Mia looked a little embarrassed. "I… I know it probably doesn't work. Most nutrient stuff like this doesn't. But I just… I've always wanted to awaken a power. Just once. Even if it's a small one."
John looked at her gently. "Mia…"
She gave a tiny smile. "I know it's dumb. We already got all this food. I should be grateful."
John reached out and squeezed her shoulder. "It's not dumb. Go ahead and try it."
Mia looked at the bottle. Then, slowly, she opened it and drank the potion.
It tasted cold and clear, like icy water.
She sat down and waited. One minute… two… five…
Nothing.
She looked down, face falling. "It's okay," she whispered. "I got what I really needed today. Food. I shouldn't be greedy."
John kneeled next to her. "Hey. You never know. Maybe your time just hasn't come yet."
Mia nodded, trying to smile.
But then—she gasped.
A sharp wind swirled around her. Her hands twitched. Her fingers turned cold.
