7 Brewing Storm (1/2)

Lost in her own dark thoughts, Rin hadn't realized the frosty air surrounding her - her mind wandering farther into the darkness.

Sensing the unpleasant thoughts in the little girl's head, Ju flapped its wings flying towards the young girl's face - knocking their foreheads together.

Rapidly flashing her eyes, her once dark dull eyes shine with life once again. Looking at the small bird in front of her Rin giggles.

”I'm okay, Ju,” She gently holds the bird towards her chest.

Releasing a faint screech, the bird happily cuddles in the girls embrace. Suddenly, remembering the soft sensation beneath her, her emerald eyes light up.

Placing the bird on the bed, Rin lifts a portion of the fur covered blankets with shining eyes.

”Ju! Feel how soft this is!” The young girl beams with starred eyes. ”Do you think they'd graciously allow me to take this with me?”

Ju stared at the plump girl with its dark eyes.

The small bird helplessly watched as the young girl rubbed her round cheeks against the fur covered blankets with innocent joy.

Oh boy…

….

That very next morning, Rin woke to hear the distinctive sounds of shuffling feet and various gruff voices. Walking out of her tent, the young girl was viewed with tall soldiers going about.

Off in the corner, Rin could hear swords slashing and heavy grunts and thuds. Peering around the corner Rin observed a group of soldiers training intensely a few succeeding some failing.

Although the sight would have frightened most children, Rin stared at the fighting men with enormous sparkling eyes.

Completely immersed in the fight in front of her, Rin hadn't taken notice of the two towering figures examining the little girl amusedly.

Letting out a faint cough, Rin turns towards the direction of the sound to see Commander Bai and General Guo observing her.

Both men saw how the young girl's eyes shown with interest and curiosity as she watched the men train. Despite expressing an unusual reaction, this only seemed to spark interest in the old Commander.

”Glad to see you're up girl,” Commander Bai chuckled.

Looking up at the Commander with her glittering eyes, she merely bobs her small head with a slight blush on her cheeks. Seeing her silent reply only made the Commander chuckle even more.

Her reaction had naturally made it seem as if she was caught looking eagerly at something she shouldn't have.

”Since you're up, I reasonably assume you're hungry?” He said humbly.

Her gentle eyes widening, Rin vigorously nods her head. After tasting last nights food - roasted boar, Rin hadn't felt satisfied but didn't wish to complain as she was after all free-loading in their camp.