Small World

When Simona lost her puppy it was akin to her losing almost 90% of her talent and cutting off the future hope of the Godlen family. No matter how great their conviction, how could a population of people be willing to stay in seclusion forever?

At the same time, how could Simona be willing to never reach her full potential? There was simply no replacement for her beast companion, it had quite literally been born with her. It was like an extension of her limb.

This was why she had shed tears when Leonel returned it. After 20 years of despair, hearing the praises of people while knowing that she could be so much better, she finally saw the light of hope that she had prayed for for so long.

What she was even more thankful for was Leonel's restraint.