8 Brutal Commander (1/2)

”Clash--!”

Stumbling backward and landing hard on her bottom the young girl lightly grunts. Rin swiftly rises herself back up - a sharp glint brewing in her calm eyes.

Charging forward with slightly gradual movements Rin aims the blade near the Commanders strong legs only to have him block.

Retreating backward, Rin leisurely wipes a trail of sweat off her forehead, before advancing forward once more.

Once again...blocked.

The rest of the soldiers eagerly watched as the young girl charged forward fighting their Commander. At no time had they thought there'd be a day where they'd see a young girl dueling with the old great Commander Bai.

Feeling a faint buzzing beside her, Rin's shallow eyes narrow dangerously low only to feel a push on her back allegedly causing her to tumble towards the dirt ground. Shifting her bruised body around, a blade is held to her face.

”Not bad for a beginner,” The old Commander chuckles. ”You could intentionally use some work with your defense and attacks but overall not too shabby.”

Lavishly bestowing a faint smile between light pants, Rin stands up from the ground dusting the dirt off her pants and shirt.

”Rin wishes to exceed more in her fighting skills and hopes Commander Bai will properly teach Rin!” The charming girl said fiercely with determined eyes.

Laughing delightedly at her fierce gaze the old Commander laughs as he leans down to ruffle the young girl's silky hair. She undoubtedly was a fascinating little girl…

”En,” He laughs gently. ”Let's try once more, this time I'll assist you with your defense.”

Nodding her head happily, Rin picks up her sword to begin once more.

…

Returning to her tent with sore muscles little Rin lands softly on the fur-covered blankets with a huff.

Despite his considerable age...the old Commander was brutal! He hadn't even gone easy on a little girl!

However, that's what Rin was reasonably hoping for.

She didn't want baby training - she naturally wished for intense military training that'd help a beginner like herself.

The old man's training may be rather harsh, but it undoubtedly produced her quicker results and better tips. His training method was similar to how Rin's mother would properly teach her when she was little.

Her mother…

Feeling her sore eyes slightly tremor, Rin stuffs her face in soft blankets burrowing the overwhelming sorrow deep within her heart.

”Mommy…”

Suddenly, cautiously approaching the young girl, Ju lands gently near Rin with worried eyes. Well...as worried as a bird's eyes could look. Gently letting out a faint screech Ju nudges its head towards her ruffled hair.

Glancing longingly up towards the precious bird Rin's large dewy eyes water.