Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 1684

Lauren was steadily recovering.

Over the next few days, Andrew started getting up early to train in martial arts, bringing along Aspen and the overly enthusiastic Francesca. Joining them were Natasha and Dylan, martial artists from rough backgrounds who had survived on raw instinct and brute strength.

Their paths had been messy and unrefined, leading them toward a dead end. Nonetheless, Andrew guided them back onto the right track, introducing them to proper martial discipline and real combat form.

Though neither of them said it out loud, both Natasha and Dylan already held a deep, unspoken gratitude toward him.

Andrew said, "Remember this—there are no shortcuts in martial arts. It doesn't matter if you're a natural or a slow learner. If you want to climb high in this field, you have to put in the hard work."

The morning breeze already carried a slight chill as autumn approached. On the lawn outside Serenity Villa, Andrew stood with his hands behind his back, addressing the four trainees.

Francesca stuck out her tongue with a giggle. "Honey, do you have to be so serious? You're making it hard to keep a straight face!"

Andrew frowned. "Francesca, step forward."

She blushed, pouting. "Seriously? You're not just playing around?"

Andrew looked at her sternly. "I told you all last night that we start training today. And if we're training, we follow the rules. Your attitude just now was way too casual. So let's start with 20 push-ups."

Francesca rolled up her sleeves, revealing fair, smooth arms, and smirked. "20? That's it? Don't underestimate me."

She stuck out her perky bottom and got down on the ground to start.

Andrew called out, "Dylan, turn around!"

Dylan did not understand but obediently turned his back anyway.

Andrew shook his head. "What you see in those parks is mostly just health-focused exercise. That kind of Aether Balance? It's barely above stretching."

Aspen added, "I heard martial arts came from ancient military systems. It's a combat skill that's been passed down and refined."

Andrew nodded. "Exactly. You've got part of the truth, but there's more to it."

Natasha spoke up, arms crossed. "Honestly? Most modern martial arts are just showy fluff. Real combat techniques can be summed up in three words: deadly fighting skills."

Andrew grinned, clearly pleased. "That's the answer I was looking for. Yes, what I'm teaching you isn't for fancy choreography or point-scoring in tournaments. It's a skill meant to protect, and if necessary, to kill."

He continued, "But understand that just because you're learning deadly techniques doesn't mean you go around hurting people. It's about protecting yourself, and more importantly, protecting the people you love."