Wandering Swordsman |

Shen Mo then embarked on his journey to Hangzhou with the martial artist. Throughout the trip, Shen Mo remained silent, his mind constantly replaying past events, attempting to find a clue in his memory. The martial artist, on the other hand, frequently observed Shen Mo's expression, seemingly trying to decipher his thoughts.

A few days later, they finally arrived in Hangzhou. This bustling city was full of life and energy, with people coming and going on the streets. However, as they approached Shenjiazhuang, Shen Mo truly experienced what magnificence meant.

Shenjiazhuang is situated in an open area outside Hangzhou city, surrounded by high walls. Its imposing gate tower, adorned with golden copper studs on its vermilion gate, exudes solemnity and grandeur. The lifelike stone lions in front of the gate seem to guard this mystical land. The entire estate covers a vast area; from afar, pavilions and towers are scattered in a harmonious arrangement, shaded by lush trees, and the crystal-clear pond reflects the blue sky and white clouds.

Then the martial artist led Shen Mo straight through the gate. The guards at the entrance, upon seeing the black-clad martial artist, immediately performed a standard salute, bowing slightly and placing their hands in a fist salute in front of their chests. "Guard Lin!" the guard called out respectfully. Guard Lin nodded, his gaze unwavering, and then ordered, "Quickly inform the patriarch that I have brought Shen Mo." His voice was deep and powerful, each word carrying unquestionable authority.

The guard dared not delay and quickly turned and jogged inside to report. Lin, the head guard, led Shen Mo leisurely into the manor, his steps unhurried, as if he were the master of the place. The servants they encountered along the way all turned to look at him, their gazes filled with awe towards Lin, while their eyes held a mixture of curiosity and scrutiny towards Shen Mo.

Stepping into the manor, Shen Mo was even more stunned by the scene before him. Winding paths paved with bluestone were lined with various precious flowers and trees, filling the air with a faint floral fragrance. In the courtyards, artificial hills and flowing water, winding paths leading to secluded spots—every detail revealed the owner's taste and refinement. In the distance, the buildings, with their carved beams and painted rafters, shone with unparalleled luxury. Shen Mo's pace slowed involuntarily; he inwardly marveled, "This Shen Family Manor is so magnificent." Although he wasn't particularly interested in wealth, the sheer scale of the residence still astonished him.

The martial artist seemed to notice Shen Mo's astonishment and smiled, saying, "Our Shen Family Manor is well-known throughout Hangzhou, and we also hold a certain position in the martial arts world. Our patriarch is upright, charitable, and deeply loved by the people." A hint of pride shone in Lin the Guard's eyes as he continued, "However, these are all external things. What truly allows the Shen Family Manor to stand strong is the wisdom and magnanimity of our patriarch."

Shen Mo nodded, but his mind was filled with even more doubt: why would such a prominent family be involved with an orphan like himself? Filled with questions, he followed the guard, Lin, through several corridors, to the main hall of the Shen Family Manor. The scenery along the way was beautiful, but he had no heart to appreciate it; his thoughts were tangled like a jumbled mess.

Stepping into the hall, a faint scent of sandalwood wafts through the air. The hall is spacious and bright, adorned with antique and elegant calligraphy and paintings. In the center stands a long mahogany table, upon which tea sets are neatly arranged. An elderly man in a blue robe stands with his back to the door by the window, seemingly gazing at the scenery in the courtyard. Although his back reveals his advanced age, his straight spine indicates that he is a man of vigor and vitality.

"Master, I've brought Shen Mo." The guard's voice broke the silence, tinged with respect. The old man slowly turned, revealing a weathered yet dignified face. His hair was completely white, but his eyes remained sharp as an eagle's, seemingly able to see through people's hearts. Although time had etched deep wrinkles on his face, he was still agile, his muscles subtly defined, indicating his continued strength.

Shen Tianxing's gaze fell on Shen Mo, and he stared blankly for a while, a hint of excitement flashing in his eyes before he regained his composure. He took a few steps forward, scrutinizing Shen Mo carefully, as if trying to find some answer in his face. "You are Shen Mo?" Shen Tianxing's voice was deep and powerful, each word carrying an unquestionable authority.

Shen Mo was slightly taken aback, then respectfully replied, "That's right." His voice was full of curiosity, mixed with a hint of doubt.

A barely perceptible smile appeared on Shen Tianxing's lips. "Five years have passed since I heard from you. I'm so glad to finally see you." As he spoke, a complex emotion flickered in his eyes, a mixture of relief and感慨 (gǎnkǎi, a feeling of deep emotion or reflection). His gaze seemed to pierce through the mists of time, revealing those long-buried memories.

Shen Mo went straight to the point: "May I ask what brings Master Shen to investigate my parents?"

Upon hearing this, Shen Tianxing took a deep breath and gestured for Shen Mo to sit down. "Come, have a cup of tea first." He then personally poured Shen Mo a cup of fragrant Longjing tea. Shen Mo took the teacup, feeling its warmth, and his tension eased slightly. He took a small sip, and the aroma of the tea spread in his mouth, seemingly calming his mind as well.

"Is your father named Shen Lang?" Shen Tianxing asked slowly, his tone becoming much gentler.

Upon hearing this, Shen Mo shook his head. "My father's name is Shen Hai."

Upon hearing this, Shen Tianxing's brows furrowed slightly, as if he had heard an unexpected answer, a hint of disappointment flashing across his face. His fingers unconsciously tapped lightly on the table, as if he were pondering something important. Then, as if he had thought of something, he asked hopefully, "What is your mother's surname?"

Shen Mo's gaze was somewhat confused, but he still answered firmly, "My mother's surname is Wen."

Upon hearing this, Shen Tianxing's face lit up with joy, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Wen..." he repeated softly, as if the name had stirred up some distant memories. "Have your parents ever talked about their youth?" His voice was full of anticipation, as if the answer to this question could unlock all the mysteries.

Shen Mo shook his head slightly, a hint of regret in his voice: "My parents never talked about their youth. They always worked silently, taking care of me and the people in the village, and never mentioned the past."

Shen Tianxing's eyes deepened, as if he were lost in memories of the past. "So that's how it is..." he murmured to himself, lost in thought. After a moment, he raised his head, his gaze refocusing on Shen Mo, his tone becoming gentler and more concerned: "Shen Mo, although your parents didn't tell you about their past, it's because they have their own secrets and a past they don't want to talk about."

Shen Mo nodded, but his mind was still full of questions. "Master Shen, why are you so concerned about my parents? Do they have some special connection with Shen Family Manor?"