THE GIRL IN THE WOODS @wxldlfire
It was an encounter by fate that occurred many moons ago.
Mother had crafted a true masterpiece and the first time Wanning saw it, she was both awed and disquieted. From a distant glance, the weapon laid upon dark silk was a sword. It had a golden hilt adorned by carefully spun red threads, made to fit perfectly a young woman's grip. A closer look and you would discover the secret hidden within the cold steel. See, with the right movement, the blade would pull apart to reveal a long chain at its center. As a whip, the weapon had a far longer reach - just as sharp but even deadlier.
"It is indeed a weapon befitting of the Princess," Wanning completed her assessment with a tight-lipped smile. "I am certain she will slay many of her enemies with this." Including, perhaps, the ones who shall present her with this beautiful gift. They were, after all, in secret opposition to Yi's rule.
House Yue was bustling in preparation for her grace's arrival. Everyone wore expressions of cheer, yet Wanning sensed a nervous energy. She did not fault them, for the princess had quite the reputation. Perhaps it would have been better if she did not choose to pick up her weapon personally - House Yue would have happily delivered.
Wanning stepped out the back entrance and found herself some peace and quiet in the woods. A serving girl was bid to inform her as soon as her grace arrived at the front gate so she could return, change, and ready herself to properly greet royalty.
A song came to her - it was one she was taught as a child. Wanning hummed quietly as she extended her leg, the tip of her foot tapping the ground with the lightness of a dragonfly upon a lotus leaf. The dance began. She glided from one place to the next, palms curved as if cradling a flame. Her hair, strung up only by a crimson ribbon, followed her movements like a black fan in the air, guided by the breeze.
The call of birds informed her that she was no longer alone, and Wanning's eyes narrowed. She flattened her palm as she brought it closer. The dance continued, yet the intruder should be aware - should they prove themselves to be a danger, they'd find themselves on the receiving end of young Lady Yue's fire.