Starting with Proficiency Panel #Chapter 41 Add Points - Read Starting with Proficiency Panel Chapter 41 Add Points Online - All Page - Novel BinChapter 41: Chapter 41 Add PointsWhere do the five free Attribute Points come from? And what are Skill Points?
Lu Ren quickly searched through the system notifications in his mind.
"Ding, because you successfully survived for seven days in the Otherworld Ruins and your performance at the world's turning point was rated: S, you were awarded five Attribute Points and gained 1 Skill Point (which, when applied to a skill, will increase the skill's level again.)"
Lu Ren's eyes widened with surprise and delight.
The reward value of Skill Points far surpasses that of freely distributed Attribute Points.
So how to distribute the Attribute Points?
Lu Ren pondered for a moment, then immediately assigned 10 points to Spirit, added two points to Agility, the remaining two points, one to Constitution, one to Power, and directly increased the skill point in Basic Swordsmanship.
As for applying the Skill Point directly to Basic Swordsmanship, Lu Ren considered whether to save it, but given his current situation, he had no choice. In reality, he had Meng Xian eyeing him like a venomous snake and could unexpectedly encounter space shocks and fall into a Different Space-Time again.
This made him feel very insecure.
Rather than letting it rot, turning it all into a current increase in strength seemed more practical.
Increasing Constitution also drives power growth, at least making strength training far more efficient than before during workouts, not just power; agility will be improved as well.
After confirming the distribution of Attribute Points, Lu Ren suddenly lay down on the bed, twitching for a while, alarming the nurse who had been attentive to his condition to immediately sound the alarm.
In less than three minutes, a group of people in hazmat suits rushed in to administer emergency aid.
"The heartbeat is rising rapidly... Damn, the speed of his heart contracting and expanding is just like my '82 motorcycle engine!"
"The opponent's surface temperature is soaring, it's already 43 degrees!"
"The blood oxygen level is also increasing!"
At this moment, Lu Ren's chest was like a bellows, constantly inhaling and exhaling the air in the room.
An experienced doctor decisively said, "Quick, activate the air filtration device, we need fresh oxygen here!"
After a full ten minutes, Lu Ren, drenched in sweat, finally emerged from the pain of his body undergoing rapid transformation.
Especially after Spirit reached 10, it seemed as if some boundary had been broken, shattering a kind of constraint, making him more attuned to the world around him.
He could faintly feel the urgency in the emotions of the nurses and doctors around him towards him, which seemed to be a kind of kindness, a tension.
What is this?
Buddhist Telepathy?
"I'm fine!"
Lu Ren said weakly: "I just want to drink some water and also replenish my energy, I feel like I can eat a whole cow now!"
Seeing the values starting to return to normal, though still far exceeding those of ordinary people, the nurse seemed to have seen someone like Lu Ren before.
She let out a sigh of relief and exclaimed, "Didn't you just eat a meal?"
Lu Ren shrugged helplessly: "I have a strong digestion now, please allow me some space, I need to attend to personal hygiene."
After a bit of chaos, confirming that Lu Ren had no problems, the crowd left, a bit perplexed.
"The surging blood flow just now, why did it slow down so suddenly?"
"The heartbeat too, it was like an engine just moments ago."
"Maybe people's constitutions are different."
"I want to study it more..."
The doctors discussed noisily.
In another monitoring room, Zhang Li and Xiao Chen exchanged a strange glance.
After a while, Xiao Chen thoughtfully said, "It seems like the opponent's Martial Path realm had a breakthrough, which caused his body to rapidly strengthen!"
Zhang Li snorted lightly: "Please watch less TV drama portrayals of such things, before achieving Great Mastery of Boxing, everyone needs to temper their bodies step by step until they reach their bodies' limits."
Xiao Chen: "But some people still make breakthroughs in Spirit, transforming their bodies with a secret Breathing Technique, which you can't deny, that person also went through it multiple times."
"Can he be compared to that person?!"
Xiao Chen shrugged: "Maybe he's a martial arts genius, who knows."
"In any case, we need to increase the level of monitoring on him."
"Understood."
Reckless, reckless! Lu Ren did not expect his attribute enhancement to cause such a big reaction, especially since previous upgrades didn't induce such responses!
Squatting in the bathroom, Lu Ren fell into deep thought.
Was it because his Spirit reaching 10 triggered a certain boundary breakthrough?
Just a moment ago, the pain had occupied a large part of his mind.
But once the pain subsided, the whole world seemed brand new to him, from the vibrant green trees outside the window to the fresh air from the air filtration device inside.
The air, the land, the trees, and even the breeze seeping through the window screen ventilation system, Lu Ren felt like he was rediscovering the world.
It seems that this character panel's attributes display more of his physical traits in a quantifiable way, but fundamentally it does not completely display his body as data, and the idea that adding one point of Power equates to an increase of fifty-five pounds is completely inaccurate, he can now feel his strength is more than double what it used to be.
Lu Ren clenched his hand tightly.
"Surname: Lu Ren
Spirit: 10 (Skill Level 1/2620)
Constitution: 8 (Skill Level 245/1810)
Power: 9 (Skill Level 574/2200)
Agility: 9 (Skill Level 682/2200)
Skills: Basic Swordsmanship (Slightly Accomplished 692/8520), Basic Fighting (Initial Glimpse 293/3932), Basic Dagger Technique (Initial Glimpse 1/3932)
Free Attribute Points: 0
Skill Points: 0"
The upgrade of Basic Swordsmanship also correspondingly enhanced his attributes, with both Power and Agility increasing by one level.
After attending to personal hygiene and having another satisfying meal, Lu Ren contentedly patted his stomach.
Despite being indirectly controlled here, the food and drink are good, Lu Ren found it somewhat acceptable, and moreover, there are plenty of training equipment prepared.
The most important thing is that they indeed brought in a mentor for him.
About two days later.
It was a middle-aged man, appearing a bit travel-worn, around forty to nearly fifty years old, although that's what he told Lu Ren. Just by appearance, with the overflowing vigor and spirit, Lu Ren could believe he's just over twenty.
He seemed to be a very reticent person, with a tall stature nearing 1.95 meters, his muscles bulging but not appearing bloated, rather exuding a cheetah-like swiftness.
This man is definitely a powerhouse!
"My name is Li Ziqing, entrusted by the Security Department. I'm here to teach you martial arts from now on."
Li Ziqing carried a business-like demeanor, appearing quite unapproachable.
Report chapter CommentsChapter 42: Chapter 42: Phoenix Falcon FistLu Ren didn't mind; although he was quite sure the other party would not teach him anything too valuable, it was still a breakthrough, much better than having to stand on a stake for practice, which might take hundreds or even thousands of hours in the Dragon Elephant Rock Stream.
However, Lu Ren still bowed slightly and respectfully performed the disciple's courtesy, saying, "Thank you, Master Li!"
Lu Ren's politeness made Li Ziqing's expression soften considerably. He nodded slightly and asked through a thick glass, "What do you currently know?"
Lu Ren replied, "Basic fist techniques and basic swordsmanship."
Li Ziqing didn't show any response and simply said, "Show me your skills, let's start with your fist techniques."
Lu Ren nodded, and immediately positioned himself, stabilizing his stance, and began performing the most basic fist and foot combat moves.
Three minutes later, Lu Ren stopped and looked at Li Ziqing.
Li Ziqing seemed a bit uninterested, then said, "Now show me your basic sword technique."
