Comprehensive Martial Arts: My Master is Huang Rong

"Zhijing, don't be rude!" Wang Chuyi finally couldn't help but shout.

Although Qiu Chuji also felt that Zhao Zhijing had gone too far, his heart was indeed stirred with curiosity and a competitive spirit. He wanted to see for himself what true skill this rising star, famous throughout the martial arts world, possessed.

"Never mind," Lin Xuan shook his head, a gentle smile still on his face. "Since Daoist Zhao believes that reason must be settled with a sword, then Lin Xuan will oblige. However, swords have no eyes; a mere touch will suffice. My martial arts are shallow, and if I make a mistake, I ask for Daoist Zhao's forgiveness."

"Hmph! Such big talk!" Zhao Zhijing was completely enraged by his nonchalant attitude. He let out a cold laugh, flicked his sleeve, and led Lin Xuan to the training ground outside Chongyang Palace.

The training ground was a hundred zhang in circumference, paved with blue bricks and surrounded by ancient pine and cypress trees.

At this moment, quite a few Quanzhen disciples had already gathered on the ground, all coming to watch.

Wang Chuyi and Qiu Chuji also followed, sitting on the stone steps by the edge of the training ground, their gazes fixed seriously on the two figures in the center.

Zhao Zhijing stood proudly in the middle of the ground, his long sword humming as it was fully drawn, its blade reflecting a dazzling cold light in the sunlight.

His eyes were sharp, the tip of his sword pointed directly at Lin Xuan, and his voice carried a challenge: "Please, sir, do not say I am bullying you."

Lin Xuan remained empty-handed, his hands clasped behind his back, dressed in a blue robe that fluttered in the wind.

He smiled slightly, his voice clear:

"Daoist Zhao, please."

Seeing Lin Xuan's arrogance, Zhao Zhijing's anger surged even more, convinced that Lin Xuan was looking down on him.

With a fierce roar, his body moved like lightning, and his long sword suddenly transformed into a streak of light, thrusting directly at Lin Xuan's face!

He started with a refined killing move from Quanzhen Swordplay, his swordplay sharp and fierce, clearly intending to defeat Lin Xuan in one move and humiliate him in front of everyone.

The sword wind whistled, heading straight for Lin Xuan's face.

However, Lin Xuan stood rooted to the spot, not moving an inch.

Only when Zhao Zhijing's sword tip was about to touch the edge of his robe did his body suddenly shift to the left by less than half a foot.

The movement was silent, like a wisp of smoke, or a gentle breeze, incredibly fast, yet without the slightest sound of breaking the air.

Zhao Zhijing's sword tip grazed Lin Xuan's nose precisely!

The gust of wind it created even stirred a few strands of hair at Lin Xuan's temples, yet his sword hadn't even touched the hem of Lin Xuan's robe!

Zhao Zhijing was greatly alarmed! He had studied swordsmanship for many years and had never seen such strange footwork!

Though startled, his hands did not hesitate. He shifted his sword, his left hand transforming into a palm strike towards Lin Xuan's ribs, while his right hand, with the long sword, swept downwards, aiming for Lin Xuan's lower body.

However, Lin Xuan's movements were even faster.

He wasn't using any techniques, but pure, extreme speed, perception, and control over his body.

His footwork was like willow catkins in the wind, or fish in water; every evasion was natural and perfectly timed.

He didn't even need to strike; a slight sway of his body was enough to guide Zhao Zhijing's attacks to miss, making every sword strike and palm strike of Zhao Zhijing hit only air, powerful but with nowhere to land.

The surrounding Quanzhen disciples who had gathered to watch had their eyes wide open, their faces filled with shock.

They had never seen their Senior Disciple Brother Zhao's swordsmanship appear so "clumsy," unable to even hit an unarmed youth.

"You... you can only dodge?!"

Zhao Zhijing was so enraged his eyes threatened to burst. He felt his dignity had been trampled like never before. He gripped his sword with both hands, channeling his inner energy to its peak, and suddenly unleashed the most powerful move in Quanzhen Swordplay—"Nine-Nine Return to Origin."

The sword light was like a waterfall, drawing nine illusory shadows in the air, covering all of Lin Xuan's escape routes!

A flicker of amusement finally flashed in Lin Xuan's eyes.

