Comprehensive Martial Arts: My Master is Huang Rong

She reached out, gently caressing Lin Xuan's face, her fingertips trembling as they felt the warmth of his skin. Her voice was hoarse, tinged with a hint of resolve, a hint of compromise, yet filled with an unprecedented tenderness: "Xuan'er... I... I also am..."

Before her words were finished, Lin Xuan impatiently, and once again domineeringly, claimed her lips.

This time, Huang Rong offered no resistance, nor did she hesitate. She leaned forward, meeting him, responding to him, casting aside all shame and modesty. She surrendered herself completely into Lin Xuan's embrace, their lips entwined, their clothes shed.

Their bodies intertwined, weaving together, in the flickering candlelight of the boudoir, they ascended to the peak of desire. Lin Xuan's Yin Yang Deficit Supplementation Technique surged with power once more as they cultivated together, and Huang Rong, in the throes of ultimate pleasure, healed her old wounds, her inner strength advanced, as if reborn.

Chapter Thirty-Five: Aftermath

After that night. The Guo Mansion within Xiangyang City seemed to have been quietly moistened by an invisible spring rain, exuding wisps of ambiguity and new life.

Huang Rong's heart, like a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, had completely broken free from the moral barriers and worldly shackles that had confined her for years, achieving unprecedented freedom and rebirth.

She no longer struggled, no longer resisted. All past shame and conflict were washed away in the extreme pleasure and emotional outpouring of that night. What replaced them was a surging deep love, an instinct to be possessed, to be completely submerged.

Lin Xuan, the youth she had personally guided, had now completely occupied her body and soul. The forbidden desire that had once troubled her had now become the sweetest secret in her heart, leaving her in a constant state of tipsy contentment, like drinking fine wine. A hint of indescribable charm and allure unconsciously emanated from her eyes.

However, during the day, she remained the astute Beggar's Sect leader, the wise and capable wife beside Guo Jing, and the stern yet loving mother to Guo Fu. All her tenderness and indulgence were carefully hidden beneath that calm and composed facade.

Whenever she encountered Lin Xuan in public, she would deliberately maintain a master-disciple distance, her gaze unwavering, her words strictly business. But only she knew that whenever Lin Xuan's deep, doting gaze swept over her, or when he offered his gentle, respectful smile, it sent a shiver through her heart, like an electric current, making her graceful body go soft.

Lin Xuan was the same. He remained the humble, courteous, and talented "Little Zhuge," dutifully respectful to Guo Jing and never seeking credit in front of others. He understood Huang Rong's heart, knowing her longing for this forbidden love, yet burdened by her heavy reputation and responsibilities.

Therefore, he never initiated any impropriety in public; all intimacy was reserved for those hidden moments when no one knew. His gaze always followed her, subtly, as if born for her, shining only for her.

Their clandestine meetings were like epiphyllums blooming silently at night, brief yet full of tension, each moment together precious.

Whenever night fell, and the Guo Mansion fell silent, and the patrolling guards grew weary, Lin Xuan would find a suitable moment to appear silently outside Huang Rong's chambers. He wouldn't knock, nor even make a sound, merely pausing gently before the door. As long as Huang Rong responded, even if it was just a slight flicker of the candlelight within, it was a silent invitation.

He would push the door open and step in lightly. Huang Rong would usually be seated at her desk, reviewing the mountains of military documents that had piled up during the day. She would typically have changed into a soft, loose home robe, moon-white or pale pink. The thin silk, under the candlelight, would subtly outline her graceful and alluring figure, exuding an ultimate sense of privacy and temptation. Her full, ample breasts appeared even more enticing beneath the silk, her waist slender enough to be held in one hand, and the curve of her rounded, shapely hips added to her charm in the shadows.

Lin Xuan would walk behind her and gently place his palms on her soft shoulders. That familiar warmth and masculinity, unique to him as a young man, would instantly penetrate her clothes, spreading through Huang Rong's entire body like an electric current, causing her to tremble involuntarily, her heart racing, her face flushing like a peach blossom.

