"No matter which martial art you choose, mastering it overnight isn't an option, especially given your limited experience beyond archery," the lame man began.
"So, you'll need to start with the basics, and only after you've mastered them can I teach you martial arts. It's a tedious journey, even more demanding than your archery practice. You'll need to invest years, perhaps even a lifetime. Are you mentally prepared for this?" he inquired.
Chen Fan took a deep breath and responded without hesitation, "Yes."
"Very well. I hope that when the time comes, you'll have the determination to see it through," he said calmly, secretly believing in this young man's resolve and talent.
"Uncle Zhang..." Zhao Feng gathered his courage and spoke up. "I'd like to learn martial arts from you as well."
"I'm in," another villager chimed in.
"Uncle Zhang, count me in too..."
The remaining few eagerly joined in the chorus.
After all, who wouldn't desire power and the promise of a better life?
The lame man displayed no surprise at their eagerness and casually remarked, "Teaching one or a few is the same, but I'm concerned about your ability to persevere."
Several individuals instantly became animated, swearing their dedication.
In contrast, Zhao Feng remained more composed, his eyes filled with determination.
"Very well," the lame man waved his hand. "Since you all wish to learn, let's begin."
A collective gulp resounded in the room. Was it finally starting?
"Regardless of the martial art you practice, you must start with the most basic stance. Without a proper stance, your legs will be weak, and your posture will be flawed when you throw a punch. Ultimately, you'll expend more effort for half the result. We'll begin with the horse stance."
Everyone nodded vigorously, their eyes filled with anticipation.
"The foundation lies in 'Zhan Zhuang,' and next, I'll teach you the foundational posture of 'Zhan Zhuang' called 'Wuji Zhuang.' Only after achieving some proficiency in 'Wuji Zhuang' can you progress to 'Tai Chi Zhuang.' Following 'Tai Chi Zhuang,' you can formally study 'Tai Chi.'"
The lame man's words left everyone feeling a bit perplexed.
They had to start with Wuji postures. After Wuji, they needed to master Taiji before they could even begin learning Taijiquan?
And if they desired to learn Xingyi Quan, did they have to practice the Three-Body Posture after Tai Chi?
How long would this journey take?
"Is this too challenging?" The lame man coldly snorted. "This is about internal strength, the core of martial arts. Without a solid foundation in internal strength, your martial arts will be hollow in the end. You won't just learn basic stances, but also fundamental legwork and footwork. You must start from scratch! It's too late to regret now."
As he spoke, he glanced at everyone and added, "Anyone having second thoughts?"
Chen Fan stepped forward with a confident smile.