The Devouring

The training grounds were quieting down as the sun dipped toward the horizon, casting long shadows over the stone floor. James stood at the edge of the training area, his mind still replaying Elder Ren's words.

"Just as cultivating Qi has breakthroughs, each technique also has breakthroughs that you must master to be truly proficient," Elder Ren had said, his gaze steady. "The Crimson Viper Fist is no exception. Do not expect instant mastery every movement, every strike must be refined."

James had listened closely, absorbing every word. He understood the weight of the technique he had chosen, but hearing Elder Ren reinforce the idea of gradual progress made him realize just how long the road ahead would be.

Now, standing alone in the dimming light, James took a deep breath and got into position. He unrolled the scroll once more, carefully reading through the descriptions of the Crimson Viper Fist.

The foundation of the technique was speed, precision, and unpredictability. Each strike had to be fluid, like a viper slithering through grass, ready to lash out in an instant. His feet needed to be light, his stance flexible yet firm.

He clenched his fists and exhaled sharply. 'One step at a time.'

James started slow, mimicking the movements outlined in the scroll. His first punches felt rigid and unnatural, his body struggling to find the flow described in the technique. He moved too stiffly, his weight shifting too soon or too late. Frustration built with each imperfect strike.

'No, this isn't right.'

He tried again, focusing on the core principles. His strikes needed to be like a viper's fangs—quick, precise, lethal. He visualized an unseen enemy before him, weaving through imaginary attacks as he threw each punch. Sweat beaded on his forehead as he repeated the motions over and over, refining his footwork and adjusting his posture.

The more he practiced, the more he began to feel the technique rather than just perform it. His movements started to flow together, each strike leading seamlessly into the next. He was far from mastering it, but there was progress—subtle, yet undeniable.

As night fell, James finally stopped, his muscles aching from exertion. He took a shaky breath, looking down at his hands. They were trembling slightly, not from exhaustion, but from the realization that he had barely scratched the surface of what the Crimson Viper Fist truly was.

He gathered his things and trudged back to his room, his shoulders heavy with the weight of his own expectations. Despite his effort, he still felt like he was miles away from truly grasping the technique.

'Why is this so difficult?'

A sigh escaped him as he stepped inside his quarters. He sat down on his bed, staring at his hands once more. His mind was restless, frustration gnawing at him. He knew he had chosen a difficult path, but he hadn't expected it to feel this overwhelming so soon.

But as he lay down, exhaustion finally pulling him into sleep, one thought lingered in his mind:

'Tomorrow, I'll do better.'

Next day

James stood in the training grounds once more, his fists clenched tightly as he attempted to refine the Crimson Viper Fist. His movements were still unsteady, lacking the lethal precision the technique demanded. Each strike was supposed to be fluid and unpredictable, like a serpent striking its prey, but his execution was still stiff and hesitant.

Laughter rang out from a group of Li family disciples watching him struggle.

"Is that supposed to be the Crimson Viper Fist? Looks more like a wounded rabbit!" one jeered.

Another smirked. "Maybe he's just naturally bad at martial arts. Should have picked something easier."

James ignored them, focusing solely on his movements. He knew that if he let their words get to him, he'd only falter more. He had to keep pushing forward.

Just as he was about to attempt another sequence, a soft voice interrupted him.

"You should ignore them. They're just trying to get in your head."

James turned to see a young woman approaching him. She was breathtaking, her white training robes accentuating her graceful figure. She had an air of quiet confidence, and her warm smile made it hard to look away.

As James turned to see a young woman approaching him., he couldn't help but admire the young woman's beauty. Her white training robes arranged gently over her curvy body, hinting at her firm feminine physique beneath. Her legs, were long and shapely, leading up to hips that swayed with an seductive grace. Her midriff was tight and toned, a testament to her rigorous routine even though he couldn't tell but just imagine. She had a narrow waist, which was cinched by a thin belt that emphasized her wide hips and thick thighs giving her bottom a perfect round, making other girls jealous.

Her arms, slightly muscled but not overly so, suggested strength and agility. Her chest, modestly covered, hinted at fullness and softness. The neckline of her robe showcased a hint of cleavage, which added a touch of sensuality to her otherwise innocent demeanor. Her hair cascaded in soft waves, framing a face that was beautiful in its simplicity, with high cheekbones, a button nose, and full lips that curled into a smile that was both warm and inviting. Her eyes sparkled with a playful intelligence, and her posture was poised but relaxed, exuding a natural sex appeal. The way she carried herself made it clear that she was comfortable in her own skin and aware of the effect she had on others. She was a vision of beauty and power, a tantalizing blend of innocence and sensuality

"I'm Li Qing," she introduced herself, bowing politely. James hesitated for a moment before returning the bow.

"James." he responded simply.

Li Qing tilted her head slightly, curiosity glinting in her eyes. "What technique are you training?"

James hesitated for a brief moment before answering "Crimson Viper Fist."

Li Qing's interest deepened. "May I take a look at it?"

James was reluctant at first, gripping the scroll tightly. But her reassuring smile put him at ease, and after a moment of hesitation, he handed it over. She unrolled the scroll, scanning the contents with careful eyes. As she read, her eyebrows slowly raised before she let out a small sigh.

"You can't practice this technique." she said calmly.

James frowned, confusion flickering in his eyes "Why not?"

Her expression remained composed as she met his gaze "Because if you do, you will die."

James felt a chill run down his spine. "Elder Ren told me I could practice this technique."

Li Qing shook her head. "That's not what this scroll says."

James's heart pounded as she continued "The Crimson Viper Fist requires the user to sacrifice their life essence to unleash its full potential. The more you use it, the closer you come to death."

James stared at her, struggling to process her words. Had Elder Ren deceived him? Or had he simply omitted this crucial detail? Doubt and frustration stirred within him.

Li Qing studied his expression before speaking gently "No technique is worth your life, James. You should reconsider."

James clenched his fists but forced himself to bow in thanks. "I appreciate your warning."

As he turned to leave, she spoke again. "Don't rush your decisions."

James paused before nodding, and the two walked together for a short while. They exchanged a few words, but his mind was clouded with unease. He noticed some of the male disciples glaring at him with resentment, as if he'd stolen something precious from them, but he dismissed it and focused on his own thoughts.

Eventually, they parted ways with a final bow. James returned to his quarters, shutting the door behind him. His face darkened with frustration, his thoughts racing.

'Was this all a scheme to keep me from entering the Ying Sect or something else?'

His fists tightened as anger surged through him, but then he exhaled slowly, forcing himself to remain calm. James knew that dwelling on his emotions wouldn't give him any answers. He then changed into fresh robes and lay down on his bed, his mind heavy with questions, yet more determined than ever to uncover the truth as he slowly fell asleep.