At the moment Zhao Zhijing's sword momentum reached its peak, his old strength exhausted and new strength not yet born, Lin Xuan, like a phantom, appeared beside Zhao Zhijing.

Before Zhao Zhijing could even see his movement, he felt his wrist go numb.

Clang!

His long sword fell from his grasp with a clang, the crisp sound echoing across the training ground, exceptionally jarring.

Immediately after, Lin Xuan's right hand smoothly caught his sword in mid-air.

Then, with a backhand motion, he pressed the sword tip against Zhao Zhijing's throat.

The entire process took less than the blink of an eye.

It was fluid and swift, so fast that all the watching Quanzhen disciples couldn't even see his movements.

The training ground fell into instant silence.

Everyone stared in shock at the dramatic scene. Zhao Zhijing's tall frame stood rigidly in place, his eyes filled with disbelief, fear, and humiliation.

Lin Xuan's face remained calm. He looked at Zhao Zhijing's face, contorted with fear, and a faint, mocking smile touched his lips:

"Daoist Zhao, I concede."

He withdrew his sword, sheathed it, his movements graceful and unhurried. Then, he gently handed Zhao Zhijing's sword back to him.

Zhao Zhijing's hands trembled. As he took the sword, it felt as if he were taking on a burden of a thousand pounds, and an endless stream of humiliation. He wanted to say something, but found his throat blocked, unable to utter a single word.

Wang Chuyi and Qiu Chuji both stood up abruptly, their eyes filled with shock and admiration.

Just how high had this young man's martial arts reached!

Although Qiu Chuji had a fiery temper, he always respected the strong. At this moment, his prejudice against Lin Xuan vanished completely, replaced by deep apprehension and admiration.

"Lin Gongzi's martial arts are superb, this old Taoist admires you!" Wang Chuyi glanced sympathetically at the ashamed Zhao Zhijing, then said sincerely to Lin Xuan.

Lin Xuan simply cupped his hands humbly, "Daoist Wang flatters me, I was merely lucky."

He turned to Qiu Chuji and cupped his hands again, "This disciple has come precisely for young brother Yang Guo. Since young brother Yang Guo is no longer with your esteemed sect, I shall go find him. That way, I can give Master's Husband an explanation."

Lin Xuan did not linger. He bowed to Wang Chuyi and Qiu Chuji, then turned and walked towards the mountain gate of Chongyang Palace, departing slowly.

His gait was unhurried, his robes fluttering. In the eyes of all the Quanzhen disciples, his retreating figure appeared even taller and more mysterious.

Chapter Six: Does Quanzhen Sect Also Have Those Who Collude with the Mongols?

After descending Zhongnan Mountain, Lin Xuan did not rush to depart.

He and Shuang'er stayed at an inn in the small town at the foot of the mountain, remaining there for several days.

During these days, Lin Xuan lived quite comfortably. On one hand, he sent people up the mountain to search for the entrance to the Ancient Tomb Sect, while on the other hand, he enjoyed Shuang'er's meticulous service.

Shuang'er had already completely regarded herself as Lin Xuan's possession.

During the day, she washed his clothes, folded his bedding, prepared tea, and served meals. Every smile and glance from her was gentle and obedient. When Lin Xuan strolled through the town, she would follow behind like a shadow of emerald green, quietly carrying his newly bought books or snacks. In her clear eyes, only Lin Xuan was visible.

At night, she transformed into a pool of spring water, allowing Lin Xuan to take whatever he desired. She would proactively shed her clothes, using her tender, warm body to warm his bed. With the innocence and passion of first intimacy, she would clumsily but wholeheartedly try to please him.

After every session of lovemaking, she would curl up in Lin Xuan's arms, her face flushed with satisfaction, like a docile kitten listening to his steady heartbeat as she fell peacefully asleep. That unreserved reliance and devotion greatly satisfied the sense of control and conquest within Lin Xuan's heart, as a man.

One afternoon, the sunlight was warm, filtering through the window lattice and casting dappled shadows on the floor of the chamber. The tranquil space was filled with a touch of warmth.

The air was filled with a blend of faint sandalwood and clear tea fragrances, refreshing the mind and spirit.

Lin Xuan sat with his eyes closed, regulating his breath. The acupoints on his body were slightly open, like countless tiny whirlpools, greedily absorbing the spiritual energy drifting in the heavens and earth. He looked inward, feeling the surging flow of true qi within his body.

