Comprehensive Martial Arts: My Master is Huang Rong

Lin Xuan, however, shook his head, a trace of regret on his face. "Senior Sister, what you said is not quite right. Victory and defeat are meaningless. The path of martial arts is endless. My proposal not to spar with internal energy was out of goodwill."

He walked to the center of the training ground and casually threw a punch. The punch was unadorned, yet it carried an indescribable steadiness and force.

"Senior Sister's whip kick just now, though seemingly swift and fierce, was actually too hasty in its power generation, causing the force to disperse and lacking follow-up variations. If you could have gathered power first before releasing it, and then hidden a hint of feint within, its power would have been far greater. It's like..."

As Lin Xuan spoke, he slowly walked back to Guo Fu's side. He reached out, seemingly casually, and gently placed his hand on her wrist, with the professionalism and focus of an instructor.

"It's like how Senior Sister generates power with her wrist; being too rigid makes it prone to breaking. If, at the moment of striking, you could slightly adjust the coordination of your fingertips and wrist, gathering momentum with soft energy before unleashing a powerful strike, you could achieve a balance of hardness and softness, making your moves unpredictable."

His fingertips were warm, and through the thin sleeve, they transmitted to Guo Fu's delicate, fair wrist. In that instant, a strange tingling sensation spread from her wrist, instantly enveloping her entire body.

Guo Fu felt her heart rate suddenly quicken, and the blush on her cheeks burned even more intensely, like the glow of sunset, reaching all the way to her earlobes.

Lin Xuan's voice was deep and magnetic. When he instructed, he would lean in slightly.

Lin Xuan himself, at this moment, exuded an even richer, sunnier, and more vital aura. It was the masculine energy unique to his body, nourished by the Yin Yang Deficit Supplementation Technique, mixed with a faint scent of soapwort, making one involuntarily intoxicated.

Guo Fu could even feel the warm air from his breath brush past her ear as he exhaled, bringing a wave of tingling that made her heart flutter, both itchy and indescribably comfortable.

She instinctively wanted to pull away, but Lin Xuan's fingertips, though seemingly gentle, possessed a strange suction that made it difficult for her to move.

"Senior Sister, please look..." Lin Xuan said, as his other hand lightly pressed on Guo Fu's shoulder, slightly adjusting her center of gravity.

His palm was broad and strong. Through the fabric of her martial arts uniform, Guo Fu could clearly feel the heat from his palm.

That heat seemed to carry an electric current, instantly spreading through half of her body, causing her delicate frame to tremble slightly, so numb she could barely stand, her legs even feeling a bit weak.

Her shoulders were soft, her collarbones like jade, and Lin Xuan's fingertips seemed to possess some kind of magic, able to precisely touch certain acupoints deep within her muscles.

The Yin Yang Deficit Supplementation Technique was working subtly. Lin Xuan was not actively absorbing Yin essence at this moment; merely his aura and touch carried the unique "magnetism" of the technique. Guo Fu felt a secret pleasure awaken deep within her body, a mix of shame and annoyance, yet also a strange sense of surrender.

"Senior Sister, by generating power this way, do you feel your lower body is more stable and your strength more concentrated?" Lin Xuan's voice was like an enchantment, guiding Guo Fu's attention.

Guo Fu tried hard to concentrate and feel. Indeed, she found that with Lin Xuan's slight adjustment to her center of gravity, her lower body was actually more stable than usual, as if rooted to the ground.

"What... what is happening?" she asked in surprise, her tone laced with confusion and a hint of admiration for Lin Xuan.

"This is the clever application of the body's extraordinary meridians," Lin Xuan released his hand, a perfectly fitting smile on his face. "Since we possess superior martial arts, we should pay more attention to how to perfectly combine internal energy with techniques to achieve twice the result with half the effort."

He did not explain further, instead stopping at a crucial point, leaving ample room for mystery and imagination.

