“Akemi could not handle it and begged me to pour scorching water on her, even if it might numb the pain a little. I swallowed with a heavy heart, hoping it would not end badly and finally helped her birth the little lady I’m speaking to. Three minutes of constant pain, amongst all loud sounds, your voice freed all of us. The villagers rejoiced outside. All Akemi could do was smile—flashing the widest smile I’ve ever seen. I felt alive, more alive than all my life. ‘We have another Akemi,’ I said to her, and she closed her eyes with a bittersweet smile. She didn’t know whether she should cry or be happy. Yet she seemed happy. I cleaned you and wrapped you around a towel, and opened the door to the awaiting village.”

“The eyes of the villagers sparkled with joy. I slowly walked outside, under the shed, to show you to them. With thunder ripping the sound barrier, lightning bringing back noon in the middle of the night—and striking various trees, sparking fire around the forests nearby. Setting the mountain behind us in a forest fire, blazing like the depths of hell. Glowing embers swerving around in the air. The fire brightened the village even more. I stretched my arms as the villagers leaned forward to see you. Another hulking lightning strike flashed light upon your little face, letting the villagers see you for the very first time. That is how you saw the earth for the first time.”

“What happened to my mom after that?” She jolted off the bench. 

Mr Tanigawa smiled. “Worried about Akemi, eh? The maid helped her out and soon enough, the maid had to leave as well. Akemi got very sick, disease after disease, her condition was terrible. I helped her out as much as possible. Sensei took care of both of you guys. He took care of everything for the next 2 years. Food, clothes, medicine, you name it—he got it covered. A great friend indeed. After that, she recovered and started taking care of herself and you. I know nothing much after that, as I got drafted.”

“So, what is it like in the army?” She sat down on the bench again. 

“Uhm, it was a little hard. War is not a good thing. The fight to gain wealth and luxury is not worth fighting. But the fight to protect and save is, and I’m lucky enough to fight to protect and not to kill. Do you want to become a doctor or something?”

“No, not really. I want to become a great honourable soldier that could save my mom from this cruel world and this illness.”

“Is your mom fine with you joining the army?”

“Oh, no… She fears that she might lose me, too. I promised her I’ll work only till she gets better. I convinced her to let me work for a little while.”

“That’s good—” Akemi and Mrs Tanigawa interrupted them.

“What are you guys talking about?” Mrs Tanigawa said. 

“Nothing special. She was asking me questions about the army,” he smiled, standing up and greeting Akemi. 

“Okay then… I hope my husband didn’t bore you with his stories—” Mrs Tanigawa interrupted her husband.

“Anno! Stop…” He whined.

“No no. His story was impressive. I liked it a lot,” assured Mika, giggling as her mom wrapped her hands around her, pulling her closer.

“It’s time you leave. Akemi is better, don’t worry. Just make sure that she eats on time.” Anno leaned towards the young lady, smiling. “By the way, make sure you take good care of her.”

“Uhm, I’m the mother here—” Akemi joked, acting confused on purpose. Everyone laughed. Akemi and Mika greeted the Tanigawas and headed back home. While on the way, Mika wanted to say something so badly to her mother that she couldn’t hold it anymore.

“Er—I heard how I was born… Uhm... Mom, thanks…” she tightly hugged Akemi, stopping her in her tracks, flushed red, burying her face into her mother's stomach. 

“Awww, you’re welcome, Miss Mika,” she giggled, covering her mouth so that she wouldn't embarrass her even more.