Rebirth in the Dragon Kingdom: The Strongest Blade

At 5:20 a.m., before dawn, there were already people on the military academy's training ground.

As usual, Lin Zhe had already completed his five-kilometer warm-up run while most people were still asleep. Now, he was practicing Professor Zhang Jian's fighting techniques on a sandbag. Every punch and kick whistled through the air; his movements were concise and sharp, without any unnecessary flourishes.

This is his second month at the National University of Defense Technology, and his military training has ended. To complete his plan to graduate in one year, he meticulously plans his time down to the minute: morning training and classes, lunch break in the library, afternoon specialized skills training after classes, and evenings for theoretical study and note-taking.

"No, the angle of the third move, the turning elbow strike, is five degrees higher."

An old but strong voice suddenly came from behind.

Lin Zhe abruptly stopped and turned around, only to see an elderly man in an old-fashioned military uniform standing by the training ground. The man looked to be about seventy or eighty years old, with completely white hair that was neatly combed. His face was deeply etched with wrinkles, but his eyes were bright and sharp, unlike those of an elderly person. He stood there with his hands behind his back, his posture as upright as a pine tree. Lin Zhe could even feel an aura emanating from him that was even stronger than Zhang Jian's.

"You are..." Lin Zhe asked warily.

The old man didn't answer, but slowly approached, each step as steady as a rock: "Who taught you that fighting technique just now?"

"An elder in my family," Lin Zhe answered cautiously.

"That kid Zhang Jian?" the old man suddenly said.

Lin Zhe was startled: "You know Uncle Zhang?"

"Hmph, how could I not recognize a soldier I trained?" The old man circled Lin Zhe, scrutinizing him with piercing eyes. "Good foundation, and your movements are standard, but something's missing."

"Please enlighten me, senior," Lin Zhe said respectfully. He could sense that the old man before him was no ordinary person.

"Let's do it again, starting with the first move."

Lin Zhe followed instructions and began practicing again. This fighting style was taught by Zhang Jian during the summer vacation. It was said to be an internal teaching material of a certain elite special forces unit, which combined modern fighting techniques with the essence of traditional martial arts. The moves were ruthless and practical.

"Stop!" the old man suddenly shouted. "Your second kick is not generating power correctly. You are using the strength of your thigh, but the real power should come from your waist and hips and flow through your whole body."

The old man demonstrated himself. He seemed to raise his leg slowly, but in an instant, he unleashed a fierce strike, and even a slight whooshing sound could be heard in the air. The sandbag was kicked and shook violently, making a dull thud.

"Do you understand now?" The old man withdrew his leg, his breathing perfectly steady.

Lin Zhe pondered for a moment: "The waist is the axis; the power originates from the ground and flows through the legs..."

"Good comprehension." A hint of approval flashed in the old man's eyes. "Try again."

And so, on the training field at dawn, a mysterious old man began to instruct Lin Zhe. For every movement, every technique of exertion, the old man could point out subtle flaws and offer exquisite corrections. Lin Zhe discovered that the same moves, under the old man's guidance, had more than doubled in power.

"Who exactly are you...?" Lin Zhe couldn't help but ask during a training break.

The old man sat on a bench by the training ground, took out an old military water bottle from his pocket, and took a sip: "My name is Chen Qingshan. You may not have heard of me, but your grandfather should know me."

Chen Qingshan! Lin Zhe was deeply shocked. This name did indeed appear in his predecessor's memories—one of the founders of the Dragon Kingdom's special forces, a figure hailed as a "legend in the military." It was said that in his youth, he had single-handedly infiltrated enemy territory to complete impossible missions, and after the founding of the People's Republic of China, he single-handedly created the country's first modern special forces unit. However, in the past twenty years, this legendary figure had gradually faded from public view; rumors circulated that he had already passed away, but unexpectedly, he was living in seclusion on the campus of the National University of Defense Technology.

"General Chen!" Lin Zhe said with utmost respect, "This junior has been disrespectful."

Chen Qingshan waved his hand: "That's all in the past. Now I'm just an ordinary old man." He stared at Lin Zhe, "You just said you wanted to become the strongest soldier?"

Lin Zhe nodded earnestly: "Yes. I want to become someone who can protect the country and change the military."

"Quite the boast." Chen Qingshan narrowed his eyes. "But judging from the fierce intensity you showed during your training just now, it doesn't seem like you're just bragging. The fact that Zhang Jian was willing to teach you this fighting style means he approves of you. That kid has very high standards; ordinary people don't even meet his expectations."

Uncle Zhang taught me for a whole summer vacation.

"No wonder." Chen Qingshan stood up. "Come with me."

Lin Zhe followed Chen Qingshan through the campus. The National University of Defense Technology covered a vast area, and there were some areas that even Lin Zhe, a freshman, had never been to. They walked for about twenty minutes and came to a quiet woodland deep in the campus. After passing through a bamboo grove, a quaint courtyard suddenly opened up before them, with white walls and gray tiles, forming a stark contrast with the surrounding modern buildings.

