Wang Ye shook Steve's hand with a gentle smile.
"Allow me to formally introduce myself. My name is Ye Wang, a manor owner from Norway. It's a pleasure to meet you!"
"I'm Steve Rogers, a local from Brooklyn, an unemployed worker. It's a pleasure to meet you too!"
By now, Steve had calmed down from his initial surprise and shook Wang Ye's hand politely.
"You can work here and learn martial arts at the same time. I'll also provide you with meals and accommodation," Wang Ye said, taking a chair from behind the counter and placing it in front of Steve.
"Come, don't just stand there. Sit down, and let's talk!"
Steve wasn't shy about it. He dusted off his clothes and sat down.
"Mr. Ye, thank you so much! Actually, I've lost count of how many times the military has rejected me because of my physical exam results. I just want to join the military to do my part in protecting those who can't protect themselves. But every time, my physical condition stops me from doing anything! If… if I can learn some powerful martial arts, it might help me overcome my weak physique and pass the military screening."
Steve expressed his thoughts to Wang Ye sincerely. He wasn't good at lying and didn't see a reason to hide the truth.
"I understand how you feel. You don't need to be discouraged. The reason your body is so weak is mostly due to overwork in unhealthy environments combined with severe malnutrition. From now on, if you follow the schedule I've planned for you, improve your diet, and practice martial arts, your health will definitely improve. Your dream of joining the military will be within reach!"
Wang Ye had already reviewed Steve's physical exam report. The dozen or so conditions listed seemed exaggerated, but with martial arts training and proper nutrition, these issues could be addressed. While it might only be a temporary solution, Wang Ye knew that as long as Steve participated in the experiment later, his health problems wouldn't hold him back.
Hearing Wang Ye's confident response, Steve felt a surge of hope. His eyes sparkled, as if he could already see himself in military uniform, fighting valiantly on the battlefield to protect his country.
"Thank you so much!"
"Hahaha~ Martial arts training isn't easy. Don't blame me for being strict later!" Wang Ye stood up, patted Steve on the shoulder, and smiled.
"Come, let me show you your room upstairs. Later, we'll go to the market to buy some daily essentials..."
In the shop's main hall
"Martial arts, at its core, is exactly what it sounds like—a collection of fighting and combat techniques.
Throughout history, humans have used wisdom and practice to create countless martial arts, forming many different schools. Among the most famous are Tai Chi, Muay Thai, Sanda, wrestling, and so on.
These martial arts were created with two main purposes in mind:
To defeat or even kill enemies in combat in the quickest and most effective way.To build strength, improve health, and develop a strong physique through consistent practice.
Since your body is relatively weak, we'll start with Tai Chi, a simpler style that focuses on health and self-cultivation. I'll demonstrate it a few times. Watch carefully!"
Steve nodded seriously. "I'll make sure to learn well!"
Wang Ye began demonstrating Tai Chi at an extremely slow pace, explaining key points and techniques as he moved.
"When practicing Tai Chi, the spirit and intention are key. The 'spirit' refers to your focus and mindset, while the 'intention' refers to the body's movement and purpose.
With every punch, the entire body must work together. The mind and body should unify, allowing everything to flow naturally.
The 'body intention' comes from years of dedicated practice. Only when every movement combines spirit and intention can martial arts become second nature."
Steve watched and listened intently, gradually beginning to follow along. From time to time, Wang Ye corrected his mistakes, ensuring Steve grasped the fundamentals.
After about four or five repetitions, Steve could perform all the movements and understood most of the key techniques.
"There's an old saying in the East: 'The teacher opens the door, but the practice depends on the individual.' Now that you've learned the basics of Tai Chi, the rest is up to your perseverance and comprehension!"
After finishing the session, Wang Ye gave Steve an encouraging look and started heading upstairs. After taking a few steps, he paused and turned around.
"Wait, did we forget dinner?"
Steve, who had been too excited to feel hungry, suddenly heard his stomach growling in protest.
The two exchanged a laugh before Steve scratched his head awkwardly. "Haha, what are we having for dinner?"
"Of course, Aunt Mary Sue's hotdog shop! You need to replenish your nutrition. They have fresh milk there, too. We'll also grab some fruit on the way back…"
Two months later
Time flew by, and Steve's progress was remarkable. His strong will, natural talent, and countless hours of training paid off.
If not for his previous physical setbacks, Steve might have become a martial arts expert even without enhancement!
Now, Steve had mastered Tai Chi, Judo, Muay Thai, Sanda, boxing, and other martial arts. Three days ago, after repeated requests, Steve formally became Wang Ye's disciple, addressing him as "Master."
As a master, Wang Ye shared all his knowledge with Steve. They often practiced combat exercises to improve Steve's practical experience.
One morning, Steve was practicing Tai Chi in the hall. His health had improved significantly, and his once frail body now had visible muscle contours.
What surprised Steve most was a recent check-up where the doctor declared him in good health. Many of his minor illnesses had healed, and even his asthma symptoms had greatly improved.
This only deepened Steve's respect for Wang Ye.
"Steve!
So, you're here! I couldn't find you for a month. I thought something had happened!"
A young man in military uniform, with a handsome face, poked his head through the door. His look of relief turned into a smile as he spotted Steve.
Steve turned at the familiar voice and lit up with joy.
"Bucky!"
(End of Chapter)
Want to read the chapters in Advance? Join my Patreon
https://patreon.com/Glimmer09