Shuang'er had gone out to the street, saying she was going to find some fresh fruit for Lin Xuan.

She was always like this, prioritizing Lin Xuan's preferences. Whenever he casually mentioned something, even a fleeting remark, she would silently remember it and do her best to fulfill it.

Her thoughts were delicate and considerate; she always managed everything perfectly before he even needed it.

On Lin Xuan's desk, a pot of clear tea emitted wisps of steam, its fragrance permeating the air, warm and rich. This was precisely what Shuang'er had specially brewed for him before he went into seclusion.

She knew Lin Xuan liked to have clear tea by his side when he meditated, so she had meticulously prepared everything. Afterward, she quietly withdrew, not disturbing Lin Xuan's meditation, her footsteps so light they were almost inaudible.

Just then, a faint yet regular knocking sound echoed.

"Knock, knock!"

The sound was not loud, but it carried a unique strength and rhythm. Lin Xuan's consciousness slowly withdrew from his meditative state. He knew this was the special secret signal of the Beggar's Sect disciples.

Lin Xuan slowly opened his eyes, a flicker of understanding flashing within them. His gaze was deep and calm, as if he could perceive all things in the world.

He responded faintly, "Come in." His voice was not loud, but it carried an undeniable authority, clearly reaching the ears of the person outside the door.

As the door was gently pushed open, a figure bowed and entered.

It was a man in a coarse gray cloth tunic. Though his clothes were simple, they were washed very clean, without a single wrinkle. His face was honest, his skin dark, weathered by the elements, exuding a sharp aura.

His eyes were sharp and vigilant, clearly a martial artist accustomed to the jianghu. His waist was bulging, indicating he carried a weapon. His steps were steady, his aura contained, marking him as someone of extraordinary skill at a glance.

This person was a messenger from the Northern Beggar's Sect, having traveled a long distance, covered in dust. A trace of unconcealable hardship was on his face, yet it could not hide the shrewdness and vigilance in his eyes.

As soon as he stepped through the door, his gaze quickly swept across the room, finally settling on Lin Xuan, a deep respect appearing in his eyes.

Upon seeing Lin Xuan, he cupped his fists and bowed, his posture respectful and standard. "Greetings, Lin Gongzi! By order of the Northern Beggar's Sect Leader Qiao, I am here to deliver a letter to Gongzi!"

His voice was deep and powerful, carrying the straightforwardness of a jianghu person, yet also revealing a heartfelt respect for Lin Xuan.

Lin Xuan nodded and raised his hand slightly, signaling the messenger not to stand on ceremony. He said nothing more, merely gesturing with his eyes for the messenger to present the letter.

The messenger understood, not daring to delay in the slightest. He respectfully took out a bamboo tube sealed with wax from his bosom. The surface of the bamboo tube was smooth and its color warm, clearly having been carefully polished and maintained.

The wax seal was tight and meticulous, indicating the importance of the item contained within. He presented it with both hands, his posture extremely solemn, as if what he held was not a simple bamboo tube, but a burden of immense weight.

Lin Xuan took the bamboo tube, his fingertips brushing against it, feeling the texture of the bamboo and the temperature of the wax seal. He gestured with his eyes, and the messenger, understanding, cupped his fists again and silently withdrew.

He gently closed the door, his movements so soft that not a sound was made, leaving Lin Xuan alone in the quiet chamber.

The room returned to silence, with only the faint sound of Lin Xuan's fingers rubbing the bamboo tube and his deep, steady breathing remaining.

The sunlight was still warm, the tea fragrance still permeated the air, but a hint of solemnity had entered the atmosphere.

Lin Xuan then unhurriedly broke the wax seal. His fingertips deftly picked away the wax on the bamboo tube, his movements elegant and composed, without a trace of haste.

As the wax seal peeled away, the lid of the bamboo tube was gently removed, revealing a thin silk letter. The silk was soft to the touch, its texture fine, clearly made of superior silk.

It turned out to be a secret letter personally written by Qiao Feng, the leader of the Northern Beggar's Sect.

Lin Xuan unfolded the silk letter and quickly scanned it. He read at a glance, quickly absorbing the contents of the letter.

On the paper, Qiao Feng's powerful calligraphy was like iron strokes and silver hooks, vigorous and strong. Even through the paper, one could feel the man's unrestrained heroism and his open and upright character.