The courtyard wasn't large, but it was very well-organized. On one side was a vegetable garden, growing seasonal vegetables; on the other side was a practice area, paved with clean, flat bluestone slabs. Several strings of dried chili peppers and corn hung under the eaves, creating a lively atmosphere.

"Sit down." Chen Qingshan pointed to the stone bench in the courtyard, and then went inside to bring out a tea set.

The tea was ordinary green tea, but the brewing method was extremely meticulous. Chen Qingshan's movements were slow and elegant, each step precise and thorough, a stark contrast to the sharp and aggressive demeanor he displayed during his training earlier.

"Your grandfather, Lin Weiguo, and I had a life-or-death bond," Chen Qingshan suddenly said. "During the War of Resistance Against Japan, he was a regimental commander, and I was the reconnaissance company commander under him. Once, I went deep behind enemy lines for reconnaissance and was surrounded. He led his men and risked their lives to rescue me."

Lin Zhe solemnly replied, "Grandpa rarely mentions what happened back then."

"That's how it is for that generation. They've experienced so much that they don't even know where to begin." Chen Qingshan poured two cups of tea. "Your grandfather called me a while ago and mentioned you. He said the Lin family has produced a promising talent and asked me to look after him if I had the chance. I didn't expect you to come to me yourself."

Lin Zhe then realized that his grandfather had paved the way for him long ago.

"However," Chen Qingshan changed the subject, "even without your grandfather's connection, seeing your performance today, I would still teach you. The army needs young people like you."

"Thank you, Mr. Chen!" Lin Zhe said excitedly.

"Don't thank me yet." Chen Qingshan waved his hand. "My training is much tougher than Zhang Jian's. Let's see if you can stick with it."

From that day on, Lin Zhe's training schedule included another item—learning from Chen Qingshan every morning.

Chen Qingshan teaches true battlefield killing techniques. Unlike Professor Zhang Jian's modern combat techniques, Chen Qingshan's skills incorporate the essence of traditional martial arts, with each move aimed directly at vital points, concise and deadly.

"There are no rules, no referees, only life and death on the battlefield." Chen Qingshan demonstrated a chokehold maneuver. "What you need to do is incapacitate the enemy in the shortest amount of time. Fancy moves are useless; practicality is key."

What shocked Lin Zhe even more was that Chen Qingshan also taught him a breathing technique and an internal energy cultivation method.

"This is the Qi-cultivation skill passed down in my Chen family." After a day of training, Chen Qingshan said to Lin Zhe, "My ancestors were a family of martial artists, and this 'Hun Yuan Gong' has been passed down for more than ten generations. When I was young, I relied on it to escape death many times on the battlefield."

"Internal energy...does it really exist?" Lin Zhe asked incredulously. As a scientist in his previous life, he found it hard to believe such a seemingly mystical thing.

Chen Qingshan laughed: "It's not some mysterious thing, just a special breathing and energy circulation method. Long-term practice can strengthen the body, improve explosive power, and slow down aging. Look at me, I'm eighty years old, and I can still spar with you, all thanks to this."

He demonstrated on the spot. Chen Qingshan took a deep breath, and his already tall figure seemed to grow even taller, with his bones making slight cracking sounds. He slammed his palm on the stone table in the courtyard. The stone table did not move, but a clear handprint was left indented on the surface.

Lin Zhe was dumbfounded. This was beyond his understanding of physics.

"Don't be surprised, this is the result of decades of hard training." Chen Qingshan finished his practice, his breathing steady as usual. "You are young and have a good foundation. If you are willing to work hard, your achievements may surpass mine."

And so, Lin Zhe began his dual training. By day, he was an outstanding freshman at the National University of Defense Technology, diligently studying every course; in the early morning and evening, he was Chen Qingshan's last disciple, learning traditional martial arts and internal energy cultivation techniques.

Chen Qingshan's training was indeed rigorous. In addition to combat skills and internal energy cultivation, it included survival training in various extreme environments, psychological resilience training, and even ancient cold weapon techniques.

"Although modern warfare is high-tech, there are always special circumstances," Chen Qingshan said when teaching Lin Zhe how to use a short knife. "When you run out of bullets and communications are cut off, these traditional skills may save your life."

Lin Zhe's learning ability once again surprised Chen Qingshan. Whether it was complex moves or profound internal energy cultivation methods, Lin Zhe could grasp the essentials in a very short time. In particular, the "Hun Yuan Gong" technique, which would take ordinary people several months to feel the energy, Lin Zhe only took three days.

"A genius... a true genius..." Chen Qingshan murmured to himself, "This kid was simply born to practice martial arts."

One evening a month later, in Chen Qingshan's courtyard.

Lin Zhe was practicing a complete set of boxing techniques. His movements were a perfect blend of strength and grace, with continuous, flowing techniques, each punch and kick accompanied by a sonic boom. As he practiced the final move, he exhaled and punched the hanging sandbag.

"Bang!" The sandbag didn't just shake; instead, it was punched through, and iron filings rained down.