Huang Rong would put down her brush, slowly close her eyes, her long eyelashes fluttering like two startled butterflies, yet filled with boundless anticipation. She would let out a contented sigh, relax her body, and lean into Lin Xuan's broad, warm embrace.

"Xuan'er..." Her voice, with a hint of post-awakening hoarseness, was filled with tenderness and dependence, soft to the bone. She would raise her jade-like, smooth hand and gently place it back on Lin Xuan's hand on her shoulder, her fingertips softly caressing the lines on his palm.

Lin Xuan would lower his head, pressing kisses meticulously onto her snow-white, beautiful neck, from that fair skin, all the way up, caressing her sensitive earlobe, finally stopping in her dark hair. He would take a deep breath, savoring the unique fragrance of her hair mixed with her scent. He would feel her delicate body soften further in his arms, as if melting.

"Master is tired..." Lin Xuan's voice was deep and magnetic, with an indescribable indulgence and seduction. His broad, strong hands would gently, yet with undeniable force, slide down her slender waist, then up from her full, rounded hips, finally resting on her ample, proud breasts.

Through her clothes, he would gently knead the astonishing fullness and softness. A contented moan would escape Huang Rong's lips, her body involuntarily writhing, like a water snake seeking deeper, more intimate contact in his arms. The intertwining of shame and extreme pleasure left her mind blank, with only a craving for Lin Xuan's touch.

Huang Rong would playfully, yet with a hint of annoyance, lightly punch his chest. The movement of her fair wrist displayed her delicate demeanor. Her tone held a pretense of anger: "You scoundrel... weren't you supposed to help me with military affairs?"

Lin Xuan would chuckle, his laughter deep and charming, with a hint of wicked teasing: "Military affairs are important, but Master's body is paramount. It is the disciple's duty to resolve Master's worries and alleviate her fatigue, so that she can better handle military affairs. Isn't this a more important 'military affair'?" As he spoke, his palm gently caressed her rounded buttocks.

Huang Rong would shyly close her eyes, a blush of bashfulness and satisfaction curving her lips. She knew he was using honeyed words, but she relished it, even enjoying this playful banter.

Gradually, their intimacy spread from the boudoir to every corner of the Guo Mansion, whenever there were no prying eyes.

On one occasion, they were discussing troop deployment. Huang Rong's brow was furrowed in deep thought. Lin Xuan looked at her slightly tired profile, her fair, jade-like skin making her features even more beautiful and otherworldly. His heart stirred. He would seize the moment when Huang Rong wasn't paying attention, reach out from under the table, and gently take her hand resting on her knee. His palm was broad and dry, Huang Rong's fingertips were cool. The sudden warmth made Huang Rong tremble, her eyelashes fluttering a few times, but she didn't pull away, instead letting him hold her, even unconsciously returning the grip, her fingertips lightly caressing his palm.

Between them, their eyes were the most tacit form of communication. When Guo Jing was loudly discussing military matters with his generals in the main hall, Huang Rong's gaze would inadvertently, quietly sweep over Lin Xuan, who sat below. Lin Xuan would always sense it immediately and look back without a sound. That glance contained too many emotions that only they could understand—love, understanding, even a thrill of adventure. Huang Rong would feel a pride and satisfaction that originated from the depths of her being, her lips unconsciously curving into a smile that only she knew, exquisitely beautiful.

Night patrols were their most "open and aboveboard" clandestine moments. On the city walls, the wind howled, accompanied by the stars and moon. They walked side by side, mere inches apart. The moonlight stretched their shadows, intertwining them closely.

Huang Rong wore a form-fitting combat outfit, her graceful, curvaceous figure even more alluring in the darkness. Her slender waist and perky hips, encased in the tight clothing, exuded a captivating mature charm. In secluded spots, Lin Xuan would quietly take her hand, enclosing her slender, delicate hand in his warm, strong palm. Their fingertips intertwined, their fingers locked together. That warmth and strength, belonging only to each other, silently conveyed unspeakable emotions.

Sometimes, they would walk to a secluded corner of the city wall, leaning against the mottled battlements, facing the vast night sky. Huang Rong would lean her head on Lin Xuan's shoulder, feeling the warmth of his body and the steady beat of his heart. Lin Xuan would lightly kiss her hair, savoring the unique, elegant fragrance emanating from her.

