
As they ate, Riko asked Kael about his family and his home. Kael told Riko about his parents, Toran and Akira, and his brother, Thorne. He also told Riko about his love of exploring and his desire to become a great hunter like his father.
Riko listened intently, his ears perked up and his eyes shining with interest. When Kael finished speaking, Riko nodded thoughtfully.
"I think I can help you find your way home, Kael. But first, we need to get you prepared for the journey. Are you ready to get started?"
Riko spoke, "but I need to know where you live and what it look like first" kael try to remember but he only know that his home is a wolf den and there are tree he know that he is really lost in the forest
Kael's face scrunched up in concentration as he tried to remember more details about his home. "Uh...I know it's a wolf den...and there are trees around it...but I'm not really sure what else to say. I've never really paid attention to the details. I just know it's home."
Riko nodded thoughtfully, his antlers bobbing up and down. "I see. Well, that's a start, at least. Can you tell me more about the trees? What kind are they? Are they tall or short?"
Kael thought hard, trying to recall any distinctive features about the trees near his den. "Uh...I think they're...oak trees? Yeah, that's right. They're big and strong, with rough bark. And there's a big rock near the den, too. I like to climb on it and play."
Riko's ears perked up at the mention of the rock. "A big rock, you say? That's a good landmark. I think I might know of a place that matches your description. But I'll need to ask you more questions to be sure."
Kael nodded eagerly, happy to provide any information that might help Riko find his way home. "Ask me anything! I'll do my best to remember."
Kael thinks for a minute and spoke "well that is just about it. I don't know what else I'm a shadowwolf pups that still doesn't have control on my solid form, so I was blown away by the wind and this forest is so massive!"
Riko's expression softened as he listened to Kael's words. "Don't worry, Kael. It's not your fault that you got lost. Being a ShadowWolf pup can be challenging, especially when you're still learning to control your powers. And yes, this forest can be overwhelming, even for someone like me who's lived here all my life."
Riko paused, thinking for a moment. "I think I'll need to use my own skills to help us find your way home. As a Rasselbock, I have a deep connection to the natural world and the creatures that live here. Let me see if I can sense any clues that might lead us to your den."
Riko closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and focused his senses on the surrounding environment. After a few moments of silence, he opened his eyes and looked at Kael. "I think I've got something. Follow me, Kael."
Kael follow riko for hours they only stop when they need food or rest. Sometimes, we eat too much, but it worth for the the point I get from eating and I got 964 point from eating and now I have 1014 point for me to spent on an ability and a attribute and items but I will get it when I am back home
As the sun began to set, casting a warm orange glow over the forest, Riko finally stopped in front of a large tree. "We'll rest here for the night, Kael," he said, his voice tired but satisfied. "We've made good progress today, but we still have a ways to go."
Kael nodded, his own body tired from the long day of walking. He settled down beside Riko, feeling grateful for the Rasselbock's guidance and companionship.
As he drifted off to sleep, Kael's mind wandered to the points he had accumulated. He couldn't wait to spend them on new abilities and attributes when he got back home. He wondered what kind of powers he would unlock, and how they would help him become a stronger ShadowWolf.
The next morning, Kael and Riko set off again, their paws padding softly on the forest floor. As they walked, Riko suddenly stopped and sniffed the air. "I think we're getting close, Kael," he said, his voice hopeful. "But I still need more information to pinpoint your den's location."
Kael thought hard, trying to remember any other details about his home. But his memories remained hazy, and he couldn't think of anything else to tell Riko.
Keal smelled blood, and it was from riko he did fall and got injured a bit while traveling
Kael's ears folded back in concern as he rushed to Riko's side. "Riko, are you okay? You're bleeding!" he exclaimed, his voice trembling with worry.
Riko struggled to his feet, wincing in pain as he put weight on his injured leg. "I'm fine, Kael. Just a scratch," he said, trying to downplay the severity of his injury.
But Kael could see that Riko was hurt worse than he was letting on. The Rasselbock's fur was matted with blood, and his leg was trembling beneath him.
