Meanwhile, the Demon-Slaying Sect rose against the tide.
Overnight, the title of the world's greatest swordsman changed hands. The Demon-Slaying Sect's Chief Seat and his hopeless disciple swiftly became the talk of the martial world.
Also hotly discussed was the news of the marriage between Wen Changgeng, the Azure Cloud Sect's eldest disciple, and Mu Yingying, Heartless Valley's prized pupil.
Yan Yunhe put away the little woven bamboo trinkets and knelt before his master, the sect leader.
"Master, the Demon-Slaying Sect's momentum is overwhelming. If the Azure Cloud Sect and Heartless Valley unite, their prestige will soar to rival the Demon-Slaying Sect's, and our Spirit Sword Mountain will surely fall behind. You were once the world's greatest swordsman, and Spirit Sword Mountain was once the world's greatest sect. How can we let it decline like this?"
His master looked at him.
"What do you propose, my disciple?"
"The Demon-Slaying Sect has that renowned figure, and no one in the Azure Cloud Sect, Heartless Valley, or our Spirit Sword Mountain can match him. A marriage alliance would secure our reputations. Only by joining forces can the strong break this impasse. Presumably, that is what the Azure Cloud Sect and Heartless Valley intend with their marriage alliance."
Enunciating every word, he continued, "You saved my life, Master. I will never forget the debt I owe you for giving me a second chance at life. For the glory of our sect, I am willing to marry."
"But your health..."
Yan Yunhe paused, then smiled faintly.
"Do you think that, with this ruined body of mine, marrying a young lady would be an insult to her...?"
"Don't talk nonsense!" His master slapped the table and rose. "The eldest disciple of Spirit Sword Mountain is handsome and highly accomplished. Any young lady would be blessed