It is very exciting to know that you are drawing!
I use Copic makers but I haven’t quite master how to blend colours...these alcohol-based makers are great but yes, it is pricey.
I think Copic ciao is less expensive than Copic sketch.
Prismacolor have nice makers as well.
I use to use Tombow markers when I was young. I believe these are water-based and it has double-ended brush.
Looking forward to seeing your artwork in the near future!