Kael's instincts kicked in, and he quickly scanned their surroundings, looking for a safe place to rest and tend to Riko's wound. He spotted a small clearing nearby, surrounded by a babbling brook and a thick copse of trees.
"Riko, come on. Let's get you to that clearing over there. We can rest and clean your wound," Kael said, gently guiding Riko towards the clearing.
Riko nodded, his eyes clouding with pain. "Thanks, Kael. I owe you one."
Riko and keal sleep and the next day keal wake up and riko was no where to be found
Kael's eyes snapped open, and he sat up with a start. He looked around the clearing, but Riko was nowhere to be seen. Kael's heart began to pound with worry as he scrambled to his feet.
"Riko! Riko, where are you?" Kael called out, his voice echoing through the forest.
But there was no response. Kael's ears perked up, and he listened intently, but all he could hear was the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves.
Kael's worry turned to panic as he realized that Riko was gone. He had been injured, and Kael had been counting on him to help find his way home.
Kael took off in a sprint, racing through the forest as he desperately searched for any sign of Riko. He called out Riko's name again and again, but there was only silence.
As the sun began to climb higher in the sky, Kael's hope began to dwindle. He was alone again, lost in the forest with no idea how to find his way home. And now, he had lost his only friend and guide.
That is when he felt and the taste of blood on his snout and in his mouth and feel full
Kael's eyes widened in shock as he realized that the blood on his snout and in his mouth was not just a coincidence. He stumbled backwards, his paws scrambling for balance as he struggled to comprehend what was happening.
Suddenly, Kael's mind was flooded with visions of Riko, injured and bleeding. He remembered the Rasselbock's wounded leg and the way he had been limping. And then, Kael's thoughts turned to the worst possible scenario.
"Riko...no...please don't be..." Kael's voice trailed off, his words caught in his throat as he stumbled forward, his snout leading the way.
As he followed the scent of blood, Kael's heart sank deeper and deeper into his chest. He was terrified of what he might find, but he couldn't shake the feeling that he had to keep moving forward, no matter what.
He ran back on where he was sleeping and see blood he step forward and sniff and it is indeed riko blood he look around and found a male rasselbock bone he look at his claws and it is also stain in blood
Kael's eyes widened in horror as he took in the scene before him. Riko's blood was splattered everywhere, and the male Rasselbock's bone was a grim reminder of what had happened. Kael's gaze fell upon his own claws, and he felt a wave of nausea wash over him as he saw the blood staining them.
"No...no...no...this can't be," Kael whispered, his voice shaking with shock and denial. He stumbled backwards, his eyes fixed on his claws as if he couldn't believe what he was seeing.
Suddenly, the truth hit Kael like a ton of bricks. He had done this. He had attacked Riko while he was sleeping. Kael's mind reeled with the implications of what he had done, and he felt a wave of guilt and shame wash over him.
"Why...why did I do this?" Kael moaned, his voice filled with anguish and regret. He fell to the ground, his head in his paws, as he struggled to come to terms with what he had done.
Keal began to apologize in guilt
"Oh, Riko...I'm so sorry...I don't know what came over me...I never meant to hurt you...You were helping me, and I repaid you by...by..." Kael's voice trailed off, overcome with emotion as he thought about what he had done.
He buried his face in his paws, unable to bear the thought of looking at the spot where Riko had lain. "I'm a monster...a terrible, horrible monster...I don't deserve to live...Riko, please forgive me...I'll do anything to make it right..."
Kael's apologies dissolved into sobs, his body shaking with grief and guilt as he mourned the loss of his friend and guide. He lay there for a long time, lost in his own despair, unable to find any comfort or solace.
Suddenly he heard the goddess of the moon it is Lyra she is finally back "Hey there kael sorry my father was yelling at about your secret reincarnated so I pled him to let you have a healthy life! It seems your friend is dead, and yes, you killed him he is now in the beast and monster afterlife, and he is there with a ghost right now!"
