Ye Wen sat there in silence, and even when Liu Muyan kept glancing at him with a strange look, he only offered a look that meant don't speak, then continued to pick at his food intermittently.

The traveling physician took a look at Liu Muyan's complexion, then checked his pulse again. This time, it wasn't the cursory probe from before, but a thorough examination that lasted quite a while. Afterward, he asked Liu Muyan several questions, finally even looking at his eyelids and tongue.

Seeing the old man busy for a good stretch, Ye Wen waited until the doctor sat back down, deep in thought, before finally speaking, "What does the esteemed elder think?" The old man pondered for a moment before slowly saying, "The frailty of this young master's body... is something I have never encountered in my life!" This first sentence from the doctor made Liu Muyan extremely awkward; he didn't know how to respond. Previously, he could have attributed his condition to arduous study to Ye Wen, whom he considered a scholar.

This man before him was different; he was purely a physician, concerned only with ailments, not poetry or classics!

"If it weren't for this young master still being a virgin, with the pure Yang energy within his body sustaining his life, he would have long since perished. How could he still be alive?" The old man shook his head, glancing at Liu Muyan as he spoke, seemingly astonished that a young master dressed so finely was still preserving his virginity.

In all his years traveling the martial world, this old doctor had observed that men dressed like this were invariably sons of wealthy families. Even scholars often frequented brothels, and keeping a few maids for bed-warming was hardly uncommon.

He didn't know that although Liu Muyan had a good family background, his focus was entirely on his studies, leaving little room for such diversions. Whenever he emerged from piles of scrolls, it was usually to rush to an examination or to buy new books or fine stationery.

However, Ye Wen was greatly surprised by the old man’s words, involuntarily letting out an "Mm?" before immediately asking, "You can even discern whether someone is a virgin?" Hearing Ye Wen’s question, the old man immediately assumed an air of smug satisfaction: "This old fellow dares not boast about much, but this technique of observation and atmospheric reading is exceedingly refined. Although this young master's complexion is ashen and his eyes jaundiced, with a black mist shrouding his crown, there is inherently a current of pure Yang energy within his body. The purity of this energy could only belong to a virgin, so this young master is undoubtedly still a virgin!" Having said this, the old Daoist suddenly turned to Ye Wen: "And this young master... his forehead is full, the divine light in his eyes is contained, and his breathing is long and even. I presume you are a martial artist who has achieved mastery in internal cultivation! Furthermore, if this old one guesses correctly, the young master practices Daoist energy refinement techniques!"

"Oh? How did you see that? Is that observation technique really that powerful?"

The old man smiled and shook his head: "Such matters are understood intuitively, difficult to articulate! I have immersed myself in this technique of observation and atmospheric reading for decades in my life to achieve this level. Even my senior brother never grasped its profound intricacies, so how could it be explained in a few words?" Hearing this, Ye Wen understood: beyond requiring knowledge of extremely subtle indicators, this old man’s art of reading vital energy demanded extensive experience to truly achieve mastery. The old man likely attained this skill precisely because he had traveled extensively, seeing sights from all corners of the land.

"May I ask the esteemed elder's name?" "Easily spoken, easily spoken. This old one’s surname is Chen, and my master gave me the name Yizhong." The old man cheerfully gave his name, even taking the time to explain why he was given that name: "My master was once a royal physician in the court. Later, as he aged, he retired and took me on, intending for me to inherit his mantle and continue as an imperial physician. He named me Yizhong—meaning loyalty to the Emperor—for that reason!" "Oh..." Ye Wen hadn't expected this old man to have such an esteemed background. In his time, that would be equivalent to graduating from the Central Medical Academy, personally tutored by a professor—absolutely top-tier pedigree!

But he couldn't understand why an old man with such a background was currently in such reduced circumstances.

Chen Yizhong seemed to sense Ye Wen's doubt and replied casually with a smile, "The world is unpredictable; there are always things that don't go as planned!"

