Asher’s curiosity piqued despite his growing tension. “How do you know all this? You said you weren’t entirely a werebear?”
The stranger sighed, running a weary hand through his disheveled hair. “I… have a history with black magic. My mother was a healer, and she practiced old magic before…” He paused, the pain evident in his gaze. “Let’s just say, I learned how to deal with certain… curses. I used what I know to help you just now.”
Asher’s face softened slightly. “Thank you,” he said, sincerity ringing in his tone, before continuing, “What is your name?”
The stranger replied in a low voice, “I am Henry.”
Asher clenched his fists in desperation and turned to the werebear, his voice strained with urgency. "Henry, please. Can you break this curse?"
Henry’s expression was wary, his hesit
