Awakened

"Fenrir, Fenrir."

The voice echoed in Fenrir's mind, filling him with anxiety. All around him, there was nothing but darkness.

"It's me, Fenrir, Storm."

"Storm? Is that really you?" Fenrir's voice quivered with disbelief.

"In a way, yes," replied the voice. "We are in your mind."

Fenrir was stunned. "But how? You... You passed away, and how can you talk to me now?"

"It's not my physical form, Fenrir," explained the voice. "I exist in spirit, and our families share a special bond. You are a descendant of Ranthrift, the family that fought alongside ours against the chenoo. That's why I can communicate with you now."

"But why couldn't you talk to me when you were alive?"

"In my wolf form, I couldn't. But now, as a spirit, I have the ability."

Fenrir's heart ached. "I'm so sorry, Storm. I couldn't save you."

"Fenrir, you mustn't blame yourself," reassured Storm. "The life I lived with you was fulfilling. I cherished our moments together, playing and roaming the village, even hunting with your father. You brought joy to my life, so please don't carry this burden."

Tears streamed down Fenrir's face as he listened to Storm's comforting words.

"Fenrir, you are brave," continued Storm. "You helped the guards save the village, and you selflessly protected your father. Your bravery inspired me to sacrifice myself for you. You have successfully reestablished the bond."

A faint light emanated from Storm and enveloped Fenrir.

[The Wolf System has been activated]

Fenrir was taken aback. "What is this?" he inquired.

"It's the Wolf System," explained the voice. "It will help you track your power and provide you with skills affiliated with wolves."

"How does it work?"

"Simply say the word 'status,' and it will provide you with information."

Fenrir followed the instructions. "Status."

[Status]

Name – Fenrir Ranthrift

Level – 0

<Locked >

<Locked >

"Why am I at level 0, and why are these things locked?" Fenrir questioned.

"You will reach level 1 after passing one of two tests: the Test of Intent or the Test of Affinity. The locked items are skills or spells, depending on which test you pass."

"And how do I unlock them?"

"As you reach higher levels, you will unlock these skills or spells. At your current level, you will most likely will pass the Intent Test, which will grant you skills."

"Fenrir, you were chosen for your courage and selflessness," the voice continued. "A great calamity is approaching the Kingdom of Grivania. Be cautious."

"What calamity?" Fenrir asked urgently.

"Not now," the voice replied. "You will learn when the time is right. And Fenrir, you must not share this system with anyone."

"I understand," Fenrir affirmed.

"Fenrir, turbulent times lie ahead," warned the voice. "You must become powerful. Now, it's time for me to leave."

"Will we talk again, Storm?" Fenrir asked with hope.

"Yes, Fenrir," Storm replied. "In due time. Take care of your mother and father."

With those final words, Storm's presence faded away.

After an entire day of unconsciousness, Fenrir finally opened his eyes.