"Xuan'er... the moon is so beautiful tonight..." Huang Rong would murmur softly, her voice filled with contentment and languor, as cute as a kitten.

"It's not even a tenth as beautiful as Master." Lin Xuan would reply in a low voice, his tone filled with tenderness and ardent admiration.

Huang Rong would playfully punch his chest, her bright, sparkling eyes filled with tenderness. She would bury her head deeper. They would discuss battles, discuss the world, but more often, they would silently enjoy each other's company and the warmth of their bodies, that ultimate union of soul and flesh.

Returning to her chambers, Huang Rong would personally serve Lin Xuan a cup of warm tea. She would watch him drink it, then gently pull him to the bedside. Her cheeks would be flushed with an alluring crimson, her eyes filled with intense anticipation.

That long-suppressed desire would, at this moment, find its most complete release.

Lin Xuan would lean down and hold her tightly in his arms, his lips pressing against her delicate, luscious lips. The kiss was so passionate and domineering, with an irresistible invasiveness, that it made Huang Rong's heart flutter and her entire body go soft.

He would gently undress her, revealing her snow-white, jade-like, crystal-clear skin and her full, ample breasts. Those breasts were high and firm, with beautiful curves, mesmerizing him.

In his arms, Huang Rong would feel his burning lips and tongue lingering on every inch of her sensitive skin. She would actively embrace him, burying her head deep in his neck, emitting suppressed yet soul-stirring moans. Her voice would be choked with emotion, yet filled with ultimate temptation and pleading, blooming only for him.

She would feel his fingertips roaming her body, from her graceful neck to her delicate collarbone, then to her heaving chest. The pads of his fingers would gently knead that softness and elasticity, each touch making her delicate body tremble, sending shivers to her bones.

Under Lin Xuan's touch, her body would involuntarily writhe, actively meeting his every deep thrust. Her voluptuous waist, rounded hips, and slender legs would, under Lin Xuan's control, unleash astonishing charm and suppleness.

In each other's warmth, they would embrace tightly, feeling each other's heartbeats, their breaths intertwined. In the throes of extreme pleasure, Huang Rong would let out broken, captivating gasps, sounds that existed only for Lin Xuan, his exclusive, intoxicating music. She would hold him tightly, drawing him into their very bones and blood, never to be separated.

Author's Notes:

Author's Note: There will be an epilogue that will satisfy everyone.

Chapter Thirty-Six: Heroes Arrive at Xiangyang

The atmosphere in Xiangyang City, after a brief celebration, became tense once more.

On the city walls, Guo Jing patrolled day and night. His demeanor was more solemn and grave than usual, his brow etched with worry, which had not diminished in the slightest. Although Huang Rong's heart had found unprecedented satisfaction and clarity in her private moments with Lin Xuan, in public, she remained the calm, collected, and strategic Beggar's Sect leader. She personally oversaw city defenses and managed supplies, making Xiangyang, this pearl of the Southern Song Dynasty, even more impregnable.

However, relying solely on the existing strength within Xiangyang City to resist the fierce offensive of the Mongol army was clearly like trying to scoop out the sea with a ladle. The aid of the various martial arts sects became their only hope.

In recent days, the official roads leading south from Xiangyang City had been bustling with people. They were no longer displaced refugees or ordinary travelers, but streams of martial artists in the attire of various sects, with extraordinary bearing. They rode their horses or walked briskly, their destination directly aimed at the gates of Xiangyang City. They were fellow martial artists who had heard the call of Guo Jing and his wife and had come to resist the foreign enemy.

That afternoon, the sun blazed fiercely. At the city gates, the crowd was boisterous. Lin Xuan, dressed in a blue long gown, stood tall and slender, his face delicate. He was stationed at the welcoming area beside the city gate. His expression held a calmness and composure beyond his years, his eyes deep and clear, radiating a unique, calming magnetic charm.

