I achieved mastery of martial arts during the Republic of China era.

Chapter 34 A Fierce Competition to Recruit

Zhou Tong suppressed the turmoil in his heart, his expression remaining gentle, and cupped his hands in greeting to Ji Chang: "Senior Brother Ji."

Ji Chang took two steps closer, pointed at him lightly, his face a mixture of reproach and barely concealed amusement, and said in a low voice:

"You, Zhou Tong! You're really something! What can I say about you? I know you're calm and low-key, but you've been keeping things from me?"

Zhou Tong smiled and shook his head: "Senior brother, you misunderstand. I just broke through not long ago and haven't had a chance to say it yet."

"Come on, you!"

Ji Chang chuckled and scolded, casually placing his arm around Zhou Tong's shoulder and pulling him aside. His voice was even lower, and his breath warm against Zhou Tong's ear:

"Breaking through the Stone Muscle in three months is one thing, but the swordsmanship you showed today is truly impressive!"

Look, the eldest brother nodded, and the third brother personally bestowed upon him the title of "Martial Arts Prodigy"—that carries completely different weight!

He subtly raised his chin and glanced around.

Zhou Tong looked over and saw many of his fellow disciples on the sidelines. Their eyes seemed to be fixed on the center of the field, but their peripheral vision would occasionally drift over to him, and when it landed on him, it was with a sense of inquiry, envy, and even a hint of awe.

This is quite different from the indifferent or distant look in his eyes in the past.

"See that?"

Ji Chang's voice carried a hint of wistful wisdom and shrewdness from someone who had been through it all:

"You're quite the hot commodity now. It's only because Senior Sister Liu and Senior Brother Zheng haven't made their stance clear yet that these people below are keeping their distance and don't dare to easily try and get on your good side."

Zhou Tong nodded slightly.

While his own talent was astonishing, Liu Qing and Zheng Hao possessed talent, family background, and cultivation, and had already established their prestige among the younger generation of the martial arts school and even Cangzhou City.

Compared to the foundation they have built over many years, their own success seems meager.

"However," Ji Chang changed the subject, his face beaming with joy:

"After this ordeal, your reputation as a martial arts prodigy is now firmly established. In less than two days, I guarantee it will spread throughout the martial arts world of Cangzhou."

"Our fledgling medicinal herb trading business has finally laid a solid foundation!"

Zhou Tong frowned slightly and asked with concern, "Senior brother, given the current situation, can our existing military force still protect our business?"

Upon hearing this, Ji Chang straightened his expression, withdrew his hand from Zhou Tong's shoulder, and said in a low voice:

"I've discussed this matter carefully with my uncle. The current situation is volatile, and the Wuyou Sect, this festering sore, hasn't even burst yet. There's unease everywhere."

Our strategy is to seek stability, avoid being greedy, and refrain from rash actions. Smaller profits are acceptable; what we want is to be "small, quick, and agile." A small boat is easy to maneuver and less likely to attract envy.

Seeing Zhou Tong nod, he continued:

"Right now, our business isn't very profitable, so naturally it doesn't attract the attention of any real big players."

To be honest, even if the business isn't big, with my Bone Forging Realm cultivation level, I can do it, but it's still a bit lacking.

However, with the reputation you're about to gain, things will be different. If we act cautiously, we can protect you well.

He paused, rubbed his hands together, and his eyes lit up:

"If... hehe, if you could also snatch that police station squad leader's rank, hey, then our business would be truly secure!"

Of course, if we want to expand our reach and increase our business...

He shook his head and sighed softly, "This foundation isn't enough. But business is about taking things one step at a time; you can't rush it."

Zhou Tong felt somewhat relieved after hearing this.

He knew that martial arts cultivation was like a money-devouring beast; the further one progressed, the greater the resources required.

The family business was not only the foundation for his livelihood, but also the cornerstone of his courage and progress.

Seeing that force was enough to suppress his business made him feel much more at ease.

