The moment these words were spoken, the cultivators from every side reacted with startling uniformity. All of them first froze in a daze, then expressions of astonishment spread across their faces.
Once they gradually grasped the meaning behind the words "marriage alliance," their hearts surged with excitement, and they could not hide their delight.
Only now did they finally understand why the Dongfang Clan had acted as they had before. They had actually been observing and screening the various factions that had come to visit.
If they were unwilling to remain and wait through even these brief two months, it meant those factions were merely opportunists who turned with the wind. Naturally, the Dongfang Clan would no longer introduce such people.
Those like themselves, who had patiently waited in peace these past two months without asking too much about the reason, had passed the first test—the one personally judged by the Dongfang Clan.
"You two venerables are too polite. Who among Azure Waves cultivators does not know that Ziyun Mountain is the Central Region's one and only mountain blessed by fortune? Let alone two months—even if we remained here for two years, there would not be a single word of complaint in our hearts."
"Indeed, indeed. The wondrous sights of the mountain's hidden realm are endless. Over these past two months, we have instead taken advantage of the Dongfang Clan for nothing."
"Today, upon hearing that your esteemed clan has a marriage alliance, we too share in your joy. We offer congratulations to you two seniors, and congratulations to the Dongfang Clan!"
"Congratulations to you two seniors, and congratulations to the Dongfang Clan!"
Having learned this immensely delightful news, the Central Region cultivators present all cupped their hands in salute and offered their congratulations.
Then, led by the two venerables,