This was usually handled personally by Guo Jing or Huang Rong, but with the war at a critical stage, Guo Jing needed to oversee the defenses, and Huang Rong was immersed in secret planning. Thus, this important task fell upon Lin Xuan.

"Young Master Lin, your reputation precedes you!" A middle-aged man dressed in the attire of the Mount Hua Sect approached slowly. His face was lean and refined, with a long beard, and his demeanor was one of meticulous solemnity.

Beside him walked a woman of dignified and graceful bearing, possessing an elegant aura. She had bright eyes and pearly teeth, with a clear, gentle, and beautiful countenance. Though she no longer possessed the delicate charm of her youth, she exuded a unique grace and beauty befitting a mature woman. Her figure, while not as slender as a young woman's, possessed a fullness and elegance honed by time, and every movement was gentle and dignified. These were none other than the Mount Hua Sect Leader, "Gentleman Sword" Yue Buqun, and his wife, the "Huashan Jade Maiden" Ning Zhongze.

Yue Buqun stepped forward and cupped his hands in a salute. While his tone carried a hint of the reserve befitting a martial arts grandmaster, his eyes conveyed obvious respect. This caused considerable surprise among the Mount Hua disciples accompanying them; when had their Sect Leader ever shown such courtesy to a youth?

Lin Xuan returned the salute respectfully, his posture neither servile nor overbearing, calm and measured. "Sect Leader Yue, Lady Ning, the Xiangyang defenders welcome you both. We are immensely grateful for your journey from afar to offer righteous aid. The people of Xiangyang are deeply indebted." His voice was clear and gentle, like a mountain spring, possessing a natural power to soothe the heart.

"We have long heard of Young Master Lin's repeated ingenious strategies in Xiangyang, thwarting the Mongol forces. Your fame has spread throughout the Central Plains. Meeting you now, you are indeed as the rumors say – a young talent with an extraordinary bearing," Ning Zhongze said with a gentle smile. Her gaze, filled with maternal softness and admiration, rested upon Lin Xuan.

Lin Xuan secretly thought, This Ning Zhongze truly has a demeanor like an orchid; her mature beauty is also captivating.

Upon hearing that Lin Xuan was Huang Rong's only direct disciple and had achieved immense merit, Ning Zhongze had long been curious about him.

Lin Xuan bowed again humbly, cupping his hands. "Lady Ning, you flatter me. The safety of Xiangyang concerns all under heaven. I, Lin Xuan, have merely done my small part. It is all thanks to my Master and Master's Husband's strategic planning that we have seen a turning point." He attributed all the credit to Guo Jing and Huang Rong. This humility only deepened the favorable impression of the Yue Buqun couple. They knew that Guo Jing and Huang Rong held immense prestige in the martial world, like mountains and the Big Dipper. As their only direct disciple holding a significant position, Lin Xuan's status was evident.

"Young Master Lin, there is no need for humility. The reputations of Great Hero Guo and his wife go without saying. However, we on Mount Hua have already heard of Young Master Lin's brilliant strategies. To possess such breadth of mind and wisdom at such a young age is truly rare in this world!" Yue Buqun stroked his beard in admiration, a complex glint flashing in his eyes.

Lin Xuan's heart tightened slightly, but he responded with a calm smile, betraying nothing. He looked at the Mount Hua Sect Leader, renowned as "Gentleman Sword." On the surface, Yue Buqun indeed appeared gentle and humble, embodying the demeanor of a grandmaster, his actions flawless. However, as a transmigrator, Lin Xuan knew that this so-called "gentleman" was merely the best guise to conceal ambition. Not a true gentleman, but a hypocrite.

Lin Xuan simply smiled faintly and steered the conversation to business. "The Mongol army has recently mobilized some elite troops, and their offensive will likely become even fiercer. Your arrival, Sect Leader Yue and Lady Ning, is truly timely aid. Master's Husband has prepared guest rooms for you. Please settle in first. Later, detailed defense maps of Xiangyang City and the movements of the Mongol army will be discussed with all of you in detail."

Yue Buqun and Ning Zhongze nodded repeatedly, indicating their understanding.