After chatting for a while, they suddenly remembered Liu Muyan. Ye Wen glanced at his newly accepted student and asked again, "Doctor Chen, how do you think he should be treated?" Chen Yizhong turned to glance at Liu Muyan once more, intending to say something, but finally shook his head and advised Ye Wen: "I observe that although this young master's life is in grave danger, he shows no signs of anxiety, maintaining an air of self-assurance. He must have a plan already. Coupled with the Daoist energy refinement technique he cultivates, it is perfectly suited for treating this weakness. Why bother asking this old fellow..."

Ye Wen said, "Although I know how to regulate his body, I am not versed in medical theory. If Doctor Chen has any miraculous methods, perhaps he can save him some suffering!"

Liu Muyan, who had remained silent until then, suddenly nodded in agreement at this remark: "Indeed, indeed! If Doctor Chen has any marvelous cure, please impart it to me. I will certainly offer a generous reward!" Perhaps the last sentence moved Chen Yizhong, for his eyes suddenly brightened. He smiled and said, "If that is the case, this old one will no longer hold back!" He then meticulously explained the precise method for gradually conditioning Liu Muyan’s frail body.

Ye Wen listened from the side, hearing the old man discuss everything from eating and sleeping to walking—it was utterly comprehensive, leaving no detail untouched. Ye Wen was deeply impressed, realizing how many subtleties were hidden within these small matters. He had always assumed that coming from an era of information explosion, his knowledge surpassed that of the people here. Only now, encountering a true professional, did he realize that his own understanding was merely superficial in comparison.

Chen Yizhong spoke enthusiastically until night fell. The group had drunk countless pots of tea by the time he finished. Afterward, Chen Yizhong casually took out paper and brush and rapidly wrote out several prescriptions.

"These prescriptions must be used sequentially, not mixed, and certainly not taken randomly, or life-saving medicine can turn into fatal poison. Keep them safe and do not mix them up!"

Ye Wen took the prescriptions, then borrowed a brush and numbered them one, two, three, four beneath the formulas: "There, now they won't get mixed up... Just..."

His action momentarily stunned both men; they paused for a moment before grasping Ye Wen's meaning. Liu Muyan didn't think much of it, but Chen Yizhong laughed and said, "The young master's method is quite clever!"

Ye Wen muttered internally, So, in their eyes, this is just a simple trick, not something truly respectable!

But he didn't mind. Instead, he began contemplating how to persuade Doctor Chen to join Mount Shu. His sect was gradually stabilizing, and many matters required careful planning.

The small issue of finding a blacksmith was still unresolved, and Ye Wen suddenly remembered that his sect needed a doctor to treat disciples. While he could handle ordinary bruises and sprains, and the sect possessed remedies for wounds, people inevitably fell ill. If a sudden emergency occurred, having to rush around looking for a doctor would be too troublesome.

It was manageable when there were few people, but once the numbers grew, ensuring everyone was cared for would become difficult. Thus, persuading a physician to join would be an excellent choice for the Shu Mountain Sect.

Moreover, the Shu Mountain Sect currently lacked any substantial industry. Opening a clinic could serve as a source of income, and it would allow them to build good relationships with mountain villagers who gathered herbs and farmers who cultivated them—another significant benefit.

With this in mind, the way Ye Wen looked at Chen Yizhong immediately changed, making the old man feel uneasy. Fortunately, Ye Wen spoke up quickly, preventing the old man from dwelling on it too long: "Doctor Chen, what are your plans for the future?"

"Plans?"

The old man had already enjoyed a free cup of tea and a good amount of food from Ye Wen, and it seemed likely he would get a late-night snack and a generous consultation fee. These things had already made him very happy today, but he hadn't expected this young master to ask about his future intentions.

Upon Ye Wen’s inquiry, the old man recalled his original plan: "I intended to travel around Pingzhou, looking for any rare and exotic items, and then return to the Central Plains to find a place to settle down. This old one is not young anymore and cannot endure this constant wandering."

As he spoke, he tapped his leg. Although he was a physician with considerable knowledge of self-preservation, his body, being old, was inevitably declining, and no amount of maintenance could stop that.

Ye Wen's heart stirred upon hearing this: There's an opening. He smiled and asked again, "Does Doctor Chen have any thoughts about opening a clinic?"

"Opening a clinic?" Chen Yizhong seemed completely taken aback that the conversation had shifted here. He was silent for a moment before finally forcing a bitter smile: "Opening a clinic is not that easy. Putting aside the shop and staff, the capital required is beyond what a wandering barefoot doctor like myself possesses."

