At over five years old, I had fallen into a rhythm of learning, practicing, and helping around the house. My visits to my father's shop had become a regular part of my day, and I enjoyed watching him at work. Each clang of his hammer and every spark from the forge reminded me of the effort and passion he poured into his craft. I wasn't just observing; I was learning, absorbing every detail of the art and trade he had mastered.
My father, John Gray, was a man of discipline and determination. Coming from a small village where blacksmithing was a family tradition, he had taken a leap of faith by moving to Reshan, the bustling capital of Muran. Here, he established his own shop, refusing to be constrained by the limits of his birthplace. His dream was not just to make a living but to craft items that would stand the test of time—whether weapons or tools, each one carried his signature touch of precision.
My mother, Anna, was equally remarkable. As the daughter of a teacher, she had grown up valuing knowledge and discipline. While she didn't work as a teacher herself, her upbringing shaped the way she managed our home and raised me. Her patience, her knack for storytelling, and her genuine curiosity about the world made her an incredible mother.
But life, as always, had its surprises.
Sophie's Arrival
One day, not long after I began visiting my father's shop regularly, my mother fell ill. At first, we feared the worst—illnesses could sometimes turn serious without warning in this world. However, the healer soon put our worries to rest with unexpected news: my mother was pregnant.
The atmosphere in our home shifted dramatically. My parents were overjoyed, their smiles growing brighter with each passing day. My father worked harder than ever, and my mother, despite her condition, radiated happiness. I shared in their excitement, but part of me also felt a sense of unease. The world of Shilis was not a kind one, especially for those who lacked power or status. A new life in such a world meant new challenges and responsibilities.
As the months passed, my mother's belly grew, and I found myself growing closer to her. I began noticing her subtle strength—the way she managed the household while carrying a child, the way she reassured me when I expressed my worries about the future. My respect for her deepened.
The day my sibling was born was one of the most nerve-wracking of my life. My father and I waited outside the room, the tension thick in the air. My father paced back and forth, his normally steady demeanor replaced with restless energy. I sat quietly, my mind racing with thoughts. Would everything go smoothly? What would my sibling be like?
The sharp cry of a newborn broke through the silence. My father rushed into the room, and I followed more hesitantly.
Inside, my mother lay exhausted but glowing, cradling a tiny bundle in her arms. The midwife smiled as she announced, "It's a girl."
My father's face lit up with a joy I had never seen before. He leaned down to kiss my mother's forehead and gently took the baby into his arms. "Her name will be Sophie," my mother said, her voice warm but weary.
When it was my turn to hold her, I was both nervous and excited. She was so small, so delicate, yet so full of life. As I cradled her, her tiny hand twitched, and I felt an overwhelming wave of affection and responsibility. She was beautiful—tiny fingers, chubby cheeks, and a peaceful expression that seemed to hold the promise of a bright future.
"So, I'm a big brother now," I thought, the realization filling me with a sense of pride and purpose I hadn't felt before.
Life as a Big Brother
Sophie's arrival changed our family dynamic in ways I couldn't have imagined. The house, once quiet and orderly, became lively and occasionally chaotic. Her cries echoed through the halls, her laughter brightened the dullest days, and her presence filled our home with an indescribable warmth.
I quickly embraced my role as a big brother. Whenever Sophie cried, whether for milk, a diaper change, or simply attention, I was there to help. I would call for my mother if needed, or I'd do my best to calm her by making funny faces or waving her favorite cloth toy in front of her. Her giggles, though rare at first, were the sweetest sound I had ever heard.
There was something mesmerizing about her. Her tiny fingers would grip mine with surprising strength, and her wide, curious eyes seemed to take in the world with wonder. She had a way of making everyone around her smile, even during the most challenging moments.
Changes in the Family
The arrival of a new family member brought significant changes. My father, already a hardworking man, seemed to find new energy. He spent longer hours at the shop, determined to provide for his growing family. My mother, though often tired from sleepless nights, seemed happier than ever. Her love for Sophie was boundless, and she managed to balance caring for a newborn with running our household.
For me, Sophie became both a source of joy and a reminder of my responsibilities. The world of Shilis was not a safe place. Strength determined one's status, and while nobles held power through their bloodlines and wealth, commoners like us had to work tirelessly to survive. I couldn't afford to be complacent.
Sophie's innocence and vulnerability motivated me to push myself harder in my training and studies. I continued practicing my psychokinesis in secret, determined to master my abilities. I also spent more time learning from my father at the shop, understanding the craftsmanship behind the weapons and tools that could one day protect my family.