At this moment, Ji Chang nudged him lightly with his elbow, a teasing smile appearing on his face:

"What's wrong? After listening to your brother's explanation, are you scratching your heart even more excitedly? Are you just hoping that your senior brother will open his mouth and make an exception for you?"

Zhou Tong raised his eyes and looked at Chen Zong, who stood with his hands behind his back, calmly watching the arena. A peaceful smile appeared on his lips.

"I was indeed momentarily anxious and uncertain just now. But I've calmed down now."

"Oh?" Ji Chang raised an eyebrow.

"Regardless of whether my senior brother ultimately gives me the spot..."

Zhou Tong spoke calmly and earnestly, saying, "He asked me to compete today, pointing out the uniqueness of my swordsmanship. I will always remember this appreciation and encouragement."

Ji Chang nodded: "That makes sense. And then?"

"Then?"

Zhou Tong turned back and looked at Ji Chang with clear eyes:

"Do your best and leave the rest to fate. Before things are settled, it's wise to lower your expectations."

In this way, if it succeeds, it will be a pleasant surprise; if it fails, there won't be too much disappointment. It leaves room for maneuver for both oneself and others.

After hearing this, Ji Chang paused for a moment, then sighed softly with a complex expression:

"Yes, we really shouldn't have too high expectations for people and things. The higher the expectations, the greater the disappointment. We should let go of ourselves and let go of others."

He looked Zhou Tong up and down again, clicked his tongue, and praised him:

"Junior brother, your thoughtfulness and composure are truly beyond your years. The words you gave me afterward when Liu and Zheng recruited me were just like that."

"Senior brother, you flatter me."

Zhou Tong smiled modestly and turned his gaze to the arena, "Look, the contestant on the stage is about to be decided."

On the arena, two figures clashed, the sound of wooden swords hitting each other as dense as a torrential rain, and the strong wind stirred up the air, causing the surrounding disciples in green robes to hold their breath and occasionally burst out with suppressed cheers.

Zhou Tong watched with complete concentration.

Even though they are both at the Iron Skin Realm and cultivate the same origin sword technique, the difference in their skill level is as slight as a hair's breadth.

Unlike him, who relied on the greater power of the "perfect version" of the sword technique, these senior brothers relied more on the intuition and ruthless experience honed in life-and-death battles.

The quick thinking and improvisation, the decisiveness to trade injury for life, and the cunning to turn defeat into victory all broadened Zhou Tong's horizons, captivated him, and made him secretly exclaim how wonderful they were.

The sun slowly shifted its position.

After a series of fierce battles, the five winners were finally determined.

Senior Brother Chen Zong walked slowly to the center of the field, his gaze sweeping calmly across the scene.

The noisy courtyard fell silent instantly, all the disciples held their breath, their eyes fixed intently on him.

Zhou Tong also quietly clenched his fingers inside his sleeve.

"The competition is over."

Chen Zong's voice wasn't loud, but it was as clear as a rock, each word distinct: "Those who have been granted a position in the police force..."

"Liu Hong".

The sturdy young man who was called out stepped forward, clasped his hands in a respectful gesture, and showed little surprise on his face. He was the top-ranked contestant.

Then, Chen Zong called out three more names, all of whom were the second, third, and fourth place Iron-Skinned Warriors from the previous competition.

When he finished reading the fourth name, Chen Zong paused slightly.

The fifth disciple, named Zhang Hao, was clenching his fists so tightly his knuckles turned white, his teeth were clenched, and he was staring intently at his senior brother's lips, as if trying to "see" the last name.

Chen Zong parted his lips slightly and uttered the last two words: "Zhou Tong".

Zhou Tong's heart steadied, and he immediately stepped forward, bowed, clasped his hands in a fist salute, and said in a clear voice, "Thank you, Senior Brother!"

Meanwhile, in the crowd on the other side, Zhang Hao seemed to have lost all his strength in an instant. His shoulders slumped, he let out a long breath, lowered his head, and pursed his lips.

"Whoosh—"

A murmur of barely suppressed discussion immediately arose in the room.

