𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀

Three

【CHAPITRE 3】

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The sun shone brightly over the village, illuminating the bustling streets where people walked and laughed as they worked. Its warm rays filtered through the nearby forest, casting dappled light on Minji as she chopped wood. Sweat trickled down her forehead and soaked her clothes, prompting her to sigh and remove her jacket. She sat down on the grass, taking deep breaths to recover from the strenuous labor.

Lying back, Minji gazed up at the clear blue sky. A small smile formed on her lips as she raised her hand towards the sky, momentarily lost in her thoughts. "Only a few days left until the competition," she murmured to herself, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. She sighed again, running her hand through her hair. The thought of the upcoming competition filled her with determination, but also with worry. Her mother's health had been deteriorating, and despite the help from her friends, the burden of care and their financial struggles weighed heavily on her.

Minji knew she couldn't afford to let herself get too caught up in these worries. She had to stay strong and focused. With renewed resolve, she stood up, brushing the grass off her clothes. Looking around, Minji took in the serene beauty of the forest. The trees swayed gently in the breeze, and birds chirped merrily from their branches. For a brief moment, she allowed herself to appreciate the peace and quiet, letting it bolster her spirits.

As she resumed her work, the rhythmic chopping of wood became almost meditative, she imagined winning the scholarship, joining her friends at the Academy, and creating a better life for herself and her mother.

The sound of approaching footsteps interrupted her thoughts. She turned to see a familiar figure coming down the path. It was her neighbor, Mrs. Kim, carrying a basket of fresh vegetables."Hello, Minji," Mrs. Kim greeted warmly. "I brought some extra vegetables from my garden. I thought you and your mother could use them."

Minji smiled gratefully, setting down her axe. "Thank you so much, Mrs. Kim. You're very kind."Mrs. Kim handed her the basket and patted her arm gently. "You've got a lot on your plate, dear. Remember, it's okay to ask for help."

Minji nodded, feeling a lump form in her throat. "I will. Thank you."

As Mrs. Kim walked away, Minji glanced at the basket filled with vibrant greens and ripe tomatoes. Her heart swelled with gratitude. Despite the challenges, there were moments like these that reminded her of the support and kindness surrounding her.

Determined to make the most of the opportunity ahead, Minji set the basket aside and picked up her axe once more. The sun continued to shine down, casting a golden glow on her as she worked. She knew the road ahead would be tough, but with each swing of the axe, she felt a little stronger, a little more ready to face whatever came her way.

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As the afternoon wore on, Minji continued to chop wood, her mind occupied with thoughts of the upcoming competition. The steady rhythm of her work was interrupted by the distant sound of children playing. She paused for a moment, listening to their laughter, which brought a smile to her face. It was a reminder of simpler times, of the joys that still existed in her life despite the hardships.

Finally, with a considerable pile of wood stacked neatly beside her, Minji decided it was time to head back home. She gathered her tools and the basket of vegetables Mrs. Kim had given her, feeling a sense of accomplishment. The sun was beginning to set, casting long shadows and bathing the village in a warm, golden light.

Walking through the village, Minji greeted her neighbors with a nod and a smile. She could see the preparations for the evening meal in many homes, the comforting smell of cooking filling the air. When she reached her own modest house, she carefully placed the basket on the kitchen table and went to check on her mother.