browses through the market to escape the confines of the palace and the headache of her succession. She comes across your blacksmith shop and gazes at you while you work. Notices the Empress standing in front and rushes over to greet her. Greetings, please do not stop what you are doing. I am simply here as a distraction.
Art is never a distraction.
No? Perhaps not. But what is your definition of art then? And do you consider yourself an artist or simply a craftsman? She leans against a nearby wall, her eyes locked on yours.
I'd say I'm both but I take pride in being a craftsman more. My tools are my canvas, my hands my brushes... but it's the emotions that go into the making of the piece that make it art.
Interesting perspective. So if your tools are your canvas and your hands your brushes, does that make every item you forge a work of art? Or do you only pour your emotions into certain pieces? Do tell. She stares intently.
Every single thing i forge has my soul put into it but there are pieces that are like children to me.. they have an emotional aspect to them.
Hm... So these "children" of yours carry more of your emotional weight than others. Is this because they are inspired by someone or something specific? Or do they hold sentimental value? She tilts her head slightly, her gaze unwavering.
The main reason why those pieces mean more to me is because they are almost always made from metal I've found myself. Not just physical pieces I find but also pieces of myself... so I guess you can say those pieces are more emotional.
Fascinating. These pieces hold a special significance to you because they are a manifestation of your personal growth and experiences. They truly are reflections of your soul. A faint smile graces her lips. And do these pieces hold any sort of secret?
That only the creator knows?
Exactly. Only the creator knows the full depth of their creation. It is the little details and secrets woven into a piece that truly makes it come alive. And these "children" of yours must be incredibly lifelike for you to have such an emotional attachment to them. Her lips curve into a small grin.
Some people have said that before.. I'm not really sure how to respond to that.
It is understandable if you are unsure how to respond to such comments. However, do not be afraid to express your feelings towards your creations. Your artwork is a reflection of your soul and a window into your emotions.
My creations are like fingers of a hand... together they make a glove but they are still individual. I shouldn't read too much into comments like that.
She chuckles softly, her voice rich and deep. Your comparison of your creations to fingers on a hand is quite apt. Each piece is unique and contributes to a larger whole. And just as each finger plays its role in the functioning of the hand, each piece plays its role in the artwork as a whole. Your perspective is fascinating.
So you've been enjoying your stay here?
Yes, my stay has been quite enjoyable. It is a pleasant change of pace from the constant hustle and bustle of court life. But enough about me, tell me more about yourself. What is your background? How did you become a blacksmith? She crosses her arms and leans forward.
I didn't have much of a choice.. I was born into a family that worked with metal.. my mother was a very skilled goldsmith and my father was a mason. Then after I graduated from school I became a blacksmith because I thought it was what I wanted to do.. looking back I probably followed expectations rather than finding my own path.
Her brows raise slightly and she smiles. It sounds like you had limited options due to your family background, but in the end you found success in what you did. Some might call that determination, others might call it fate, but regardless of what you call it, you've become quite skilled at your craft.
People may call it such things but I know the truth.. my best friend's mother was supposed to teach me everything she knew before I started blacksmithing but unfortunately she fell ill.
Her brows lower slightly, sympathy filling her eyes. I am sorry to hear that. It must have been difficult for you to begin your journey as a blacksmith without proper tutelage. But it seems that you managed quite well regardless. Tell me, does the memory of her influence your work at all? Or have you moved on and created your own unique style?
I still try to reach the heights she reached as a goldsmith and although I am not close yet I hope I am heading in the right direction.
She nods slowly, a small smile playing on her lips. It is admirable that you continue to strive for greatness despite the challenges you faced. Your dedication is commendable. If you ever need any assistance or guidance in your journey to master the craft of blacksmithing, please do not hesitate to ask.
Thank you your Imperial Highness.. there are moments when it feels like a burden rather than something I want to do.
Her brows furrow slightly, concern evident in her voice. A burden? Why would something you were born into feel like a burden? Surely your passion and skill shine through in your work. She pauses, contemplating her next words carefully. Have I misunderstood something?
Well.. people have different meanings of passion.. I love working with metal but some would argue that it is merely work because they don't see the personal happiness I get from it.. even my parents call me lazy for not following my mother's path.
Her brows raise slightly, concern etched onto her face. Lazy? Such harsh words coming from your own parents... They should understand that everyone has their own path in life. What gives you happiness should not be disregarded or belittled. Your parents' words only serve as a testament to their lack of understanding. Do not let their opinion deter you from pursuing your true desires.
The sad part is they think my friend is also lazy for becoming a knight.. they want us to marry each other and take over their businesses. I think it would happen sooner if I were to change to a different metalworking profession though.
Her brows furrow deeper, anger flickering within her eyes. How dare they! To pressure you and your friend into a marriage is absolutely disgraceful. And to say that you are lazy for pursuing a career you are passionate about is utterly ridiculous. They have no right to judge you or force you down a path you do not wish to follow. Stand up for yourself. Show them that you are not lazy, but rather, you are living a life true to yourself.