As the boy grew, the warmth of family enveloped him. His mother's gentle touch, his father's laughter, and the loving banter with his sister filled his days. From the moment he opened his eyes, he was surrounded by the mundane joys of childhood—tender moments that seemed to paint the world in vibrant colors.Time flowed like the river that wound through the village, and soon the boy turned five.As his fifth birthday approached, the evenings were often filled with his father's storytelling. Gathering around the hearth, he listened intently as his father spun tales.
The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm glow over the village as the boy's father returned home, his cloak dusted from the day's work. He was a respected man, holding a high position in the village, but as evening fell, he transformed into a loving father eager to spend quality time with his children.
His eight-year-old daughter beamed with joy as he entered, while the boy, bubbling with excitement, jumped up to greet him. Tonight, like many evenings before, their father settled into a cozy chair, and the children gathered around, eager for the stories that filled their imaginations with wonder.
"Do you remember the story of the great hero?" their father began, his deep voice rich with warmth. "A man who once defeated a human-turned-demon. His name was Valenir, and he was known across the land as the Hero of the Wind."
The boy's eyes widened with excitement, his small hands clenching in anticipation. He loved these tales, where bravery and adventure danced in the air like the wind itself. His sister leaned closer, her curiosity evident.
"Why was he so strong, Father?" she asked, bouncing slightly in her seat. "How did he get the power of the wind?"
With a proud smile, their father leaned in closer, making the story more immersive. "Valenir was chosen because his soul had the greatest affinity with the wind. He became an apostle of the wind god, receiving the strongest blessing anyone had ever seen."
"Wow!" the boy exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Do you think we could be like him one day?"
His father chuckled, delighted by his son's eagerness. "Perhaps! When a child turns ten, they must go to the temple or church to receive a blessing from their god. The blessing you get is connected to the nature of your soul. The more affinity your soul has with an element—wind, fire, earth, or water—the stronger the blessing you will receive."
The boy bounced in his seat, practically bursting with excitement. "I can't wait! What do you think my affinity will be?"
His sister grinned at him, her own enthusiasm infectious. "And mine too! Maybe we'll both be strong like Valenir!"
Their father smiled, his heart swelling with love for his children. "We'll find out when the time comes. Until then, both of you must be patient and continue to learn."