Lu Ren looked around, took the broomstick next to him, and started practicing.
Upon seeing Lu Ren's first sword form, Li Ziqing snapped back to attention, unconsciously stood upright, and watched intently.
When the set of moves was finished, Lu Ren saluted, and Li Ziqing commented, "Your fist technique is quite poor, mixed with many unrefined moves, falling into modern combat techniques, but better than an average person, since you've surely put in three years of hard work. Your swordsmanship is quite good, entering a respectable level; you've got the feel of it."
With some regret, he said, "If you had requested guidance from a master specializing in weapons and swordsmanship before, you could have greatly benefited."
After a moment of thought, he asked, "Is swordsmanship your main focus?"
Lu Ren: "Yes."
"But I only know fist techniques, and I am not very skilled in swordsmanship."
Li Ziqing rarely explained, "After all, this era is different from the past; fist techniques are more suitable for walking the world, which is why few pursue the sword path nowadays."
Lu Ren laughed, "It's alright. As long as it's martial arts, it's fine. Besides, weapons are an extension of fist and foot techniques."
Kidding aside, fist techniques are fundamental, enhancing the physique and concentrating the spirit. The benefits from fist techniques can also improve basic swordsmanship.
"Good!" Li Ziqing rarely praised Lu Ren, then solemnly said, "The fist technique I practice was realized by observing the exotic beast Cyan Simurgh, it's called Phoenix Wing Fist. It has been passed down since the From Yuan to Ming period, evolving through several transformations into today's first-class boxing skill, now known as Phoenix Falcon Fist. If we must find a connection, it can be considered an art of the Taoist sect."
As he spoke, Li Ziqing took off his shirt, revealing a remarkably muscular upper body, with muscles that conveyed explosive strength with his every move.
"The essence of the Phoenix Falcon Fist lies in the mobilization of the shoulder neck muscles and the muscles of the back. It's about bending the knees and sinking the waist, relaxing the shoulders and lifting the elbows, with force arising from the ground."
While speaking, Li Ziqing turned and faced away from Lu Ren, then slowly raised his arms, his exceptionally broad back muscles undulating slowly like a giant bird stretching its wings, with arms slowly waving like wings, leaving Lu Ren utterly amazed.
He never thought someone could achieve this level, one might say the movement of the other's muscles gave Lu Ren an immensely powerful visual impact.
It was like Bruce Lee's bat muscles, but Li Ziqing was even more exaggerated.
"Taking it a step further, it is like a Phoenix Falcon, gathering the will of the Martial Path, uniting form and spirit; this can be considered great mastery of boxing."
Li Ziqing's eyes sharpened, his right hand turned into a fist like a beak, suddenly striking forward!
Whoosh!
A sharp, cutting sound pierced the air, like a bird's beak pecking, with formidable penetrative and destructive power.
If this punch landed on a human body, it would definitely leave a blood hole!
Then, Li Ziqing gave a soft shout.
Whoosh whoosh whoosh whoosh whoosh!!
A continuous burst of slicing sounds filled the air, Li Ziqing's arms blurring into motion, transforming seemingly into a pair of massive wings endlessly attacking, slicing through the air as Lu Ren could faintly see the air being transformed into white streams by high-speed friction flowing between his arms.
When Li Ziqing lowered his hands, white steam astonishingly rose and twisted around his arms, a result of his own sweat vaporizing from the heat generated by high-speed friction.
Very frightening!
Inside, Lu Ren was deeply shaken, realizing the other's power exceeded his by several levels.
Li Ziqing took a long breath, then stood up straight, looking at Lu Ren, he asked, "This is the fist technique I practice, the Phoenix Falcon, want to learn?"
Lu Ren, shamelessly eager, nodded heavily, "Yes, I want to learn!"
In the following days, Lu Ren learned very quickly, with a spirit score of ten allowing him to grasp the essence of the Phoenix Falcon Fist rapidly.
As his fist technique deepened in practice, Lu Ren finally understood the real difference between true boxing schools and real-life combat.
Even if Li Ziqing threw the boxing manual at Lu Ren, and had him practice from it, it would amount to nothing more than strengthening the body.
The real essence lies in the boxing schools' focus and analyses by those wise predecessors, this is what's most important: force techniques, training methods, breathing techniques, energizing pathways are the true transmissions.
One sentence of true transmission is worth a thousand books.
Lu Ren understood quickly, even becoming immersed, forgetting day and night, until two and a half months later, Li Ziqing, filled with emotion, looked at Lu Ren through the glass.
"You have great talent, though age might not be on your side, but as long as you persist and do not give up, you will surely achieve something. I have already taught you what should be taught; do you have any questions you'd like to ask?"
Although separated by a layer of glass, throughout these days together, Lu Ren had come to understand that the other was a typical man who was cold on the outside but warmhearted, moreover, because of his resonance with the Phoenix Falcon Fist, he had a great fondness for Lu Ren.
Offering a fist salute, he then asked, "Master Li, is breathing the essence of the fist technique?"
Li Ziqing answered, "Breathing is the core adjustment for a person. Persistence can enhance endurance, physical strength, improve body quality, and even trigger internal potential through adjustments to breathing, resulting in a temporary burst, but it is not the essence of the fist technique."
"It's not? I heard breathing was the key to unlocking the limits of the human body." Lu Ren was stunned for a moment, as Yan Zhenghua had once told him breathing was the key to breaking the limits of the human body.
Li Ziqing was slightly silent, his face seemed a bit embarrassed.
"Ahem, of course not, while breathing techniques are a vital part of a boxing school, a crucial factor that cannot be absent, the truly important aspect is the spirit within the fist technique."
"The spirit?"
Li Ziqing explained, "Once your fist technique achieves great success and enters the realm of perfection, only spiritual elevation can transform your body."
Pausing for a moment, Li Ziqing frowned, "As you are barely touching the threshold of entry-level boxing, don't think about matters too distant."
"I understand, Master Li!"
Chapter 43: Chapter 43: The Times Have ChangedLi Ziqing brushed off his clothes and asked, "Are there any other questions?"
Lu Ren took a deep breath, performed a formal bow for a master, and said seriously, "I want to acknowledge you as my master!"
Li Ziqing's expression shifted slightly, and after a flicker in his eyes, he did not avoid Lu Ren's kneeling. Whether it was the true teachings imparted over the past month or now, it was worth Lu Ren's respectful bow.
Moreover, Lu Ren's talent in martial arts was indeed astonishing. Although he was a bit older, it didn't mean he couldn't succeed. Historically, there have been many who started practicing Martial Path at this age and were extraordinarily talented. Also, with the modern world's technological means providing an extremely rich material environment, the possibilities have greatly increased, but...
After pondering for a while, he shook his head slightly and finally sighed, "If I had met you ten years earlier, I would have definitely taken you as a disciple. I accept your courtesy, but my school... maybe..."
He thought for a moment and then took out a business card from his pocket.
"Lu Ren, today's world is not what it used to be. The abundance of material wealth in modern society provides a favorable environment for practicing Martial Path. But because we are in an era of information explosion, with technology constantly advancing, desires are rampant, and people's hearts are restless, few people are willing to lead what can almost be called an ascetic monk-like life of practice. As a result, many fists technique schools are on the verge of decline and no longer keep their skills secret. If you can master the fists technique, you can come to this place to find me, although, maybe you don't even need to; eventually, you might be here. Also, just call me Teacher."
