Also referred to as Shen Da Shan, he is the father of Shen Xixi and a scholar who passed the imperial examination. He works as a county clerk, but his position is insecure after the previous magistrate was transferred. He has been raising funds to grease palms for a new appointment. He is frustrated by family medical expenses and considers using money meant for treatment for his career. He once brought home a mistress, Ruyan, and a concubine, Yan Liu, who later stole their wealth. He is depicted as a struggling patriarch caught between family duties and personal ambitions.