As they were speaking, another group of martial artists arrived at the city gate. They were dressed colorfully, many with long swords on their backs, riding spirited horses. Leading them was Luo Bing, one of the leaders of the Red Flower Society, accompanied by Daoist Wuchen, the second-in-command of the Red Flower Society, and several other skilled individuals.

"Young Master Lin, your reputation precedes you!" Luo Bing's pleasant voice rang out, carrying the straightforwardness of a martial world maiden. Her figure was graceful, her face lovely, with expressive eyes. Though past her prime, she still retained her charm. Her tight-fitting attire accentuated her slender waist and voluptuous curves, making her appear even more mature and alluring, like a beauty stepped out of a Jiangnan ink wash painting, spirited yet subtly captivating. Her bright eyes appraised Lin Xuan, holding a hint of curiosity and admiration.

Lin Xuan returned the salute, his gaze carrying an appropriate level of respect and familiarity. "Lady Luo, Daoist Wuchen, esteemed heroes of the Red Flower Society, Xiangyang welcomes you. I, Lin Xuan, am deeply honored." He knew of the Red Flower Society's reputation for righteousness, but he also understood this was their first meeting. His attitude was proper, his gaze clear, without any hint of overstepping boundaries.

Lin Xuan observed Luo Bing of the Red Flower Society. She was indeed a beauty, with expressive eyes and a figure that, far from being concealed by her practical attire, appeared even more taut and curved. Every smile and glance carried the carefree spirit of a martial world maiden and the alluring charm of a mature woman, making it hard to look away.

Truly a woman on par with Huang Rong!

"Young Master Lin is indeed as the rumors say, young and accomplished, with an extraordinary bearing," Luo Bing's voice was clear and pleasant, with undisguised admiration. "We in Jiangnan heard about the destruction of the Mongol supply lines last time. Everyone said it was Young Master Lin's divine strategy and brilliant planning!"

Behind her, several heroes of the Red Flower Society echoed her sentiments, their words quite warm. They were people of the martial world, valuing loyalty and skill above all else. Lin Xuan's remarkable feats had earned the admiration of this young "Little Zhuge."

Lin Xuan merely smiled humbly, once again attributing the credit to Guo Jing and Huang Rong.

His impeccable humility, however, only deepened Luo Bing's good impression of him. She had met too many arrogant young martial artists who became conceited with even the slightest achievement. Lin Xuan's composure and understanding of propriety made her look upon him with newfound respect.

"Young Master Lin, there's no need to be modest. The title 'Little Zhuge' wasn't earned for nothing!" Luo Bing chuckled, her clear eyes like water, sparkling with the carefree and playful spirit of a martial world maiden. "To possess such strategic acumen at your young age, your future is limitless!"

Lin Xuan felt a pang of emotion. The title 'Little Zhuge' is indeed useful. People in the martial world value reputation greatly. With this title, things become twice as effective. He simply cupped his hands again, saying no more. He knew that appropriate humility could win favor, but excessive refusal would seem hypocritical. He turned his gaze to the various martial artists arriving one after another, maintaining a proper smile, greeting them all, organized and efficient, making everyone feel welcome.

The martial artists who arrived were diverse, including swordsmen from the Kunlun Sect, leaders of various Beggar's Sect branches, and even some unknown individuals with extraordinary skills. Most of them were meeting Lin Xuan for the first time, but without exception, they showed him great respect during their conversations.

This respect stemmed, first and foremost, from the esteemed status of Guo Jing and Huang Rong. The couple held such high renown throughout the land, having defended Xiangyang for many years. Martial artists spoke of them with universal praise.

Secondly, it was due to Lin Xuan's brilliant military achievements in Xiangyang. The repeated failed Mongol assaults, the destruction of their supply lines, the capture of their spies – these successes were all inseparable from Lin Xuan's ingenious strategies. His reputation had already spread throughout the Central Plains via the Beggar's Sect and traveling merchants. The martial world's evaluation of him was mostly "young talent," "far-sighted," "unparalleled in strategy," with some even comparing him to a reincarnated Zhuge Liang.