Li Ziqing made it very clear that there is no need for formal apprenticeship in this era, nor did he deny that Lu Ren was his disciple. He simply hoped that Lu Ren could calm his heart for cultivation, and if his fists techniques are mastered, he could become justified.
Lu Ren was not disappointed at all; in both reason and emotion, such a bow is justified.
"Yes, Teacher Li."
After a pause, Lu Ren curiously asked, "Teacher Li, what do you mean by being here?"
He said meaningfully, "To practice Martial Path, one person cannot progress too fast. The resources you can acquire will restrict your potential for growth. You must understand, for a top martial arts family, just the physique alone, the food consumed daily is extremely alarming, which is not something one person can bear."
Li Ziqing sighed deeply, "Times have changed, it's now the era of guns and cannons. Martial Path, how many are willing to practice it?"
Shaking his head, Li Ziqing slowly left.
Lu Ren slowly stood up, letting out a long breath. As Li Ziqing said, with the development of the times, Martial Path was gradually fading, and decades of hard training in martial arts couldn't match a bullet manufactured in a few seconds.
In a material environment of extreme abundance, although the training environment was better, it became even more obsolete due to the limitations of the era.
Just as Lu Ren was reminiscing and planning to ponder over the fist structure formed in the Phoenix Falcon Fist and develop skills, the door of the hospital room opened, and Zhang Li walked in straight towards him to speak.
"Lu Ren, it has been confirmed that there is nothing wrong with your body, you can be discharged."
"Huh?"
Lu Ren was taken aback for a moment. Didn't that mean he couldn't eat the nutritious and delicious meals here?!
Outside, it might be tough to get these things. After all, just the medicinal diets noted for the Phoenix Falcon Fist were a considerable expense, and here you could choose from a menu as you wished!
Seeing the hesitation on Lu Ren's face, Zhang Li said with a bit of humor, "What's the matter, you don't want to leave. If you really don't want to leave, I can arrange for you to stay a little longer in a waiting room."
It seems staying here is not an option now.
Lu Ren said somewhat reluctantly, "Then how much do you plan to reward me for the dagger I brought back? It's revolutionary black technology from an Alternate Space! Besides, I have been extremely cooperative with you guys for the past few months!"
"The approval from above has already come down; you have a ten million bonus and a villa in the suburbs."
Lu Ren was stunned for a moment and then his face broke into a broad smile, "That's wonderful, that's just wonderful!"
After quickly completing the discharge procedures, Lu Ren looked at the ten million deposited into his account displayed on his phone, along with the house deed in his backpack and the keys in his pocket, already feeling like he was on the peak of life.
Lu Ren even felt so happy that he swayed left and right. His previously slightly hunched back now stood straight, and instead of being a creepy action when looking at passing beauties on the street, it was a legitimate appreciation.
This change in spirit even caught the eye of a few young ladies, who were completely indifferent to Lu Ren's gaze and instead smiled at him.
Money emboldens a man!
He boldly hailed a taxi and followed the given address.
Seeing Lu Ren leave, Zhang Li exhaled, his face deep with worry. Beside him, Xiao Chen also sighed when he saw this.
"The frequency of space tremors is increasing. Currently, there have been thirteen cases with experiences similar to Lu Ren's, some even in deadly situations where they survived for less than a few seconds before perishing completely."
Zhang Li said solemnly, "The world is changing. Maybe those things from dimensional spaces will come over... I still suggest the top starts the plan as soon as possible."
Xiao Chen nodded slightly, "Across the ocean, they've been acting too aggressively lately. Perhaps something bad will happen."
"We can only hurry. We'll handle our local affairs; let the overseas security management worry about the rest."
...
...
"Wow, even finely decorated!"
After entering this two-story villa, Lu Ren excitedly turned around seven or eight times before calming down. Then he sat on the sofa and frowned in thought.
This past month, Zhang Li frequently came to him, sometimes even three times a day. The questions asked revolved around his two encounters in the Alternate Space, with the details almost just short of asking him about the smell of his excretions.
From the expressions of the other party, it seemed Lu Ren was not unique but rather that such events happened in many places. He simply stood out because he survived the experiences in the Alternate Space and was notable among those who survived before him.
Lu Ren suddenly felt a sense of urgency. Damn, might the world change drastically in the future?
Would those bizarre news articles read before come true?
No way, training is a must!
Lu Ren immediately ran to the second floor, chose the largest bedroom, and slept. When he woke up, it was already night. After dealing with personal hygiene and taking a shower, Lu Ren came to the small garden at the back.
He glanced at the Phoenix Falcon Fist, which had already formed skills on the character panel.
Phoenix Falcon Fist (Beginner 198/1384)
He did not have the so-called realm shackle; he just needed to follow the steps systematically, continuously increasing his skill level to break through. This was an extremely significant advantage over other martial arts families. However, thinking about it, perhaps the higher the fist technique level, the more astonishing the required skill level becomes. As to how high-level fist technique performance manifests, that remains to be seen and only experienced to understand.
Report chapter CommentsChapter 44: Chapter 44 Skill Level of AddictionLu Ren immersed himself in cultivation, tirelessly brushing up his skill level again and again. At his current pace of practice, it wouldn't even take a week to level up the Phoenix Falcon Fist to the Initial Glimpse stage, and one to two months to reach Slightly Accomplished.
This instant feedback gave him a feeling of addiction like playing a game. Back in the day, he once grinded for an entire day and night for a piece of equipment material, and the satisfaction he felt upon finally obtaining it was incomparable.
Not even performing the Five Dragons Heaven-Supporting Pillar Great Divine Technique in front of a double-feature movie session was this enjoyable.
The only pity was that the prerequisite for these achievements was forming skills so that the system could recognize and assess them, thereby increasing skill level.
If only all it took was a glance to form a skill.
The main thing is, after cooking for so many years, why haven't I formed a skill from it either? As for academic learning, it's been two or three years since I graduated, and I've long forgotten what's in the books, so the lack of skills is understandable.
Having cooked for himself for many years, Lu Ren could not help but feel rather wistful.
Does fried rice not count?!
The news remained completely silent, evidently suppressed by the authorities. The entire network couldn't find a shred of relevant news, but recently, there have been more survival drills organized by the authorities, as well as extreme environment survival training, and they've even opened many traditional martial arts classes.
Lu Ren went to listen in, and it was mostly about building foundations and practicing fist frames. Even though they were promoting national cultural heritage with free teachings, there were only a few registrants.
Tsk...
If it's not mandatory promotion, it's hard for the general public to endure training themselves to the brink of exhaustion daily. Being a corporate slave is tiring enough.
His former friends were also very silent, seemingly having forgotten about Lu Ren entirely. Although the university chat group was still occasionally active, Lu Ren remained a transparent lurker.
The authorities were not merely trying to cover up the truth, they were taking action.
It didn't seem to be the right time yet to reveal this news to the public.
Lu Ren put down his phone and tossed the thought aside. To him, strengthening himself was the most fundamental aspect at the moment.
Even Meng Xian had been silent for a long time, but the more silent she became, the less secure Lu Ren felt. As a figure of the wealthy elite, it would be quite easy for her to mess with him, but for now, Lu Ren didn't have much of a strategy to deal with it. The best he could do was to brace himself and focus on improving himself to counter any eventualities.
Time flowed like water and passed in the blink of an eye.
Until a month later, Lu Ren looked at his attribute panel.
