During the Qing Dynasty, a renowned martial artist named Liang Yuanxing lived in Wuchang. He had mastered Shaolin boxing and was especially skilled with the staff. Among the disciples of the Liang school in Hubei, he was known as “Liang the Invincible.”
Liang Yuanxing had a son named Liang Zhixiang. Blessed with the family’s natural strength, Zhixiang began training with stone locks under his father’s guidance when he was still a child and soon showed considerable ability.
As he grew older, however, his interests shifted from the training ground to the study. When his father tried to teach him swordsmanship, Zhixiang returned the sword to its rack and slowly shook his head.
“A sword can defeat only one man,” he said. “It is not worth studying.”
His father glared at him. “Then what do you intend to study?”
Zhixiang’s eyes brightened.
“I want to learn how to contend with thousands,” he replied. “I will pursue the imperial examinations and write about government and affairs of state.”
Although Liang Yuanxing was somewhat disappointed, he was broad-minded enough to allow his son to choose his own path.
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