chapter 18 - A Stroke of a Genius

The rhythmic scratch of pencil on paper filled the quiet afternoon air. Harry sat at the kitchen table, idly sketching as he waited for dinner to finish cooking. His hand moved with calculated precision, each stroke bringing his drawing closer to life.

He hadn't originally planned to pursue art. It had started as a casual hobby, something to relax his mind between his studies. But as he wandered through the library, picking up books on composition, shading, perspective, and color theory, he had absorbed the knowledge into his Library of Arcane Path. The difference was subtle at first—a steadier hand, better proportions, cleaner strokes—but over time, he realized that his sketches were becoming something more.

Today, he had decided to try something different. Instead of just copying from books, he combined the best techniques he had learned. His pencil danced over the paper, layering shadows with careful detail. Depth. Light. Texture. Each element blended seamlessly, bringing a simple still life of fruit into stunning realism.

"Not bad."

He leaned back, examining his work. Compared to his earlier sketches, the difference was night and day. But just as he was about to put it away, a voice interrupted.

"Harry?"

He turned to see Mrs. Collins, his art teacher, standing behind him. She had been visiting Aunt Petunia for tea, but now, her eyes were locked onto the drawing with open admiration.

"Did you draw this?" she asked, stepping closer.

Harry hesitated, then nodded. "Yeah. Just something I was working on."

Mrs. Collins picked up the sketch carefully, as if afraid she might smudge it. "This is incredible! The shading, the realism… Harry, this is professional-level work."

Harry blinked. He had thought it was good, but professional? That was unexpected.

"You have real talent," she continued, "Have you ever considered selling your work? There are galleries and auctions where young artists like you can showcase their skills."

Harry hadn't thought about it before, but now that she mentioned it, it made sense. He was already earning some money from car washing, but if he could sell paintings… it could be a much better source of income.

"More independence. More resources. Another step forward."

"How would I start?" he asked, keeping his tone casual.

Mrs. Collins smiled. "I can introduce you to a few people. If you prepare a few paintings, we can see if any local galleries are interested."

Harry nodded. "That sounds great."

As Mrs. Collins left, he glanced back at his drawing, deep in thought.

"A new skill. A new opportunity. This might be worth exploring."