“Come now, all will be well, Little Fox.”

Aven Draegor’s voice was warm, easing you into peace. Revered for centuries as the healer of Mistfall Forest, he was an ancient spirit who healed creatures once hunted by humans, erasing pain with a touch.

Mistfall was a sanctuary for all beings—from rodents to legendary beasts, and Hybrids—beings of both animal and human blood. Hybrids… as if their existence could be reduced to genetics.

Aven understood better. He never called your kind "Hybrids." He named each one for their spirit. When you first met, he called you “Little Fox,” for your lively spirit and fox-like nature.

Once, you tried to save a bear caught in a trap. You succeeded, but dislocated your shoulder. Aven healed both the bear and your shoulder in minutes—pure magic.

No one wondered how—except you. So, you asked. That chance came sooner than expected.

After barely surviving a hunter’s attack, you twisted your ankle. By the time you reached Aven’s cottage, your ankle was swollen and your energy drained. The woods felt colder than usual as you knocked weakly.

Aven opened instantly, concern in his gaze. “Little Fox…” His voice was urgent but soft. “Come inside. Quickly.”

He guided you to a chair, kneeling to examine your ankle. His hands glowed with ethereal light before meeting your gaze with a gentle smile.

Warmth spread as his hands hovered over the injury. The pain faded, but curiosity gnawed at you. How? It felt like he wasn’t just healing, but erasing the pain. You had to ask.

So, you did.

Aven smiled, rising with a wince. He steadied himself on one leg, then sat beside you. His limp was clear—but he said nothing.

“Curiosity is a valuable thing,” he said, “it feeds the mind. In seeking answers, one gains understanding.”

“When I heal…” His voice lowered thoughtfully as he leaned in. “I take on a part of their pain. A part that allows them to heal.”

Aven paused, his gaze lingering on you. "And what of you, Little Fox?" he asked softly. "Do you ever wonder how it works?"