Kael's sobs slowly subsided as he heard the familiar voice of Lyra, the Goddess of the Moon. He slowly lifted his head, his eyes red-rimmed from crying, and looked up at Lyra.
"L-Lyra...I'm so glad you're back," Kael stammered, his voice shaking with emotion. "I'm so sorry about what happened to Riko...I don't know what came over me..."
Lyra's expression was sympathetic, but also stern. "Kael, you need to understand that your actions have consequences. Riko is indeed dead, and his spirit has moved on to the afterlife for beasts and monsters. But don't worry, he's not alone. He's with a ghost who will help guide him through the afterlife."
Kael's eyes widened in surprise. "A ghost? Who?"
Lyra smiled. "Ah, that would be telling. But rest assured, Riko is in good company. Now, Kael, we need to talk about your...condition. Your secret, as you call it. I've spoken to my father, and he's agreed to let you live a healthy life, free from persecution. But you need to understand that your actions will still have consequences, and you need to learn to control your...urges."
Lyra continues, "He is there near you as a ghost watching"
Kael's eyes widened in shock as he looked around, wondering if Riko's ghost was indeed nearby. He felt a shiver run down his spine as he thought about being watched by the spirit of his friend.
Lyra nodded solemnly. "Yes, Kael. Riko's ghost is watching over you. He's not angry or resentful, but rather concerned for your well-being."
Kael felt a sense of awareness, knowing that Riko was there, even though he couldn't see or hear him. He took a deep breath, feeling a mix of emotions: guilt, regret, and determination.
"I know he's here," Kael said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I can feel it. I'm sorry, Riko...I'm so sorry for what I did."
Lyra's expression was sympathetic. "Kael, you need to focus on moving forward and learning from your mistakes. Riko's ghost will be watching over you, guiding you in his own way. But you need to take responsibility for your actions and work towards becoming a better ShadowWolf."
Lyra spoke, "I have given you a storage ability. You can contain something that is not alive or no longer alive. You can put riko remain in the storage and buried his bone"
Kael's eyes lit up with a mix of sadness and gratitude as he looked at Lyra. "Thank you, Lyra," he said, his voice filled with emotion. "I'll make sure to take care of Riko's remains."
Kael focused his mind, and suddenly, a small, glowing portal appeared in front of him. Lyra nodded. "That's your storage ability. You can put Riko's remains in there."
Kael carefully picked up Riko's bone and held it in front of the portal. As he did, the bone began to glow softly, and then it was sucked into the portal. Kael felt a sense of relief wash over him, knowing that Riko's remains were safe.
With the bone stored away, Kael looked around and found a suitable spot to bury the rest of Riko's remains. He dug a small hole and gently placed the rest of Riko's body in it. As he covered the hole with dirt, Kael felt a sense of closure and respect for his fallen friend.
"Thank you, Lyra," Kael said again, looking up at the goddess. "I'll never forget Riko's sacrifice, and I'll make sure to honor his memory."
Keal apologize one more time and Riko meat and flesh are now inside kael stomach and body
Kael's eyes dropped, and he took a deep breath before speaking, his voice filled with disgust and horror at what he had done. "Riko...I'm so sorry again for what I did to you. I don't know what happened, I was asleep, but somehow I...I consumed you. Your flesh, your meat, it's all inside me now. The thought of it is sickening, and I'm filled with guilt and regret. You were my friend, my guide, and I took your life and desecrated your body without even being aware of it. I'll carry this guilt with me forever, and I promise to learn from my mistakes and become a better ShadowWolf. Rest in peace, Riko."
Kael's voice cracked with emotion as he spoke, "And yet, despite only knowing each other for just one day, you had such a profound impact on me, Riko. You showed me kindness, compassion, and understanding. You helped me when I needed it most, and I repaid you by...by taking your life. It's a debt I can never fully repay, but I promise to carry your memory with me always and strive to be a better ShadowWolf because of the time we shared."