"Surname: Lu Ren
Spirit: 10 (Skill Level 32/2620)
Constitution: 9 (Skill Level 1887/2200)
Power: 9 (Skill Level 1930/2200)
Agility: 10 (Skill Level 162/2620)
Skills: Basic Swordsmanship (Slightly Accomplished 2592/8520), Basic Fighting (Initial Glimpse 3672/3932), Basic Dagger Technique (Initial Glimpse 1/3932), Phoenix Falcon Fist (Initial Glimpse 1332/8520)"
Not to mention the attribute points and skill points for now, the Phoenix Falcon Fist reached Initial Glimpse stage and provided quite a nice boost to agility, even allowing him to break through to a value of 10. Other attributes were also on the verge of a breakthrough.
Just as Lu Ren speculated, each subsequent increase in attribute value provided even greater enhancements to his body. Furthermore, due to the points previously allocated, training the Phoenix Falcon Fist became quite smooth. Over the month, his skill level rapidly increased, reaching a new level.
However, the skill level for Spirit had been increasing rather slowly. The few points of progress mostly came from Lu Ren practicing Fist Technique to the point of extreme exhaustion and then persisting through it, forcing it to increase passively.
This made him regret not allocating more attribute points to Spirit at the time due to his foolishness.
However, if he had really done that, his Spirit would have been too high compared to his physically weak body, leading to potential sluggishness due to the imbalance. Haven't you seen those study gods, like God Wei, who just sit there vacantly all day with their minds in a whirl?
So, what exactly is fist technique spirit?
Lu Ren still couldn't quite grasp it at this moment.
But this crazed month of practice led to a massive improvement of his strength. In fact, having mastered the Phoenix Falcon Fist meant he was now much stronger than he was a month ago.
With his current self, if he ventured into the Otherworld Ruins, he wouldn't even need a dagger. Relying solely on his fists and kicks, he could single-handedly defeat Chen Guohua and kill him with his bare hands.
In his contemplation, Lu Ren struck out with a punch.
Whoosh!
Like the call of a falcon, it was high-pitched, resonant, and pierced the soul!
Lu Ren slowly retracted his fist. At that moment, his arms were emanating a large amount of white steam, resulting from the sweat evaporating from his body from the intense friction with the air as it escaped, rapidly heating up.
Li Ziqing's fist realm was at least two levels higher than his, and his physique was far superior, capable of easily executing the Phoenix Falcon Call at such a high frequency in a short period.
This implies that the fundamental cultivation of refining one's body was extremely powerful, enabling him to perform such an attack.
"Are you practicing kung fu?"
By the garden fence, a woman was leaning on it, watching Lu Ren with great interest, especially amazed by the sight of the white steam rising from his arms.
Ever since Lu Ren moved in, over the past month, she had noticed Lu Ren consistently practicing fist routines tirelessly in the villa courtyard, with no sign of impatience, even more ascetic than an ascetic monk.
If Lu Ren knew what she was thinking, he would probably snicker. How could someone like her understand the pleasure of leveling up, especially when seeing the skill level on your character panel slowly increase—the joy of it is beyond outsiders' comprehension.
Lu Ren glanced at the well-dressed and decently attired woman, noticing she was about twenty-five or twenty-six, not much younger than he was. Her demeanor seemed sharp and efficient, but her complexion wasn't that great, yet she was quite pretty. Hmm, she seemed somewhat familiar...
An example of a person in sub-health.
Most modern people exist in a state of sub-health, and Lu Ren wasn't particularly surprised by that. He himself had been in a sub-health state before, so he was used to seeing it.
"If this were ancient times, peeking at someone practicing could get you your eyes gouged out."
Lu Ren slowly withdrew his fists, letting his raised arms gently fall, revealing the well-developed bat muscles on his back, which were broad and strong.
His bare upper body had no extra fat, with muscular, or rather, robust muscles moving with his actions, creating a strong visual impact.
This was a body brimming with explosive power.
"We're in a society governed by the rule of law now. Besides, who would practice such ascetic monk-style training even if they learned it?"
Lu Ren listened and found it quite reasonable. To be honest, for the past month, he had truly lived without concern for external affairs, focusing solely on practicing the Phoenix Falcon Fist.
Day and night, aside from eating, drinking, excreting, sleeping, all he did was practice fist techniques. If not for the system's skill level existing, nine out of ten people wouldn't endure a lifestyle like this.
Report chapter CommentsChapter 45: Chapter 45 WeaponThe woman asked curiously, "What was the sound you made with your punch just now?"
Lu Ren answered with a rare good mood, "It's the sound of the fist breaking through the air."
"What about the white air on your arm?"
"That's the body temperature rising after intense activity, causing the sweat on the arm to evaporate rapidly due to friction with the air during high-speed punching."
"I see, that requires a strong speed and power to support, right?"
Li Shu seemed a bit disappointed, thinking it wasn't something like Inner Strength or True Qi.
Lu Ren was noncommittal and did not answer the woman's words.
This is not the martial arts those masters shout about online, but true Traditional Martial Arts. Without a strong physique, without superior physical qualities as a backing, no matter how exquisite your Fist Technique skills are, it's just futile labor.
Training fists without cultivating power, it's all empty when you're old.
Hitting others is like scratching an itch.
So it's said.
"My name is Li Shu." Seeing Lu Ren didn't answer, Li Shu turned to introduce herself.
Li Shu?
This name sounds so familiar!
Immediately Lu Ren realized that it was the woman he seemed to have met in the Extraterritorial Ruins.
Lu Ren raised an eyebrow, "It's you."
Hmm, but the face is like a tabby cat, can't see clearly, just felt the features are okay, no wonder it seems familiar.
Li Shu smiled bitterly, "I guess I'm not that easily forgotten."
Lu Ren, at this time, without the vigilance from the Exotic Realm, replied with interest, "I didn't expect you to survive."
No wonder they say this is a society governed by law, hinting at his rampage in the Extraterritorial Ruins. This woman was strange and unpredictable, no wonder she was so calm during the Exotic scenario, her mental strength is indeed strong.
Li Shu sincerely thanked him, "If it weren't for Mr. Lu killing those two monsters, I wouldn't have survived."
"How did you survive?"
Li Shu said, "After getting separated from them, I found a basement in a residential building and lived on the food and water in my backpack until the seventh day. When life was on the line, I didn't expect to return to the real world."
Talking about it, she was still in shock. If it had been a little later, she might have really died.
Lu Ren nodded slightly, "You're pretty lucky, not having been disturbed by polluted creatures, it seems that basement was very sealed."
"Yeah, almost suffocated me."
Li Shu felt a lingering fear, "I never thought I would go through something like this in my life."
"You're fortunate and have a kind heart." After some thought, Lu Ren added, "But sometimes, kindness can be the reason for your demise."
Li Shu was taken aback, "Can kindness be persecuted?"
Lu Ren didn't explain whether kindness would be destroyed; it's an undefined proposition.
Seriously, "If you encounter such an event again, maybe in the first few days, when food is sufficient, everybody will get along and help each other. But if it's in a situation where food is scarce and water is rare, human nature will gradually change."
Having not experienced such cruel beatings, Li Shu was a bit dazed, "What will it become?"
Lu Ren looked at her and replied, "It'll become cannibalistic."
Eating human flesh doesn't purely mean this; there are countless cases where people sacrifice their friends to save themselves, including his own experience—he couldn't trust anyone entirely in the Exotic Realm, who knows if the other person is possessed.