However, most of the comments were expressions of surprise and admiration, with little sign of dissatisfaction.

Zhou Tong's performance as a "martial arts prodigy" was evident to all, and his senior brother's exceptional promotion, though unexpected, was entirely reasonable.

Only a few people around Zhang Hao felt indignant on his behalf:

"Senior Brother Zhang, really... sigh, just a little short!"

"Yes, if it weren't for Zhou Tong suddenly appearing out of nowhere, your spot would have been a sure thing."

"A vacancy for a squad leader in the police station—it's prestigious, respectable, and lucrative; what a great opportunity..."

"Alas, Junior Brother Zhou is indeed talented, and no one can say anything wrong with what Senior Brother did, but after all... he's only at the Stone Skin stage. When it comes to street fighting and apprehending criminals, how can he compare to Brother Zhang..."

As Zhang Hao listened to these words, the veins on his neck throbbed slightly, and his eyes darkened.

After the commotion subsided, Chen Zong said calmly, "Those who have been selected, follow me."

After saying that, he turned and walked towards the main hall in the backyard.

The third senior brother smiled and gestured "please" to the five squad leaders of the police station, and the group followed closely behind Chen Zong.

The lobby was dimly lit and solemn.

The eldest brother took his seat in the main seat, the third brother sat down next to him, the five squad leaders sat on either side, and Zhou Tong and his four companions stood in the center of the hall.

"Captains."

The third senior brother spoke with a smile, his demeanor carefree:

"You've all seen my five junior brothers' abilities just now, so you should all know what you're capable of. If you prefer any of them, feel free to say so. It's a mutual selection process, and I won't interfere."

As soon as he finished speaking, the atmosphere in the hall subtly changed.

Almost simultaneously, the eyes of the five squadron leaders fell on Zhou Tong first.

Zhao Tieshan, with his square face, broad shoulders, and thick back, was the first to laugh heartily, his voice booming like a bell:

"Brother Zhou! I am Zhao Tieshan! I, Old Zhao, am a rough man and I like to be straightforward! I think you are a good prospect, your knife skills are skillful, and your mind is steady!"

Come to my place. I dare not boast about anything else, but I have the most "liveliness" on the streets. You are quick to understand, but you lack experience.

"Old Zhao, I'll make sure you're safe first, then I'll let you practice with real weapons to your heart's content. In less than six months, I'll have you honed into an even sharper blade!"

He patted his chest, exuding an air of great pride.

This is emphasizing its benefits to martial arts... Zhou Tong thought to himself.

Sun Wenyuan, slender and with sharp eyes, coughed lightly and took over the conversation. His tone was unhurried yet persuasive:

"Brother Zhou, my name is Sun Wenyuan. Captain Zhao is absolutely right. In martial arts training, real combat experience is indeed indispensable."

However, I have observed that my junior brother is not only exceptionally talented, but also quite adept at handling situations.

In my area, Chinese and foreigners live together, and gangs, chambers of commerce, and dockworkers' unions are deeply intertwined, making the situation extremely complex.

Beyond honing their martial arts skills, they also gain insight into the complexities of the world and the myriad aspects of human nature, which will greatly benefit them in the future.

In closing, Sun Wenyuan gave Zhou Tong a meaningful smile.

The intertwined power dynamics and complex situation meant there was plenty of room for profit... Zhou Tong was fully aware of the other party's implication.

The other squadron leader, Qin Lie, had a slightly dark complexion and a tough, iron-like demeanor. Upon hearing this, he smiled and said:

"Captain Sun is right. But which place isn't complicated? Brother Zhou, I am Qin Lie. I am straightforward by nature and I admire hardworking and capable young people!"

I see you're to my liking! Come here, you'll receive all the treatment you deserve, and I won't let those trivial matters distract you or hinder your spiritual practice!

His words were crisp and straightforward, carrying the openness of a northern man.

Does not letting trivial matters distract you mean it's easier to ask for leave?

Zhou Tong listened carefully to the underlying meaning of what was said.

