Later that morning, after a brief moment to gather herself, Tang Ning stood in the martial arts training hall, her legs already aching from the weight of the morning's tension. Now that her foundation was solid. Every movement, every breath flowed from the discipline she had built through tireless practice.
The large hall was open to the sky, sunlight spilling in through the wooden beams.
Her martial arts instructor, Master Hefnir, a stern woman with sharp eyes and a powerful presence, stood before her.
Master Hefnir circled her, a sharp eye trained on every subtle motion as Tang Ning moved through a series of blocks, sweeps, and kicks. Today, the focus had shifted from simply holding a stance to fluid motion—an advancement Tang Ning had been waiting for.
"You've done well," Master Hefnir said as Tang Ning executed a precise kick, her leg slicing through the air like a blade. "But, now, we will add something new. Attack and defence."
Tang Ning nodded, her muscles still stiff from the training earlier, but she knew this was just as important and she respected Master Hefnir's strict methods. Each lesson was a step toward becoming stronger, more capable.
Tang Ning dropped back into a defensive stance, focused entirely on the instructor. Hefnir shifted her weight and began moving into a low crouch before springing forward in a rapid series of strikes. Tang Ning blocked the first, parried the second, her arms moving swiftly, but she wasn't fast enough for the third strike. Hefnir's hand stopped just short of her shoulder.
"You're not a beginner anymore, but you still have much to learn," Hefnir said, lowering her hand. "Every movement must be precise, and every defense deliberate. Control first, then speed."
Tang Ning exhaled deeply, nodding. She knew the road ahead would only get harder, but she was ready, each lesson brought her one step closer to mastering the changes within herself and not just martial arts.
"Let's go again," Hefnir said. "This time, don't think too much. Let your body react."
Tang Ning focused on her breathing, keeping her stance steady. Her legs began to burn after a few minutes, but she remained disciplined, her face betraying no hint of discomfort.
"Good," Hefnir said after a while, circling around her. "But do not let your mind wander. This isn't a test of your endurance alone. You must control every muscle, every thought. The moment your mind drifts, your stance weakens."
Time seemed to slow as Tang Ning remained in position, beads of sweat forming on her brow, every muscle in her body ached, but she didn't move. She was determined to perfect this, even if it took hours.
Finally, Master Hefnir spoke again, her voice calm yet authoritative. "Now, shift."
Tang Ning adjusted her stance as instructed, moving from a defensive position to a more neutral one. She focused on her breathing, controlling her movements with precision.
"Again," Hefnir commanded, watching every motion closely.
This process continued throughout the morning. For hours, Tang Ning moved through the basic stances—defensive, offensive, and neutral. Each transition had to be perfect, fluid, and controlled. There were no shortcuts. The discipline and control she learned here would be the foundation for everything that followed.
The sun was now high in the sky, casting long beams of light into the training hall. Tang Ning moved more naturally, her blocks tighter, her strikes more accurate. With each exchange, she felt her confidence grow, the foundation of her stance supporting every motion.
By midday, her legs felt like lead, and every muscle in her body screamed for rest, but she pressed on.
This training wasn't just physical; it was a mental challenge as well. To master martial arts, she needed to master herself.
Finally, after what felt like hours, Master Hefnir stepped back, signaling the end of the session. Tang Ning wiped the sweat from her brow, her breathing heavy but even.
"You've progressed well," Hefnir said, her eyes softening slightly in rare approval. "Tomorrow, we will go further. For now, reflect on what you've learned today. Control. Precision. These are your keys to growth."
She paused before saying" Tang ning, remember perfection is never reached. Even the greatest warriors still return to their stances. You must build everything"
Tang Ning bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Master."
Just as Hefnir dismissed her, Tang Ning heard familiar footsteps approaching. She turned and saw Gu Yan entering the hall, followed closely by Old Master Gu. Her face lit up instantly.
Gu Yan smiled at her, his tall frame now filling the doorway. He was 17 now, and his presence carried the same quiet strength she had always admired.
As they walked closer, Tang Ning quickly ran to Old Master Gu, stopping just in front of him. She gave a respectful bow before looking up with bright eyes.
"Grandpa Gu!" she greeted, her voice full of excitement.
Old Master Gu smiled warmly at her, a glimmer of pride in his eyes. "You've done well, Tang Ning."
But before she could say more, Tang Ning turned to Gu Yan with a mischievous grin, and without a word, she jumped into his arms. Gu Yan caught her easily, lifting her up as she giggled, her small arms wrapped around his neck.
"You're getting heavier!" Gu Yan teased, laughing as he spun her around lightly before setting her back down.
"Maybe you're just getting weaker," Tang Ning shot back playfully, her eyes sparkling.
Gu Yan chuckled, ruffling her hair. "We'll see about that."
Old Master Gu watched them with a gentle smile, his heart warmed by the bond they shared. "Alright, enough playing. It's time for breakfast."
Tang Ning's stomach rumbled at the mention of food, and she nodded eagerly. Together, the three of them made their way out of the hall.