After saying that, without paying further attention to Li Shu's inability to accept, Lu Ren washed up, tidied himself and cooked some medicated food, feeling warm all over before finally lying satisfied on the sofa.
The medicated food was extremely expensive, costing nearly three hundred thousand in just one month due to all the expensive herbs.
This made him somewhat unable to accept, Lu Ren urgently needed to find a new source of income.
As for being a sparring partner at the Power Burning Club, honestly, spending so much time on these things is less beneficial than using it to practice Fist Technique.
Poor in literature but wealthy in martial arts!!!
Lu Ren sighed deeply; in only one month, it cost nearly three hundred thousand; at this rate, his ten million prize money might only last a year or two.
If he continued idly like this, he wouldn't even be able to maintain this villa.
Lu Ren rubbed his hands, glanced at the villa he acquired.
Hmm... If money was short, he could consider selling this villa, the location is excellent and surely worth more than ten million!
Early the next morning, after finishing his morning exercise, Lu Ren went to a cold weapons shop near the Power Burning Club. Following Li Cunyi's introduction, the shop owner measured Lu Ren, had him test the weight with iron, and measured the weapon's convenient length.
The owner was somewhat surprised, "Looks like you are comfortable with any sword size."
Lu Ren chuckled, "I've practiced with them for a while."
"Which one are you best at, longsword, medium sword, or shortsword?"
Lu Ren was somewhat puzzled, "What's the difference between these three?"
The owner explained, "For a longsword, the length is about one-and-a-half meters, depending on your height and arm span; excluding the hilt, the blade should be around one-point-four meters. This type of sword is generally used for battle and can even be called a horse-cutting sword, often used for battlefield skirmishes. The medium sword ranges from 94 to 101 centimeters, while the shortsword is longer than a dagger, mostly used for close combat or assassination purposes."
Lu Ren pondered for a while and asked, "What do you recommend?"
Looking at Lu Ren's nearly 1.85 meters stature, the owner said, "I'd recommend a medium sword, the longsword is too conspicuous, and I think martial artists of your kind prefer close combat. Long weapons don't often have the advantage. I'll custom make it based on your physique."
The owner seemed quite familiar with people like them, obviously having customized weapons for many martial arts families, perhaps he's from a family of Traditional Martial Arts himself.
The owner jotted down some data in a notebook, and then asked, "Have you practiced explosive type techniques?"
"Explosive type?"
"You don't know?" The owner was a bit surprised, "Among martial artists, aren't there some Fist Technique schools that can perform what's called Heart Burst, to stimulate their potential, thus their muscles will bulge, increasing their physique size in a short time for greater power and resistance, thereby improving their overall physical qualities?"
"Well, I haven't practiced, you know, I use the sword."
Phoenix Falcon Fist mainly trains arm and back muscles, from a side view, it also offers benefits for sword use.
As for those techniques that can turn into a small giant, Lu Ren also wanted to train them, but sadly had no resources.
The owner nodded slightly, "You can come pick up the sword in a week."
Lu Ren stated, "I hope the material will be the best!"
"That'll be a bit expensive."
Report chapter CommentsChapter 46: Chapter 46: He Gave Too Much!"No problem, I've got plenty of money. How much?" Lu Ren rarely showed such bravado.
"Hmm, my best swords here are top-notch, going for thirteen million six hundred thousand."
"Holy crap, boss, are you robbing me?!"
The weapon shop owner seemed displeased: "What are you talking about? This is top-tier craftsmanship of cold weapons, and many of the ultra-tough alloys are sourced from materials labs through special channels. Without connections, don't even think about it. Were it not for business being bleak these past years, I'd have doubled the price!"
Lu Ren coughed awkwardly: "Boss, something more modest will do. I don't have that much money."
The weapon shop owner didn't even look up: "I already guessed that. You haven't acquired an air of wealth yet despite having money. Three hundred thousand, I know you're from a Martial Arts Family; it will definitely satisfy you."
After agreeing on the time with the owner, Lu Ren left the shop and headed straight to Yan Zhenghua's convenience store.
As soon as he entered, without meeting face-to-face, Yan Zhenghua's weathered, deep smoker's voice rang out sleazily.
"What do you need, friend? I just got a batch of Divine Oil. Everyone who bought some gave it five stars. You can also follow my shop on Mei Tuan for home delivery. Buy one bottle, and I'll throw in two Defensive Clothing for free. Hehehe... it's you, kid!"
Coming out, Yan Zhenghua's warm voice diminished immediately. He sized up Lu Ren, who had just entered, and raised an eyebrow: "Your evil aura has intensified quite a bit. Looks like you've been wreaking havoc everywhere lately! How come the cops haven't nabbed you?!"
Lu Ren replied, dumbfounded: "Boss, please, I'm officially certified. Otherwise, could I swagger around in Hua Country like this?"
"Oh?!"
Yan Zhenghua glanced outside the convenience store discreetly, ensuring no one was tailing Lu Ren, then wore a peculiar smile: "Seems like you've been quite busy lately."
"Spill it." Yan Zhenghua said lazily: "Suddenly popping in after all this time, what do you want from this little shrine of mine?"
"I want to learn swordsmanship!"
"Didn't I tell you before? Your murderous intent is too strong, you can't possibly train in the swordsmanship I've created. My sword style is the Intention Sword, fundamentally different from ordinary sword routines... Of course, it's not entirely impossible!"
Yan Zhenghua fixated his gaze on the wad of cash in Lu Ren's hand, then feigned difficulty: "But with this small amount, it's really hard for me to proceed!"
Lu Ren continued to dig out another wad from his backpack!
Seeing this, Yan Zhenghua's greedy eyes sparkled, hands moving like lightning to snatch the money from Lu Ren.
He wasn't greedy by nature; the amount offered was simply irresistible!
Fast, swift as a storm, quick as a gale.
Lu Ren even felt a rush of wind on his face, causing him to instinctively squint.
"Is this the Phoenix Extreme Fist?"
Swish! Swish!
Yan Zhenghua counted the money, not even looking up: "Kid, this amount is only enough for me to teach you swordsmanship. Don't even think about my Fist Technique; you're not my ideal successor."
Lu Ren snorted, then set his stance, sinking his hips before fiercely punching the air beside him.
Whoosh!
A sharp, piercing cry suddenly resounded, drawing Yan Zhenghua's gaze in astonishment.
"Phoenix Falcon Fist?! Where did you learn this?"
He knew Lu Ren inside out, aware of what he was made of. After just a few months apart, Lu Ren had mastered the Phoenix Falcon Fist? This surprised Yan Zhenghua to the point of disbelief, cursing inwardly that back when he practiced, he wasn't this arrogant.
Clearly, Lu Ren was here to make trouble!
A Martial Arts genius?!
So what if he's a Martial Arts genius? I've long left the scene!
Yan Zhenghua's greasy, plump face turned increasingly sinister, more irritable. If not for the money, he would've kicked Lu Ren out.
But the heavy stack of paper bills in his hand made him smile warmly.
No one escapes the true fragrance rule!
Watching from the sidelines, Lu Ren inwardly mocked, thinking that even in modern society, even powerful martial artists had to bow to life...
"It's official authorization. Well, do I grasp the essence of it?"
"Official authorization?" Yan Zhenghua rubbed his chin, scrutinizing Lu Ren: "What major feat did you accomplish that the security bureau's experts taught you their techniques?"