Guo Fu looked at Lin Xuan with complex emotions. She had never imagined that this junior brother, whom she had always looked down upon, could so easily point out the subtle flaws in her martial arts and reveal their secrets with a single sentence.

Moreover, his voice, his aura, his touch, all carried a magic that made her heart race.

This feeling was something she had never experienced with Wu Dunru or Wu Xiuwen; such an intense, peculiar tremor rising from the depths of her heart.

From that day on, Lin Xuan seemed to "pay attention" to Guo Fu, either intentionally or unintentionally.

He no longer deliberately avoided her. Instead, he would occasionally appear at the edge of the training ground when she practiced, watching quietly.

Sometimes, when Guo Fu felt his gaze, she would instinctively feel awkward and annoyed. But when she turned her head, Lin Xuan's gaze would have already shifted away, or he would be engrossed in reading an ancient book, as if it were mere coincidence.

However, whenever Guo Fu encountered a bottleneck in her practice or felt dejected, Lin Xuan would always appear beside her at just the right moment.

He wouldn't point things out directly, but in a seemingly casual tone, he would utter a word or two of guidance, or tell a seemingly unrelated story, yet it would always bring Guo Fu sudden enlightenment.

Once, Guo Fu was struggling to master a particular move in her dance practice and was feeling a bit frustrated.

Lin Xuan emerged from the depths of the bamboo forest, his figure shrouded by the dappled bamboo shadows, making him appear profound and unfathomable.

"Senior Sister, are you troubled by the lack of smooth transition in this move?" Lin Xuan asked softly, his voice carrying a calming power.

Guo Fu startled and glared. "How did you know?"

Lin Xuan smiled slightly. "Every time Senior Sister performs this move, her vital energy becomes somewhat sluggish. I suspect it's because you haven't perfectly combined the 'skill' of the palm technique with the 'continuity' of internal energy."

He didn't offer direct instruction but instead took a small booklet from his robes and handed it to Guo Fu. "In my leisure time, I've organized some of Master's teachings on martial arts and discovered some patterns. There's a verse here that might help Senior Sister: 'Flowers fall without a sound, true qi leaves a trace; use softness to overcome hardness, use emptiness to lead reality.'"

Guo Fu took the booklet. She saw the delicate handwriting and some interpretations and annotations she had never considered. She tried reciting the verse silently, then practicing her movements. As expected, the previously sluggish palm technique instantly became fluid.

She suddenly looked at Lin Xuan, her eyes filled with shock and gratitude.

"This... this is truly..." she stammered, unable to express herself.

Lin Xuan simply smiled slightly, his eyes filled with gentle encouragement. "Everything in the world has its way. Martial arts are no different. Senior Sister is exceptionally talented; you will surely achieve great things in the future."

His subtle, nurturing assistance began to melt the ice in Guo Fu's heart, bit by bit.

She realized that Lin Xuan was not the arrogant braggart she had initially thought. He possessed true skill, yet he was so humble.

He was unlike those men who only knew how to flatter her beauty. Lin Xuan cared about her martial arts, her worries, and could even see through her inner grievances and unspoken frustrations.

The unique, undeniable charm of Lin Xuan, through every interaction and "guidance," was quietly infiltrating Guo Fu's core.

His image was no longer that of the "intruder" she had hated to the bone, but gradually became clearer, taller, and even faintly evoked a desire to draw closer.

Huang Rong, witnessing Lin Xuan's growing closeness with Guo Fu, would still scoff in defiance, but the jealousy in her heart was no longer pure hatred.

She began to secretly long for Lin Xuan's attention, just as she imagined her mother might have received.

It was like a faint flame, quietly burning in the depths of Guo Fu's heart, carrying a dangerous temptation.

Every time Lin Xuan accidentally, or in a "guiding" manner, touched her, Guo Fu's heart would race.

Her delicate face would involuntarily flush, and that tingling sensation would spread from where Lin Xuan touched her, making her whole body go weak, her eyes languid. She would feel ashamed, resistant, yet an indescribable pleasure would sprout in the depths of her heart.

