The winters in this world came gently but lingered, painting the landscape in pure white and soft stillness. The frost-kissed mornings gave way to golden afternoons, the icy air softened by the faint warmth of the sun. Jin's home was a haven of comfort amid this wintry world, its hearth blazing and the scent of freshly brewed tea filling the air.
It had been five years since Mochi's birth. She was now a lively five-year-old, her wide, curious eyes often mirroring her sister's excitement as they explored their small but vivid world together. Gian, at ten years old, had grown noticeably. Her emerald eyes had gained a depth and brilliance that made them shine like polished gems. Her hair, which fell in cascading waves of jet black, framed her delicate yet resolute face. Her natural elegance hinted at the strong and creative spirit within her, honed through her relentless practice of her unique art.
The seasons passed, their rhythm marking the steady growth of Jin's daughters. Winter turned to spring, the snow melting into rivers that fed lush green fields. Gian would often venture outside during these transitions, her sketchbook in hand, capturing the changing landscapes with her vibrant and breathtaking art. Each painting seemed alive with its own spirit, as though her imagination reached into the world and pulled forth its essence.
Mochi adored her older sister, often trailing behind her like a shadow. Though she had yet to unlock any powers, her youthful energy and unyielding curiosity made her a constant source of laughter and warmth. She would eagerly ask Gian to teach her how to draw, though her attempts often ended in comical messes that left both of them giggling uncontrollably.
One quiet winter evening, Gian was seated by the fire, her sketchbook propped open on her lap. Her hands moved swiftly, her brush capturing the image of a majestic phoenix rising from the snow. Mochi, sitting beside her with a blanket wrapped around her, watched in awe as her sister's art seemed to shimmer with an almost magical vibrancy.
"Mama," Mochi asked innocently, turning to her mother, who was seated nearby, her hands resting on her growing belly, "Will my little brother like Gian's drawings too?"
Her mother chuckled softly, running a hand through Mochi's hair. "I think your brother will love whatever you and Gian show him. He'll be lucky to have you both as his sisters."
Mochi's face lit up with a smile, though a hint of confusion flickered in her eyes. "But how do you know he'll be a boy?"
Gian looked up from her painting, smirking playfully. "Because I said so, Mochi. Big sisters know these things."
Jin, sitting nearby with a teacup in hand, couldn't suppress his chuckle at their conversation. He found these simple moments more precious than any treasure he had created or collected. These were the memories that made his seemingly eternal life feel worthwhile.
As the months passed and the seasons cycled through their familiar dance, the family bond grew stronger. Gian's artistic abilities flourished, each painting becoming more detailed and alive. Her emerald eyes sparkled with pride as her father occasionally complimented her work, his rare praise a treasure she cherished deeply.
Mochi, on the other hand, remained a vibrant force in the household, her innocence and boundless energy a source of endless joy. Though she was still young, her determination to follow in Gian's footsteps was evident in every clumsy stroke of her brush and every curious question she asked.
Through it all, Jin remained a steady presence, observing his daughters with quiet pride and contentment. The world outside might have been vast and chaotic, but within these walls, life was simple, warm, and full of love.