Lyra spoke in his mind, "Just know shadowwolf can kill something in there sleep when they smell of blood of their prey you have smell his blood before you went to sleep"
Kael's eyes widened in understanding as Lyra's words echoed in his mind. "So, it's a natural instinct for ShadowWolves to hunt and kill when they smell the blood of their prey, even in their sleep," Kael thought to himself. "And I had smelled Riko's blood before I fell asleep...no wonder I...I did what I did." Kael's expression was a mix of sadness and self-awareness, as he struggled to come to terms with his own nature and the consequences of his actions.
Kael's thoughts swirled with a mix of emotions: guilt, shame, and a deep sadness. He realized that his actions, though unintentional, were a result of his own instincts and nature. He wondered if he would ever be able to escape the darkness within himself.
Lyra's gentle voice echoed in his mind once more, "Kael, do not be too hard on yourself. You are still learning to control your instincts and your powers. This is a difficult path you have chosen, but with time and practice, you will become stronger and wiser."
Kael took a deep breath, trying to calm the turmoil within him. He knew that Lyra was right; he couldn't change the past, but he could work towards a better future. He steeled himself, determination burning within him, and vowed to become a better ShadowWolf, one who could control his instincts and protect those he cared about.
I remember that Riko said that he has a wife and children waiting after he takes me home
Kael's eyes widened in shock and horror as he remembered Riko's words. "No...oh no...I've not only taken Riko's life, but I've also left his family without a husband and father," Kael thought to himself, his mind reeling with the weight of his actions.
He felt a wave of grief and regret wash over him, and he slumped to the ground, overcome with emotion. "What have I done?" Kael whispered, his voice shaking with sorrow. "I've destroyed a family...I've taken away a loving husband and father...I'll never be able to forgive myself for this."
Lyra spoke I His mind "forcus on going home kael your father Toren and your older brother Thorne that is now happy that you are gone and your mother Akira is worried sick!"
Kael's thoughts were immediately pulled back to his family and his journey home. He remembered the complicated relationships he had with his family members, especially his father and older brother.
He recalled the tension and animosity between them, and how his father and brother had seemed relieved when he had left. But his mother, Akira, had always been kind and loving towards him, and the thought of her worrying about him filled Kael's heart with a mix of sadness and determination.
"I have to get back to her," Kael thought to himself, his mind made up. "I have to let her know that I'm okay, and that I'm coming home. And as for my father and brother...I'll face them head-on, and I'll make them understand that I'm not the same ShadowWolf I was when I left."
As kael goes to find his way home, he heard some noise near by he slowly walked forward to see what was making that noise, and it was his father doing his patrol as an alpha
Kael's eyes narrowed as he watched his father, Toren, from a distance. He could see the confident stride and the authoritative presence that came with being the alpha of their pack. Kael's instincts told him to be cautious, to keep a safe distance and observe.
As he watched, Kael couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions: anger, resentment, and a deep-seated desire to prove himself. He remembered the way his father had always belittled him, the way he had made Kael feel like he was never good enough.
But now, as Kael stood there, watching his father patrol the land, he felt a spark of determination ignite within him. He knew that he had grown stronger, that he had learned to control his powers and his instincts. And he was ready to face his father, to show him that he was no longer the weak and timid ShadowWolf he once was.
He ran to him, and Toren saw kael and is so happy he has been missing for 2 days now
Toren's expression changed from one of authority and vigilance to one of shock, relief, and joy. He rushed towards Kael, his tail wagging wildly as he opened his arms to embrace his son.
"Kael! Oh, thank the gods you're safe!" Toren exclaimed, his voice filled with emotion. "We've been searching for you everywhere! Your mother has been worried sick, and Thorne...well, Thorne's been a bit of a handful, but that's beside the point. You're home, and that's all that matters!"
Toren pulled Kael into a tight hug, holding him close as he inhaled deeply, taking in the scent of his son. Kael, still feeling a bit awkward and unsure, hesitated for a moment before slowly returning the hug, his arms wrapping around his father's waist.
