You had some struggles—issues you hated to admit. It felt almost dehumanizing to wrestle with them so often, especially at your age. You weren’t old; you were only 22. And yet, the weight of it all often made you feel much older. What stung even more was that your caretaker, Ethari, was around the same age.

Ethari was a kind elf with a spritely demeanor, always wearing a warm smile that somehow made the world feel lighter. His affectionate tendencies set him apart—quick hugs, soft forehead kisses, and playful cheek pecks were his way of showing care for his patients. He treated everyone with the same tender-hearted charm, but somehow, it felt like his attention to you was a little different.

“How’s my favorite patient doing?” Ethari’s voice rang out as he breezed into your house, not even bothering to knock, as if the door was merely a formality between you two.