Throughout the reception, Lin Xuan consistently maintained a humble and respectful attitude. He listened carefully as each martial artist introduced themselves, understanding their intentions and strengths. He slightly adjusted his wording based on their sect's characteristics, making everyone feel respected and at ease, as if bathed in spring breeze.

"Young Master Lin, we are all rough folk from the martial world, unfamiliar with military matters, only knowing how to fight for our country with our lives!" a swordsman from the frontier, burly and with a booming voice, said to Lin Xuan, cupping his fist. "If Young Master Lin has any orders, we will go through fire and water without hesitation!"

Lin Xuan smiled gently. "You are too kind, esteemed warrior. You have traveled great distances to be here, and I, Lin Xuan, will remember this chivalrous spirit. Xiangyang's success is not the work of Lin Xuan alone, but the combined effort of heroes from all over the world. Your martial prowess will be invaluable in defending the city walls or launching raids outside. I will consult with Great Hero Guo and Sect Leader Huang based on your respective strengths to assign you the most suitable positions."

His words affirmed their arrival while subtly returning the authority of deployment to Guo Jing and Huang Rong, positioning himself in a supporting role, demonstrating his composure and tact. This put the assembled warriors at ease, making them feel no sense of being looked down upon.

During the reception, Lin Xuan also keenly observed the subtle relationships between the various factions. Some sects had long-standing animosities, while others were on good terms. When arranging accommodations and meetings, Lin Xuan skillfully avoided situations that might lead to conflict, striving to be considerate of everyone and ensure their satisfaction. His insight and emotional intelligence, far beyond his years, caused many seasoned martial artists to secretly marvel.

As night fully descended, the last group of martial artists was settled. Lin Xuan personally arranged their meals and rest, and ordered the guards to strengthen patrols, ensuring these reinforcements from afar could have a peaceful place to rest.

Standing atop the city wall, Lin Xuan gazed at the faint lights of the Mongol encampment in the distance. The night wind ruffled his robes, carrying a hint of the battlefield's unique grim and murderous atmosphere. He could feel the pressure brought by the Mongol elite troops; this would be a much crueler battle than any before.

Chapter Thirty-Seven: The Wise Command the Troops

This afternoon, in the main hall of the Guo Mansion, the atmosphere was unprecedentedly solemn.

The hall was filled to capacity. At the head seat, Guo Jing sat upright, his expression solemn.

Beside him, Huang Rong wore a dark, well-fitting outfit that further accentuated her slender and tall, well-proportioned figure. The attire perfectly hugged her voluptuous curves, making her appear both heroic and spirited, yet not losing the charming demeanor of a mature young wife.

Her eyes, usually as lively as flowing water, were now filled with the light of wisdom.

Seated below were Lu Youjiao and other elders of the Beggar's Sect, as well as various martial arts heroes who had recently arrived in Xiangyang.

The Mount Hua Sect Leader, "Gentleman Sword" Yue Buqun, and his wife, the "Huashan Jade Maiden" Ning Zhongze, sat side by side.

Yue Buqun's face was lean and refined, his expression meticulous. Ning Zhongze was gentle and dignified, dressed in a light, elegant silk gown, her figure graceful. Even with a hint of worry in her eyes, it could not hide the tranquility and softness of a mature woman, like a newly bloomed white lotus.

Daoist Wuchen, the second-in-command of the Red Flower Society, and the female hero Luo Bing were also present.

Daoist Wuchen possessed an ethereal aura, while Luo Bing was spirited and heroic. Her tight-fitting outfit perfectly outlined her slender yet shapely curves. Her eyes were expressive and sparkling, exuding an unrestrained vitality and charm, radiant and dazzling.

In addition, there were prominent figures from various sects and skilled recluses, totaling twenty to thirty people, all renowned figures in the martial world.

Lin Xuan, meanwhile, was seated as a guest below Huang Rong. He wore a blue long gown, his face clear and handsome, his expression composed, carrying a calmness beyond his years.

"Esteemed righteous individuals, for coming to Xiangyang and risking danger, I, Guo, thank you!" Guo Jing spoke first, his voice resonant, filled with sincerity and gratitude. He stood and cupped his hands towards everyone, and they all returned the salute.

