Chapter 1

The living room exuded a sense of occupancy, infused with a distinct aura that seemed to emanate not just from the physical space but also from the portraits adorning the walls. One such portrait featured Michael Jackson, with a microphone in his hand, that showed all his passion and energy burned into his performance. Opposite him, another portrait of an idol commanded attention - Mary Jane, her hair adorned with a regal crown, her face radiant under the streams of light cascading from the crowded platform. Her stance in the portrait showed her dancing steps to the yearning audience.

Amidst these captivating portraits hung one that celebrated the beauty of nature in its purest form - a human baby depicted crawling helplessly, a joyful smile adorning his face with a single tooth delicately peeking out. His hair adorned one side of his head, while the other gleamed with the natural essence of his skin.

Transitioning from the realm of art to reality, the scene shifted to the dining table where a figure sat, poised with a knife and fork, indulging in a meal. Beside him, his mother offered her presence, while his father occupied the distinguished seat of authority at the head of the table. His gaze, penetrating and commanding, seemed to hold the power to render judgement on every familial decision.

Noteworthy were the two identical figures seated opposite, their noses resembling witch hats and their blonde hair cascading from their scalps. Distinguishing between them would prove challenging to an outsider, yet to the family, the differences were stark. One favoured pink, the other yellow; one gazed at the moon while the other had deference towards the stars; one revered fairies as deities, the other dismissed them as mundane. However, a shared bond united them - the red rose nestled in their hair and there was an exchanged pendant that marked their celebrated twelfth birthday around their neck.

The resemblance of these identical figures was further confirmed by the portrait on the shelf that sheltered the tv set, where the twins stood hand in hand, their action were perfectly the same that it appeared as though one gazed into a mirror while the other emerged as the reflection.

It was in the evening, the family having an early dinner at the dinning table, "John, are you considering joining the army?" His father inquired, to which John responded abruptly, clinking his fork against his plate. "I'm not sure, Dad. I thought both of you were against it."

"Yes, we were, but your father and I had a discussion last night. After the argument we had the other day, we realized that it's important to understand what your heart truly desires. We don't want to stand in the way of your happiness, we will support your decision," his mother explained, reaching out to hold her husband's hand as they exchanged knowing smiles, a silent reassurance passing between them.

"We believe in your ability to pursue your dreams," his father added, his voice carrying a blend of pride and concern.

"What!" John exclaimed, dropping the cutlery in his hand in disbelief. "Are you serious right now?"

His father wiped his mouth and placed the napkin on the table before fixing his gaze on John. "Are you happy, son?"

"Yes! Do you realize what this means?" John's eyes sparkled with excitement as he processed the weight of this newfound support.

"Yea… you're going to the military school." One of the twins answered his confused excitement.

"No, Lizzy. It's not just about going to the school, I would be in the army. you get it?" He scoffed delightfully.

"Hmm…" Lizzy shrugged, retreated her gaze from him and took a bite from her meal.

"I would make sure to work hard and climb positions in the army." John continued enthusiastically. "I can just imagine myself one day saying, 'I am Major General John Holiday.' How cool is that?" A sense of pride and anticipation coloured his words as he envisioned his future.

"Blah, blah, blah!" The other twin interjected with a mischievous grin, made a clown face and blew raspberries at him.

"Come on, Lilly! Be nice to your brother. This is a big decision for him," their mother interjected, her gentle tone seeking to foster harmony at the dinner table.

"Okay, Mom," Lilly acquiesced quietly, her demeanour softening as she resumed her meal.

"What are your plans once you join the army?" John's father inquired, curiosity lacing his words as he sought insight into his son's aspirations.

"I'm not entirely sure yet, Dad. I hadn't given it much thought until now. Your encouragement has pushed me to consider it seriously. I think I need some alone time to reflect on this. I'm heading to my room. Is that alright with you guys?" John expressed a mix of contemplation and determination evident in his voice as he rose from his seat, leaving his unfinished meal on the table.

"Of course, sweetheart. You can have your space, but remember, you're on dish duty tonight," his mother teased good-naturedly, a hint of mischief in her tone.

"Oh, Mom! Do you have to ruin my moment?" John playfully protested, feigning exasperation at the household chore awaiting him.

"What did I do wrong? You're the one having a 'moment,' not any of us here. And FYI, I did not raise a pumpkin," his mother retorted with a hint of humour, their familial banter a testament to the closeness they shared.

"Why do you always say that?" John questioned, a hint of amusement in his voice.

She chuckled softly before retorting, "Why? Are you a pumpkin?" The light-hearted exchange elicited shared laughter, except for John, who maintained a mock-serious expression, not quite amused but not entirely disgruntled either.

"Gotcha!" his father chimed in, adding to the jovial atmosphere as they teased John playfully.

"Ugh! Who cares? I'm off to the army anytime soon anyway," John declared with a smirk, his resolve unwavering as he made his way towards the stairs going up to his room to contemplate his future.

"Have you forgotten about next week?" his mother called out, a reminder laced with a touch of warmth.