Toren's expression changed from relief to concern as he looked at Kael. "Kael, what happened to you? You're covered in dirt and debris. And your form...it's still unstable. You're shifting in and out of solid form."
Kael looked down at himself, realizing that his father was right. He was still struggling to maintain his solid form, and the wind had blown him away like a leaf.
Toren's expression turned stern. "Kael, you know you're not supposed to leave the den until you can control your form. What were you thinking?"
Kael hung his head in shame, knowing he had disobeyed his father's rules. "I'm sorry, Father. I just...I needed to get out for a bit. I didn't mean to cause any trouble."
Toren sighed, his expression softening. "Kael, you're still learning. But you need to be more careful. Your lack of control could put you and others in danger. Let's get you back to the den and work on stabilizing your form."
Toren spoke, "And also, why do I feel something different about you?" Kael, remember that the system says when he buys an ability, others will feel something different about him
Kael's eyes widened slightly as he realized what his father might be sensing. He hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to reveal the truth.
"I...I don't know what you're talking about, Father," Kael said, trying to sound nonchalant.
But Toren's eyes narrowed, his gaze piercing. "Don't lie to me, Kael. I can sense it. You've...changed. You've acquired something new, something that's altered your aura. What is it?"
Kael took a deep breath, realizing that he couldn't keep the truth hidden forever. "I...I have an ability," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.
Toren's eyes widened in surprise, and he took a step closer to Kael. "What ability? How did you even...? Tell me, Kael."
Keal answer "Appraisal Skill"
Toren's expression remained puzzled, and he shook his head. "Appraisal Skill? I've never heard of such a thing. What is that supposed to do?"
Keal spoke, "I just want to go back home!"
Toren's expression softened, and he nodded. "Alright, Kael. Let's get you back home. Your mother is worried sick about you. We'll figure out what's going on with this...Appraisal Skill of yours later."
They are back at the den, and the pack members go and run to kael to check if he is alright except his older brother Thorne, who had an unhappy face that kael is back
As Kael and Toren entered the den, the pack members rushed towards Kael, eager to check on his well-being. They surrounded him, nuzzling and licking him, relieved to see that the little pup was safe and sound.
Thorne, Kael's older brother, stood at the edge of the gathering, his expression stern and disapproving. He was clearly unhappy about Kael's return, and his gaze lingered on the little pup with a mixture of annoyance and disdain.
Kael, still unsteady on his paws, looked up at Thorne with wide, curious eyes, unsure of why his brother seemed so upset.
Akira is relieved that her pup is safe and sounds
Akira, Kael's mother, rushed to her pup's side, nuzzling and licking him frantically. She whined softly, relief washing over her as she checked Kael from head to paw, making sure he was unharmed.
As she verified that her pup was safe and sound, Akira's tail began to wag, and she let out a series of happy yips. She showered Kael with affection, her joy and relief palpable as she welcomed her little pup back home.
Kael spoke, "I'm going outside for a bit. I know that I still don't know how to keep in my solid form and might get blown away again, but i be careful this time"
Akira's expression turned worried, and she whined softly, trying to convey her concerns to Kael. Toren, who had been watching the exchange, stepped forward, his voice firm but gentle.
"Kael, I don't think that's a good idea. You're still struggling to control your form, and going outside could put you in danger. What if you get blown away again? What if something worse happens?"
Thorne, who had been observing the conversation, spoke up, his voice dripping with disdain. "Yeah, because you're so responsible, Kael. You've already gotten blown away once. What makes you think you can handle it this time?"
Keal ear drops and spoke "aw come one it won't be long!" Kael gave then puppy dog eyes literally, and toran agreed
Toren's expression softened, and he couldn't help but chuckle at Kael's puppy dog eyes. "Alright, alright. But just for a little while, and you have to promise me you'll be careful. If you start to feel yourself getting blown away or losing control, you come straight back inside. Deal?"
Kael's face lit up with a excited grin, and he yipped eagerly, his tail wagging furiously. Akira, still looking a bit worried, nuzzled Kael gently, as if to remind him to be careful.