Clearly, this fat man knew the ropes intimately!
"That's none of your concern. The point is, I'm here to prove I'm not someone with a twisted mindset or someone who indulges in wanton slaughter. I'm officially authorized and certified!"
Lu Ren spoke seriously: "I'm just saying you can actually teach me!"
Lu Ren's attitude was earnest. After a moment of contemplation, Yan Zhenghua suddenly waved disinterestedly: "Fine, what you have isn't enough for me to pass on my life's skills to you. I'll teach you swordsmanship first, come on in, don't just stand there."
Need to add money!
Lu Ren understood what Yan Zhenghua meant.
Following Yan Zhenghua to the training room behind the convenience store, they were interrupted by an unfamiliar voice at the door.
"Old Yan, how much for this vinegar?"
Yan Zhenghua shouted in reply: "Eight bucks, just scan to pay, I'm busy here, the prices are all labeled!"
Entering the training room, Yan Zhenghua held a Wooden Sword, speaking solemnly: "The decline of the Martial Path is now inevitable. With technological advances, martial artists who train for twenty to thirty years can't match a bullet fired from a gun. In a hundred years, perhaps martial arts will be fully obsolete, disappearing in the river of history."
At this point, Yan Zhenghua looked somewhat melancholy: "Really, hiding this stuff serves no purpose. My Fist Technique, my Sword Manual, I uploaded them to my Weibo a couple of years ago. Hundreds of views, zero downloads."
"Ha?!" Lu Ren was slightly shocked: "You actually put martial arts online, aren't you afraid of people practicing them?"
Yan Zhenghua sneered: "It's not that easy to train. Even if I give you the Sword Manual, if you practice without my annotations and explanations, even ten years wouldn't get you in the door."
These martial arts families are cunning indeed, no wonder they aren't afraid of letting you take the Boxing Manual, because if it lacks annotations or old explanations, or if something's missing or incorrect, what you practice won't be right and might cripple you.
Lu Ren: "You folks are really good at hiding secrets, no wonder so many things in history were taken to the grave."
Yan Zhenghua sighed: "There is some truth to that. Many masters want to keep something back, one hand keeps holding back, in the end, it all goes to the grave. Many top-tier, even legendary skills are now mostly lost."
Lu Ren grinned: "You wouldn't hold anything back too, would you?"
Yan Zhenghua smiled silently.
Lu Ren wrapped an arm around Yan Zhenghua's shoulder, speaking softly: "I know a top-notch massage place, their sauna and foot spa are the best!"
Report chapter CommentsChapter 47: Chapter 47: Intention Sword"Am I that kind of person?!" Yan Zhenghua said with righteous indignation, "Please don't think of me as being so dirty. In line with the principle of doing things seriously and responsibly when being paid, I will surely give it my all!"
After a pause, Yan Zhenghua said casually, "Is it legitimate?"
"Who cares about legitimacy."
"Hehehe..."
A string of sly laughter echoed from the practice room. Of course, it was Yan Zhenghua making that sound, and Lu Ren felt a tinge of disdain in his heart.
This kind of place, he's never been to, really, truly.
Back to the main topic.
Yan Zhenghua held a Wooden Sword, twirling it in a sword flourish.
"Swordsmanship is generally practiced as demonstrations, which I call Body Sword. Through arduous practice, one engraves the swordsmanship into their instincts, integrating it into their bodily reflexes. The next step is to realize the essence of the swordsmanship, understand the spirit within, and then elevate, eventually grasping the True Intent hidden within the Sword Manual. But to embrace the True Intent within swordsmanship, only the pinnacle of Sword Mastery can achieve it."
Yan Zhenghua's gaze sharpened, resembling a drawn sword. At this moment, his corpulent frame suddenly tightened, and his loose clothes seemed like a form-fitting outfit, with bulging muscles underneath. He raised the Wooden Sword, flicked his wrist, and made a hesitant thrust towards Lu Ren.
Clang!
An unexpectedly crisp sword sound emitted from the Wooden Sword, even though it was still three feet away from Lu Ren. He still felt a chilling, bone-piercing sensation making his hair stand on end, with a sharp sword wind thrusting suddenly at him.
It felt as if his chest was struck from afar.
Lu Ren paled and took two steps back.
"What is this?"
"The Intent comprehended after achieving Great Perfection in Swordsmanship."
Yan Zhenghua sighed, "Too bad, I'm getting old, unable to see higher landscapes."
"Higher landscapes?"
Instead of directly answering Lu Ren, Yan Zhenghua retorted, "Do you know how strong human limits can be?"
Lu Ren ventured, "Maybe something like the Hulk?"
Yan Zhenghua shook his head slightly, "Those people I've seen... never mind, talking to you about this is a complete waste of effort. A newbie like you, so old yet wanting to learn martial arts, achieving some accomplishments is good enough!"
"Now, I'll teach you."
Finally, moving on to the main topic, Lu Ren secretly heaved a sigh of relief. If not for fearing Yan Zhenghua's displeasure causing him to make things difficult, he would have really liked to say his time is valuable and shouldn't be wasted.
Yan Zhenghua said, "Since you have basic sword skills, I will teach you the Sword Manual Introduction."
After speaking, he sat down cross-legged, placing the Wooden Sword across his legs, and closed his eyes slightly, remaining still.
Apart from the faintly audible sound of breathing, there was no other movement.
Half an hour later, Lu Ren couldn't take it anymore.
"Master Yan, what are you doing?"
Yan Zhenghua remained in his state.
"Clearing the mind, Visualizing the Long Sword! The Longquan sword is too sharp, piercing the spirit, while a blunt sword is too slow, making the mind dull. The Wooden Sword is suitable for beginners, allowing them to perceive Sword Intent."
Sounding so mysterious...
Lu Ren felt puzzled, "Then what should I do?"
Yan Zhenghua opened his eyes, nodding to the Wooden Sword placed on the sword stand beside him.
"Pick one that feels right, and do as I did."
Lu Ren walked to the sword stand and tried several Wooden Swords, eventually picking the one that felt best to play with.
"... Is there no systematic routine or techniques?"
Yan Zhenghua: "Young man, you should know all sword techniques stem from Basic Sword Techniques. Sideways, thrust, sweep, stab, chop, shave... Techniques are fixed, but people are dynamic."
When Lu Ren sat down cross-legged, Yan Zhenghua finally spoke, carefully teaching the Visualization of Long Sword Method to Lu Ren.
The more Lu Ren listened, the more surprised his expression became, realizing that sword practice could be this way. Practicing thousands or tens of thousands of times, until the sword techniques became instinct; but Intention Sword relies on Visualization Skill, using Spirit as the sword, borne by the body, achieving a harmonious state naturally.
After listening, Lu Ren reiterated several times, confirming he remembered the Sword Manual essence, which amounted to less than a thousand words, and then asked, "Ultimately, can a single sword swing emit Sword Qi?"
"What's that?"
"Something like one sword emits light, chilling nineteen states, Sword Qi sweeping across thirty thousand miles."
Yan Zhenghua didn't lift an eyelid, "You've read too many novels, no such thing exists in reality. At most, through immense Power and speed, coupled with superb Sword Skills, a Long Sword can produce airflow changes while rubbing against air at high speed. If the technique meets standards, the airflow can form cuts with damaging properties, known as Qi Slash. Progressing beyond is using unique secret techniques, combined with a powerful enough Spirit Realm, forming Sword Mastery; further progression... uh, I don't know much about it."
