Wandering Swordsman |

In the afternoon, the sunlight shone on the Elite Academy, making it warm and bright.

The twenty people on the training list have already packed their bags and are ready to embark on their respective journeys.

Everyone was dressed neatly, with swords at their waists and light bags on their backs, their faces showing expressions that were either resolute or tense.

The curator stood personally in front of the gate, his gentle gaze sweeping over each young person about to depart.

His eyes were full of encouragement and trust, as if silently telling them: You are the hope of the future of martial arts. No matter how many difficulties and obstacles lie ahead, please move forward bravely.

"Gentlemen," the curator's voice was steady and powerful, "we part today, and I don't know when you will return after completing your training. But please remember, no matter what difficulties you encounter during your training, never give up easily. The path of the martial world is arduous, but it is from this moment on that you will grow into true heroes."

......

After the curator finished speaking, Shen Mo whispered to Murong Qing beside him, "Qing'er, be careful during this training. If you encounter danger, don't worry about the training; saving your life is the most important thing."

Murong Qing turned her head slightly and saw that Shen Mo's deep eyes were filled with concern and worry. She nodded gently, a hint of determination flashing in her eyes: "I will, and so will you. Remember to stay in touch. No matter what happens, survival comes first."

Shen Mo nodded, a warm feeling welling up inside him. He hadn't felt this way in a long time, and this made him secretly vow to cherish Murong Qing even more from now on.

With a command given, the twenty young martial artists went their separate ways to their respective mission locations.

After leaving Nanjing, Shen Mo headed southwest along the ancient road.

Finally, on a sunny afternoon, Shen Mo arrived in Dali. This ancient city is nestled against mountains and beside water, with beautiful scenery and fresh, pleasant air. The moment he stepped through the city gates of Dali, he felt as if he had entered a paradise.

The buildings in Dali City are arranged in a pleasing, staggered pattern, with winding roads paved with bluestone slabs and quaint Bai ethnic minority houses on both sides. The carved window frames under the eaves and the red lanterns hanging on the walls all exude a simple yet elegant atmosphere.

Street vendors hawked various local snacks, filling the air with enticing aromas. Shen Mo strolled through the area, savoring the unique charm of this town.

Stepping out of the city gate, Shen Mo arrived at the shore of Erhai Lake. The lake surface was like a giant mirror, reflecting the blue sky, white clouds, and distant verdant mountains.

A gentle breeze rippled across the water, creating shimmering waves that sparkled like countless diamonds.

The weeping willows along the riverbank sway gently in the wind, as if dancing for the guests who have come from afar.

Several small boats floated quietly on the lake, and fishermen leisurely cast their nets to catch fish. Occasionally, a clear bird song or two would break the tranquility.

Shen Mo sat on a huge rock by the lake, closed his eyes, concentrated, and took a deep breath.

The scent, a blend of the fresh fragrance of lake water and the aroma of flowers and grass, made him feel incredibly comfortable.

At that moment, he seemed to merge into this world, becoming a part of nature.

Turning around, Shen Mo's gaze was drawn to the Cangshan Mountain not far away.

The majestic Cangshan Mountain rises straight into the clouds, its summit perpetually covered in snow, resembling a silver dragon coiled in the sky.

The mountainside is shrouded in mist, creating an ethereal and mysterious fairyland. The mountain is covered with lush vegetation, from low shrubs to tall pines, layer upon layer, verdant and verdant.

As dusk fell, Shen Mo returned to Dali City.

As night fell and the city lights came on, the entire city was enveloped in a soft glow, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Shen Mo found an inn to stay at, had a simple dinner, and then went to bed early. Outside the window, moonlight spilled into the inn's courtyard, creating dappled shadows that resembled a flowing painting.

......

The next morning, Shen Mo left the inn and walked along the winding path towards Cangshan Mountain.

The morning mist had not completely dissipated, and the air was filled with a faint dampness, mixed with the fresh scent of earth and grass.

In the distance, the majestic Cangshan Mountains stand tall and imposing, their snow-capped peaks shimmering with golden light under the rising sun.

Upon arriving at the gates of the Diancang Sect, one sees several disciples standing guard, their eyes warily watching everyone who approaches. Their attire is neat, swords are at their waists, and their expressions are serious, demonstrating the strict discipline and well-trained nature of the Diancang Sect.

"Halt!" A disciple stepped forward to block Shen Mo's path as he approached, his voice cold and unyielding. "This is Diancang Sect territory. Unauthorized personnel are prohibited from entering!"

Shen Mo stopped, smiled slightly, took out a letter from the curator from his pocket, and handed it over: "I was sent by the Martial Alliance. This is my mission statement."

The disciple took the letter, examined it carefully, and after confirming that it was correct, said with a slightly respectful tone, "So it is Young Master Shen from the Elite Academy. Please come in." After saying that, he turned to the other disciples to signal them to let him pass, and personally led the way to bring Shen Mo into the territory of the Diancang Sect.

After passing through a series of bluestone steps, Shen Mo finally arrived at the main hall of the Diancang Sect.

The main hall is magnificent, with carved beams and painted rafters. Everything here appears so orderly, exuding an atmosphere of solemnity and reverence.

As soon as they stepped into the main hall, Duan Qianya, the leader of Diancang Sect, came out to greet them. He was dressed in a long black robe, his face dignified yet gentle, and his eyes revealed a depth and wisdom.

Upon seeing Shen Mo, Duan Qianya immediately smiled, quickly stepped forward, and clasped his hands in a salute: "Young Hero Shen, it hasn't been long since we parted at Wudang, and it's truly fate that we meet again today."

Shen Mo quickly returned the greeting: "Sect Leader Duan, you're too kind."

Duan Qianya waved his hand gently, indicating that there was no need to be formal: "Young Master Shen, you saved our Diancang Sect disciple at Wudang not long ago, and the Diancang Sect has always remembered this kindness. In addition, since you are visiting this time as a member of the Martial Alliance, Diancang will treat you with the highest honors."

As he spoke, Duan Qianya personally led the way, taking Shen Mo to an elegant courtyard.

The courtyard was exquisitely arranged, with pavilions and towers scattered in a harmonious manner, surrounded by artificial hills and flowing water, resembling a beautiful painting. Several plum trees were dotted with blossoms, emitting a faint fragrance.

"Young Master Shen, please rest here for a while." Duan Qianya pointed to a pavilion in the center of the courtyard. "This is the quietest place in our Diancang Sect. I hope you like it."

Shen Mo looked around, inwardly praising the exquisite craftsmanship and dedication of the Diancang Sect. "Thank you, Sect Leader Duan. The scenery of Diancang is truly breathtaking."

Duan Qianya smiled and said, "Young Master Shen has come from afar and must be a little tired. I have already ordered someone to prepare tea and snacks. Please enjoy them at your leisure." After saying that, he clapped his hands, and several disciples filed in carrying trays, on which were placed exquisite tea sets and various kinds of snacks.

Shen Mo sat in the pavilion, sipping fragrant tea and enjoying exquisite pastries, experiencing the warm hospitality of the Diancang School.