As the old man stepped into the clearing, he turned to thank the wolf, but it had vanished into the forest, leaving behind nothing but paw prints. He knew he would never forget the creature that saved his life.

When he returned to his village, the story of his miraculous survival spread quickly. His children, shamed by their greed and cruelty, could not meet his eyes. The old man, with newfound strength and wisdom, forgave them, understanding that it was his responsibility to teach them the true meaning of family and kindness.

And though he never saw the wolf again, he carried its spirit within him, a reminder of the unexpected grace that can be found in the world, even from the most unlikely sources.