Lown-Toun

Chapter 1: A simplistic start

I awoke to the sound of my clock, alarming me to arise out of bed and prepare for my job as a Nautical Engineer. It's not a flattering one, but it certainly puts food on the table for me and whatever is left of my family. As I quickly put my uniform on, I ran down the stairs to quickly treat myself to some food. As a common sight as it is, My father is at a small table in the kitchen, eating nothing but a bowl of cereal, and my barely 11 year old brother, Percy, is on the couch doing nothing with himself, much less, his life. "Mornin', Atti" said my father. The nickname he uses for me makes it easier to say. It isn't enjoyable, but I have gotten used to it. "Good morning, Father," I hastily replied. I quickly made myself 2 pieces of toast, when Percy entered the kitchen, wanting to tell me something. "Can I please have a piece?" he asked. I finished the piece and gave it to him as he ran back to the sofa, knowing I wouldn't have finished it by the time I got to work. I finished the 2nd piece and began to eat it when Father tried to start a conversation with me. "So, how's that job of cleanin' boats doing for you?" He asked.

"I told you, I Engineer and assist in the aid of the machines. I only clean them when I need the extra cash, which is what we need ever since mother died." I exclaimed.

"Ah, your mother always was a beacon of light in our lives, helping us out when we were at our lowest, making us feel like we had everything. I still can't believe she's gone." Said my father

I couldn't deny him. My mother had always been there for us, even in the darkest times of our life. "I do miss her much too, but I still need to keep going so I can give us what she gave us." I explained. "Suit yourself," said Father. After this conversation, I quickly ran back upstairs to prepare myself for the day. I freshened my teeth, cleaned out my hair, and placed my hat on my head, ready to head to my work placed in Nerus, a small coastal village placed near the Privan border, a line that seperates Techan Territory with our Lown-Toun. While running back downstairs to leave, I informed Percy of certain things.

"If Father isn't too down, he'll make himself and you lunch, but if not, then y-"

"I should make some food that both feeds me and him enough, I know, I know."

"...And-"

"And I should find a way to entertain myself while you're gone other than sit on the couch doing nothing. You told me this several times before!"

I was not surprised he remembered, but I didn't expect him to have finished the sentences for me. I looked at him. "Well, glad you got the idea. Just remember, though, if anything happens, I love you and dad. Goodbye now." I said to him. "Bye, Atticus!" he quickly exclaimed before I closed the door. As I finished up locking the door, I stared off into the sky for a few seconds, admiring the beauty of it, and then quickly walked to my job at Navir Co., hoping to make a day worth it's pay.