Two of the three wishes were difficult, but the remaining one happened to fit Shade's guess about the "Match Girl" today. In fact, considering the title of this deity who had fallen in Fifth Epoch 1068, it was hard not to think of a fairy tale.
After considering it for a moment, Shade looked at the owner of the toy store. The young man in the ridiculous hat was watching him.
"There isn't much time. I'll try telling a fairy tale to fulfill the wish for a story today. As for the wishes for growth and strength, come again next time."
"Of course. Then, from now until you leave, they'll temporarily be able to understand the language you use."
The saint stepped out from behind the counter and clapped his hands. Five tall stools appeared in the open space before the counter. The two men took their seats, while the three children happily climbed onto the chairs, sitting obediently with their hands on their knees.
For some reason, that neat and uniform sight made Shade think of Puppets being controlled. Even if gods bore no ill will toward mortals, mortals still could not remain in contact with gods for long.
Everyone looked at Shade expectantly. Shade gathered his thoughts and cleared his throat. He understood what he was about to do:
"Oh, children, I am about to tell a very ancient story. It is no longer possible to verify exactly when this story took place, but it is absolutely true."
The three children looked at Shade with shining eyes. Even the girl who seemed the most mature was drawn in by such an opening.
"It was a cold winter. Snowflakes fell from the sky like knives, yet also like goose feathers. It was a dimly lit street—"
The saint waved