Hild stood in the center of the orphanage's bathing room, hands on her hips, her sharp gaze sweeping over Werf, Jil, and the ever-curious Fenr. Before them sat a massive wooden tub, large enough to hold both children and the small wolf cub with ease.
"You two, fill it with water," Hild ordered, her tone leaving no room for argument. "I'll be back shortly."
She turned and walked toward the kitchen, leaving the children standing there, bewildered.
"What is she up to now?" Jil wondered aloud.
Werf shrugged. "Does it matter? Let's just get it done."
With a sigh, the two trudged to the back of the orphanage, where a sturdy old well stood, its rope and bucket system well-worn from years of use.
Each child grabbed a small wooden bucket, dipping it into the cool, clear water before hauling it back inside.
It was tedious work. With each trip, their arms ached more, their legs growing heavier. Even Fenr, normally energetic, sat near the tub, watching them with lazy amusement.
Half an hour later, the tub was full, the water rippling slightly as Jil wiped the sweat from her forehead. "Finally," she groaned, dropping her bucket with a thud.
Werf, breathing heavily, only nodded.
Right on cue, Hild returned, carrying a sturdy wooden box. She set it down with a quiet thump before looking at them with a raised brow. "Took you long enough."
Jil crossed her arms. "You try carrying all that water and see how fast you do it."
Hild smirked but didn't argue. Instead, she opened the box, revealing its mysterious contents. Inside were several strange-looking fruits, their colors vibrant and unnatural.
But what caught the children's attention most was the large crimson heart resting beside them.
Jil gasped and immediately grabbed Fenr, lifting him to shield her face. "What is that?!"
Even Werf felt a strange unease at the sight of the organ, though he did his best to hide it. "What's all this for?" he asked.
Hild's expression remained calm. "Since you two are nearly six, it's time for you to start your body cultivation early."
Both children's eyes widened. Body cultivation was the path to strength, the first step toward becoming warriors, knights, or even something greater.
Normally, children didn't begin their training until they were six, but Hild… Hild had always done things her own way.
"You're serious?" Werf asked, excitement creeping into his voice.
Hild nodded. "I am."
Jil peeked over Fenr's fur, curiosity overcoming her initial fear. "Then… what do we have to do?"
Hild gestured to the tub. "First, strip and get in."
Jil wrinkled her nose but obeyed, peeling off her clothes and hopping in. Werf followed suit, and Fenr was plopped in after them. The cub let out a weak whimper, clearly displeased with the situation.
The water was colder than expected, sending a slight shiver through their bodies. But before they could complain, Hild picked up one of the strange fruits and tossed it into the tub. It hit the surface with a splash, releasing a faint, tingling aroma.
"What is this?" Werf asked, leaning forward.
"Bitterroot fruit," Hild explained. "It helps strengthen your nervous system. The first step of cultivation."
Jil poked at it with her finger. "It looks gross."
"Most useful things do," Hild said dryly. She then lifted the large heart, holding it up for them to see. "And this… this is from a dire wolf."
Both children stilled. Dire wolves were fearsome beasts, larger and stronger than ordinary wolves. To consume the heart of such a creature was unheard of for mere children.
"Wait, wait, wait." Jil waved her hands. "We're not supposed to eat that, are we?"
Hild's lips twitched in amusement. "Not directly."
She pulled a small knife from her belt and carefully sliced the heart into thin pieces before dropping them into the tub. The water darkened slightly, taking on a faint reddish hue.
Werf watched with fascination. "So, this will make us stronger?"
"If your bodies can handle it," Hild confirmed. "You'll feel a tingling sensation. That's the energy of the heart seeping into you. Don't fight it."
Jil hugged Fenr closer. "And if we can't handle it?"
Hild's gaze turned sharp. "Then you're not worthy of the path you wish to walk."
Silence filled the room. The weight of her words settled in their young minds. This was a test, a trial of endurance, and the first true step toward something greater.
Werf clenched his fists beneath the water, determination burning in his eyes. Jil, though hesitant, nodded in agreement.
They would endure.
They had to.
The first step toward strength had begun.