He was being conservative. Opening a clinic involved many aspects; just dealing with local powers and influences was troublesome enough. Chen Yizhong lacked connections and capital; the idea of a clinic was something he had only ever dreamed about.

Seeing Chen Yizhong's dejected look, Ye Wen knew he did have the ambition but felt incapable of achieving it. He figured that if he offered the large sweet cake from that day, Chen Yizhong would be overjoyed.

"If Doctor Chen wishes to open a clinic, this humble one is willing to provide financial support!"

"You?" Chen Yizhong’s face initially lit up with joy, but it quickly calmed down as he shook his head: "The young master's clothes are fine; you must be quite wealthy. However, opening a clinic is not that simple..."

He paused, then continued with a bitter smile: "Setting aside other matters, a doctor with no backing like myself cannot even manage the local gangs. If one group demands tribute today and another tomorrow, the bribes alone could ruin my family!"

As he spoke, he seemed to recall something, his expression growing somber, and he even let out a long sigh: "I wonder how my poor child is doing now..."

"Huh?" Ye Wen hadn't expected Chen Yizhong to have a story, but since the elder seemed unwilling to elaborate, Ye Wen didn't press. As for Chen Yizhong's worries, Ye Wen wasn't concerned.

"Doctor Chen need not worry about this. As long as you want to open this clinic, I will handle all those bothersome matters for you!"

With the conversation having reached this point, Chen Yizhong realized he’d have to be a complete fool to not understand. Hearing this, his face broke into a delighted expression, and he immediately asked, "May I ask which lineage the young master belongs to?"

Ye Wen smiled and nodded: "This one is Ye Wen of the Shu Mountain Sect..."

"You are Ye Wen, the Head of Shu Mountain? The one called the Sword Immortal?" Chen Yizhong was quite surprised. He hadn't realized that this young master before him was the Shu Mountain Sword Immortal frequently spoken of in Linshan County.

"Sword Immortal?" Ye Wen was slightly bewildered. "I am indeed the Head of the Shu Mountain Sect, but where did the title 'Sword Immortal' come from?"

Seeing his confusion, Chen Yizhong explained. Ye Wen then learned that after he had demonstrated his feat of controlling a sword from a distance in Linshan County, many people, not understanding the true mechanism, began to revere Ye Wen as an immortal. Since he was using a sword at the time, they called him the Sword Immortal. The name stuck, and those who didn't know better assumed it was Ye Wen's nickname.

Ye Wen himself, having gone to the Tianle Gang and then spent time wandering the wilderness, recently focused entirely on discussing recuperation and calligraphy with Liu Muyan, paying little attention to news from the martial world. Furthermore, he had lost his treasured sword before going to the Tianle Gang and currently carried no weapon. Others simply assumed they were two young masters traveling for leisure, so no martial artists approached them.

Consequently, this nickname had been circulating for some time, known to many, while the person involved remained completely unaware.

"It’s just a parlor trick. I absolutely cannot be called the Sword Immortal!" Ye Wen didn't think being called the Sword Immortal was a good thing. For now, as long as it only circulated within Pingzhou, it was manageable. If it spread further, it would undoubtedly attract countless glory-seekers. While ordinary riff-raff didn't matter, attracting a true master would be disastrous.

"Since Head Ye does not accept the nickname Sword Immortal, I assume you prefer the title Gentleman Sword bestowed upon you by the Tianle Gang?"

Ye Wen almost spat blood upon hearing this phrase. He hadn't even figured out what was happening before he acquired another moniker.

"What kind of name couldn't they pick but Gentleman Sword? Damn it, what is the Tianle Gang implying? Are they cursing me?" He cursed inwardly. Ye Wen was also completely ignorant of the Tianle Gang assigning him a nickname, so he inevitably asked for more details.

Chen Yizhong found Ye Wen's complete ignorance very strange but didn't overthink it. He casually relayed the news he had heard.

It turned out that after Ye Wen left the Tianle Gang, Guo Nu and Pei Wei traveled together towards the Central Plains. However, as soon as they left the branch headquarters, they encountered several martial artists. Many were very interested in the dispute between the Tianle Gang and the Shu Mountain Sect and naturally began inquiring.

