Chapter Fifty-Two: The Distinction Between Acquired and Innate

Internal energy certainly exists, yet it’s not as fantastical as described in novels. In fact, it’s a modern term—within martial arts, it’s called “jin,” or trained force.

In martial arts, particularly the internal schools, there’s no reliance on brute strength—commonly referred to as raw power—nor is there a focus on pure muscle training. The vital energy and blood in the body must flow smoothly.

The prerequisite is to cultivate this energy, typically through standing meditation, seated meditation, and similar practices.

Previously, Liu Qingshan hadn’t fully understood this. It wasn’t until his long conversation with the Sword Saint Yu Chenhui, prior to coming to India, that he realized internal energy actually refers to the power generated by the circulation of true essence within the body—what is also called innate true force.

The merging of energy and power in the so-called three internal and external harmonies of martial arts is, in a sense, akin to this concept.

The moment Liu Qingshan comprehended the Thirty-Six Hands of Flowery Fist through the Superstar Creator, he had naturally and effortlessly reached the level where energy and power merged, thus becoming a martial arts expert. But this was only external skill.

To progress further is to truly enter internal cultivation—where the true energy has completed the Taiyi circuit through the meridians, and the primordial energy has delved deeply into the body’s channels, forming a complete cycle.

The so-called “master-level” figures long spoken of in martial arts circles sound lofty, but in reality, the level of internal cultivation found in novels is a concept of an entirely different order.

Only after one possesses innate true force can one then cultivate to the innate realm. The so-called master level is merely the pinnacle of the acquired martial artist.

Thus, although Liu Qingshan’s martial prowess was nearly at the master level and he might be considered a notable figure in today’s world, he was still at the level of hidden force, far from the realm of manipulating internal energy.

According to Yu Chenhui, some old recluses, whether in cities or mountains, are rumored to have reached the innate realm.

But even if such people exist, they would be a hundred or even two hundred years old, and these are only rumors.

“Is there really a difference between them?” Pajeyi pressed on, unwilling to let go.

“In the martial arts of our country, raw physical strength is called Ming Jin—obvious force. Cultivating to a higher level is called internal force, or internal energy.”

Liu Qingshan explained patiently.

“What stage has Master reached now?”

“The stage of internal force! But let me tell you, the distinction between internal and external styles isn’t all that significant. All martial arts involve cultivating inner energy and training tendons, bones, and skin externally. Even Kunal’s Shaolin Fist includes both internal skills and qigong. Other fighting arts at home and abroad also focus on training strength, speed, and physical qualities—at most, they differ in emphasis.”

Many styles can’t be clearly categorized as internal or external; for example, Xingyi is classified as internal, yet the most famous Xingyi practitioners today are from the external school.

Many southern styles like White Crane, Springing Crane, and Wing Chun don’t emphasize the long bridges and horse stances, or leaping and dodging, but instead focus on the integration of force and unified power, leaning somewhat toward the internal.

Liu Qingshan’s Thirty-Six Hands of Flowery Fist, however, sits mysteriously between the two, which makes it all the more uncanny and astonishes martial artists familiar with ordinary boxing methods.

“Training tendons, bones, and skin externally—isn’t that just brute force?”

“Something like that! The style I’m teaching you is internal, but that doesn’t mean you’ll only practice qigong. The routines themselves are a form of qigong and energy cultivation. With long-term practice and the correct methods, you’ll not only become healthy and fit, but may also reach the stage of internal force.”

“So, once I develop internal energy in my body, can I learn more advanced techniques from you, Master?”

“Hmm, Kunal is following my true internal martial arts, and if you want to learn, you’ll have to endure great hardship. In martial arts, there are no shortcuts—only relentless practice.”

Even with Kunal’s instant translation, it wasn’t realistic for someone as young as Pajeyi to fully grasp everything.

Fortunately, the boy’s passion for martial arts was genuine, a key reason Liu Qingshan agreed to teach him.

Though he didn’t fully understand, Pajeyi at least sensed the hardship involved in martial practice. “Don’t worry, Master. I’ve been practicing basics with our family’s bodyguard and Kunal since I was four. I’ve stuck with it for years!”

Liu Qingshan nodded. “It’s your perseverance that made me agree to teach you.”

Madam Anuaga, who had been listening closely, was Pajeyi’s mother and held dearly by Klam.

Now that this young man from the East had agreed to teach her son such mystical martial arts, Pajeyi’s future seemed limitless.

Though Klam was one of the chief heirs to the Sashara Group, their main business was still rooted in the entertainment industry.

If Pajeyi ultimately chose this path, he would surely become the most promising successor for Treasure Films.

Thus, this young man guiding her son toward martial prowess had become a figure of vital importance and vast prospects.

