Genbu Gaiden: Song of Ice : Eika no Aisu
Chapter One
A slow trickle of water fell down the side of the hut, filling the basin of water below. A face looked down into the water, grimacing. It was a young face, barely seven years old. Black air framed his heart-shaped face, his green eyes wide. He felt itchy all over. He knew his grandmother would be very angry.
He had gone against her wishes, following the older boys into the forest. He had gotten lost and fell into a batch of poisoned oak. His whole body itched like mad.
"CHAMKA!!!!"
Chamka Tan flinched, trying to hide his hands behind his back. His grandmother came in, her arms crossed over her chest. "I thought I told you to stay in the village?"
"Iyes, Obaasan." Chamka looked down, fidgeting.
His grandmother sighed, shaking her head. She held out her arms and he ran into them, hugging her tightly. She brushed his black hair from his face. "Chamka, there is a reason I don't want you in the forest. It's dangerous for you, right now. Promise me you won't go in there."
Chamka fidgeted, looking down. He sighed. "Okay, Obaasan. I won't go with the boys again. I promise."
"Good boy." His grandmother ruffled Chamka's hair and left him.
Chamka watched his grandmother leave. His green eyes were alight with mischief. 'Yeah, but I never said anything about not going by myself'
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Dusk had come and gone, leaving the small village in the north of Hokkan quiet. The small, thatched roofed cottages were quiet. The village was silent as it slumbered for the night. All the inhabitants were snuggled in their beds, warm and safe.
All except one.
The small figured moved silently through the village, a bow and quiver strung on its back. At the edge of the forest, it looked back.
Chamka looked behind him, staring at every shadow. His eyes narrowed, his bow at the ready. A flash of light, but he quickly dismissed it as a reflection. Turning his back, he entered the forest.
~~~~~~
A smile lit the face of Chamka's grandmother as she watched him enter the forest. All the signs were in place. It was time he learned who he was. Darting through the village, she followed him.