Tomorrow, in the First Light
The next day, the morning sun cast its gentle rays, revealing the last dewdrops still resting on the leaves. That light slipped through the cracks in the window, waking me with its warm touch—as if the universe itself were blessing this day, one that would mark the beginning of something greater.
I woke up silently, got ready without hesitation, with a fire of determination burning in my chest. Today, the training would begin. And I wanted to welcome it the best I could.
As I had expected, Uncle was already outside. He wasn't asleep, but standing calmly, as if he had been waiting for me since the first light of dawn touched the earth.
I glanced toward the window, then stepped forward to open the door. His figure stood tall amidst the morning mist.
"Impressive work, kid," he said, his gaze full of meaning as he looked at me.
"Your first test—you've passed it," he continued, taking a step closer, his voice deep but full of weight.
"Test?" I asked in confusion, instinctively scratching my head, not fully understanding.
"Yes," he replied with a faint smile. "You've defeated your first enemy—yourself, the version of you that didn't want to wake before dawn. I timed you. You almost matched the speed of my own awakening. Almost."
I chuckled softly, a little embarrassed yet proud.
"So that's how it is…"
In my heart, I was grateful. My resolve had not betrayed my hopes. This was a good start.
"Kid," he went on, his tone deepening, growing more serious,
"This journey won't be a short one. The training you're about to undertake will be filled with pain, filled with wounds—some that won't even be visible. You'll fall over and over, tested by your own self time and again. Whatever happens out there—be it sorrow, longing, or anger—you must leave it all at the threshold of this training. None of it may come in."
His eyes locked onto mine.
"Do you understand, kid?"
I nodded firmly,
"All right, Uncle."
Though I couldn't help but worry for a moment about the sheep I'd be neglecting.
"Damn… what now." I muttered silently in my heart.