Guo Nu's eyes darted around, and he casually remarked, "Ye Wen of the Shu Mountain Sect is truly a gentleman of this age; I deeply admire him!" His comment was originally a casual taunt, implying Ye Wen was unmanly for being indifferent to beauty, and also subtly implying that his departure from the rooftop late at night was akin to the infamous 'gentleman on the beam' (a thief). But besides him and Pei Wei, who knew the full details?

Hearing Elder Guo's praise, others chimed in, agreeing. Someone then added that Ye Wen's sword skills were outstanding, his entire martial prowess centered on the sword. Coupled with Elder Guo's endorsement, perhaps he should be called the Gentleman Sword.

These people assumed that the Shu Mountain Sect and the Tianle Gang had reached a friendly reconciliation, and anyone whom Guo Nu praised must be a considerable figure. They thought bestowing a pleasant nickname on Ye Wen seemed like a good way to curry favor. After a few exchanges, they decided to spread this title throughout the world so that everyone would know Pingzhou had produced a Gentleman Sword.

The news spread with remarkable speed, naturally. Chen Yizhong, the elderly physician who constantly moved around, had also heard of it. Furthermore, because Ye Wen was slowed down by Liu Muyan to a crawl, the old doctor, who had been lingering in the south, actually managed to travel ahead of Ye Wen. This explained why Chen Yizhong knew the nickname while Ye Wen had never heard of it.

Hearing that the nickname was attributed to Guo Nu, Ye Wen's teeth itched with anger. Moreover, Ye Wen could guess Guo Nu's true intention: first, saddle him with the name of a 'gentleman' to prevent him from attacking the Tianle Gang while they were away, suggesting they should wait until their return from the Central Plains for a proper contest.

Otherwise, if they praised him as a gentleman now, and then he attacked their branch headquarters while they were gone, it wouldn't take long for the nickname to acquire another word: Hypocritical Gentleman Sword.

"I never expected the young master to be the renowned Gentleman Sword, Head Ye Wen! This old one truly has eyes but fails to see!" He was unaware that Ye Wen was boiling inside, and he merely chuckled, trying to smooth things over.

Meanwhile, Liu Muyan secretly breathed a sigh of relief. "Since Master has earned a title like Gentleman Sword, he must be a good person in the martial world. It seems the Shu Mountain Sect is indeed righteous!"

Although he had convinced himself earlier with reasoning that was almost childish, he couldn't shake off a lingering unease. Hearing the widespread acclaim from the martial world finally dispelled his anxiety. He secretly congratulated himself: At least I didn't follow the wrong person! Then he looked forward to the prospect of diligently practicing calligraphy with Ye Wen after returning to the mountain.

Ye Wen forced a smile, engaging in pleasantries with the old man. Finally, suppressing his irritation, he asked again, "Since Doctor Chen knows of me, this makes things easier. In truth, I wish to invite Doctor Chen to join my Shu Mountain Sect. You wouldn't need to do much normally, just treat our disciples when they are injured or ill!"

"Of course, I will also fund and establish a clinic in Shushan County, with Doctor Chen as the head. The annual profits from that clinic will be split equally between my Shu Mountain Sect and Doctor Chen. How about that?"

Chen Yizhong smiled and nodded, agreeing: "Since it is Head Ye of the Shu Mountain Sect inviting me personally, it would be impolite to refuse. I accept this matter. I hope Head Ye will grant me much care in the future!" He was no longer concerned about all those trivial matters. With the backing of the Shu Mountain Sect, he figured those miscellaneous minor sects wouldn't dare cause him trouble. As for the major powers? That seemed beyond his need to consider.

"Since that is settled, let us rest for the night and continue our journey tomorrow!" Seeing that it was late, Ye Wen concluded the conversation for the day. However, as he walked back to his room, he kept muttering, "Gentleman Sword? Is my connection with that old fellow Yue Buqun never going to end?"

…………………… PS: I don't particularly like making single-chapter pleas, so I usually only ask for votes at the end of the chapter. I don't know how many people will see this, but... we are getting further and further from the tenth one...

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