Chen Qingshan clapped his hands: "Good! In just one month, you have already grasped the essence of Hunyuan Gong. The next step is to work hard and accumulate knowledge day by day."

Lin Zhe finished his practice, his breathing steady: "It's all thanks to Elder Chen's excellent guidance."

"Stop flattering me," Chen Qingshan said with a laugh, then turned serious and said, "Lin Zhe, I'm asking you, what exactly are you learning all this for?"

Lin Zhe thought for a moment and answered seriously, "Initially, it was to become a stronger soldier and realize my ideals. But now, I understand that strength itself is not the goal; how to use strength is the key. What you taught me was not only skills, but also a spirit—the heart of a warrior, the soul of a soldier."

Chen Qingshan nodded with satisfaction: "I'm relieved that you understand this. Remember, no matter how strong your martial arts are, they are just tools. What's truly powerful is the heart that controls those martial arts. Your grandfather chose this path for you because he saw your potential, but more importantly, he saw your character."

He turned and went inside, taking out a wooden box: "This is for you."

Lin Zhe opened the wooden box, inside which was an antique-looking short knife. The blade was dark, gleaming with a cold light, and two small characters were engraved on the hilt: "Uphold Righteousness".

"This knife has been with me for fifty years. It has drunk the blood of the enemy and saved my comrades." Chen Qingshan stroked the blade. "Now I'm passing it on to you. I hope you can remember the two words 'Upholding Righteousness'—uphold the righteous path in your heart and protect the peace of your country."

Lin Zhe solemnly accepted the dagger: "This junior will certainly live up to your expectations!"

From then on, Lin Zhe and Chen Qingshan's relationship was both that of teacher and friend. In addition to teaching each other martial arts, the two often discussed military strategy and national affairs. Although Chen Qingshan had lived in seclusion for many years, he had a keen insight into the domestic and international situation, and many of his insights greatly benefited Lin Zhe.

One day, Lin Zhe mentioned his one-year graduation plan.

"Complete your studies in a year?" Chen Qingshan raised an eyebrow. "That's impressive. But have you considered that the military needs not only knowledge, but also experience and knowledge? Some things can't be learned from books."

"I understand," Lin Zhe said. "That's why I plan to start from the grassroots level after graduation to truly understand the actual situation in the military."

Chen Qingshan pondered for a moment: "That's a good idea. But you must remember, the tallest tree in the forest catches the most wind. The more outstanding you are, the more attention you'll attract, and the more likely you are to be envied and criticized."

"I will be careful."

Time flies, and two months have passed since Lin Zhe entered the National University of Defense Technology. Under Chen Qingshan's guidance, his abilities have made a qualitative leap. His combat skills are estimated to be no match for Zhang Jian, and even his physical fitness has reached an astonishing level—his 100-meter sprint speed, endurance, and explosive power have all broken multiple military academy records.

Meanwhile, his study plan is progressing steadily. Through his application, he has been exempted from three basic courses and has taken the exams for five professional courses ahead of schedule, passing them all with excellent grades.

One evening, while Lin Zhe was organizing his notes in his dorm room, Zhao Kai couldn't help but ask, "Lin Zhe, you've been disappearing early every morning and coming back very late at night lately. What have you been up to?"

Lin Zhe thought for a moment and felt there was no need to hide it: "I'm learning from a senior colleague."

"Senior? Who is it? Someone who can teach you must be extraordinary." Wang Gang also chimed in.

"General Chen Qingshan."

The dormitory fell silent instantly. All three of them stared wide-eyed.

"Chen...Chen Qingshan? That legendary general?" Zhang Le's voice trembled.

"Is he at our school now?"

Lin Zhe nodded: "He'll be living in seclusion deep within the campus. But just keep this to yourselves, don't spread it around. Old Chen prefers peace and quiet."

"Understood, understood!" The three nodded repeatedly, their eyes filled with envy.

Zhao Kai exclaimed, "Lin Zhe, your luck is just too incredible. The top scorer in the national college entrance examination, the mayor's son, your grandfather is a founding general, and now you've been taken in as a disciple by General Chen... Even novels wouldn't dare to write something like this."

Lin Zhe smiled and said, "The opportunity has come, but we still have to walk our own path."

As night deepened, Lin Zhe lay in bed, feeling the warm "qi" flowing slowly through his meridians. After a month of cultivation, the Hunyuan Gong had begun to show results. He could clearly feel that his five senses had become more acute, his energy was more abundant, and even his thinking speed had improved.

"This life is truly full of infinite possibilities..." He stared at the ceiling, a strong sense of mission welling up in his heart.

In his past life, he used knowledge and wisdom to design weapons; in this life, he will dedicate himself to fulfilling the mission of a soldier.

Chen Qingshan's teachings helped him understand the true meaning of strength; his grandfather's expectations clarified his direction; and his inner ideals gave him endless motivation.

Lin Zhe gently grasped the "Shouzheng" short knife beside his pillow. The blade was slightly cool, but it ignited a burning passion within him.