The atmosphere then turned serious. Lu Youjiao was the first to present a recently received urgent report.

"Great Hero Guo, Sect Leader Huang, everyone!" Lu Youjiao's voice was heavy. "Scouts have just brought us confirmed news: the Mongol's elite force, the 'Wolf Riders,' approximately three thousand strong, are galloping towards Xiangyang! They will arrive under the walls of Xiangyang within... at the latest, half a month!"

"What?! Three thousand 'Wolf Riders'?!" A collective gasp and murmurs erupted in the hall. Although the number seemed small, the name "Wolf Riders" itself carried a sense of dread.

"Three thousand 'Wolf Riders' – they are the elite of the Mongol army, capable of fighting ten against one!" a swordsman from the Western Regions exclaimed, his voice filled with evident shock.

Yue Buqun furrowed his brow, stroking his long beard. "I've heard that these 'Wolf Riders' fight ferociously, unlike the ordinary Mongol troops. They excel at surprise attacks and also use dark arts to bewilder the enemy's minds. If they truly manage to link up with the main army, the defensive pressure on Xiangyang City will increase dramatically!"

Ning Zhongze also wore a solemn expression, biting her lip lightly.

Guo Jing's face was grave, and he let out a heavy sigh. "Precisely. These 'Wolf Riders' are the strongest enemy Xiangyang City has ever faced. If we confront them head-on, our casualties will likely be extremely heavy. And my wife and I must remain in Xiangyang to oversee the city's defenses and the frontal battlefield against the main Mongol army; we cannot afford to be drawn away."

The atmosphere in the grand hall grew increasingly oppressive.

Although the martial heroes in the hall were highly skilled, facing a force of three thousand elite cavalry troops, their expertise lay in individual combat. They felt powerless when it came to dealing with such a massive war machine.

They offered various strategies, discussing them one after another – some suggested a staunch defense of the city, others proposed sorties to harass the enemy. However, all their ideas seemed fragmented and lacked overall consideration.

"Three thousand 'Wolf Riders,' while not as vast as tens of thousands of Mongol soldiers, highlight their elite nature even more. With our martial arts skills, confronting them head-on would be like throwing eggs against a rock!" a renowned elder of the martial world sighed, his eyes filled with helplessness.

"If we could charge into the enemy formation and capture their leader, we might be able to break their spirit!" another swordsman declared indignantly, a murderous glint in his eyes.

Seeing that the discussion had reached a stalemate, Huang Rong had anticipated their thoughts. She exchanged a subtle glance with Guo Jing, and through that single look, they conveyed the plans they had each been considering.

"Heroes, please lend me your ears," Huang Rong said. Her voice was soft yet filled with strength and composure, instantly quieting the boisterous hall and drawing all eyes to her.

"I have thoroughly studied the Mongol army's movements and the 'Wolf Riders'' tactics. In a head-on confrontation, our army indeed finds it difficult to achieve victory," she paused, her gaze sweeping over the martial arts experts present, her eyes gleaming. "However, though the 'Wolf Riders' are strong, they are not invincible!"

"Their speed is extreme, but their supply lines are relatively vulnerable; they excel at surprise attacks, but their cavalry advantage is limited in complex terrain."

"Therefore, after much deliberation, I have decided to change our strategy. This time, we will not clash head-on with the 'Wolf Riders.' We will—achieve victory through unconventional means!" Huang Rong's voice was resonant and powerful, possessing a captivating charm that infected everyone present.

The crowd's spirits lifted, and they all looked to Huang Rong, awaiting her next words.

"Our frontal forces will continue to defend both inside and outside the city walls, adopting a strategy of defense to attack, to tie down the main Mongol army," Huang Rong stated.

"And we need a force—an elite among elites, a force skilled in penetrating the enemy's rear, adept at surprise raids and disruption, capable of using a small force to defeat a larger one, striking one with many—a surprise contingent!" Huang Rong's gaze swept over experts like Yue Buqun, Ning Zhongze, Luo Bing, and Daoist Wuchen, finally settling on Lin Xuan.