Every word exuded a righteous aura, inspiring involuntary admiration.

Before Lin Xuan left Xiangyang, he had written a secret letter to Qiao Feng, asking him to investigate Murong Fu, believing he might be colluding with the Mongols.

In Qiao Feng's reply, he concisely and clearly stated his investigation results: upon receiving Lin Xuan's secret missive, he did not dare to delay and immediately ordered the Beggar's Sect disciples spread throughout the land to conduct a thorough investigation.

In this world, the Beggar's Sect was divided into northern and southern factions. The Southern Beggar's Sect leader was Huang Rong, and the Northern Beggar's Sect leader was Qiao Feng. The Northern Beggar's Sect, led by Qiao Feng, had disciples spread across the five lakes and four seas, with numerous informants and an intelligence network densely covering every corner of the jianghu.

Its efficiency was unparalleled, truly the foremost intelligence organization in the martial arts world.

With Qiao Feng's command, countless pairs of eyes fixed on Murong Fu. From the minutiae of his daily life to the hidden details of his secret dealings, nothing was overlooked, all captured by the Beggar's Sect disciples' intelligence network, which spread like a spiderweb.

The results confirmed that Murong Fu's activities were indeed suspicious. His contact with certain unknown individuals was exceptionally secretive and frequent, often meeting in secluded places late at night when all was quiet.

His cautious words and furtive behavior clearly indicated he was engaged in illicit activities. The identities of these unknown individuals were also quite complex, including rogue martial artists and mysterious figures dressed in foreign attire, which undoubtedly intensified the suspicion of Murong Fu colluding with the Mongols.

Even more astonishing was that the disciples had discovered Murong Fu seemed to be secretly communicating with someone with ulterior motives within the Quanzhen Sect on Zhongnan Mountain!

This news caused Lin Xuan's eyebrows to twitch slightly, a hint of amusement flashing in his eyes.

Qiao Feng described this person in his letter as someone of considerable status within the sect, who seemed to have hit it off with Murong Fu, showing signs of mutual collusion.

Although there was no concrete evidence yet to prove this person was directly collaborating with the Mongols, their suspicious behavior, frequent contact with Murong Fu, and the secret messages exchanged between them made Qiao Feng uneasy, believing this person should not be underestimated.

Qiao Feng's words conveyed a sense of gravity, stating that if they were truly colluding with the Mongol Tartars through an insider in the Quanzhen Sect, the matter would be extremely serious.

This was not just about personal gain or loss, but it could also harm the very foundation of the Central Plains Martial Arts World. The Quanzhen Sect, as a major orthodox sect, had an unparalleled influence, with numerous disciples spread across the land.

If it were infiltrated, the consequences would be unimaginable, inevitably leading to a catastrophe and possibly even shaking the Central Plains Martial Arts World's overall strategy against the Mongols.

Qiao Feng suggested that Lin Xuan start by dealing with this individual from the Quanzhen Sect, perhaps cutting off Murong Fu's secret line to the Mongol Tartars, thereby removing the root cause and completely dismantling their conspiracy.

At the same time, he reminded Lin Xuan to be cautious, not to alert the enemy, lest it cause unnecessary unrest and make the adversaries vigilant, thereby increasing the difficulty of the investigation.

At the end of the letter, Qiao Feng also expressed his trust and support for Lin Xuan, his words brimming with heroic spirit, stating that no matter what decision Lin Xuan made, the Beggar's Sect would fully cooperate to jointly maintain the peace of the Central Plains Martial Arts World.

After finishing the letter, a meaningful curve appeared on Lin Xuan's lips, and an irrepressible smile spread across his face.

"Someone in the Quanzhen Sect is also colluding with the Mongols... This is truly interesting..." he murmured softly, his tone laced with amusement, as if savoring a unique delicacy.

"Who in the Quanzhen Sect could be colluding with the Mongols? It's so hard to guess!" Lin Xuan's smile widened, his eyes sparkling with cunning.

As a transmigrator, he knew all too well that this person with ulterior motives could be none other than Zhao Zhijing!

That narrow-minded individual, greedy for power, would do anything for his ambitions. In the original work, Zhao Zhijing had colluded with the Mongols in an attempt to seize the position of Quanzhen Sect leader, even going so far as to betray Yang Guo.