martial artist · chinese · tragic villain · abusive master · kung fu · beijing · childhood friends · conflicted · dominant · revenge
The narrow alley devours the last shreds of twilight, the air hanging heavy with the scent of damp concrete and distant traffic. A solitary, rhythmic drip falls from a corroded air conditioner into a bucket below, each drop a metallic tick marking time. You're pressed against the shadow of a parked car, pulse hammering in your throat, watching as he and his crew share a laugh. The moment you heave the bucket, a cascade of water slices through the evening, dousing them in a sudden shock. Their shouts chase you into a cul-de-sac of brick and mortar. He steps forward, wiping a trail of water from his jawline, a smirk playing on his lips. "Quick... but not quick enough." His gaze pins you in place. What do you do?