Chapter Twelve: Wolf Riders Attack!

Xiangyang City, a time-worn ancient city, miraculously displayed a vibrant vitality under the threat of the Mongol iron hooves.

And within this vitality, Lin Xuan was undoubtedly the one who injected the most energy. He had only joined the Xiangyang army for a few months, yet he had already established convincing prestige among the soldiers and civilians with his repeated victories.

His name was now known in every household in Xiangyang City. Whether it was the guards on the city walls or the common folk in the streets and alleys, everyone who mentioned Lin Xuan would give him a thumbs-up, their eyes filled with admiration.

"Young Master Lin truly has foresight, he's practically Zhuge reborn!"

On the north gate tower, a burly soldier wiped the sweat from his brow, gazing out at the city with eyes full of admiration. His rugged face was currently beaming with the relief of survival and sincere praise for Lin Xuan.

The veteran soldiers beside him, some sharpening their blades, others bandaging their wounds, all wore similar expressions.

"You should have seen it! Last night, those Mongol soldiers were as bold as bears, they actually tried to sneak attack us under the cover of darkness!" a young archer excitedly chimed in, still trembling with lingering fear as he recalled the danger of the previous night.

He gripped his bow, his voice trembling slightly: "If it weren't for Young Master Lin predicting their scheme three days in advance and setting up a series of formations in the outer perimeter, they would have succeeded last night! We brothers would have died for nothing!"

"More than that! Think about the previous times, the harassment outside the city, every single one was perfectly anticipated by Young Master Lin!" another veteran chimed in, his eyes flashing with fervent admiration for Lin Xuan.

"Either ambushed in the mountain passes or lying in wait in the dense forests, catching those Mongols completely off guard! We brothers, following Young Master Lin, have never suffered a loss!"

"To tell you the truth, Young Master Lin's ability to lead troops in battle is even better than those old generals!" the veteran sighed heavily, his tone filled with emotion.

"Although Young Master Lin's martial arts are not as peerless as Great Hero Guo's, when it comes to formations and strategy, he's the number one in Xiangyang!"

He paused and continued, "Great Hero Guo's martial arts are peerless; he alone can withstand the charge of thousands of troops, fighting his way through the enemy ranks. But a battlefield is a battlefield, not a one-on-one duel in the martial world. Young Master Lin is different; he always knows how to make the best use of the strength of ordinary soldiers like us."

"When to attack, when to defend, where the enemy's weaknesses lie, where our advantages are, he knows better than anyone!"

"Every time we fight according to Young Master Lin's command, our chances of killing the enemy increase by severalfold, and the casualties among our own brothers are significantly reduced. In the previous small battles, our casualties were less than 30% of the enemy's. Who would have dared to imagine this before?"

The veteran patted his chest, a simple and honest smile on his face: "Following Young Master Lin, my heart feels at ease! I know I'm not dying for nothing, but truly killing the enemy and earning merit!"

Lin Xuan's reputation was not unfounded. He combined his learned military theories with practical battlefield experience to create an effective set of strategies.

He emphasized intelligence gathering, using the tight network of Beggar's Sect disciples, supplemented by the keen perception of his "Yin Yang Deficit Supplementation Technique," he could often detect the enemy's movements and intentions at the first opportunity. He could even predict the Mongols' next moves, as if he could see through the enemy commanders' minds.

In terms of tactics, he excelled at utilizing terrain and employing surprise attacks. Whether it was raiding enemy camps at night, cutting off supply lines, or ambushing and annihilating enemy forces, he always executed them flawlessly, causing the Mongols to suffer repeated losses and confusion.

He even started classes in the army, teaching soldiers basic tactical concepts and formation changes. He taught them how to observe the enemy during the gaps in close combat, how to cover each other, and how to integrate individual strength into the collective flow.

Many soldiers who previously only knew how to fight to the death, under his guidance, gradually learned to think and cooperate, and their combat effectiveness improved qualitatively. They were no longer pawns blindly charging forward, but warriors who understood how to use their wisdom.

