The setting sun cast a warm glow over the mountains, mist curling gently around the ancient temple, which stood solemn and serene. Following closely behind her mother, A’Luo stepped carefully up the stone steps. Inside the temple hall, incense smoke curled into the air, and the deep toll of a bell resonated in the quiet space.

After lighting their incense and offering their prayers, A’Luo’s mother reminded her not to wander off before joining a group of other worshippers. However, A’Luo’s attention had already been drawn to the scene outside, and she quietly slipped away from the hall.

In the courtyard outside the temple, several monks were practicing martial arts. Among them was a boy of fifteen or sixteen, standing tall with a wooden staff in hand. His movements were powerful yet fluid, each strike decisive and controlled. A’Luo watched, utterly captivated, completely unaware that her mother had silently appeared behind her.

It was only after they returned home that A’Luo finally voiced her desire, tugging at her mother’s sleeve, eyes filled with determination. “Mother, I want to learn martial arts at the temple!”

Her mother paused in surprise before chuckling and shaking her head. “Why would a girl want to learn martial arts? It’s grueling and exhausting.”

“But if I learn, I can protect our family’s stall from troublemakers in the future!” A’Luo insisted earnestly.

Her mother hesitated, but A’Luo’s unwavering enthusiasm and persistence softened her resolve. Seeing the girl’s determination, she sighed in resignation. Eventually, she agreed to take her to the temple and consult the head monk.

A few days later, A’Luo’s parents brought her back to the temple. The monks were surprised by her request, and the head monk initially refused, believing that martial training was too harsh for a young girl and suspecting that she was merely acting on impulse. He urged her to return home. However, A’Luo refused to give up, insisting that she could carry water and chop firewood just like the others. To prove her point, she immediately grabbed a bucket and helped a young monk who was about to fetch water.

The head monk studied the determination in her eyes, contemplating for a moment before finally nodding. “Very well, you may stay and train.”

A’Luo beamed with joy. From that day on, she remained in the temple, practicing alongside the monks. Yet deep down, she knew that her desire to learn martial arts was not the only reason she had insisted on staying—she simply wanted to see that young monk every day.