Sometimes Xiao Xin would wander off to explore their bamboo forest while Huo Linghun did other things, such as carve tiny statues out of wood. When Xiao Xin returned to their bamboo clearing they would always greet each other with an embrace.

Today, however, things were different. Xiao Xin returned with an owl sitting on his arm and Huo Linghun decided that observing from a distance would be best. "Where did you get that?" he asked warily.

"I found him in the bamboo," Xiao Xin explained. "He has a hurt wing. I want to take care of him so he can get better."

Huo Linghun moved a little closer and saw that the owl did indeed have a hurt wing.

"His name is Yanjing," Xiao Xin continued.

Huo Linghun could see why he chose that name- the owl had very large eyes. Eyes that were staring straight into his soul.

"Hoo," said the owl. Huo Linghun jumped.

"It's very kind of you to take care of him until he's better," Huo Linghun said, hinting that Xiao Xin would be doing most, or all, of it. As he spoke Xiao Xin lifted his arm and Yanjing stepped onto Huo Linghun's shoulder. Those staring eyes were right next to his face now.

"Hoo."

Huo Linghun jumped.

"He likes you," Xiao Xin said.