Lin Xuan's appearance undoubtedly injected a new vitality and spirit into the besieged Xiangyang. He not only brought victories but also brought hope, allowing the soldiers to see the possibility of defeating a stronger enemy with a weaker force.

Just as the people of Xiangyang were immersed in the rare joy of victory and confidently reinforcing the city's defenses, a greater crisis was quietly approaching.

A carrier pigeon from the north, flying at astonishing speed through the rain, landed directly in the training grounds of the Guo Residence. The guards immediately retrieved the secret letter from the message tube and hastily presented it to Guo Jing, who was practicing martial arts.

Guo Jing unfolded the letter. The few words written on it instantly turned his usually calm face grave. A flicker of unconcealed worry flashed in his eyes.

He immediately stopped his training and urgently summoned Huang Rong and Lin Xuan, along with several important elders of the Beggar's Sect and the Xiangyang generals, to the council hall.

Inside the council hall, candlelight flickered.

Guo Jing handed the thin secret letter to Huang Rong and said in a deep voice, "Rong'er, Xuan'er, you should see this." His voice was lower than usual.

Huang Rong took the letter and scanned it quickly. A deep sorrow instantly appeared on her bright and beautiful face, her delicate eyebrows furrowed tightly, a hint of coldness and an almost imperceptible weariness flashing in her beautiful eyes. Her graceful figure could not hide the solemnity in her expression.

She sighed softly and handed the letter to Lin Xuan, saying, "This is very bad news." Her tone was heavy.

Lin Xuan took the letter and unfolded it. He saw the concise handwriting, yet each word felt like a thousand pounds, weighing heavily on his heart:

The gist was: The Mongol wolf cavalry were attacking Xiangyang and would arrive in a few months.

Lin Xuan's entire body tensed after reading it.

Mongol wolf cavalry. This was the pride of the Mongols, the elite of the elite, equipped with the finest warhorses and weapons, formed with the most brutal and fierce tactical system – a terrifying force.

Their horsemanship, archery, and group coordination were far superior to ordinary Mongol soldiers. Once this force descended upon them, Xiangyang would face an unprecedented test of life and death.

Guo Jing clenched his fists, making a dull thudding sound. "...The time is too tight," his voice carried a hint of worry and anger.

Huang Rong pondered, "The wolf cavalry have always been known throughout the world for their unparalleled impact and fierce, ruthless combat methods. Three thousand wolf riders, this is almost the strongest elite the Mongols can mobilize and assemble."

Her slender, jade-like fingertips tapped on the table, her beautiful eyes flashing with wisdom: "It seems they are determined to break through Xiangyang at all costs." Her tone carried the calmness and decisiveness of a commander.

An experienced general in his fifties said with deep concern, "Although we repelled the Mongol soldiers last time, they were only ordinary troops. This time, with the wolf cavalry heading south, once they launch a full-scale assault, the momentum will likely..." He didn't finish, but the worry and despair in his words were evident, making the atmosphere in the council hall even more somber.

"Xuan'er, what are your thoughts?" Huang Rong broke the silence, her clear gaze falling on Lin Xuan, her eyes filled with anticipation.

She believed Lin Xuan could come up with an unexpected yet feasible plan. Ever since she took Lin Xuan as her disciple, he had continuously brought surprises and never disappointed her.

Lin Xuan stood up and paced to the map.

"Uncle-Master, Master, esteemed generals," Lin Xuan's voice was steady and powerful, carrying a convincing composure, "Your concerns are valid. The strength of the wolf cavalry is known throughout the world, far beyond that of ordinary troops."

He paused, looking around and seeing the gloom cast over everyone's faces.

"However, we are not without a chance!" Lin Xuan spoke again.

He walked to the map and pointed to several strategic passes and geographical features around Xiangyang: "Although the wolf cavalry are strong, they are not invincible. Their greatest weakness lies in their blind self-confidence and underestimation of us, and their unfamiliarity with the martial arts of the Central Plains."