The other two squad leaders in charge of the East and Central districts also spoke up, praising Zhou Tong's rare talent and promising future, or saying that the atmosphere under their command was harmonious and most conducive to the growth of young people.

For a time, these five figures, who were feared by villains on the streets of Cangzhou, were all kind and sincere to Zhou Tong, this greenhorn.

The other four Iron-Muscle Realm disciples standing beside Zhou Tong remained expressionless, but the undisguised envy and complex emotions in their eyes were clearly visible.

Despite the sudden surge of enthusiasm, Zhou Tong remained calm and composed.

He could see clearly that this enthusiasm was seven or eight parts due to his third senior brother's appreciation, and only two or three parts due to his own potential.

Without the appreciation of their third senior brother, they would never have humbled themselves to befriend him in such a way.

After the team leaders finished speaking, Zhou Tong respectfully clasped his hands and bowed to them in a circle.

"I am deeply grateful for the kindness of the five captains. I am young and inexperienced, and I dare not accept such praise. I am extremely grateful for your appreciation."

He paused briefly, his gaze sweeping sincerely over the five people:

"If I may be so bold as to ask, which area of ​​the city are each of the five captains responsible for guarding?"

"I am unfamiliar with the geography and people of this city, and I would like to first hear which areas each captain is in charge of, so that I can have a better understanding of the situation."

Upon hearing this, the captains' eyes showed even greater appreciation, feeling that this young man was not only talented but also meticulous in his work.

Zhao Tieshan spoke first: "I will guard the south of the city."

Sun Wenyuan replied, "West of the city."

Qin Lie said, "North City."

The remaining two also applied to Dongcheng and Central District.

Upon hearing this, Zhou Tong's face showed a look of sudden realization. He then turned to Qin Lie, the squad leader of the North District, bowed deeply again, and spoke earnestly:

"Captain Qin, my family is located in the northern part of the city. My parents live here, and as their son, I always hope to be able to come closer to them to fulfill my filial duties and take care of them."

If Captain Qin doesn't mind my dullness, I'd like to join the North City Squadron and await your orders.

The reason is simple yet deeply rooted in human relationships, with filial piety at the forefront; no one can find fault with it.

Qin Lie's face immediately broke into a smile, and he said repeatedly, "Good! Filial piety is the most important virtue, and it's rare to find someone like Junior Brother Zhou with such a heart! Welcome to Beicheng!"

The other four squadron leaders, though disappointed, all nodded in agreement.

Zhao Tieshan readily agreed, "Filial piety comes first, no question about it! Junior Brother Zhou, if you need anything in Nancheng in the future, just come find me!"

Sun Wenyuan smiled and said, "It's a pity that I have no chance with my junior brother. However, having Captain Qin to look after us in the North City is also a good thing."

Once Zhou Tong's choice was made, the other four disciples quickly selected their squad leader to follow, based on the distance of their residences or their personal preferences.

Seeing that everything was settled, the third senior brother waved his hand and said:

"Now that you've been chosen, report to your respective squadron headquarters tomorrow. Your captains will arrange all the rules and benefits. Go now."

"Yes! Thank you, Third Senior Brother!" The five responded in unison, bowed, and left the hall.

As Zhou Tong stepped outside, the sunlight streamed over the eaves and onto the bluestone slabs in the courtyard, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

He had just exchanged a glance with Ji Chang, who was smiling and approaching him, and hadn't even spoken yet—

"Junior Brother Zhou."

"Junior Brother Zhou, wait a moment."

Two voices, one clear and melodious like a spring, the other gentle and warm like jade, came almost simultaneously from the side corridor.

Zhou Tong turned his head and saw Liu Qing and Zheng Hao standing side by side by the corridor pillars, with several senior brothers in the Bone Forging Realm following behind them.

Both of them had faint smiles on their faces, nodded slightly to him, and walked over.

Zhou Tong and Ji Chang exchanged a subtle glance.

Immediately, both of them broke into hearty smiles and quickly walked towards Liu and Zheng, saying, "Senior Sister Liu, Senior Brother Zheng."