An COUNTRY....
Amira stood amidst the vibrant gathering of the An tribe, her heart a mix of curiosity and solitude. Surrounded by their rich traditions and lively rituals, she felt a deep connection to a heritage she barely knew.
Her mother, the source of this lineage, had left an indelible mark on Amira's life, even if their time together was fleeting. She was thankful enough to be found lifeless by them they had saved her although unable to keep her child alive. She found out they had been keeping a watchful eye on her ever since she stepped in Oaken Vale territory. But unfortunately the night she was closed to being assassinated, they weren't around to save her which lead to all this.
The An tribe were a people of talents, their skills unique, setting them apart from the rest of the world.
In stark contrast to Oaken Vale, they carried an air of mystique, a culture that felt like a world unto itself. Amira longed to uncover the layers of her mother's past and understand her place in this unique lineage.
The An were a people steeped in wild culture, fostering their skills from a young age and nurturing talents that were as unique as their vibrant surroundings.
Recently, she discovered that A Rai, her mother's younger brother, was not just a family member but also the chief of the tribe. While relief washed over her at the thought of having family who cared in a world that often felt empty. Why had they not reached out to her over the years?
Unlike the traditional huts she had expected, the tribe in An land lived in thick, robust buildings crafted from sturdy blocks and iron.
Their territory stretched vast and wild. There were no modern conveniences all their resources sprang from the earth itself.
Their attire reflected the vibrancy of their culture, adorned in shades of rich color that seemed to dance alongside them. Amira watched, her heart swelling with the desire to dive deeper into this world that felt like both home and a new beginning.
A Rai, the chief of the tribe values his people greatly, he always made sure everyone voice was heard.though they did not practice monarchy or seek the comforts of advancement, they possessed a wealth of wisdom that guided their daily lives.
"Uncle A Rai, was my mother a kind woman? Was she loved?" Amira asked.
They were seated in Lord A Rai's house, his wife Lady A Lin brought in some delicacy.
" A wei was always full of life," the man said with a smile, she was the center of the tribe, the only regret we have was letting her marry into a foreign land" A Rai sigh dropping his mug. "You are so much like her" A Rai said.
FIVE YEARS LATER.....
The slash of sword against the wind was silent like a whisper the leaf ruffle as a pair of feet ran past, their movement fluid their breathing combined.
A bamboo tree came crashing to the muddy floor as it was hit with a single force.
The sword balance on his neck and a wide grin appeared on her face.
"Got you," she declared, her voice steady as the blade of her sword hovered threateningly just below his chin.
"Did you?" he replied, a sly grin playing at the corners of his lips. Just then, she felt the cold steel of his dagger pressing firmly against her stomach, he remained turned away from her.
She let out a sigh, stepping back as she sheathed her sword with a practiced motion. The blade slid smoothly into its scabbard, the metal glinting momentarily in the fading light.
"You're just a devil," she declared, her voice carrying a mix of exasperation, while he merely raised an eyebrow and smirked, mischief dancing in his eyes.
"You really shouldn't be saying that," he replied with a teasing lilt, "considering you stroll into the local church every Sunday. Aren't you supposed to be Catholic?"
"Even after all these years, I still can't seem to get a hit at you," she replied, frustration edging her words.
"You are improving," he said with a casual air, though there was little sincerity behind his assertion, and he didn't mind that it was transparent.
"On a scale of what?" she shot back, eyeing him critically.
Turning to face her fully, he took a leisurely moment to assess her from head to toe, a hint of amusement dancing in his gaze.
"Maybe a two," he declared with a grin that was far from reassuring.
"Very encouraging," she replied, her tone dripping with sarcasm as she rolled her eyes,
"Jin Long??"
The sound echoed in the air as both of them turned toward the source of the voice, which was approaching swiftly from a distance.
"Xiao Mei?" Jin Long called out.
Xiao Mei burst onto the scene, her energy infectious as she came to a halt before them, a bright smile illuminating her face. She glanced at the lady beside Jin Long, recognizing her presence.
"Xi Feng," she said, inclining her head respectfully in a gracious bow. Xi Feng returned the gesture with a warm smile, her eyes reflecting a kindness that matched Xiao Mei's spirit.
"A Rai is summoning you back without delay," Xiao Mei declared, her voice filled with urgency.
"Uncle is? It isn't time for a clan meeting yet," Xi Feng replied, her brow furrowed with concern.
"This isn't merely about the state affairs the Jade Sect has returned once more," Xiao Mei insisted, her expression growing serious.
"Jade sect?"
With a weary glance at the overcast sky, Jin Long sighed. "I suppose a little diplomacy, wouldn't hurt "