After confirming Lu Ren learned with no omissions, Yan Zhenghua advised, "Only when the Wooden Sword takes shape in your heart can you proceed with further practice, cleansing the mundane and reshaping the Spirit. This technique trains Spirit and willpower."
Saying so, Yan Zhenghua pulled a book covered with oil stains from the table below and handed it to Lu Ren.
"Here, this is the Sword Manual I've painstakingly crafted, with my annotations and essential explanations. If you really don't get it, you can ask me, but consultation fees apply."
Lu Ren: "...Alright then, I'll leave now."
Before Lu Ren could leave the small shop, Yan Zhenghua's face turned: "Did you forget something?"
"..."
Lu Ren fished out the last wad of money from his pocket, "This is for your massage fee. I have things to do, so I might..."
Yan Zhenghua snatched it, lowering his head with a grinning face, the weathered wrinkles on his face blooming like chrysanthemums, waving as if shooing flies, "Alright, alright, seeing as you are so sincere, the Wooden Sword you're holding, although I crafted it meticulously, I'll waive the fee."
"I..."
Lu Ren looked at the engraving on the sword hilt.
"Made by Longquan Toy Factory"
"..."
Returning home, it was already nearing dusk, with the sunset slanting, twilight approaching, only the remnant sun hanging unsteadily at the horizon.
Lu Ren looked at the Wooden Sword in his hand, sitting on the viewing deck on the second floor, meticulously confirming every detail of the Wooden Sword. Lastly, with the willpower brought by 10 points of spirit, he gradually emptied his mind.
Modern people are too restless, living in an era of information explosion, everyone receives massive amounts of information daily, where useful information accounts for less than five percent.
Therefore, ordinary people constantly entertain numerous thoughts and desires.
Trying to calm the mind and empty it is considerably challenging.
Lu Ren sat down, closed his eyes, and various distracting thoughts flooded in non-stop.
"Previously, on the subway, I saw a girl with a nice face and figure. Her outfit was too flamboyant, a bit hard to accept."
"Haven't played League for a while, should I play a few rounds later?"
Report chapter CommentsChapter 48: Chapter 48 Miscellaneous Thoughts"Eh, the medicinal dish I made earlier seems a bit bland. Next time, get a dipping sauce to try... Forget it, too much trouble. I'll make it stronger next time. I've heard ginseng powder supplements qi and blood and strengthens kidney qi. Next time, should I add some..."
"I should be lying in bed with my left foot on my right foot now..."
"What does a ten-year cerebral thrombosis mean?"
"I heard the recent update of 2048 added a lot, should I check it out..."
"If a pig has kidney deficiency, does its kidney still supplement?"
"Is a person caught on the way to surrender still considered surrendering?"
"..."
Lu Ren opened his eyes, exhaled deeply, his expression quite helpless. Practicing fist techniques was fine, all his energy focused on one thing, and distracted thoughts naturally faded away, with no disturbance.
But sitting idle and doing nothing, those scattered thoughts are indeed a wave after another, truly unstoppable.
How to deal with it?
Lu Ren stood up, paced back and forth a few times, then decisively went to the courtyard, pulling open the Phoenix Falcon Fist stance again and started practicing.
"Ding, you are practicing Phoenix Falcon Fist, Phoenix Falcon Fist skill level +1"
"Ding, due to practicing Phoenix Falcon Fist, your constitution, power, and agility proficiency +1"
"Ding..."
As his fist technique improved profoundly, he could even perform the techniques instinctively, often ignoring the system's prompt sound completely.
Suddenly, Lu Ren paused his movement, then slowly opened the fist stance, his body practicing the technique, but his mind wasn't focused on the fist technique but concentrating his spirit, visualizing the Wooden Sword.
After two hours, Lu Ren stopped his movements with a look of joy, unexpectedly successful, especially the system's prompt sound in his mind that made his expression excited.
"Ding, due to concentrating spirit and visualizing the Wooden Sword, your spiritual proficiency +1"
This was Lu Ren's first time hearing the sound of spiritual proficiency actively increasing, meaning what Yan Zhenghua taught him was indeed genuine and correct.
Lu Ren finally felt relieved, starting daily uninterrupted practice, periodically according to the agreed time, went to the weapon store to pick up his customized longsword, called by the boss as an extremely common name, Longquan Sword.
Lu Ren couldn't care less to change it.
Sharp as mud, hair-snipping indeed wasn't an exaggeration, the weapon store boss even said it applied the latest nano-carbon material technology for overall enhancement, toughness and hardness had risen several levels.
He tried, bending with full force only slightly curved, releasing strength it snapped straight.
And living next to him Li Shu once leaned on the courtyard fence exclaiming: "We live in such a peaceful country, unexpectedly there's a martial fanatic like you! What are you doing this for?"
Lu Ren didn't stop at all, performing Phoenix Falcon Fist repeatedly, his mind also copying the Wooden Sword's shape.
After a long moment, completing a cycle of visualization Lu Ren spoke: "If you're not careful and fall into Alternate Space again, filled with monsters, how long can you last in your current state?"
Li Shu's expression slightly paused: "Not so unlucky, right?"
"Don't you watch the news? Hua Country's official stance has changed from previously keeping hidden about spacequake causing spatial rift channels, to now slowly revealing the truth piece by piece. Though slow, eventually it'll shift the global landscape someday."
Li Shu: "...Ha? Those bizarre tabloid news?"
Lu Ren glanced at her: "Haven't you received survival drills or extreme survival safety exercise notifications recently, and the Ministry of Education has issued many documents emphasizing physical exercise, importantly including survival skills and combat as courses too?"
"Received..."
Li Shu wasn't stupid, soon she reacted, her voice somewhat trembling: "Are you saying that might become the norm?"
Lu Ren shrugged slightly: "I can't say for sure, after all, many things are unclear, but regardless, improving your own strength is always a correct choice."
"Can I train with you?"
"No." Lu Ren said, then pondered briefly, "though it's not impossible."
Li Shu's disappointed expression quickly turned to joy.
Lu Ren continued: "But my tuition is very expensive, charging in phases, guaranteed teaching without refund, if you give up complaining of hardship and fatigue halfway, the tuition won't be refunded no matter whether you learn or not."
One must find some side earning after all.
"No problem, how much is the tuition?"
Lu Ren asked exorbitantly: "One million!"
To his surprise, Li Shu didn't hesitate at all and directly nodded.
"No problem!"
Lu Ren still had some conscience, "Um, actually many fist techniques schools teach true skills too. I know one and can recommend you there, the tuition isn't as expensive."
Li Shu said: "I trust you!"
"Alright." Lu Ren sighed, "Since that's the case, then transfer the one million introduction fee, I'll introduce you to your teaching master."
Li Shu asked in surprise: "Not you teaching."
"I can barely manage myself, where's the time to teach you, are you training or not?"
Li Shu hesitated, then asked: "Is it reliable?"
"Definitely reliable, all my skills were taught by him. That one is a master hidden in the city!"
Lu Ren patted his chest, seriously.
"Well... alright."
"Ding, funds received through Zhi Fu Bao, one million yuan!"
Lu Ren looked at his phone, checking repeatedly, somewhat surprisedly looking at Li Shu across the fence.
"Did you transfer it just like that, trusting me so much?"
Li Shu smiled: "No matter the reason, you saved me in that world, regardless of your state of mind then."
Lu Ren nodded slightly, not saying more, reasonably the money was deserved.
