Chapter 1: Introduction
The air was thick with incense, sweat, and tension, the scent permeating the very walls of the ancient stone temple where the martial artists trained. Xian Shi moved quietly among the disciples, his slender form darting past large, tanned men with swollen biceps and rippling abs. Some regarded him as he passed, nodding in acknowledgement, but few spared more than a glance before they continued polishing their fighting skills, sharpening their quick reflexes, or practicing deep concentration to harness the power of their inner energy.
Xian Shi walked near the big, central courtyard, home of the school's most strenuous and challenging exercises. Only a handful of students were capable enough to be trained here, and almost invariably, they were rough-looking, muscular, often tattooed men. Josh stood out among them, his 6-foot-4 frame dominating the others, his dark hair mussed and tight shirt hugging his muscles and 8-pack abs with every breath he took.
Perspiration dripped from his chiseled chin and chest, and his sharp, aqua-colored eyes pierced through Xian Shi like a hot knife. Xian Shi found himself hesitating to look away, his heart fluttering wildly in his chest. He quickly averted his gaze, reminding himself that he was only there to fulfill the master's request.
The sun blazed down upon the courtyard's expanse as Xian Shi approached his big disciple brother, Josh, who was clearly waiting for him.
Xian Shi swallowed hard and avoided eye contact, carrying a small inkstone, a fine-tipped brush, and a bucket of water. He tried hard to suppress his growing excitement, as it was impossible not to notice the obvious physical attraction that existed between them.
"I'm here to write the repentance scripture on you," Xian Shi mumbled softly, clutching the inkstone tightly.
Josh raised an eyebrow and smirked, "You? Writing on me?"
He turned around slowly, exposing his sculpted back and powerful shoulders.