The Mantis style

The leader explained to Alex that their fighting technique was inspired by the mantis, a small but incredibly strong creature. He went on to say that their goal was to train their bodies and minds to be as powerful and efficient as the mantis, and that they believed this would help them become true embodiments of masculinity.

The leader went on to explain how the mantis was a symbol of strength and power, despite its small size. He described how the mantis could fight off creatures three times its size, using its quick reflexes and powerful strikes.

Hudson noticed the look of surprise on Alex's face when he revealed his name. "Yes, I have a name. We are not just a group of nameless men living in the jungle," he said with a chuckle.

Alex smiled and nodded, grateful for the sense of trust that Hudson was showing him. "I appreciate that, Hudson. It's just that you guys have been so mysterious since I arrived here. I didn't expect you to share your name so easily."

Hudson shrugged. "Well, I suppose we don't have much to hide. We left our old lives behind and came here to live like men. And you, Alex, are the first outsider we've encountered in a while. So, it's only natural for us to want to know a little bit about you."

Alex understood where Hudson was coming from. He was still curious about why these men had decided to leave their old lives behind and live in the jungle. But he didn't want to push too hard, so he decided to change the subject.

"So, this mantis-inspired martial art that you guys practice, it's really fascinating. Can you tell me more about it?"

Hudson nodded, happy to share his knowledge. "Yes, it's called Praying Mantis Kung Fu. The movements are based on the way that a mantis moves and fights. It's a very effective style because it focuses on speed, agility, and precision. The mantis is a very strong creature compared to its size, so we believe that if we can master this style, we can take on opponents that are much larger and stronger than us."

Alex was impressed. "That's really interesting. Have you guys been practicing this style for a long time?"

Hudson nodded. "Yes, we've been practicing for years. It's not just a physical practice, it's a way of life. We believe that if we can master our bodies and minds, we can achieve anything we want."

Alex couldn't help but be inspired by Hudson's words. These men may have been living in the jungle, but they were not just a group of wild, uncivilized men. They had a discipline and a focus that Alex had never encountered before.

"I have to say, Hudson, I'm really impressed by what you guys have achieved here. It takes a lot of courage to leave your old life behind and start something new like this."

Hudson smiled. "Thank you, Alex. It's not always easy, but we believe that it's worth it. We are free to live our lives the way we want, without the distractions and pressures of modern society. And we are always looking for new members to join us."

Alex's curiosity was piqued. He still didn't know if these men were the ones who had taken his friends, but he was starting to feel like he belonged here. Maybe, just maybe, he could make a life for himself here in the jungle with these men.

Alex asked, "Hudson, can I ask you something?"

"Sure thing, Alex," Hudson replied.

"It's about those men who took me and my friends. Do you know anything about them?"

Hudson's expression turned serious. "I have heard rumors about human traffickers operating in this area. They prey on vulnerable people and sell them into slavery or forced labor."

Alex's heart sank. "Do you think they took my friends for that reason?"

"It's a possibility," Hudson said. "But don't worry, Alex. We'll do everything we can to help you find them."

"Thank you, Hudson," Alex said, feeling a glimmer of hope. "I appreciate it."

Hudson nodded. "We may not have much information about these traffickers, but we'll use our skills to track them down. We've been living in this jungle for years, and we know every inch of it. If they're here, we'll find them."

Alex felt a surge of gratitude towards Hudson and his group. These were not the kind of men he had expected to meet in the jungle. They were fierce and skilled fighters, but they also had a sense of honor and justice. He knew he could trust them to help him find his friends.

"Thank you, Hudson," Alex said again, sincerely.

Hudson clapped him on the shoulder. "No need to thank me, Alex. We take care of our own. And now, let's focus on your training. We have work to do if you want to be a part of our group."

Alex nodded, determined to prove himself to Hudson and his band of men. But his thoughts kept drifting to his friends and the unknown fate they faced. He couldn't shake the feeling that time was running out for them.

As the night settled in and the fire crackled, Alex couldn't help but feel homesick. He missed his family and his comfortable life back home. The memory of his kidnapped friends made him even more melancholic.

Sensing Alex's sadness, Hudson decided to break the silence with a joke. "You know, Alex, I used to have a friend who was so lazy, he got a job as a night watchman at a mattress factory."

The other men chuckled, and Alex couldn't help but smile. "Thanks, Hudson. That made me feel a little better."

Hudson nodded. "No problem. We all have bad days. But you know what they say, 'the sun will come out tomorrow.'"

Alex chuckled. "Yeah, I hope so."

The men continued to sit around the campfire, sharing stories and laughter. Alex felt a sense of camaraderie with them, even though he knew he had to find a way to get back to his old life.

As the fire died down, Hudson and the others began to settle in for the night. Alex lay down on a nearby rock, staring up at the stars. He couldn't shake the feeling that he was meant to do something bigger than just sit around a campfire with a group of men in the jungle.

But for now, he was grateful for the warmth of the fire and the company of the men. He closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep, dreaming of home and the hope of being reunited with his friends.