Moreover, being treated with such formality by Klam spoke volumes—this was why Madam Anuaga was so kind to Liu Qingshan.

She spoke up, “Mr. Liu, Pajeyi has grown up under my watch. He’s too young for other talents to show, but his willingness to endure hardship pains me as a mother.”

Liu Qingshan nodded. “He’s a rough gem, rare in combining passion with diligence and perseverance. I think highly of him.”

“I just worry whether Pajeyi can truly learn your skills, and whether he’ll maintain this effort to the end.”

“Even if he doesn’t reach a high level, it doesn’t matter. What’s most important is to cultivate a spirit of exploration and the pursuit of an independent character.”

“Oh? Mr. Liu, could you explain? This idea is a bit profound for me.”

“Martial arts in China shape the nation’s spirit of inclusiveness. Its development is a long, dynamic process, an organic and unique facet of our culture, interwoven with Buddhism, Confucianism, politics, ethics, military, agriculture, medicine, and the arts. It shouldn’t be underestimated!”

“Could you give a specific example?”

“Martial arts embody our country’s philosophy, medicine, military science, craftsmanship, education, aesthetics, and more, reflecting a vast spirit of inclusiveness. Influenced by ancient philosophy, it encompasses a progression from simple to profound, from individual to society, ultimately reaching the universe. It elevates both epistemology and practice to the highest realms.”

Liu Qingshan continued, “Traditional Chinese philosophy highly values the ‘Dao’—the Way—emphasizing conformity to natural principles and rules. Our poetry, dance, theater, calligraphy, painting, gardens, and architecture all follow set forms—so do martial arts routines.”

At some point, Madam Anuaga’s expression had turned grave.

Perhaps because India itself deeply reveres faith, the martial spirit Liu Qingshan described was, in its way, a kind of sacred devotion.

“For example, take patriotism. In the history of Chinese martial arts, many skilled masters and ordinary practitioners put the nation and the people first. They stood for righteousness, defending the country and the people’s safety selflessly, unafraid of power, protecting independence and national integrity with their blood and lives.”

His words were not just for Madam Anuaga, but also directed at Pajeyi and Kunal.

“Martial arts can be seen as a microcosm of our traditional culture. They stress not only external training but, more importantly, internal cultivation—not just the breath and energy, but also conduct and principles grounded in benevolence and righteousness—this is martial virtue. It means that before learning to wield weapons, one must first learn to lay them down. A student must first temper their character; only with a stable mind should they begin formal martial training.”

These words of Liu Qingshan were difficult to grasp.

Even Kunal, who had studied Chinese, found it challenging to translate for the mother and son.

Surprisingly, it was Pajeyi, not yet ten, who quickly voiced his understanding: “Master, is it about having the right attitude as a person first?”

Liu Qingshan was delighted, fondly ruffling the boy’s hair with a smile.

“Yes! On the foundation of inheriting the essence of traditional martial virtue, one should diligently study martial arts, train hard, and cultivate the steadfast will of compassion, courage, wisdom, and perseverance. Simply developing physical strength is only the surface.”

In India, belief holds that only through religious practice can one escape the cycle of rebirth and unite with the supreme existence, Brahman.

Expressing such profound reasoning, Liu Qingshan felt his teaching might have even greater resonance here than at home.

It was clear that even a child of eight or nine could quickly grasp these metaphysical ideas—the power of “faith” was indeed extraordinary.

Even Madam Anuaga, a woman of her culture, was moved to express her feelings a moment later.

“Mr. Liu, I’m so relieved. I never imagined martial arts could provide a ready framework for understanding religious faith. I entrust Pajeyi to you with confidence!”

“Respected Madam Anuaga, I can assure you that under my guidance, the boy will at least receive a systematic scientific education from childhood, not just religious instruction. Religious faith concerns unwavering conviction and total devotion. I will only teach him personal virtue and the skills to strengthen his body—nothing more. You can rest easy on this point.”

He left it at that, his intent being to avoid sensitive topics regarding India’s unique social ideologies and cultural phenomena.

Those are matters of a people’s sacred beliefs and spirit, never to be touched lightly.

“Mr. Liu, I will faithfully relay your attitude to our head of household!”

Without waiting for a response, Madam Anuaga rose abruptly and left in haste.

Liu Qingshan turned with a wry smile, only to see Kunal’s excited face and the thumbs-up he offered.

“Master, you’ve really made a name for yourself in the Klam family now!”

“What do you mean?”

“It’s simple. India is a country deeply steeped in religion, with a complex mix of beliefs. Each caste has its own moral codes and customs, with intermarriage often forbidden. These religious distinctions divide people into many social groups, with differences in status and rank, making it closer to the modern concept of religion. But you, Master…”

Kunal hesitated as he spoke.