Wandering Swordsman |

"Qing'er," Murong Liang said gently, "I received some news about Shen Mo today." Upon hearing this name, Murong Qing's eyes lit up instantly, and a bright smile bloomed on her face. "He encountered some trouble on his way out of Yimen County, and his whereabouts are currently unknown."

Upon hearing the news, the smile vanished from Murong Qing's face, replaced by deep worry and unease. Her heart pounded, and countless possibilities flashed through her mind. "Grandpa, is it true?" she asked, trying to remain calm, but her voice trembled involuntarily.

Seeing his granddaughter's change, Murong Liang felt a pang of heartache. He realized from Murong Qing's reaction what Shen Mo truly meant to her. He then comforted her, "Qing'er, I know you're upset, but we need to analyze the situation rationally and see what we can do."

Murong Qing took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. Her eyes were firm, as if she had made up her mind. "Grandpa, did the information you received explain the specific circumstances of his disappearance?" Although her voice was calm, the urgency in it made Murong Liang's heart tighten.

Looking into his granddaughter's eyes, Murong Liang knew that once she made up her mind, it was difficult to change it. He sighed and said slowly, "Qing'er, don't be impulsive. I will arrange for someone to investigate Shen Mo's matter. In the days to come, you can stay at home and focus on learning martial arts and business management." His tone carried an unquestionable authority, but also revealed his concern and worry for his granddaughter.

However, Murong Qing did not back down. She tentatively took a step forward, her gaze becoming even more determined. "Grandpa, I know you're worried about my safety, but Shen Mo is very important to me. I must go find him." Her voice was soft, but full of resolve.

Upon hearing this, Murong Liang's expression darkened slightly, a hint of helplessness flashing in his eyes. He understood Murong Qing's resolve, but he was also well aware of the dangers of the martial world and didn't want his precious granddaughter to be in peril. "Unless you reach the age of marriage, you will not be allowed to leave Luoyang again." Murong Liang's words were resolute, his face expressionless, but his heart was filled with complex emotions.

Murong Qing felt a pang of sorrow upon hearing this, but she knew her grandfather's words were not without reason. She nodded gently, a hint of understanding in her eyes, "Grandpa, I understand." She turned and walked towards the door, gazing at the dark night sky outside, her thoughts swirling.

Back in her room, Murong Qing sat on the edge of the bed, her hands clenched into fists, trying to calm her turbulent emotions. She knew that to find Shen Mo and protect him, she had to improve her abilities as quickly as possible. Therefore, she decided to redouble her efforts from now on, not only to improve her martial arts skills but also to secure her position within the family.

......

The next morning, sunlight streamed through the window, adding warmth to the room. Murong Qing rose early, changed into her training clothes, and went to the courtyard. She stood there, closed her eyes, and focused her mind, sensing the surrounding atmosphere. Not far away, Liu Xiaorong was practicing her swordplay. Seeing Murong Qing appear, she smiled slightly and walked over.

"Qing'er, what's wrong with you today? Why are you practicing so early?" Liu Xiaorong asked gently.

"Master, I want to improve my martial arts as soon as possible," Murong Qing replied respectfully, his eyes shining with determination.

Liu Xiaorong nodded, then drew her longsword and demonstrated a complex sword technique. Her movements were as fluid as flowing water, each move imbued with profound inner strength. Murong Qing watched intently, silently memorizing every detail.

After several months of arduous training, Murong Qing's martial arts skills improved significantly. Under the personal tutelage of the clan head, she gradually demonstrated leadership qualities, which solidified her position within the clan and earned her the recognition and support of many elders.

However, whenever the night is quiet, she always thinks of Shen Mo, her heart filled with longing. She knows she can't just give up hope of finding him, but at this moment she is powerless, and can only turn this longing into motivation, driving herself to keep growing.

......

Rewinding to after Shen Mo and Fu Sheng left the valley, the two traveled swiftly northwest. The scenery gradually changed from lush forests to rugged, treacherous mountain paths, and as they ascended, the air became increasingly crisp and clear. Finally, on a sunny afternoon, they arrived at Qilin Village.

Qilin Village is nestled deep within the Daliang Mountains of western Sichuan, surrounded by peaks in a strategically important location. Despite its remoteness, it has clearly undergone several renovations and does not appear dilapidated. While not as luxurious as Jingtian Pavilion, it surpasses, if not more so, the Black Wind Gang's. The imposing gate, constructed of sturdy wood and stone, is adorned with exquisite carvings that tell the story of Qilin Village's history and glory.

When Shen Mo followed Fu Sheng to the village gate, many people came out to greet him. Their gazes towards Fu Sheng were filled with feigned joy and happiness; however, Shen Mo keenly sensed a hint of unease. There seemed to be some complex emotion hidden in their eyes, not entirely genuine delight. Perhaps it was out of respect for Fu Sheng, or perhaps there was another hidden reason, which made Shen Mo more wary.

Fu Sheng seemed completely unconcerned by the slightly awkward gazes. He went straight to the point and asked, "How are the preparations for my son's wedding banquet going?"

An elderly man stepped forward and respectfully replied, "Chief, everything is ready. We are just waiting for the auspicious day to hold the wedding banquet."

Upon hearing this news, Fu Sheng smiled with satisfaction. "Very good." He then turned to Shen Mo beside him, his tone tinged with pride. "After our son's marriage, you will continue preparing for the enthronement ceremony. I intend to pass the position of chieftain to him."

Hearing this, Shen Mo felt a surge of emotion. Fu Sheng's sincere attitude towards his son reminded Shen Mo of his own family. Although his impression of Fu Sheng was still complex, at this moment, he saw Fu Sheng as a father.

Upon entering Qilin Village, Shen Mo discovered that everything here was far more orderly than he had imagined. The village's buildings were rationally laid out, the roads were wide and clean, and various flowers, trees, and shrubs were planted on both sides, filling the air with a faint floral fragrance. Occasionally, a few members of Qilin Village in neat uniforms would pass by, and upon seeing Fu Sheng, they would respectfully bow, showing their respect for their village leader.

Fu Sheng led Shen Mo to a magnificent hall, one of the core areas of Qilin Village. The hall was ornately decorated yet dignified, with a huge wooden table in the center, upon which were set exquisite tea sets and several plates of fresh fruit.

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