The sun rose over the village of Tianhe, its rays piercing through the morning fog as Wei Jian practiced at the riverbank. The calm flow of the water mirrored his movements as he executed the Serpent Style, twisting and turning with precision. Each punch and kick was a reflection of his training under his older brother, Wei Liang, who had recently been killed by the infamous Crimson Vipers.
Wei Jian's thoughts were firm: he would avenge his brother. He had honored Wei Liang's memory by committing himself to martial arts, and now, he would take that first step into a world filled with danger and intrigue.
The village was quiet, dotted with modest homes and a few farmers tending to their fields. Most villagers respected Wei Liang, who had often protected them from bandits and threats. His brother was known for his skill and compassion, and now, with his absence, fear hung heavy in the air.
As Wei Jian finished his training, he grabbed his brother's sword, a beautiful weapon with an intricately carved hilt. It gleamed in the light, a constant reminder of his brother's spirit and the legacy he must carry forward.
"I won't let your death be in vain, Wei Liang," he murmured, determination in his voice.
That evening, he approached the village elder, a wise man who had seen many seasons pass. After a brief conversation filled with curt nods, Wei Jian learned that the Crimson Vipers operated near the Iron Gate Mountains. They were a notorious sect known for their cruelty and for leaving destruction in their wake.
"Travel with caution," the elder warned. "They are not just men; they are ruthless warriors and assassins."
Wei Jian simply nodded, the elder's words fueling his resolve. There was no turning back now. He packed a small bag with essentials: dried food, water, and a few clothes. He took one last look at the village—its familiar paths and homes filled with memories—and turned to the mountains. He felt the weight of his brother's sword at his side, a reminder of the battle that lay ahead.
With the moon rising high in the sky, Wei Jian began his journey. The path through the woods was dark, but his resolve was bright. He would challenge every obstacle, confront every enemy, and find the ones responsible for his brother's death.
As he made his way into the heart of the mountains, the sound of rustling leaves and distant howls echoed through the air. This was a world where strength ruled, where the weak suffered. But Wei Jian was determined. He would become stronger, and he would find the Crimson Vipers.
Days passed as he traveled through rugged terrain. He trained tirelessly, combining the techniques he learned from his brother with his own instinctive movements. Each day, he improved, feeling the power of the Serpent Style surging within him.
Finally, he reached the base of the Iron Gate Mountains. Looking up, he could see the peaks piercing the sky, vast and imposing. This was the starting point of his true challenge. He set his sights on the first goal: to find information about the Crimson Vipers.
Late that afternoon, he arrived at a small tavern at the foot of the mountains, a place where merchants gathered to trade information. It was noisy, filled with chatter and clinking cups, but Wei Jian focused on his mission. As he entered, he surveyed the room, his keen eyes searching for anyone who might know about the Vipers.
Sitting at a corner table was a group of men, their conversation laced with tension. There was a chance they could lead him to the Vipers. Wei Jian approached cautiously, drawing their attention. The men were rough-looking, clad in worn leather and surrounded by an air of danger.
"What do you want, boy?" one of them barked.
"I'm looking for the Crimson Vipers," Wei Jian stated, his voice steady.
Laughter erupted among them, but it was a cruel laughter. "You think you can take them on? They'll tear you apart!"
Wei Jian remained calm. "I'm not here to fight. I want information. Anyone who has knowledge of their whereabouts can expect a generous reward."
The laughter faded, replaced by sly grins. "And what do you have to offer?"
Wei Jian didn't hesitate. He drew the sword that belonged to Wei Liang, holding it up for them to see. The room fell silent. The sword glinted ominously in the tavern's light, a symbol of resolve and purpose.
"Anyone who gives me information on the Crimson Vipers will have the opportunity to survive this