When introducing Li Shu to Yan Zhenghua, Yan Zhenghua's eyes with a wretched look filled with green light upon seeing Li Shu's beautiful fashion, drooling nonstop.
Li Shu looked at Yan Zhenghua's greasy middle-aged wretched image, especially his gaze on her making her instinctively cover her chest, looked back full of unease: "Is this the master you talked about?"
Yan Zhenghua also realized his image was inappropriate then, immediately straightened his chest and stomach, trying to appear as a master, with a composed expression.
"Little girl, just now I merely used the True Eye to scan your root bone talent suitability for martial arts practice. Since you're willing, come let me examine your bones, see if you match our school's fist technique."
Li Shu looked pitifully at Lu Ren, Lu Ren said seriously: "You're no longer young, without bone examination and master's adjustment as per your actual condition, you can't practice martial arts. Don't be confused by the old man's wretched appearance, he's actually a passionate person, those are just appearances, don't be deceived. We must see the essence through the appearances."
Old virgin counts as loyal, right?
Li Shu: "..."
```
Chapter 49: Chapter 49 Zhang Li VisitsWhen Lu Ren suggested taking his leave, Yan Zhenghua enthusiastically waved his hand, saying, "Young man, I have high hopes for you, come visit when you have time!"
Lu Ren flipped the bird without looking back and left.
As for Li Shu, his heightened Spirit Attribute made him more sensitive to the intentions of others, and those approaching him often had impure motives, filled with miscellaneous thoughts. While their intentions weren't entirely bad, Lu Ren really didn't want to bother with such relationships.
A waste of life.
Rather than playing pretend with someone, it's better to drop them swiftly. Besides, all signs indicated that Yan Zhenghua was indeed a super powerful martial artist who had achieved Great Perfection in swordsmanship.
Though his so-called Phoenix Extreme Fist had not been demonstrated in the slightest, Lu Ren had no doubt that his fist technique was astonishing.
Especially earlier in the practice room, when Yan Zhenghua's seemingly chubby body suddenly tightened, instantly transforming into a muscle-bound man standing before him.
He had relaxed his muscles to the extreme to achieve such a form.
A formidable expert!
Just way too sleazy.
Sending Li Shu over was not really cheating him; the million was purely a finder's fee, which Lu Ren accepted with peace of mind, even regretting he hadn't charged more.
Back home, after Lu Ren practiced a few sets of Phoenix Falcon Fist, Zhang Li appeared at his door, handing him a document.
Zhang Li was visibly shocked watching Lu Ren's fist technique. It had only been three to four months since Lu Ren started practicing Phoenix Falcon Fist, and already he had become proficient.
"Interested in something exciting?"
Lu Ren handed over the documents, looking up and down at Zhang Li's perfect figure revealed by her tight jeans and fitted turtleneck sweater.
He had no doubt about the explosive power of the muscles outlined by her outfit, that with a little exertion, she could transform into a hulking musclewoman.
Women were naturally less physically strong than men, leaning more towards agility and explosiveness, but Lu Ren could clearly see the fierce route Zhang Li's fist technique followed.
"Isn't it too thrilling?"
As he casually responded, Lu Ren opened the document and began to read carefully.
Meanwhile, Zhang Li, seemingly an experienced individual, immediately grasped the meaning behind Lu Ren's words, her pretty face turning cold.
"You mean you want to have a match with me?"
"No, I didn't mean that. Look at you, already so formidable, how could a small fry like me stand a chance?"
At this point, Lu Ren couldn't help but raise an eyebrow: "Alternate Space Exploration Plan?"
Hearing Lu Ren bring up the main topic, Zhang Li suppressed her anger and explained: "We discovered a stable alternate space source inside Luozi Mountain that needs exploration."
Lu Ren felt a bit annoyed, wasn't this clearly treating him as cannon fodder?
"Listen, Captain Zhang, our Hua Country is vast and populous. Although martial arts are in decline, there are at least a hundred thousand, if not two hundred thousand, people practicing various boxing schools. Moreover, those joining your ranks must be exceptional, so why choose me? I've already contributed to the Country! You can't break my heart!"
The more Lu Ren talked, the more pitiful he seemed. Zhang Li, feeling her anger rise, responded: "You think I want to bring you? If it weren't for the higher-ups wanting to cultivate you, believing your potential in the Southwest Region to be promising, and Li Ziqing's strong recommendation, I wouldn't have come to you. That would be it!
This Exotic Realm passage has been explored and confirmed by us, and it's not overly dangerous!"
"Huh?! Cultivate me?!" Lu Ren was genuinely shocked.
How was he, someone who slipped through the cracks of nine years of compulsory education, worth cultivating?
"You've survived two encounters with the Exotic Realm and possess excellent martial arts talent. You reached proficiency in Phoenix Falcon Fist within three to four months."
Zhang Li, too, was filled with uncontrollable envy: "The data shows that you've only been practicing martial arts for half a year to achieve this level. You're a good candidate for cultivation."
"You don't seem surprised, just full of envy!"
"Hmph, as you said yourself, Hua Country is vast and populous. There are many like you. If you were younger, you might attract more attention."
Click!
This was truly uninteresting. Lu Ren felt as though he thought he was a genius, only to find out that anyone he randomly bumped into on the street was more of a genius...
Sadly, all these geniuses would be left far behind by handsome me!
Lu Ren glanced at the skill level enhancement prompts that floated by during his recent practice.
Lovely!
Lu Ren asked, "Are there any benefits?"
Zhang Li seriously responded: "Comrade Lu Ren, as new-generation talent and a martial artist, we should not chase after fame and profit but aim for the martial arts peak, we should..."
As Zhang Li went on with her lengthy speech, Lu Ren sighed, "Alright, let me rephrase, are there any welfare benefits?"
Zhang Li halted her words: "Don't worry, join our Security Bureau and enjoy solid benefits, plus formal employment. Have you noticed an increased appetite recently, requiring significant time for eating, as well as maintaining personal hygiene? We have a dedicated research team focused on in-depth research into high-energy nutrition."
With that, Zhang Li fished out a small, brown-black pill the size of a pinky from her pouch.
"This nutrient pill can provide a top-tier martial artist with the daily nutrients needed for strong physique.
Moreover, you're taking unorthodox routes without systematic martial arts education, but we have a complete, systematically improved martial arts system that has undergone scientific research to help you find more suitable martial arts techniques."
Lu Ren's eyes gleamed. His recent training had made him increasingly aware that advanced martial arts training requires the support of a strong team to produce martial arts experts.
Relying solely on oneself requires vast amounts of time to acquire food and the herbs needed for martial arts, and sometimes these resources are unavailable, delaying training progress.
Beyond eating, sleeping, and solving personal issues, it is already a stretch to squeeze in twelve hours a day for fist practice, and some techniques even require special herbs for body conditioning, reducing practice time.
With a team behind him, there would be no such hassle, allowing him to focus solely on martial arts training.
There's comfort in having backing, and it's easier to excel in public service.
Plus, there's a formal position!
Without any hesitation, Lu Ren nodded and said, "I'm in!"
Zhang Li's face broke into a smile: "You'll be glad you made the right choice."
"I'm glad." Lu Ren replied somewhat perfunctorily, then rubbed his hands, pointing to the highly concentrated nutrient pill in Zhang Li's hand, and asked, "So... Captain Zhang, seeing as I'm one of you now, could you spare some?"
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