In the Wu family hall, the richest man in Guangzhou, Wu Gao, spoke in his steady, resonant voice:"Tonger, to venture out into the world, one must live without guilt in this life. If the chance arises, you should follow your elder brother's example and serve the court. But… how are your martial skills?"
Hearing these words, Wu Tong's heart leapt. If his father was already granting tacit approval, then what could not be done? He replied, "A few days ago, a great master passed on to me a set of supreme martial arts, telling me that when I walk the jianghu in the future, no matter how formidable the opponent, I should be able to protect myself without worry."
Madam Wu, seated to the side, furrowed her brows. "And how do we know this skill is truly effective?"
Wu Tong answered quickly, "On my way home today, I ran into the same bully who once harassed Zhao Rou—he had brought men to seek revenge. I decided to put my new skills to the test, and to my surprise, I subdued and killed all three in one stroke!"
At first, both Wu Gao and Madam Wu were concerned at hearing he had met an enemy. But upon learning he had slain three men, Madam Wu let out a startled cry:"Heavens! How could you kill people?"
Wu Tong realized he had spoken too freely in his pride. "Mother, you don't know— I had no intention of taking lives. They tried to kill me first, and in the end, were struck down by their own aggression."
Wu Gao's brows knitted slightly. "To venture forth and broaden your horizons is not a waste of life. But remember—where mercy can be shown, show it. Unless there is no choice, never take life lightly. So, this journey of yours—have you decided where to go?"
Wu Tong thought at once of what "Fearless" Lü Qiang had said: The world is in chaos; An Lushan has raised troops in Fanyang. The people of the north suffer and are in dire need of aid. Yet he did not wish to worry his parents, so he said, "Naturally I will roam far and wide, traveling northward. Along the way, I'll visit my elder brother in Hebei Province."
It was not a lie—he truly intended to see his brother, Wu Xun, now serving as an official there.
Wu Gao brightened. "Your elder brother is serving in Hebei, and you haven't seen each other in years. This trip will be good for you—there are a thousand li to travel, with famous mountains and great rivers along the way. Seeing the customs of the land is worth more than reading countless books. When will you depart?"
Wu Tong replied, "Once I've prepared the necessary provisions, I'll set out in three days."
Wu Gao nodded. "Before leaving, you should first visit your master, the White Cloud Immortal, in the White Cloud Mountains."
Wu Tong cupped his fists. "I understand. After setting out, I will first go to White Cloud Mountain to inform my teacher."
Madam Wu, her face touched with sadness, said softly, "Tonger, if you have no business these three days, spend more time with your mother."
Wu Tong knew well her reluctance to let him go. "Rest assured, Mother. If I have no duties these days, I will stay at home and accompany you."
At that moment, Zhao Rou stepped lightly before Wu Tong. Her head was slightly lowered, her expression solemn. Without warning, she dropped to her knees, her clear voice ringing in the quiet hall:"Master Wu Tong, this humble girl, Zhao Rou, thanks you for the kindness of burying my father."
Her tone was sincere, her eyes bright with gratitude.
Wu Tong was caught off guard. Seeing the young woman suddenly perform such a formal salute, he quickly moved to help her up. But as she lifted her head, their eyes met—and in that brief instant, time seemed to freeze. Their hearts each skipped a beat.
Her gaze was clear and pure, tinged with maidenly shyness. Wu Tong, too, was momentarily stunned, countless thoughts flashing through his mind. Not knowing how to respond to the sudden stirring in his chest, he coughed lightly, a faint flush rising to his ears."This was a matter of chivalry," he said softly. "It is what one ought to do."
Madam Wu had been watching, a knowing smile curling at the corners of her lips. "Rou'er, it's getting late. Go and rest."
Zhao Rou composed herself, bowed, and said, "Master, Madam, Young Master—Rou'er will take her leave." She turned, her steps light, her sleeves brushing the air like a drifting breeze, and disappeared beyond the courtyard.
When she was gone, Wu Gao lifted his teacup, took a slow sip, and said evenly, "Tonger, to venture out into the world, you must live without shame. If fate allows, serve your country as your brother has done. But remember—mercy where possible. Do you understand?"
The candlelight flickered, casting long shadows on the walls. Between the call of the jianghu and the pull of family ties, Wu Tong's path was set. The night deepened, and the conversation of father and son slowly came to an end…