Thorne, on the other hand, just rolled his eyes and muttered under his breath, "Great, just great. Because letting the pup who can't even control his own form go outside unsupervised is a brilliant idea..."
Kael padded quietly to the back of the den, his eyes cast downward as he carried the bone in his jaws. He sniffed around, finding a suitable spot to bury the remains of his friend, Riko.
As he dug a small hole, Kael's thoughts drifted back to the previous day's events. He had only known Riko for a short time, but the pup's friendly demeanor had quickly won him over. Kael's ears drooped in shame as he recalled how he had lost control and attacked Riko while he was sleeping.
With a quiet whine, Kael gently placed the bone in the hole and covered it with soil. He pawed at the ground, making sure it was secure, before sitting back on his haunches. For a moment, he simply stared at the spot where he had buried Riko's remains, his heart heavy with regret.
Keal apologize
Kael's voice cracked as he apologized, his eyes welling up with tears. "I'm sorry, Riko... I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you. I was asleep, but something inside me... I smelled your blood, and it triggered something. I didn't know what I was doing, but I know it was wrong. I'm sorry I killed you, and I'm sorry I ate you. You were my friend, and I failed you."
Kael's voice broke as he spoke, overcome with grief and guilt. "You were just trying to help me, and I repaid you by taking your life. I'm so ashamed, Riko. You didn't deserve to die like that. You were kind to me, and I threw it away. I'll never forgive myself for what I did to you."
Keal guilt becomes worse. "Now your wife and children are all alone because I take you away from them!" He looked at the Rasselbock bone and put some dirt
Kael's eyes welled up with tears as he gazed at the bone, his guilt and shame consuming him. He gently poured more dirt over the bone, as if trying to bury his own regret. "Your family... they needed you, and I took you away from them. They'll never see you again, never play with you, never feel your warmth... all because of me." Kael's voice cracked, and he let out a mournful whimper, his heart heavy with sorrow.
Kael looked at the bone he had buried, his eyes welling up with tears. "I'm so sorry, Riko. I'll never forgive myself for what I did to you."
The den was quiet, the only sound the soft rustling of the pack members as they shifted uncomfortably. Thorne's eyes narrowed, his expression disapproving.
Kael stood behind the den, his eyes fixed on the freshly dug grave where he had buried Riko's bones. "I'm so sorry, Riko. I'll never forgive myself for what I did to you."
The silence was oppressive, and Kael's ragged breathing was the only sound. He had killed Riko just hours before, and the weight of his actions crushed him.
He went back to the den, and Toren spoke, "You should get some rest!"
Kael nodded slowly, his eyes cast downward in shame. "Yeah... I guess you're right, Toren."
He lay down, his body exhausted from the ordeal, but his mind racing with guilt and regret. Toren settled down beside him, a comforting presence in the darkness.
Kael closed his eyes, his mind still reeling from the events of the day. He thought about the new skills he had acquired, particularly the Appraisal skill. He wondered what other secrets it might hold, and what kind of information it could reveal to him.
He thought about the different aspects of the Appraisal skill: Item Analysis, Skill Assessment, Environmental Scanning, and Personality Profiling. He wondered which one would be the most useful in his current situation.
As he drifted off to sleep, Kael made a mental note to experiment with his new skills and see what kind of information he could gather. He was determined to keep his new abilities a secret, at least for now.
He uses his new skill on his father toren
Kael's eyes narrowed as he delved deeper into the information revealed by his Appraisal skill. He saw flashes of Toren's past, hints of a life before their current one. Kael's curiosity was piqued, and he felt a growing sense of unease.
Under the Personality Profiling aspect of the skill, Kael saw:
Motivations: Protect family, Ensure survival
Desires: Safety, Security
Fears: Loss, Failure
A cryptic message caught Kael's attention:
"The Shadow in the Night"
Kael's eyes snapped open, his heart racing with excitement and fear. What did it mean? And why was Toren hiding it from him?