"The impact of the wolf cavalry is indeed invincible on vast plains, but in mountains, treacherous peaks, and watery areas, their advantage is greatly diminished. The surroundings of Xiangyang are not all open terrain; we have ample space to employ stratagems."

He looked at everyone and said gravely, "Xiangyang is the hope of the Central Plains people, the symbol of justice in the martial world. Now, in a time of national crisis, with the common people suffering, it is the time for heroes from all over the land to emerge and jointly face the national crisis!" Lin Xuan's words were filled with earth-shattering power, each word striking the hearts of everyone like a heavy hammer.

"My idea is to send out a Hero's Invitation to the entire martial arts world of the Central Plains!" Lin Xuan declared forcefully, laying out his plan entirely, with an air of taking responsibility.

"We will publicize the truth of the Mongol wolf cavalry's invasion and call upon all major sects and heroes to come to Xiangyang and resist the wolf cavalry together!"

As soon as these words were spoken, the dispirited atmosphere in the council hall vanished, and everyone's spirits lifted.

Huang Rong pondered, "Inviting heroes from all over the world to help is certainly a grand undertaking. However, people of the martial world have always been free-spirited and undisciplined. How can we ensure they obey orders, and how will we coordinate them?"

Her bright, intelligent eyes posed the challenge: "How can we ensure they work together with one heart and exert their greatest strength? These are all difficult questions." Although her words were a reminder, they also showed her approval of the proposal and her deep consideration.

"Master's concerns are extremely valid," Lin Xuan nodded, a confident smile on his face.

"We are not asking them to fight in formation like regular soldiers. Each martial arts master has their own strengths. While their skills may vary, there are no lack of experts among them. Their individual combat power is enough to match or even surpass the elite warriors of the wolf riders."

He picked up a wooden stick and pointed on the sand table, "We can organize these martial arts masters into several elite surprise attack squads, according to the specialties of their respective sects."

"Before they even reach Xiangyang city, we will make them lose their lives on the road, weakening the Mongol's offensive."

Lin Xuan's analysis was clear and logical, perfectly combining the advantages of the martial arts heroes with the realities of the battlefield. All the generals and elders present were convinced and impressed.

The tense expressions on the generals' faces relaxed considerably, and the light of hope rekindled in their eyes.

Guo Jing's face was solemn, his eyes flashing with heroic spirit. "What Xuan'er said is right! The rise and fall of the nation is the responsibility of every common man! Now that our country is in peril, are the heroes of the Central Plains martial arts world truly cowards!" His voice was loud and full of righteous spirit.

Huang Rong also showed a smile of approval. She looked at Lin Xuan with eyes full of trust and high regard. Her beautiful face was filled with pride for her disciple, and her bright eyes and white teeth revealed her deep satisfaction.

"This plan will not only strengthen our forces but also unite the chivalrous hearts of the world and bring together the people of the Central Plains. It is the best strategy," she said with certainty, her voice clear and pleasant to the ear.

"Even if we cannot completely repel the wolf riders at that time, we can make them pay a heavy price!"

Her tone shifted, carrying a sense of entrustment. "Then, you shall draft this Hero's Post and Martial Alliance Scroll to call upon the heroes of the world. I am sure it will move the heroes from all paths and make them willingly come to Xiangyang to participate in this grand event."

Lin Xuan cupped his hands and accepted the order. "Your disciple will do his utmost to live up to the trust of Master's husband and Master!" His voice was full of strength, revealing a firm conviction.

The other generals and the elders of the Beggar's Sect also expressed their agreement, and morale surged. The gloom that had permeated the council hall had completely dissipated, replaced by an unprecedented sense of unity and hope. Everyone seemed to see the dawn of repelling the wolf riders and defending Xiangyang.

Walking out of the council hall, the night breeze was cool, brushing against Lin Xuan's clothes. He looked up at the brilliant starry sky and let out a confident smile.

Author's Note: