[Fantasy] Water Margin Heroes (Complete) - 4-6

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Chapter Twenty-Seven: A Helpless

Move Upon learning of Huyan Zhuo's defeat, Gao Qiu hurriedly went to Cai Jing's residence for help. This time, Cai Jing didn't keep Gao Qiu waiting long, immediately sending someone to lead him to the study.

After exchanging greetings, Cai Jing noticed Gao Qiu's unease and asked, "Grand Commandant, what troubles you?"

Gao Qiu sighed, "Huyan Zhuo has been defeated, and his entire army has been wiped out."

Cai Jing hadn't received this news and found it hard to believe, asking doubtfully, "According to the itinerary, he should have just arrived at Liangshan territory. How could he have been defeated so quickly?"

Gao Qiu said, "It's truly perplexing. Huyan Zhuo came from a family with a strong martial arts tradition, and I've witnessed his skills; he's a first-rate general. Yet, he was captured alive in a single exchange by a young man from Liangshan." Later, Peng Qi led his troops to try and recapture their commander, but they mistakenly entered the muddy marshes by the lake. Their heavily armored cavalry became useless and were surrounded. Peng Qi then surrendered with his men. Fortunately, the marshland was overgrown with reeds, and the bandits were busy recruiting infantry, so one cavalryman managed to escape and return to report the news.

Cai Jing frowned and said, "So, there are some intelligent and brave men among the Liangshan bandits. It's best to eliminate them as soon as possible to prevent them from growing into a powerful and difficult-to-control force."

Gao Qiu's two recommendations had all resulted in surrendering to the bandits, so naturally, he dared not let the emperor know. Hearing this, he could only grit his teeth and say, "The Liangshan bandits are nothing but petty thieves, nothing to worry about! It's Wang Qing of Huaixi who has repeatedly defeated the government troops and occupied several prefectures and counties; he needs to be eliminated as soon as possible. I've heard that my eldest son has long wanted to lead an army into battle; perhaps I should recommend him as commander this time, and with the assistance of elite troops and fierce generals, there shouldn't be any major dangers."

In recent years, Cai Jing had seized absolute power, and many of his sons had become his protégés, hoping to gain some protection. Cai Jing's greed was insatiable, so he extended his reach to the Imperial Guards. First, he allowed his son-in-law, Liang Zhongshu, to control the 30,000 Imperial Guards in Beijing; later, he wanted his son, Cai You, to serve in the army. However, this was thwarted by the combined resistance of Gao Qiu and Tong Guan.

Seeing that Gao Qiu was willing to let his son lead troops in order to protect himself, Cai Jing laughed and said, "What the Grand Commandant says is very true, but we cannot neglect Liangshan. The bandits killed the prefects of Dongping and Qingzhou recently, so we must send two skilled warriors to ensure that the area is not disturbed by bandits."

Gao Qiu said, "Zhang Shuye, the Supervising Secretary, is well-versed in military strategy. Why not appoint him as the prefect of Dongping? He can ensure the peace of the region." What

Cai Jing had just said was nothing more than empty words. Both armies had been wiped out in the blink of an eye; he did not believe that anyone could stand against Liangshan with the strength of a single prefecture. Recalling that Zhang Shuye had once followed Zhang Kegong in impeaching him, Gao Qiu also wanted to use someone else to do his dirty work, saying, "This man is brave and resourceful, and is capable of great things. I will recommend him tomorrow. As for the matter of Huyan Zhuo, we might as well put it on hold for now, and when winter comes, we can report that the gentry are suffering from acclimatization problems and have temporarily withdrawn their troops to their camps."

Gao Qiu breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing Cai Jing's promise. As long as he communicated with Wang Fu again, he thought that no one would dare to step forward again. However, he still needed to give Tong Guan some sweeteners to keep him quiet. Thinking of this, he also said, "Grand Tutor Tong has just achieved a great victory over the Western Xia, and his troops are well-trained and his generals are brave. This time, how about we recommend his general Wang Bing to lead troops to accompany you on the expedition?"

Cai Jing did not know much about military affairs, but he nodded in agreement.

One of them was proficient in calligraphy and painting, and was good at scheming; the other was proficient in playing musical instruments, singing and dancing, and wrestling. Little did they know that Tong Guan's victory was due to the support of several military families in the Northwest, such as Zhong, Liu, and Zhe.

Unexpectedly, the expedition ended in a disastrous failure. Fortunately, several powerful and treacherous officials were involved and managed to fabricate military achievements, leading to Cai You's further promotion and increased trust in the emperor. What Cai Jing didn't expect was that his son would soon turn against him, and he would cultivate a political rival.

Leaving aside the infighting among the treacherous officials, let's talk about Zhang Shuye. After receiving his appointment letter, he reviewed the situation in Dongping Prefecture and Liangshan and was greatly troubled.

Dongping Prefecture's finances had been completely looted by the Liangshan bandits. Although some had been distributed to the people, forcibly taking it would inevitably cause many families to be ruined, and the plan to mobilize the people to resist the bandits would be ruined. However, recruiting local troops required a large amount of money and supplies, which were not mentioned in the official documents.

After much deliberation, Zhang Shuye decided to personally demand some money and supplies. Although he always disdained associating with powerful and treacherous officials, he knew that without Cai Jing, nothing would be easily accomplished. He had no choice but to bite the bullet and visit Cai Jing's residence.

Cai Jing already considered Zhang Shuye a dying man, so when he heard Zhang Shuye request an audience, he didn't refuse.

After the two exchanged greetings, Cai Jing said with a reluctant expression, "The arrival of Ji Zhong Zhang Shuye's calligraphy is truly an honor to my humble abode. Ji Zhong's transfer to an outlying post means the court has lost another outspoken official."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Shuye couldn't help but blush. In recent years, powerful and treacherous officials had been in power, and he hadn't submitted a memorial in a long time. He couldn't accept the title of "outspoken official." However, not wanting to say it directly, he could only say, "It has been my lifelong wish to go to the local area and do some practical things for the people, and I must thank the Grand Tutor for making it possible."

Cai Jing said, "I didn't do much in this matter; it was Grand Commandant Gao who recommended you. With Ji Zhong's talent and wisdom, you will surely benefit the people of this region. If Ji Zhong encounters any difficulties in the local area, you can write a letter, and I will certainly take care of it for you."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Shuye hurriedly said, "Thank you for your care, Grand Tutor. There is something I need your help with right now." Cai Jing

was only being polite, but seeing that Zhang Shuye was actually taking advantage of the situation, he had no choice but to say: “Ji Zhong, please speak,”

Zhang Shuye said. “The Dongping Prefecture’s funds and grain have been completely looted by the Liangshan bandits, and I now have to recruit local troops to defend against them. Could you perhaps allocate some funds and grain?”

Upon hearing this, Cai Jing feigned difficulty and said, “As you know, the national treasury has been empty in recent years. Last year’s floods in the southeast further exacerbated the situation. There is no surplus funds or grain. Ji Zhong, you might as well collect next year’s taxes from the people to make up for it.”

Zhang Shuye also knew that in recent years the emperor had extensively built gardens, incurring huge expenses. Although taxes had increased considerably, it was still insufficient to cover expenditures, and the national treasury was not as full as the treasuries of a few powerful and treacherous officials. Hearing this, Zhang Shuye said with a hint of doubt, "This year, the north has suffered from severe drought. If taxes are levied for another year, it might incite a popular uprising."

Cai Jing replied, "If Ji Zhong is reluctant to take from the common people, why not target the local gentry? Since the founding of the dynasty, Emperor Taizu has never suppressed land annexation. These gentry have accumulated wealth over generations.

With a little effort from Ji Zhong, they will surely have enough money and provisions." Zhang Shuye was taken aback. Although he also hated those local powerful figures, punishing them seemed beyond his capabilities. He asked doubtfully, "Those powerful local figures have deep-rooted influence. I'm afraid it's beyond my ability to deal with them."

Cai Jing said, "If Ji Zhong wants to regulate the local areas, I should also contribute. However, the power dynamics in the court are complex, and it's not something I can decide alone. If Ji Zhong can spare 100,000 strings of cash, and I can make some connections, there should be no further obstacles."

Hearing Cai Jing's words, Zhang Shuye realized what he was planning, but he was also taken aback by his ambition and couldn't answer for a moment.

Cai Jing, however, was not afraid that Zhang Shuye would refuse. Seeing this, he said, "If Ji Zhong has any difficulties, then pretend I didn't say anything earlier. However, Ji Zhong will have to find another way to

deal with the money and grain." Zhang Shuye had thought about this for a long time before coming. He knew that although Cai Jing's move was a bribe, it was the only way to solve the problem of money and grain at present. Besides, those gentry who exploited the people should also be taught a lesson. Hearing this, he hurriedly said, "Grand Tutor's plan is indeed the only good solution at present. Even if Ji Zhong has difficulties, he has to play the villain. After I take office, I will have someone send money. At that time, I will have to trouble Grand Tutor."

Seeing that his goal had been achieved, Cai Jing found Zhang Shuye more approachable and wanted to invite him to stay for dinner.

Zhang Shuye did not want to deal with this ruthless and treacherous official anymore, so he took his leave.

Chapter Twenty-Eight: Taking Office and Making a Fire

After leaving Cai Jing's residence, Zhang Shuye went straight home. While instructing his family to prepare the carriage and horses, Zhang Shuye sent someone to inform Liu Renjie, who had also been appointed as a prefectural judge (a position established in the Song Dynasty for prefectural officials to jointly handle government affairs; their status was slightly lower than that of the prefectural governor, but they held real power to jointly sign prefectural affairs and supervise officials, and were known as "supervisors of the prefecture").

Early the next morning, Zhang Shuye took his family out of the city. After waiting for a while at Shili Slope, Liu Renjie finally arrived slowly from a distance with a few servants.

Zhang Shuye's eldest son, Zhang Bofen, had been waiting impatiently for half a day. Seeing Liu Renjie still loitering in the distance, he said, "Father, this Liu Renjie is your subordinate, yet he is so disrespectful to his superior. He's truly arrogant. We must teach him a lesson so he won't get away with riding on our heads."

Zhang Shuye shook his head and said, "This man is a student of Liang Shicheng; we cannot easily offend him."

His second son, Zhang Zhongxiong, was even more impetuous. While at the Imperial Academy, he had participated in several joint petitions against Cai Jing, but they were all intercepted by Cai Jing and dropped. Hearing this, he said disdainfully, "A student of the sage, actually studying under a eunuch—what a waste of his sagely learning. I'll ask him later what that eunuch taught him."

Zhang Shuye couldn't help but shake his head inwardly. He himself was born into a military family, but the court favored civil officials over military ones, and he had never been given important positions. That's why he sent his second son to the Imperial Academy, hoping he would become a civil official. Unexpectedly, his son hadn't learned anything of substance but had instead picked up the empty talk of a scholar. He truly wondered if his decision had been correct.

Seeing his second son's still disdainful expression, he said, "Going to serve as local officials is a good way to avoid powerful and treacherous officials and do practical things for the people. If we offend Liang Shicheng before even taking office, what's the point of going?"

Zhang Zhongxiong retorted, "You were personally appointed by the Emperor. What can a eunuch do to you?"

Seeing that he was still stubborn, Zhang Shuye became furious, his military temper erupting, and he retorted, "He can force me to turn back before I even take office? Do you really think the imperial edict was written by the Emperor himself? The Emperor is probably still traveling somewhere right now."

(Liang Shicheng was a eunuch in the late Northern Song Dynasty, highly trusted by Emperor Huizong, and rose to the position of Inspector of the Imperial Palace. He also oversaw the Imperial Library, responsible for transmitting imperial edicts. All imperial decrees were written by him, and he often had people imitate the emperor's handwriting to forge edicts. As a result, his power grew daily, and he committed all sorts of evil deeds, including embezzlement, bribery, and selling official positions. Even Cai Jing and his son flattered him, hence he was known as the "Hidden Prime Minister.")

Seeing his father's anger, Zhang Bofen quickly stopped his younger brother, who was about to argue.

Seeing Liu Renjie approaching, Zhang Shuye whispered, "Anyone who dares to offend him will be punished according to family law." After saying this, he spurred his horse to meet Liu Renjie.

Seeing this, Zhang Zhongxiong said, "I'd rather be punished by the family than have Father collude with treacherous officials."

Zhang Shuye turned and glared fiercely at his second son, saying, "If you dare to act recklessly, you will no longer be a member of the Zhang family."

Zhang Zhongxiong was stunned by his father's heartless words.

Zhang Bofen, standing beside him, sighed, "Second brother, why don't you understand your father's suffering? These treacherous officials are in power now, practically controlling everything. Your petitions have certainly failed to reach the emperor, which shows their power. If you want to do something for the people, you must first manage your relationship with these treacherous officials. Father, do you ever want to associate with them? In recent years, you've only talked the talk; are these treacherous officials really so belligerent?"

Hearing this, Zhang Zhongxiong felt as if struck by lightning, and began to reflect on his actions over the years.

When Liu Renjie arrived, he saw Zhang Shuye greeting him and bowed, saying, "Please forgive me, sir. I had just finished paying my respects to my master before setting off,

and I apologize for keeping you waiting." Zhang Shuye replied, "We were only here for a short while and left in a hurry. We didn't have time to pay our respects to His Highness. Please convey my regards next time."

Liu Renjie said, "Of course. It's getting late, so let's get going."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Shuye also told his family to set off.

Seeing several carriages remaining, Liu Renjie asked curiously, "Sir, have you brought your family?"

Zhang Shuye replied, "Although the place of appointment is not far, travel is inconvenient. The term of office is also three years, so I intend to move my family to Dongping Prefecture to settle down." Liu Renjie

said, "The Liangshan bandits have repeatedly plundered cities; why must you put your family at risk?"

Zhang Shuye said, "If I don't even bring my family, how can the people believe I will stand with them through thick and thin?"

Liu Renjie had originally heard of the Liangshan bandits' raids and killings of officials and was very reluctant to take up the post, but after being reprimanded by Liang Shicheng, he tearfully bid farewell to his family. He had also planned to flee back to the capital if the situation turned bad upon arrival. Hearing Zhang Shuye's words, he hurriedly said, "The bandits are fierce; why must you risk your life with those commoners?"

Zhang Shuye understood the implication and said solemnly, "As officials of the court, we should be loyal to the country and responsible to the people; how can we shirk our duties?"

Liu Renjie's expression changed upon hearing this, and he was about to speak.

Zhang Shuye added, "However, our strength is far inferior to that of the bandits. If they attack the city again, we will have to trouble the prefect to seek help from the capital to ensure the safety of the region."

Liu Renjie breathed a sigh of relief when he heard that Zhang Shuye was not pressuring him. He said, "Your Excellency is truly a model for the nation. If the bandits dare to attack the city, I will certainly have my mentor send troops to wipe them out."

Zhang Shuye did not hold much hope for this.

Upon arriving in Dongping Prefecture, the remaining officials held a banquet to welcome their superior. Zhang Shuye spent several more days familiarizing himself with the local situation, and then summoned the gentry from various places.

The three estates on Dulonggang were also among those invited, and the attendees were Hu Cheng, Zhu Long, and Li Ying. The gentry from various counties, having received the prefect's invitation, naturally dared not neglect it and all arrived at the prefectural government office on time. After waiting for a while, Zhang Shuye finally came out from the back hall. Seeing Zhang Shuye wearing a bright red official robe, everyone naturally knew that the prefect had arrived and hurriedly bowed.

After everyone exchanged greetings, Zhang Shuye said, "I've gathered you all here today for no other reason than to prevent the Liangshan bandits from plundering everywhere. I've decided to recruit more local militia, but the treasury has been ransacked by the bandits. Therefore, I've decided to collect three years' worth of taxes from you in advance, and also request donations of money and grain from each household, so that the local militia can be established as soon as possible to protect everyone."

Hearing that money was required, everyone immediately began to plead poverty.

Zhang Shuye had anticipated their reaction and said, "Don't try to refuse a polite offer. I've heard that you all falsified your land measurements. If I send people to investigate, don't blame me for being ruthless."

Hearing that Zhang Shuye intended to investigate the land, everyone was greatly alarmed.

One of the local gentry, however, refused to be captured, saying, "I am merely tending the land for my elder brother, Wang Fan, the Vice Minister of Revenue. If you require money or grain, you can ask my brother."

In the past, Zhang Shuye might not have dared to offend the Vice Minister of Revenue, but now, with Cai Jing backing him, he saw it as a good opportunity to punish corrupt officials and gentry. Hearing this, he roared, "How dare you threaten me! Guards, drag him out and give him thirty strokes of the cane!"

Before the gentry could say anything more, two of Zhang Shuye's servants, who were lying in wait outside the hall, dragged him out. Then came the sound of the cane striking the ground and the gentry's screams. Everyone present paled at the sound.

Zhang Shuye then asked, "Is there anyone else who refuses?"

None of the gentry dared to utter another sound.

Seeing everyone shaking their heads repeatedly, Zhang Shuye nodded in satisfaction and said, "That's good. Everyone, go back and prepare four years' worth of taxes. The extra year can be considered a donation from you, and I'll send someone to collect it later. Is there any problem?"

Although everyone was reluctant to part with the money, seeing the cold glint in Zhang Shuye's eyes, no one dared to step forward.

Zhang Shuye continued, "I'm also short of funds, so I won't keep you all for dinner. Those from Dulonggang, please stay; the rest of you

, go." Hearing this, the local gentry dared not linger and quickly took their leave. Hu Cheng and the other two, however, were worried that the new prefect would try to extort more money.

After everyone left, Zhang Shuye, seeing the three men's expressions, smiled and said, "Don't worry, this time I won't ask for money or grain. I can even exempt you from some of your taxes."

Hearing this good news, the three men quickly replied, "We

'll do as you command, sir." Zhang Shuye said, "Dulonggang is a crucial point on the Liangshan bandits' northward route. Last time, they plundered the prefecture and returned laden with spoils, which is why they let your three villages go. But they don't engage in production and have taken in many soldiers. It won't be long before they run out of money and grain. They will inevitably come down the mountain to plunder again. The prefecture has also strengthened its defenses, and you will be the first to bear the brunt. If the prefecture sends troops, it will probably be too late. Moreover, the bandits are fierce, and we can only rely on the strong city for defense. We won't send troops unless absolutely necessary."

Zhu Long knew his family had a bad reputation, and if things really came to that, his village would likely be the first to suffer among the three villages. Thinking of this, his expression changed drastically. The other two, not daring to deny their own past misdeeds, also paled slightly. They cried out in panic, "My lord, you must save us!"

Seeing that the three were already in his trap, Zhang Shuye said, "Sending troops is impossible, but I have a plan to ensure your safety."

The three, like drowning men grasping at a straw, hurriedly said, "We would like to hear the details."

Zhang Shuye said, "Your three estates are all built on hills. If you defend them to the death, it will be difficult for the bandits to take them. If you can divide your forces to attack their flanks, you might be able to defeat the bandits, and the court will reward you accordingly."

Because of the constant banditry in recent years, each village had its own militia. Zhu Long understood and asked, "Does my lord want us to form a militia?"

Zhang Shuye said, "Yes, but this time the government will not limit your numbers, and can even sell you weapons."

Last time, Zhu Biao was injured by Zhang Yang, and Zhu Chaofeng, fearing the strength of Liangshan, did not allow anyone to speak out. Zhu Long, however, wanted to avenge his brother. Upon hearing this, he hurriedly said, "Your Excellency's insight is profound. Our village is willing to train troops to resist the bandits."

Seeing that Zhu Long had already spoken and the prefect was watching them closely, Li Ying and the other two had no

choice but to agree. Zhang Shuye then exempted the three families from taxes for a year and made them swear an oath of life and death, promising to help each other in times of good or bad.

Within a few days, Zhang Shuye had collected a large amount of money and grain, and allocated 200,000 strings of cash to Cai Jing and Liang Shicheng. Sure enough, within a few days, a large amount of weapons was also transported, and an "imperial edict" was issued, appointing Zhang Shuye as the temporary commander of the local militia.

Zhang Shuye was naturally overjoyed that there was no one to hinder him. He sold some weapons to the three villages and began to recruit soldiers and horses, gather fodder and grain, and recruit brave laborers and wise men. Due to the severe drought in various places this year, many farmers could not survive the winter, and the troops were quickly assembled.

Chapter Twenty-Nine: Traveling Down the Mountain.

After returning to the mountain, Zhang Yang busied himself with dividing and absorbing the troops of Huyan Zhuo and the other two. Since the three belonged to the Imperial Guard and were well-trained, there was no need for selection. Zhang Yang simply reorganized their troops with the regular soldiers of the mountain stronghold, forming six cavalry units of a thousand men each and thirteen infantry units of a thousand men each.

The cavalry units were commanded by Yang Zhi, Lin Chong, Qin Ming, Dong Ping, Zhang Qing, and Huyan Zhuo, each with a deputy commander: Lü Fang, Hua Rong, Huang Xin, Guo Sheng, Gong Wang, and Ding Desun. The infantry units were commanded by Chao Gai, Lu Da, Peng Qi, Liu Tang, Li Zhong, Zhou Tong, Bai Sheng, Du Qian, Song Wan, Yan Shun, Wang Ying, Zheng Tianshou, and Zhu Gui. Han Tao, Cao Zheng, and Zong Ying were responsible for training the reserve troops.

Two strategists were appointed to manage secrets: Wu Yong and Zong Ze,

the "Wise Stars";

one leader was appointed to manage finances and provisions: Gongsun Sheng, the "Dragon in the Clouds"; one

was appointed to handle official documents and troop deployments: Xiao Rang, the "Master of Hands"; one was appointed to forge all military seals

and tokens: Jin Dajian, the "Jade-Armed Craftsman"; and one was appointed to manage veterinary medicine and horses: Huangfu Duan, the "Purple-Bearded Earl ." Wu Yong was temporarily appointed as the intelligence leader, and Zong Ze was appointed to determine rewards and punishments. After the personnel were assigned, everyone went about their duties. That noon, as Zhang Yang was writing calligraphy, Huyan Zhuo, Ruan Xiaoer, and Han Tao arrived together, followed by four children of about seven or eight years old. After exchanging greetings, Huyan Zhuo had the four children greet him one by one: Huyan Zhuo's son, Huyan Yu; Ruan Xiaoer's son, Ruan Liang; and Han Tao's sons, Han Qilong and Han Qifeng. Zhang Yang saw that the four children were all handsome and sturdy, especially Ruan Liang, whose eyes occasionally flashed with a cunning glint. Perhaps it was because he had been on the mountain longer, but he was more composed than the other children. He laughed and said, "Truly tiger cubs from a military family, their martial arts will surely be no less than yours in the future." Hu Yanzhuo said, "I originally thought I was a first-rate martial artist, so I have been personally teaching my son. Last time, he was captured alive by the chief in one move, and I realized that there are always people stronger than you. Therefore, I would like to ask the chief to teach him martial arts. I hope the chief will not despise his stupidity and will accept him as a disciple." After saying this, he made Hu Yanyu kneel down, and Ruan Xiaoer and Han Tao also made their sons kneel down . Zhang Yang was stunned when he saw this. He knew his own family's situation. Last time, he only managed to capture Hu Yanzhuo alive in one move because of his abnormal speed and strength after the modification. If it came to marksmanship or anything like that, he would probably be beaten to a pulp. Without gene drugs, no matter how hard he trained, he would never reach his level. Moreover, he hadn't learned any of the eighteen weapons; only his fist and foot techniques were a combination of various fighting skills created by the military, which, while considered a unique skill in ancient times, were beyond his ability to teach. He doubted he could produce a disciple as monstrous as himself, and they might even think he was holding back, potentially causing discord. Zhang Yang thought for a long time but couldn't find a reason to refuse, so he said, "Last time I captured General Huyan alive, it was only because of my superhuman speed and strength. That can't be learned later. You shouldn't doubt that, right?" Huyan Zhuo had also practiced martial arts diligently since childhood, but last time, he only saw Zhang Yang move like a ghost to lift him off his horse. Just as he was about to resist, Zhang Yang slightly clamped him, and his body went limp. Thinking back on it, he still found it hard to believe. Such terrifying speed and strength were unheard of, let alone seen. He didn't quite believe it was acquired later. But he didn't want to ask, so he wanted his son to become his apprentice to see if he could learn such skills. Afraid of Zhang Yang's refusal, he brought Ruan Xiaoer and Han Tao along. Hearing this, Zhang Yang nodded and said, "Brother Lin Chong's master, Zhou Tong, has been practicing martial arts diligently at Shaolin Temple since childhood. He was appreciated by Lord Bao Zheng as soon as he left the mountain and entered the army as an officer. Later, he became an instructor at the Imperial Martial Arts Academy in the capital. He was ranked among the 'Heavenly' instructors, the most prestigious, and was known as the number one martial artist of his time. I was fortunate enough to see him demonstrate his skills; while his speed and strength surpassed mine, he was indeed incomparable to the chieftain. I find it hard to believe that the chieftain 's skills were acquired through training." Zhang Yang continued, "If you believe me, that's good. Even if I taught them, they wouldn't be able to replicate my skills. Besides, I only have fist and foot techniques to offer. How about this? From now on, I will teach them fist and foot techniques and military strategy. They can find other renowned teachers to learn the eighteen weapons. What do you think?" Hu Yanzhuo, whose family also possessed a unique skill with double whips, naturally hoped his son could also learn whip techniques. Since the chieftain said he had impressive fist and foot techniques, it must be a unique skill as well. He readily agreed. Ruan Xiaoer and Han Tao also had no objections. The four disciples then performed the apprenticeship ceremony, officially becoming Zhang Yang's disciples. Zhang Yang's life was enriched by the addition of four apprentices. Another ten days or so passed. Seeing that the imperial court hadn't sent any more troops, but was instead recruiting soldiers in the surrounding prefectures, and with nothing much happening in the mountain stronghold, Zhang Yang decided to descend the mountain and travel. With this in mind, he could no longer endure the monotonous life in the stronghold. He instructed Yang Zhi and Wu Yong to handle the stronghold's affairs and then descended the mountain alone. After descending the mountain, Zhang Yang traveled and enjoyed the scenery. He wandered as he pleased each day, inevitably enduring wind and rain, but fortunately, Zhang Yang's unusual physique made him impervious to the cold. In each town and prefecture, Zhang Yang would sneak into the homes of corrupt officials and gentry at night. With the aid of his multi-functional search device, Zhang Yang easily found hidden treasury rooms, then secretly threw the gold and silver into the homes of poor people, leaving behind the words "Thief Saint" in each secret room. Within a few days, the name "Thief Saint" had spread throughout the north. At first, people assumed it was the work of an insider, but as more and more thefts occurred, everyone knew that the "Thief Saint" was a professional thief. The government issued arrest warrants, and searches at various intersections became more rigorous. However, the martial arts world debated whether the "Thief Saint" was a single person or part of a group. Zhang Yang stole large amounts of gold and silver each time he appeared; while many in the martial arts world could lift hundreds of pounds, no one had ever heard of someone capable of scaling walls and leaping over doors. Thus, people gradually accepted the view that the thieves were part of a group. Realizing the "Thief Saint's" ability to amass wealth, people began searching for him. Tian Hu, who had raised an army in Hedong (Shanxi), especially sent many men, hoping to open a path to riches.

Of course, some people believed that the Thief Saint was a chivalrous hero with unparalleled martial arts skills. This view was most popular among storytellers, since audiences preferred a lone wolf who traveled thousands of miles without leaving a trace, rather than a gang or anything like that. After meals, people with some spare money would go to teahouses to listen to tales of the Thief Saint. Of course, most of the stories told by storytellers were fabricated. After all, Zhang Yang wasn't committing crimes all the time, so they didn't have many stories to tell. Thus, all sorts of unbelievable events were attributed to the Thief Saint, who gradually became a celestial being descended to earth, a bodhisattva who saved the world.

For a time, corrupt officials and gentry trembled with fear, while the poor people longed day and night for the Thief Saint to visit their prefectures, both to teach the corrupt officials a lesson and to help themselves.

Many petty thieves also began to commit crimes in the name of the Thief Saint, but they were quickly exposed. After all, there weren't many thieves who could steal hundreds of pounds of goods silently, especially since Zhang Yang would rob several houses each time he appeared. What ordinary thief would have such energy? Unless a large gang impersonates someone else to commit the crime, but that would involve too many people and too much gossip, the incident would soon be exposed. Just like the robbery of the birthday gifts in *Water Margin*, lone thieves have always been the most difficult to catch.

Chapter Thirty

: Song Jiang's Murder. After hearing Zhang Shuye's actions, the prefect of Jizhou also tried to imitate him. The gentry of various counties naturally suffered, and Song Jiang, because of his usual extravagance, was ordered to donate an extra five thousand strings of cash. Dejected, Song Jiang drank several bowls of wine and returned to Yan Poxi's place in a daze.

Song Jiang was already unlikable, and Yan Poxi had recently been having an affair with Zhang Wenyuan. Seeing Song Jiang return drunk, she was even less inclined to pay him any attention.

As the saying goes, "Tea is the matchmaker for romance, and wine is the matchmaker for lust." Yan Poxi was also charming and alluring, and although Song Jiang wasn't fond of women, he couldn't help but feel some desire. Moreover, he wasn't exactly a chivalrous person, so he immediately forced himself on her.

After the storm, Song Jiang fell into a deep sleep. Yan Poxi, looking at the short, dark-skinned Song Jiang beside her, felt her hatred intensify.

The next morning, Song Jiang went to the county office on business, while Zhang Wenyuan took the opportunity to meet with Yan Poxi in secret.

This Zhang Wenyuan was Song Jiang's clerk, nicknamed Little Zhang San. He was handsome, with clear eyes and white teeth; he frequented brothels, living a carefree life, and had learned to be charming and dashing; he was also skilled in playing musical instruments.

Yan Poxi, just beginning to experience love, couldn't resist Zhang Wenyuan's advances. After several encounters, she became devoted to him and longed to elope with him. After being raped by Song Jiang the previous night, her resolve was strengthened. Seeing her lover arrive, she led him upstairs and then buried her face in his chest, weeping as she recounted the events of the previous night.

Zhang Wenyuan, however, was only lusting after Yan Poxi's beauty, treating her like a prostitute free of charge, caring nothing for her well-being. He casually

agreed with her while simultaneously caressing her body. Seeing her lover's agreement, Yan Poxi said, "Let's elope. Let's find a place where no one knows us, and stay together forever, so I won't have to see that dark-skinned man's face here every day."

Zhang Wenyuan had no desire to leave his home for a woman worse than a prostitute. Upon hearing this, he withdrew his hand from Yan Poxi's high breasts and said seriously, "I have little wealth. If I take you away, I'm afraid I won't be able to ensure you have enough to eat."

Yan Poxi, however, was still passionately attracted to him and looked at Zhang Wenyuan seductively, saying, "I'd rather endure hunger and cold than be with you." Seeing Yan

Poxi's stubbornness, Zhang Wenyuan had no choice but to use delaying tactics, saying, "My wife is so devoted, I will certainly not betray you. Allow me to sell my belongings, and then we'll elope."

Seeing Zhang Wenyuan's "deep affection," Yan Poxi couldn't help but offer him a sweet kiss. Feeling Yan Poxi's passion, Zhang Wenyuan began to use his methods on her body again. Before long, the two men had removed their clothes. Just as Zhang Wenyuan was about to mount his horse with his spear, he heard a knock at the door downstairs, followed by Song Jiang calling out, "Po Xi, come down and prepare some wine and food."

Hearing Song Jiang's return, Zhang Wenyuan was startled, pushed Yan Po Xi aside, and scrambled under the bed. Seeing his cowardice, Yan Po Xi cursed inwardly, picking at her own clothes from the floor as she called out, "I'm changing, please wait a moment, San Lang."

After dressing, she threw Zhang Wenyuan's clothes under the bed before coming downstairs.

It turned out that Song Jiang had sent someone to Song Family Village early that morning to find his brother, Iron Fan Song Qing. After Song Qing arrived, he had asked for leave from the yamen and they had returned home together. Upon seeing Yan Po Xi, Song Jiang said, "This is my fourth brother, Song Qing."

Yan Po Xi saw that Song Qing was fair-skinned and tall, quite different from Song Jiang. She sighed inwardly at her bad luck in choosing a man, gave a hasty greeting, and then went to the kitchen to prepare the food and wine.

Song Qing watched Yan Poxi enter the inner room before asking, "Brother, how could you marry your sister-in-law here without Father's consent?"

Song Jiang laughed, "She wasn't married through proper channels; she's just a woman in distress whom I bought haphazardly to serve here."

Song Qing said, "That's good then. She took a long time to come down, her hair was disheveled, and her face was flushed.

Could it be that she's cheating on you behind your back?" Song Jiang, recalling his encounter the previous night, didn't suspect anything and laughed, "Brother, you're being too suspicious. Perhaps she just woke up. Besides, she's from out of town." "I rarely leave the house, so how could I possibly know anyone?"

Although Song Qing was puzzled, he didn't press further, saying, "Perhaps I'm being overly suspicious, brother, please don't be offended."

Song Jiang laughed, "We're brothers from the same mother, why should I apologize for a woman? I've called you here today for important business. The new prefect has ordered the gentry of each county to pay four years' worth of taxes upfront, and hearing of my lavish spending, he's asking me to pay an extra five thousand strings of cash. You know, brother, I've squandered a lot of money these past few years, and Father gets angry whenever he sees me. I need to pass this on to you."

Upon hearing this, Song Qing... After a quick calculation, he said with worry, "The family's money and grain are only enough to pay four years' worth of taxes. Brother, I'm afraid we'll have to find another way to get those five thousand strings of cash."

Song Jiang said, "Isn't our family accumulated wealth over generations? How can we be in such dire straits?"

Song Qing said, "Although our family owns several thousand acres of land, the taxes have been quite heavy in recent years, and we're practically living hand to mouth. Although we have some savings, brother's annual expenses are no less than ten thousand strings of cash, so we really can't come up with that much money."

Upon hearing this, Song Jiang said bitterly, "What should we do? If I can't come up with the money then, I'm afraid..." " I can't even keep this county post anymore,"

Song Qing said. "Brother, you've been pursuing fame and fortune with all your heart, and in recent years you've spent a fortune. Although you've won praise from everyone in the county, you haven't received any promotions from your superiors. Instead, you've attracted unwanted attention. It would be better if you gave up this post and came back to the countryside to live a carefree life with me."

Upon hearing this, Song Jiang sighed and said, "After all these years of struggling, I've learned that without connections, it's difficult to rise to a position. Our family has no powerful relatives, and now we've lost all our money, which has extinguished all hope for my life." As he spoke, he burst into tears.

Seeing his brother weep, Song Qing quickly said, "Brother, don't grieve. The officialdom is full of deceit and treachery; even with official rank, it's not necessarily a good thing. Look at Prefect Zong Ze of Dengzhou, he too became an outlaw. It shows that the officialdom isn't as good as you imagine."

Song Jiang, obsessed with power, was already possessed by it. Hearing this, his eyes lit up, and he said happily, "Thanks to your reminder, brother! The Liangshan army is strong and well-equipped; the imperial court will definitely not be able to wipe them out. They will surely be granted amnesty. Chao Gai is now a leader on the mountain. I've had many dealings with him in the past. When the officials from Jizhou were arresting him, I also informed him." “If I were to join him on the mountain, he would surely recommend me. With my reputation in the Jianghu, I could easily become a leader. Once we are granted amnesty, I will definitely be given an official position and a title.”

Song Qing said, “I’m afraid my father would rather die than become an outlaw.”

Song Jiang said, “That’s easy to handle. As long as we lure him to the mountain first, and then persuade him with kind words, he will definitely agree.”

As the two were talking, they heard a shout from upstairs: “Well done, you black-haired bastard! You dare to discuss becoming an outlaw in broad daylight! Come with me to see the officials!”

This shout was like “a thunderclap in the silence of the vast universe.”

Song Jiang was immediately terrified and turned pale. He looked up and saw that it was his roommate, Zhang Wenyuan, and hurriedly said, “Wenyuan, don’t shout! The neighbors will hear. This is not a place to joke around.”

It turned out that Zhang Wenyuan, having dressed, saw that Song Jiang didn't go upstairs, and grew bolder. He secretly eavesdropped on their conversation at the stairwell. Hearing Song Jiang's intention to join the outlaws, Zhang Wenyuan couldn't help but think of blackmailing him. Seeing Song Jiang's panic, he said, "You're afraid outsiders will hear, but don't be so cowardly! If I want to spare you, just do one thing for me!"

Song Jiang said, "Don't say one thing, I'll do ten things for you."

Yan Poxi had also come out at this time. Seeing Song Jiang's humble appearance, she felt even more disgusted. She walked to Zhang Wenyuan's side and said, "First, have him return the document that pawned me."

Seeing the two of them being so intimate, Song Jiang knew he had been cuckolded. Although angry, he had no choice but to say, "This is easy, I'll go get it for you right away."

Zhang Wenyuan hadn't thought of Yan Poxi before. Hearing this, he hurriedly said to Song Jiang, "Poxi also knows about this. If you want to silence her, you have to give her the document. As for me, you can give me a thousand taels of silver."

Seeing that Zhang Wenyuan was taking the opportunity to make an exorbitant demand, Song Jiang couldn't help but feel murderous intent. But he still smiled and said, "It's not much, but my brother is tired from his journey. Let him have some food and drink first, then go get the money for Wen Yuan, okay?"

Zhang Wen Yuan had received many favors from Song Jiang, so he didn't want to press him too hard. Hearing this, he nudged Yan Po Xi in his arms and said, "Go and get them some food and drink. It'll be a way of repaying his kindness to you and your daughter."

Yan Po Xi looked at Song Jiang with disdain and said, "What kindness has he shown me? He just spent some money to buy me to be treated like dirt."

Upon hearing this, Song Jiang's face changed drastically, but since the other party had leverage over him, he couldn't retaliate. His face, which was already dark, turned even darker and more purplish-black.

Seeing Song Jiang's terrifying expression, Zhang Wen Yuan feared that he would renege on his promise. He had no proof, and Song Jiang was well-liked in the yamen. If he were to be accused of adultery, things would be bad. He gave Yan Poxi a hard shove and said, "Even if he hasn't done you any favors, he's our benefactor now. How can we neglect him? Go and get some ready-made wine and food; you don't need to bother." Yan Poxi,

thinking that she could openly and legitimately be with her lover, felt much lighter. She muttered something and went into the kitchen to bring out some prepared wine and dishes.

Seeing Zhang Wenyuan still standing on the stairs, Song Jiang said, "Wenyuan, we've been colleagues. Why not come down and drink with me one more time? We probably won't have another chance to drink together."

Song Jiang was always willing to help others, resolving difficulties and saving lives. He regularly distributed coffins and medicine, relieving the poor, rescuing those in distress, and helping those in need. He was famous in Shandong and Hebei for this, and everyone called him "Timely Rain," comparing him to timely rain from heaven that could save all things.

Zhang Wenyuan, deceived by Song Jiang's usual hypocrisy, suspected nothing. He went to the table and said, "From now on, Gongming is the mountain king, so it's truly not appropriate for us to meet again."

Song Jiang picked up two cups of wine, handing one to Zhang Wenyuan, then turned to Yan Poxi in the distance and said, "We were husband and wife; drink this cup, and we'll have no more connection."

Yan Poxi, who had long wanted to sever ties with Song Jiang, was overjoyed to hear this and snatched the cup to drink.

Song Jiang quickly said, "It would be better if we drank together." He also picked up a cup, gesturing to the two.

The two, unsuspecting, tilted their heads back to drink.

Seeing they were in his trap, Song Jiang dropped the cup and struck their throats with both palms. Having practiced martial arts since childhood, Song Jiang possessed considerable strength; with one strike, both men fell to the ground. The intense pain prevented them from crying out; they could only writhe, clutching their throats.

Song Jiang ran to the kitchen, grabbed a cleaver, and without a word, hacked them to death.

Song Qing hadn't expected his brother to kill anyone, nor had he had time to stop him. Seeing Song Jiang remain calm after the killing, he asked suspiciously, "Brother, why did you kill someone? Even if we went to the authorities, we might not be afraid of them."

Song Jiang threw the dulled kitchen knife on the ground and said, "I've already decided to become an outlaw. Why waste time going to the yamen with them? Besides, they dared to threaten me; they're just courting death. I'll go upstairs to change my clothes, and then we'll go back to the manor to prepare for our ascent up the mountain." With that, he turned and went upstairs.

Seeing Song Jiang's cold indifference to life, Song Qing suddenly felt that his brother had become much stranger. Before, he had only valued fame and fortune, but he hadn't been so ruthless. Over the years, he had only been secretly providing his brother with money, without his father's knowledge; he didn't know if it was a good thing or a bad thing.

Song Jiang came downstairs after changing his clothes and, seeing Song Qing lost in thought, said, "Let's go quickly. We'll go back to the manor to pack up the money and provisions, and then we'll go up the mountain. No one will find us here for a while."

Song Qing mumbled a reply and walked out of the house.

Song Jiang closed the door and headed towards Song Family Village with his brothers. Along the way, many people who had received Song Jiang's kindness greeted him, and Song Jiang returned their greetings. After

finally leaving the county town, Song Qing said, "Brother, you've changed?"

Seeing Song Qing's dazed expression, Song Jiang knew he was still shaken by witnessing his killing. He patted Song Qing's shoulder heavily and said seriously, "No matter how you change, we're still brothers."

Hearing this, Song Qing began to doubt whether he was overthinking things. After all, they were brothers, blood was thicker than water, and his brother's changes wouldn't endanger him. Since his brother wanted fame and fortune, he should do his best to help him. Having figured this out, Song Qing said, "I was overthinking it. Let's hurry. We'll have to figure out a way to deceive Father when we get home."

Song Jiang shook his head and said, "Now that I've killed someone, I don't need to deceive Father anymore. We'll just tell him the truth, and I think Father won't have the heart to see me stay and die."

Song Qing nodded in agreement, and the two of them hurried home.

Chapter Thirty-One: Joining the Outlaws on the Mountain

After walking for half a day, Song Jiang and his group saw an inn nestled by a stream and a lake, with dozens of old trees beside it. Sparse brambles and yellow earthen walls surrounded the inn. A wine banner hung from a large tree in front of the door, with the three large characters "Xianrenju" (Immortal's Abode) written on it.

It turned out that after Zhang Yang established his stronghold on Liangshan, he took the time to make some distillation equipment. He distilled the village's white wine and sold it at the inn down the mountain. The inn was called Xianrenju, and the wine was called Xianrenniang (Immortal's Brew). The distilled wine was naturally clear and strong, and within a few months, it became famous throughout the land. Unfortunately, Zhang Yang didn't want to waste manpower, so production remained limited, and it was only sold in the shop. This attracted many local drinkers who would make a special trip to the tavern outside the marsh every day to satisfy their cravings.

Song Jiang dismounted in front of the tavern he arrived at, lifted the reed curtain, and slipped inside. Looking around, he saw that it was full of patrons. Although it was already late, there were still a few people quietly drinking inside.

The waiter greeted the guest, saying, "Greetings. What would you like to drink and eat, sir?"

Song Jiang said, "I've come here to find someone. I am Song Jiang, the Timely Rain. I have a past relationship with Chief Chao Gai on the mountain. Please inform him on the way up the mountain."

Upon hearing this, the waiter quickly said, "So you're an old friend of Chief Chao. Please come in."

The other guests were mostly local drinkers. Hearing the conversation between the two, they didn't react strangely, but simply quietly savored their Immortal's Brew. It turned out that since Liangshan's great victory over the government army, there had been a constant stream of Jianghu people and bankrupt farmers seeking refuge, so these regular customers were no longer surprised.

The waiter didn't care who you were; as long as you dared to come up the mountain, he'd deliver you. After all, without a leader's order, soldiers couldn't get out. Even if you were a government spy, it wouldn't matter.

The waiter led Song Jiang and his men into an inner room, to a waterside pavilion. He opened a window, took out a magpie-painted bow, nocked a signal arrow, and aimed at the reeds and rushing towards the opposite harbor.

Song Jiang asked, "What's the meaning of this?" The

waiter replied, "This is the signal arrow from the stronghold; a boat will be here soon."

Before long, three or five henchmen came rowing two fast boats from the reed marshes across the water, heading

straight for the pavilion. The waiter led the men, who took their luggage and disembarked. The henchmen rowed the boats towards the Golden Sand Beach.

Before long, they approached the Golden Sand Beach Water Fortress. Seeing hundreds of naval soldiers training shirtless in the water, Jiang Jian was taken aback. He himself had grown up in the water, but the thought of going in during this early winter made him hesitant. On the fortress walls stood several burly men in blue robes, standing as straight as spears, completely still.

The small boat entered the fortress, and the innkeeper handed everyone over to the naval soldiers before returning to the inn. Following the naval soldiers up the mountainside, they came to a magnificent pass, its henchmen all dressed in black. The innkeeper then handed everyone over to the infantry. Seeing the fortress's well-disciplined armor and orderly drills, Jiang Jian secretly admired Zhang Yang's military training abilities. A short distance later, they saw the main fortress, where several burly men in yellow robes stood at the gate, each with a robust build and upright posture, their imposing presence surpassing that of the two armies ahead.

The infantryman said, "Those men ahead are the chieftain's personal guards. If you wish to pass the test, they will be the examiners."

Seeing that the guards were all burly and sharp-eyed, Song Jiang dared not challenge them without permission, but simply said that he had a past connection with Chao Gai. Upon hearing this, one of the guards, Zhang Yang, led Song Jiang to the reception hall to wait.

Chao Gai rushed over after hearing the news and was surprised to see Song Jiang. He asked, "Brother, aren't you in Yuncheng? What brings you to the stronghold?"

Upon hearing this, Song Jiang immediately knelt down and said, "I committed a murder in Yuncheng and have come to seek refuge with you, brother. I beg you to consider our past relationship and grant me this favor."

Chao Gai was a rough man and had no idea what Song Jiang was thinking. Seeing this, he quickly helped Song Jiang up and said, "Brother, please get up. The chief is respectful of scholars. If I introduce you, with your reputation, you will surely be given an important position. However, you've come at an inopportune time. The chief has just gone traveling. Please stay here with me for now, and I will introduce you once the chief returns."

Hearing that Zhang Yang was not there, Song Jiang was secretly delighted. He thought to himself, "My only worry is that Zhang Yang is unwilling to submit to the court. Now that he's away, I can win over some leaders. When the court offers amnesty, we can all work together, and he will have no choice but to submit to the crowd." Thinking of this, he said, "I've just arrived at the mountain. Could you introduce me to the leaders of the stronghold, brother ?

That way, we can work together for the stronghold in the future." Chao Gai said, "That's easy. I'll send someone to invite all the leaders right away." After saying that, he summoned a close henchman and asked him to go and invite the leaders.

All the leaders lived in the main stronghold, and before long, the three Ruan brothers, Huyan Zhuo, and several others arrived one after another. As Chao Gai was introducing everyone to Song Jiang, a voice outside called out, "Brother Gongming, what brings you here?"

Song Jiang looked up and saw his old acquaintance, Hua Rong. Overjoyed, he rushed forward and grabbed Hua Rong's arms, his eyes filled with tears, saying, "Brother, it's been five or six years since we last met! I've missed you terribly!"

Hua Rong, seeing the strange looks from the others, also felt Song Jiang was exaggerating. He gently pulled his hands away and laughed, "I was working at Qingfeng Village and couldn't find the time to visit you, brother. Later, after I joined the village chief, I was afraid of jeopardizing your future, so I didn't dare to visit."

Song Jiang said seriously, "Brother, you misunderstand me. In my life, I've always prioritized 'righteousness.' Fame and fortune are nothing but external things."

Hua Rong also knew Song Jiang's fondness for gold and silver... Extremely indifferent, upon hearing this, he quickly bowed and said, "It was my fault, brother, please don't blame me."

Song Jiang helped Hua Rong up and said, "We are brothers, why such formality? Besides, we can meet more often in the future."

Hua Rong asked in surprise, "Why do you say this, brother?"

Song Jiang said, "Some time ago, I saw a woman in Yuncheng County who was selling herself to bury her father, so I bought her and took her home. Unexpectedly, that woman actually had an affair with me, a clerk, and even tried to kill me. Unfortunately, my brother Song Qing and I caught them in the act, and in a fit of anger, I accidentally killed them both. Then I heard that Liangshan was acting on behalf of Heaven, so I brought my whole family to join them."

Hua Rong said, "That's good, it saves you from having to suffer the annoyance of those corrupt officials every day."

As they spoke, the other leaders had also arrived one after another. Chao Gai and Hua Rong then introduced them to Song Jiang one by one. The leaders, all from the Jianghu (江湖, the martial arts world) background, had heard of Song Jiang's reputation and were quite enthusiastic. The surrendered officers looked down on Song Jiang, a petty official, and only went along with it out of respect for Chao Gai and Hua Rong.

Song Jiang noticed everyone's reactions, but he also knew that most of the heroes of the Jianghu were used to a life of leisure and few were willing to accept amnesty. In the end, he would have to rely on these surrendered officers. Therefore, he flattered them at the banquet.

Chapter Thirty-Two: A Stroll Through Beijing As

the sun set, the lone goose, taking advantage of the fact that winter had not yet arrived, desperately flew south.

Zhang Yang looked at the city walls stretching for dozens of miles on the horizon and was deeply shocked. If a hundred-meter-tall building could give people a visual impact, then the magnificent and continuous city walls would definitely give people a spiritual shock.

After an unknown amount of time, Zhang Yang finally came to his senses. Entering the city, he saw three streets and six markets, with pedestrians shoulder to shoulder, a scene of great prosperity. There were also many high-ranking officials and wealthy people coming and going, and every now and then, rich young masters would parade through the streets with their servants.

After walking a short distance, they came upon a building occupying hundreds of acres, its interior filled with the sounds of drums and music. Upon closer inspection, they saw a horizontal plaque above the building bearing three large gilded characters: "Cuiyun Tower."

Zhang Yang remembered a description of this restaurant in the Water Margin, hailed as the finest in Hebei. It boasted three eaves with dripping eaves, carved beams and embroidered pillars—exquisitely constructed. Upstairs and downstairs, it had hundreds of pavilions, where drums and music resounded all day long, the air deafening with the sounds of singing and dancing. Zhang Yang, feeling somewhat hungry, decided to test the waters of this supposedly five-star ancient restaurant to see just how good it was.

A servant at the door, seeing that Zhang Yang, though handsome, was dressed in tattered clothes, resembling a down-on-his-luck young master, pretended to stop him, saying, "Our prices are quite high; sir, you'd better go elsewhere."

Zhang Yang was taken aback, but glancing down at his worn clothes, gleaming from his journey through the elements, he understood. He casually tossed the servant a five-tael silver ingot, saying, "Don't worry about me not being able to pay; lead the way."

The servant caught the silver, secretly pinching it a few times. The servant immediately put on a beaming smile and said, "I was blind to your greatness. Would you prefer upstairs or downstairs, sir?"

Zhang Yang, hearing the commotion inside, replied, "A quieter place will do."

The servant said, "Alright. Please come upstairs, sir."

Upon entering, they saw that the interior was exquisitely decorated. The main hall had no tables or chairs, but dozens of heavily made-up women were in the center, some playing instruments and singing, others striking seductive poses. Seeing a new customer enter, they all used their charms, hoping to catch his eye.

The servant also asked, "Would you like someone to accompany you for drinks, sir?"

High-class restaurants in the Song Dynasty usually had singing girls as company.

Zhang Yang, who wanted to eat in peace, shook his head and said, "No need. Please take us upstairs."

Seeing that Zhang Yang was indeed uninterested, the servant led him upstairs. At the corner, they came to a secluded pavilion. The waiter stopped, opened the door, and said, "This pavilion is called Shangyou Pavilion. It's quiet and unique. What do you think, young master?"

Zhang Yang looked up and saw the words "Shangyou Pavilion" written on the door. Entering, he found the decorations simple, with a few potted plants adding to the ambiance. The soundproofing was also excellent. He said, "This will do. Go and bring me about ten of your shop's signature dishes, and a pound of ten-year-old daughter's red wine."

Seeing Zhang Yang had ordered so many dishes, the waiter, fearing he might change his mind, agreed and went

to prepare. Soon, a table full of delicious-looking dishes was ready. Zhang Yang couldn't resist and devoured the food. After the meal, Zhang Yang called the waiter waiting at the door to settle the bill.

The servant entered and asked, "Have you finished eating, sir?"

Zhang Yang replied, "Yes, let's settle the bill."

The servant said, "It'll be thirty-three strings and five hundred coins in total."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Yang immediately understood why there was the poem, "Behind the red gates, meat and wine go to waste, while on the road, frozen corpses lie." This one meal cost enough for a family's living expenses for a year. Despite such an exorbitant price, the restaurant was still packed. No wonder the people's lives were getting harder and harder; it seemed the wealth created by the common people was concentrated in the hands of a few.

However, after Zhang Yang descended the mountain, each of his crimes yielded tens of thousands of strings of cash. He distributed the gold and silver to the poor, but kept some large sums of paper money, which now amounted to over a hundred thousand strings. Since it wasn't his own money, he didn't feel anything. After a moment of reflection, he casually pulled out a fifty-stringed note and said, "The extra is your tip. Let me ask you one more thing, where is the best inn in the city?"

The waiter, seeing that Zhang Yang had casually given him another dozen strings as a tip, including the five taels of silver from before, which was equivalent to half a year's income,

quickly replied, "Young master, this must be your first time in Beijing. Behind our Cuihua Tower is the best inn in the city, and further back is a brothel. The girls there are incredibly beautiful. I heard that a pair of twin beauties will be registered in two days. Young master, with your youthful charm, you're sure to win the title of courtesan."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Yang realized that comprehensive services existed even in ancient times. This was indeed a paradise for the wealthy, where eating, drinking, and entertainment could all be taken care of. He instructed the servant to lead the way, and the restaurant was connected to the inn. Zhang Yang followed the servant through the corridors and courtyards.

Upon reaching the back courtyard, a completely different scene unfolded. Trees lined the path, flowers and plants provided shelter, and a cobblestone path ran through the middle, exuding a rustic charm. The entire courtyard was quiet and serene, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the restaurant in front.

The servant led Zhang Yang to the manager's place and then took his leave.

Upon seeing the guest arrive, the innkeeper said, "Our inn has two types of rooms: private courtyards and rooms with sky or earth features. Which would you prefer, sir?"

Zhang Yang, wanting to make things easier for himself, replied, "A private courtyard, please."

The innkeeper said, "Very well, but you'll need to deposit 100 strings of cash first. The difference will be refunded for any short time spent at check-out."

Zhang Yang handed the innkeeper 100 strings of cash, saying, "It's nothing, please don't let anyone disturb me."

The innkeeper said, "Don't worry, sir, there are servants guarding the private courtyards; unauthorized personnel cannot enter."

Zhang Yang nodded, saying, "That's good then."

Hearing this, the innkeeper told a servant beside him, "Take the guest to Qiushuang Courtyard."

Zhang Yang followed the servant to the private courtyard and saw that there were indeed two servants guarding the entrance, just like modern security guards.

Upon entering the courtyard, two pretty maids greeted him, offering greetings and carrying his belongings. Zhang Yang found that the courtyard also had a small two-story building, decorated quietly and elegantly, which suited his taste perfectly. Zhang Yang casually chose a room upstairs and instructed the maid to heat up the bathwater.

Before long, a large wooden tub was filled with steaming water. Zhang Yang lay in the tub, enjoying the comfort of his pores opening up. Zhang Yang finally understood why so many people liked the life of the wealthy.

Nothing more was said that night.

The next day, after breakfast, Zhang Yang went out to stroll around. Beijing was indeed different from those small prefectures and cities; many people were dressed in fine clothes. Merchants from all over the country gathered here, their shouts coming from all directions. After a day of sightseeing, he still felt unsatisfied, but seeing that it was getting late, he had no choice but to return to the inn.

At the gate of the secluded courtyard, the gatekeeper presented him with a red invitation, saying, "This is an invitation from the brothel behind. Tomorrow night, a pair of beautiful sisters will be hanging up their names; young master, you might as well go and take a look."

Zhang Yang took the invitation and casually tossed the gatekeeper a small piece of silver. He entered the courtyard amidst the gatekeeper's thanks.

The next day, Zhang Yang went out to the street again. He came to a place where many people were gathered on both sides watching, and screams could be heard coming from inside.

Zhang Yang squeezed through the crowd and saw six men surrounding a burly man. Five or six others lay on the ground, their clothing suggesting they were part of the attackers. The man in the middle remained calm, attacking more than defending, and quickly knocked down another man.

Zhang Yang observed that the man was about eight feet tall, with a pale yellow, bony face, bright eyes, and no beard. In a short while, he had defeated two more. Just as Zhang Yang was about to cheer, a dozen or so men ran from the street corner, each carrying a gun and clubs. Judging from their clothing, they were clearly part of the attackers; apparently, someone had gone to report the attack.

Zhang Yang dashed into the fray, kicking down two men in quick succession. The man also managed to knock down another. Zhang Yang told the man, "They've got reinforcements. Be careful."

Just then, the group arrived. Seeing Zhang Yang's impressive skills, the leader didn't dare to be reckless and bowed, saying, "We are from the garrison commander's office. Brother, please don't get involved."

Zhang Yang was taken aback. This garrison commander must be Liang Zhongshu. He hadn't expected to have such powerful connections with the city's most influential official so soon after arriving in Beijing.

Seeing Zhang Yang's silence, the leader assumed he was afraid of the garrison commander's power and laughed, "Brother, stand aside for now. We'll deal with Shi Yong first."

Hearing the name Shi Yong, Zhang Yang couldn't help but think of General Shi Yong, a hero from Liangshan. This man was from Daming Prefecture in Beijing, a gambler who later killed someone and joined Song Jiang's forces.

Zhang Yang looked up and saw a gambling den nearby. He figured this man must be Shi Yong, and he could just subdue him. Seeing the garrison men's impatient expressions, he laughed and asked, "What law has this man broken?"

The leader laughed, "He's blocking the garrison commander's path to wealth, so he's broken the law."

Zhang Yang laughed, "So, you're abusing your power?"

Seeing Zhang Yang's continued harassment, the man said impatiently, "So what? Get out of the way, or weapons will have no eyes."

Zhang Yang laughed, "Then I'll have to offend you." He then plunged into the crowd, unleashing his fists and feet. Zhang Yang's strength was astonishing; those struck were sent flying, coughing up blood. Within moments, all the garrison men were on the ground.

Zhang Yang pulled the still-dazed Shi Yong through the crowd and led him to a small alley. Shi Yong said

, "Young master, your skills are impressive. May I ask your name?" Seeing that no one was around, Zhang Yang replied, "I am Zhang Yang from Liangshan." Just as he finished speaking, a man peeked out from the alley entrance. Zhang Yang flashed past and knocked the man unconscious. After waiting a while and seeing that no one was following them, he led Shi Yong back to the inn.

Upon entering the room, Shi Yong immediately bowed and said, "I have long heard of your amazing martial arts and your generosity. Today, I am very grateful for your help. Otherwise, my life would have been in danger. From now on, I am willing to be your vanguard. Please take me in." Zhang Yang

knew that Shi Yong had offended the garrison commander and could no longer stay in Beijing. He himself was recruiting talented people, so he helped Shi Yong up and said, "Get up quickly, brother. Don't be so polite. With your help, our stronghold will be even stronger."

Zhang Yang then asked a maid to order a table of food and wine, and he also asked Shi Yong about the situation in Beijing.

It turned out that after Liang Zhongshu took office, in addition to embezzling and soliciting bribes, he also sent his family members to infiltrate lucrative industries. Shi Yong originally made a living by gambling at the Ruyi Gambling House, but after Liang Zhongshu opened his own gambling house, he forbade gamblers from working at other gambling houses, forcing them to close down. Shi Yong had previously received much help from the owner of the Ruyi Gambling House, so naturally he didn't want to betray him. This led to a feud with the garrison commander, resulting in today's scene.

Zhang Yang, concerned about the brothel girls, chatted with Shi Yong for a while, then arranged a room for him to rest.

~~~~~~~~~

Chapter 29 previously added information about the post-integration Liangshan job arrangements. Also, this week's essence has been used up, so please vote more so that there will be more essence next week. I won't be stingy; I will definitely return it all to everyone.

Chapter 33: The Prodigal Son Yan Qing

Dusk had fallen, and darkness had engulfed the world. The people had already eaten before it was completely dark, and now they were all hiding in their blankets, dreaming of the arrival of a happy life. Only a few families with students kept their lamps dimly lit, parents watching their children study diligently, hoping they would pass the imperial examinations and gain official rank, while simultaneously worrying about the cost of lamp oil. The streets were nearly deserted, and thieves were preparing to begin their new business. The wealthy, meanwhile, indulged in pleasure-seeking, with brothels resplendent and filled with the deafening sounds of drums and music.

After Shi Yong left, Zhang Yang took the invitation and headed straight for the brothel in the back. Upon arriving at the back courtyard, he saw the brothel decorated with lanterns and colorful streamers, creating a festive atmosphere. Although there weren't many carriages at the entrance, they were all exquisitely decorated, suggesting the owners were wealthy and powerful officials. It seemed he had quite a few competitors for the beauty he wanted. However, he figured the twins must be exceptionally beautiful and talented; otherwise, the brothel wouldn't be so ostentatious. He felt his trip hadn't been in vain; he believed no one else would be willing to spend as much as he had.

The madam, though past her prime, still possessed a certain charm when a handsome, unfamiliar young man entered. He was about eight feet tall, with a well-proportioned figure. His face was like the moon on Mid-Autumn Festival, his complexion like spring flowers at dawn, his sideburns perfectly trimmed, his eyebrows like ink paintings, his face like peach petals, and his eyes like autumn waves. His pair of starry eyes were deep and bright, captivating all who beheld them. Dressed in a well-tailored Suzhou-Hangzhou silk scholar's robe, clearly the work of a master craftsman, and holding a Sichuan paper fan, he exuded both nobility and refined elegance.

Even the seasoned madam, who had seen countless people, was somewhat perplexed by this young man arriving for the first time. Judging from his attire and bearing, he seemed to be from a distinguished

family, but the shrewd glint in his eyes was something she had only ever seen in the eyes of江湖豪客 (jianghu heroes, chivalrous figures from the martial arts world). Regardless, he was someone she couldn't afford to offend. Thinking this, she quickly waved her handkerchief to welcome him. As soon as Zhang Yang entered the room, he was greeted by a scantily clad madam with a fawning smile. Large swathes of her snow-white skin were exposed to the air, and a deep, alluring cleavage was clearly visible. Although the madam was somewhat older, her breasts showed no signs of sagging. This madam alone far surpassed the women in the previous tavern. It seemed that professionalism was indeed advantageous.

The madam approached and, seeing Zhang Yang staring blankly at her chest, was delighted that she still possessed allure.

She lightly waved her handkerchief and said coquettishly, "Young master, it's your first time here, and you're already so restless!" Zhang Yang, just as he was thinking this, was jolted back to reality by the handkerchief. Before him lay the madam's white, full breasts; through her loosely draped bodice, most of her nipples were visible. Especially since Zhang Yang's eyesight was particularly distorted, he could vaguely see the two purple cherries at the peaks. Such a sensual scene aroused Zhang Yang, who had been abstinent for many days, causing him to feel a surge of desire. Hearing the madam's coquettish reproach, she laughed, "You're too charming, that's why I've lost my focus. You can only blame Heaven for sending a fairy down to earth."

Hearing Zhang Yang's straightforward praise, the madam felt as if she had returned to her youthful days, when many handsome young men like Zhang Yang had praised her without reservation, and some had even risked taboos to personally travel to Jiangnan to buy imperial silk to curry favor with her. Unfortunately, she hadn't met any good patrons in her youth, and had never escaped this hellhole. It wasn't until middle age that she saved enough money to redeem herself, but unwilling to marry an ordinary person and toil in the mud all day, she had

no choice but to continue earning a living in this sorrowful place. Although she wrote a lot, it was all just a fleeting moment. The madam, who had intended to make a few teasing remarks, saw another customer arrive and smiled, "What a eloquent young master! Would you like upstairs or downstairs?"

Zhang Yang asked curiously, "Is there a difference?"

Hearing this, the madam knew Zhang Yang was a virgin and laughed, "Upstairs has a better view, but a seat costs a hundred strings of cash."

Zhang Yang didn't care about several hundred strings of cash; he pulled out a five-hundred-string banknote and stuffed it into the madam's pocket, casually touching the breasts he had been eyeing, finding them delicate, soft, and smooth.

Seeing that Zhang Yang had casually given her a four-hundred-string tip, the madam playfully slapped him and called out, "A distinguished guest upstairs!"

A servant nearby rushed over to lead the way.

Zhang Yang followed the servant upstairs. He saw ten chairs in the corridor, with a table laden with fruit in front of them. Five middle-aged men, clearly acquaintances, were already seated to his right, chatting and drinking tea. Not wanting to attract attention, Zhang Yang sat down at the far left. Seeing the servant still standing behind him, he tossed him a ten-tael silver ingot and said, "Brew me a pot of the finest Biluochun tea."

The servant, pleased with Zhang Yang's generosity, happily went to prepare it. Zhang Yang noticed that downstairs, dozens of chairs were already occupied. Listening intently, Zhang Yang learned what he wanted. He was secretly astonished by the brothel's income. A seat downstairs cost thirty strings of cash, and with fifty chairs, that was 1,500 strings. If the upstairs was full, that would be another 1,000 strings. The usual income must be substantial, easily exceeding 100,000 strings a year. He should definitely visit the brothel owner sometime.

"Xiao Yi, I heard you'll be playing a piece later. What is it? Why don't you give me a sneak peek?"

"It'll be no fun telling you now. Just wait patiently; I guarantee you've never heard it before. It's a new composition of mine."

Zhang Yang was listening to the idle chatter downstairs when he heard the name "Xiao Yi" and turned to look.

He saw two young men coming up the stairs. The two glanced at the man upstairs and sat down beside Zhang Yang.

Zhang Yang overheard their greeting and saw that Xiao Yi was sitting next to him. He was over six feet tall, about twenty-one or twenty-two years old, with a thin, three-pronged beard covering his mouth, and a very slender waist and broad shoulders. He wore a turban with a gourd-shaped top, a white robe with a silver-threaded collar, a red spider-spotted belt, and tan leather boots. A pair of gold bracelets with animal motifs adorned the back of his head, a fragrant silk handkerchief around his neck, a famous fan tucked diagonally at his waist, and seasonal flowers often adorning his temples.

Although Zhang Yang had come to Beijing for leisure, he was still quite attentive to the heroes around him. The foremost hero of Hebei is undoubtedly Lu Junyi, the Jade Kirin. The prodigal son Yan Qing was orphaned at a young age and raised by Lu Junyi. To see Yan Qing's snow-white skin, Lu Junyi commissioned a master craftsman to embroider his entire body with intricate patterns, resembling soft jade draped over a pavilion pillar. In a contest of splendid physique, no matter who you are, you would lose to him. Not only is his embroidery exquisite, but he is also skilled in playing musical instruments, singing, dancing, and various other arts and crafts—he can do it all. He speaks fluent dialects from all over the country and is fluent in the slang of all trades. Furthermore, his skills are unparalleled: wielding a crossbow with only three short arrows, he can hunt in the countryside without missing a single shot; even in the city at night, he can kill at least a hundred insects. In a competition, he would undoubtedly win all the prizes. Moreover, he is incredibly clever and quick-witted. His surname was Yan, and he was the eldest son, but his official name avoided the character "Qing." People in Beijing, being polite, called him "The Prodigal Yan Qing." Zhang Yang had heard the two men's names many times in the past few days, and since they were both heroes of Liangshan from the Water Margin, he naturally paid them even more attention.

Hearing them talk a lot about performing arts, Zhang Yang was certain the man was indeed the Prodigal Yan Qing and was just about to try and befriend him when

Yan Qing said, "This young master is from out of town; I've never seen him in Beijing before. I, Yan Qing, grew up in Beijing. If you don't mind my humble origins, I'd be happy to befriend you." It turned out that Yan Qing, seeing Zhang Yang's handsome and refined appearance, also wanted to make his acquaintance.

Zhang Yang, unsure how to strike up a conversation, quickly smiled and said, "I'm from Shandong, my name is Zhang Shanggu. I've heard about the elegant and refined people of Beijing, so I came to visit. I've heard of Brother Yan Qing these past few days

, but I regret not having the chance to meet him. Meeting him here today makes this trip worthwhile." Seeing Zhang Yang's forthrightness, Yan Qing replied, "Brother, so you're from Shandong! It's not easy for you to come all this way. Tomorrow I'll find some acquaintances to accompany you on a tour of Beijing. You can also make some new friends."

Yan Qing then introduced Zhang Yang to some famous Beijing sights. The upstairs room was already full. A servant approached Yan Qing and respectfully said, "Please prepare yourself, young master, the performance is about to begin."

Yan Qing clasped his hands and said, "Brother, please excuse me for a moment. I'll be right back."

Hearing that there was a performance in the brothel, Zhang Yang suddenly understood. No wonder so many people had come; it seemed the two sisters were going to perform too. Judging by this momentum, those two sisters are sure to become top performers, and it will be difficult to see them perform again. That's why people came today to feast their eyes.

(
Chapter 34

: The Fishmonger Profits) Zhang Yang watched Yan Qing leave, then turned back to see the still-attractive madam already standing on the opposite platform. After a few opening remarks, she said crisply, "Next, please welcome the renowned playwright of Beijing, Yan Qing, to play a piece called 'Joyful Reunion' for everyone." With that, she gracefully walked into the back room.

Yan Qing had experienced countless such situations before. He calmly walked onto the stage, cupped his hands in a circular bow, drew a seven-hole jade flute from his waist, gently placed it to his lips, and exhaled to play a note.

The crowd was immediately captivated by the high-pitched and bright tone, and the rich and varied techniques of lip, tongue, finger, and breath control. The piece expressed a robust, unrestrained, lively, and cheerful spirit, with a strong northern flavor. Even after the piece ended, the crowd remained immersed in the illusion created by Yan Qing.

Zhang Yang, who had undergone psychological training, was the first to recover. Seeing the others still lost in their reverie, he shouted "Bravo!" The others, hearing this, snapped out of their reverie and, after a moment's reflection, joined in with loud applause. Next

, several courtesans performed, playing instruments and singing. They were all quite beautiful, but perhaps too alluring, and their songs were often provocative, featuring some explicit dances.

Watching the fiery dances on stage and listening to the decadent music, the crowd soon became "excited."

After the courtesans' performances, the madam announced that the Two Qiaos would sing a duet. Hearing that the brothel dared to name two girls after the Two Qiaos, beauties of the Three Kingdoms period, Zhang Yang's curiosity about the yet-to-be-met sisters grew even stronger.

As the door opened, a woman gracefully emerged, her lotus-like steps light and elegant. Zhang Yang, with his excellent eyesight and being directly opposite the stage, couldn't tear his gaze away once he saw her. The woman possessed skin as smooth as ice and bones as jade, her collar revealing her ample bosom, her eyebrows like willow leaves, her almond eyes sparkling like silver stars, her lips cherry-like, and her waist slender as a willow. She was truly graceful, swaying in the wind or swaying gently in stillness.

Zhang Yang thought to himself: This woman's beauty alone rivals that of the top courtesans from before. If the two women were eight parts alike, there would surely be a fierce battle tonight.

Two maids then brought in a guzheng (a traditional Chinese zither), and another woman finally emerged amidst the clamor of the crowd, but sadly, she remained partially veiled, playing the pipa.

The crowd below rose to their feet, hoping to see the other woman clearly, but unable to do so, they began to shout.

Having piqued everyone's interest, the woman slowly moved her pipa aside, revealing a charming face that could express both joy and anger, strikingly similar to the woman from before.

Although Zhang Yang had seen many twins, this was the first time he had seen them so alike as adults, further solidifying his decision to take them into his private collection.

The two women bowed slightly to the crowd before sitting down and beginning to play. After a melodious introduction, the woman playing the guzheng began to sing, her soft and sweet voice filling the air.

Everyone seemed to see a beautiful woman playing in the waters of Jiangnan. Zhang Yang, however, seemed to detect a hint of homesickness, but was immediately drawn to another clear and bright voice.

A new zither piece, seemingly celestial music from heaven, possessed a deeply moving quality, like a gentle spring breeze. The beautiful melody, sometimes soothing, sometimes passionate, its melodious notes flowing into the ear, becoming increasingly captivating and intoxicating with each listen, leaving one's mind wandering. If the previous women had stirred "excitement," the two Qiaos' music could melt one's bones. As the music ended, the two Qiaos gracefully departed.

Watching their retreating figures, the crowd felt a pang of longing, while the wealthy secretly resolved to win the top prize.

Amidst the anticipation and reluctance of the crowd, the madam stepped onto the stage and announced, "Tonight's program has come to an end. Thank you all for your patronage. Tonight is the day the two Qiaos are officially listed. Whoever bids the highest will become one of their guests."

She then gave Zhang Yang an encouraging look, which startled him.

In that moment of surprise, a fat, foolish middle-aged man upstairs declared, "I bid one thousand strings of cash." This exorbitant price immediately dashed the hopes of those downstairs, while another young master upstairs, equally determined, began a fierce competition. Seeing their wealth and arrogance, Zhang Yang also turned his attention to them.

Yan Qing said, "That middle-aged man is Hu Youcai, a well-known landlord in Hebei. His family has accumulated thousands of acres of fertile land over generations, earning tens of thousands of strings of cash in rent every year. The young man is Liang Guodong, the son of the newly appointed garrison commander. He just arrived with his father and is also a dissolute playboy who indulges in drinking, gambling, and whoring. I guess the middle-aged man probably doesn't know their identities yet, otherwise he wouldn't dare to bid."

Zhang Yang listened and smiled meaningfully, "Yes, since ancient times, the common people can't fight with officials."

Just then, the two had already bid up to two thousand strings of cash. Liang Guodong didn't have much money left. Seeing that the fat man was still recklessly raising the price, and what was even more infuriating was that he kept giving him mocking looks, he couldn't help but feel angry and gave his family behind him a wink.

The family member understood and approached the fat man, whispering, "Are you out of your mind, daring to compete with my young master? My young master is the only son of the newly appointed garrison commander and the grandson of the Grand Tutor. You seem quite wealthy, so why not donate 50,000 strings of cash first? I'll personally deliver it to the young master tomorrow, otherwise you'll have money but no life to enjoy it."

The fat man, hearing the name of the powerful garrison commander's son, and recalling how several wealthy families had already been ruined, turned ashen-faced and hurriedly nodded, "Yes, I was unaware of your identity, young master, and have been very rude. I will personally deliver the silver tomorrow. Please put in a good word for me, young master; I will surely repay you handsomely later."

The family member sneered, "You're smart enough to know your place. Go back and prepare the silver."

Hearing this, the fat man stood up, bowed to Liang Guodong, and then left in a sorry state.

The madam, seeing no one bid, glanced at Zhang Yang with disappointment, about to speak.

Seeing the fat man flee in a disheveled state, Zhang Yang, unwilling to let him fall into his hands, loudly proclaimed, "I offer three thousand strings of cash."

The madam, overjoyed at the prospect of a higher price, turned to Liang Guodong and asked, "Young master, will you raise the price further?"

Liang Guodong, already short of cash, snorted coldly and stormed off. Reaching Zhang Yang,

he said in a sinister voice, "Boy, don't let me see you in Beijing again." Zhang Yang scoffed, "You spoiled brat."

Hearing Zhang Yang's words, Liang Guodong's face turned purple, but being the descendant of a treacherous official, he didn't immediately retaliate. Leaving behind the words, "I hope you'll still be alive to say those words," he hurriedly went downstairs.

Seeing Zhang Yang's success, the madam, fearing another obstacle might appear, quickly announced, "Tonight, the two Qiaos will belong to that young master." The others, hearing this, looked at Zhang Yang with envy before going to call the other girls.

Seeing that the matter was settled, Yan Qing cupped his hands and said, "Liang Guodong is narrow-minded and will surely come to retaliate tomorrow. Brother, why don't you come with me to a secluded place to hide? We'll leave the city first thing tomorrow morning. Once we're out of Beijing, he can't do anything to you."

Zhang Yang, seeing Yan Qing's loyalty, laughed and said, "I have my own way of dealing with him. Brother, you should go first, so as not to implicate you." He then handed the fan to Yan Qing, saying, "I will be leaving early tomorrow morning. After today's parting, I don't know when we will meet again. Brother, take this fan as a memento." "I'd like to. If anything comes up in the future, you can bring this fan to Shandong to find me."

Seeing Zhang Yang's composure, Yan Qing handed him his own fan and said with a smile, "Since you're so confident, brother, I'll take my leave now. It would be better if my master couldn't find me and caused further trouble."

Zhang Yang replied, "Then you should go back now, brother. I believe we'll meet again soon."

Seeing that Zhang Yang, though refined in appearance, was also forthright in his actions, Yan Qing unconsciously used the etiquette of the martial arts world, clasping his hands and saying, "Then I'll take my leave, brother. Take care." He then turned and left.

Zhang Yang watched Yan Qing go downstairs, and seeing the madam already beside him, he took out three thousand strings of cash and handed it to her.

The madam didn't bother with the details, but laughed, "Young master, you truly came out on top. My efforts weren't in vain."

Zhang Yang asked curiously, "What do you mean, sister?"

The madam replied, "The two Qiao sisters are pitiful, and I naturally hope they can find a true love. Although you seem carefree and unrestrained, young master, you should be a man who understands how to cherish women. I hope you will treat these sisters kindly."

Zhang Yang smiled, "I was just thinking of redeeming them. I wonder if you could do me another favor, sister?"

Upon hearing this, the madam's eyes lit up, but thinking of her own past as a fallen woman, she sighed and said, "If only I had met a lover like you in my younger days. The two Qiao sisters are truly blessed to have met a lover like you on their very first day." She sighed again, shook her head, and remained silent.

Zhang Yang asked, "Doesn't your master allow them to redeem themselves?"

The madam shook her head and said, "In this line of work, there's no reason why one can't redeem themselves. However, the owner is worried that someone might redeem the two Qiaos soon, so he's set an exorbitant price of 100,000 strings of cash. If you're truly interested, young master, come back in a year. By then, 50,000 strings should be enough to win the beauty's heart."

Zhang Yang was taken aback. 100,000 strings of cash seemed enough to buy thousands of acres of fertile land. Was it really that outrageous?

The madam, experienced in such matters, smiled at Zhang Yang's expression and said, "It's not that outrageous. The two of them would cost at least 200 strings of cash per night, which would amount to 50,000 strings in a year. 100,000 strings is indeed not much."

Zhang Yang knew that brothels could be profitable, but he hadn't expected it to be this lucrative. It was practically printing money! Even corrupt officials and tyrants risking their lives couldn't earn as much as a single top courtesan. Zhang Yang remembered that he had amassed about 100,000 strings of cash along the way, and laughed, "You go get their indentures, I'll get the money."

The madam, seeing that Zhang Yang was actually preparing to give 100,000 strings of cash to redeem the two Qiaos, couldn't help but feel envious. Only after Zhang Yang disappeared did she turn to get the indentures.

As Zhang Yang left the brothel, he saw a figure disappear into the shadows at the entrance. Knowing it was Liang Guodong's man, he ignored him. He went to the inn, retrieved 100,000 strings of cash, and returned to the brothel to sign and seal the indentures. Only then did he and the madam head towards the two Qiaos' room.

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Chapter Thirty-Five: The Two Qiaos' First Night An autumn

night, the sky high and the dew heavy, a crescent moon hanging quietly in the southwest sky. The cold moonlight spilled onto the earth, so dim, yet the stars of the Milky Way shone even brighter. Enticing tunes began to waft from the surrounding rooms, mingling with the lewd laughter of the patrons and the coquettish moans and alluring cries of the girls, adding a touch of debauchery to the night sky.

The Cuiyun Tower's current scale was not only due to the owner's powerful background and skillful management, but also to the hard work of its top courtesans. Therefore, the owner was particularly generous to his top courtesans; once you became popular, you could get a small private courtyard. Of course, some girls with exceptional beauty and talent, destined for fame, might even be given an advance. The Two Qiaos, with their beauty, talent, and the advantage of being twins, were allocated a private courtyard. And today was their debut day, so the courtyard was decorated with lanterns and colorful streamers.

Zhang Yang hadn't originally planned for the Two Qiaos to spend their first sweet night in a brothel, but seeing the joyous atmosphere in their courtyard, and finding his own courtyard, though quiet, rather deserted, and not as inviting as the bridal chamber, he abandoned the idea of taking them away. Zhang Yang waved for the servant to leave, closed the courtyard gate, and then heard the Two Qiaos begin to whisper inside. Zhang Yang, with his excellent hearing, listened intently from outside and clearly heard their conversation. Wanting to understand their personalities, he also began eavesdropping.

Inside, Xiao Qiao heard the courtyard gate open and nervously said, "Sister, it sounds like someone's coming. What if it's that annoying fat guy upstairs?"

Da Qiao, thinking about how she was about to leave her girlhood behind, was also nervous, but hearing Xiao Qiao's words, she quickly said, "No matter who it is, we have to serve them well. Otherwise, if we anger the master, you've seen what happened to those disobedient sisters. Then I won't be able to protect you anymore."

Xiao Qiao shuddered at the thought of those disobedient sisters, but seeing her sister's loving gaze, she regained her spirits, shook Da Qiao's arm, and said sweetly, "But just thinking about the way that fat pig looks at us makes me want to vomit. Should we take advantage of..." "No one escaped from the courtyard, right?"

Da Qiao's eyes lit up upon hearing this, but after thinking for a moment, she shook her head and said, "No, even if we leave the courtyard, there are people guarding it. Have you forgotten how many of our sisters were beaten to death when they tried to escape since we were little?"

Xiao Qiao, seeing that her sister had rejected her idea again, insisted, "Then what do we do?"

Da Qiao was used to being relied on by her younger sister. After thinking for a moment, she said with a hopeful expression, "We can only hope that it's not that fat guy. It would be best if he were a loyal and righteous person who could help us escape this misery." After saying that, she couldn't help but think of the young master next to the playboy Yan Qing upstairs. He was the only one in the room who looked at his sisters with a clear gaze, and judging from his clothes, he certainly didn't lack money.

Xiao Qiao asked, puzzled, "Why later? Wouldn't it be better if he could redeem us immediately?"

Da Qiao felt a pang of sadness, playfully pinching Xiao Qiao's nose. "You're so silly," she said. "The master has trained us for so many years. If we don't earn enough money for him, how could he bear to sell us? You forgot the last time a customer wanted to redeem Sister Qiao Nu, and the master asked for a sky-high price of 30,000 strings of cash. No ordinary person has that much money, and now Sister Qiao Nu still has to entertain customers."

Xiao Qiao playfully stuck out her tongue and laughed, "Then can't we just run into a rich man who will redeem us?"

Hearing this, Zhang Yang basically understood their personalities: Xiao Qiao was lively and mischievous, while Da Qiao was intelligent and gentle. Da Qiao must have cherished Xiao Qiao greatly; otherwise, in a place like the brothel, Xiao Qiao's temperament would have been worn down long ago, leaving no trace of her liveliness. However, neither of them expected that Xiao Qiao was right this time—it was just that they weren't rich men.

Zhang Yang stepped forward and gently knocked on the door. Inside, Xiao Qiao whispered, "They're here. Sister, go open the door. I'm a little scared."

Zhang Yang, hearing this from outside, couldn't help but chuckle. He had just wanted to run away, but now he didn't even dare open the door.

Da Qiao was also a little nervous. She glared at her sister, forced herself to remain calm, and opened the door

. Seeing that the person outside was the young master she had been thinking of, a hint of surprise flashed across her face. She bowed her head and said, "Please come in, young master." Xiao Qiao, seeing a handsome young man behind her sister, also breathed a sigh of relief.

This was Zhang Yang's first time experiencing such a scene. Seeing the two Qiaos' beautiful faces, and their seemingly ready-to-be-picked appearance, he really didn't know where to begin. They would have a long time together in the future, and going straight to bed would obviously be inappropriate. What should he do? Fortunately, the two women were both very shy and didn't dare to look up, so they didn't see Zhang Yang's embarrassment.

As Zhang Yang was pondering this, he noticed a table of wine and food in the middle and quickly said, "Let's eat something first." The two women, also very nervous, naturally nodded in agreement.

After a few drinks, Zhang Yang became less reserved. The two women, having undergone years of training, had also developed the ability to read people and were proficient in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. Seeing Zhang Yang's refined appearance, they

began discussing poetry. Zhang Yang, having undergone genetic modification, possessed a photographic memory and had spent half a year immersed in the library, reading a great deal of poetry. Initially, the three discussed, but later it became the two women listening to Zhang Yang's commentary.

Literary allusions and famous poems were all verified by scholars throughout history, and given the difficulties of printing books in ancient times, even great scholars couldn't read many books. Zhang Yang casually recited literary allusions and famous poems that the two women had never heard of before, and his occasional plagiarism of famous commentaries made him seem like a contemporary scholar.

Xiao Qiao, seeing Zhang Yang's eloquent speech and her sister's admiring expression, was astonished. She had only talked to him because she thought he was of noble birth and had some education, but she never expected him to be more learned than the great scholars who had taught her. Moreover, he was young and handsome; if he could help her redeem herself, it would be perfect. Xiao Qiao, however, wasn't particularly interested in poetry. After listening for a while, her eyelids grew heavy, and she became drowsy.

Seeing Xiao Qiao's sleepiness, Zhang Yang said, "It's getting late, let's sleep."

Da Qiao was engrossed in listening, knowing that her sister had already endured so long. Thinking about soon sharing a bed with him, she felt both joy and worry. She was joyful because of his erudition, but worried about the pain of her first night, as her sisters had described. But when she met Zhang Yang's gentle gaze, she immediately cast aside her concerns.

The three entered the bedroom, and Da Qiao said sweetly, "This servant will undress you, young master."

Seeing Da Qiao's beautiful eyes filled with shyness, Zhang Yang was also moved and smiled, "Then I thank you in advance, my wife."

Hearing this, Da Qiao felt a sweet warmth in her heart; to spend a night with him as husband and wife would be wonderful. She smiled charmingly and gently began to undress Zhang Yang.

Zhang Yang felt a faint, virginal fragrance emanating from Da Qiao, and he was unconsciously moved.

Although it was late autumn, Zhang Yang was only wearing a single layer of clothing. Da Qiao quickly removed his clothes, revealing his strong and muscular physique. Seeing that Zhang Yang was not the typical weak scholar, the two women were also aroused.

Seeing the blush on their faces, Zhang Yang could no longer restrain himself. He pulled Da Qiao close, his thick lips kissing her luscious red lips, his tongue gently parting her teeth to capture her delicate tongue. At the same time, his hands didn't stop, tearing off her clothes with a slight force.

Da Qiao heard the sound of tearing fabric, her body exposed to the cool air. Instinctively, she tried to struggle, but as her tongue was sucked, a strange sensation spread from the tip of her tongue throughout her body, a tingling, weak feeling. Zhang Yang's

hands didn't stop either. His left hand slipped inside her bodice and climbed onto her high, firm breasts. He felt the skin was delicate and elastic, unlike the softness of a madam's breasts; it was soft yet firm, and he couldn't help but begin to knead it. His right hand caressed the round buttocks he had long coveted, their fullness and smoothness captivating Zhang Yang.

Da Qiao felt as if her most vulnerable area was being repeatedly attacked; those hands seemed to possess magic, constantly bringing her strange pleasure, while her private parts were pressed against by something hot and hard. After a moment of exploration, Zhang Yang felt his lower body growing increasingly swollen and painful. Seeing that Da Qiao's lower body was also ready, he picked her up and carried her to the bed.

Lying on the bed, Da Qiao glanced down at the man's enormous member, seemingly even larger than her sisters had described, and exclaimed in surprise, "Husband, this is my first time, please be gentle!"

Seeing Da Qiao's fear, Zhang Yang knew that his penis, after being modified, was much larger than normal. He nodded and carefully entered, his member immediately enveloped by the warm, soft cavern, the squeezing pleasure causing Zhang Yang to thrust deeply.

Da Qiao felt a tearing pain in her lower body and couldn't help but cry out. Zhang Yang, seeing the tears in Da Qiao's eyes, felt a pang of heartache and stopped, beginning to caress the beautiful woman.

After a long while, Da Qiao felt the pain subside, and at the same time, her lower body began to itch. She couldn't help but shift her body slightly, feeling a little better, and began to sway. Receiving the signal, Zhang Yang also began to slowly thrust. Da Qiao felt waves of even more intoxicating pleasure washing over her, and she began to cooperate like a moth drawn to a flame, her alluring moans constantly escaping her lips.

Before long, Da Qiao felt as if her soul had ascended to heaven, and after a tremor, she fainted.

Xiao Qiao, who had been watching for a long time, was already overflowing with desire. Seeing this, she quickly took off her clothes to receive her sister. Zhang Yang had no choice but to carefully deflower her again, and after a long while, he began to thrust violently again. After a while, Xiao Qiao screamed, enjoying her first orgasm. Zhang Yang, along with the spasms in Xiao Qiao's lower body, also felt his spine tremble and ejaculated.

The two embraced, savoring the afterglow of their climax, before finally drifting off to sleep.

Chapter Thirty-Six: Tempting Morning Exercises

The dawn of late autumn was already chilly, but exceptionally quiet. The city was not yet bustling with daytime noise, save for the occasional crowing of roosters. The air was so fragrant, making one feel exceptionally cool and comfortable. One after another, the stars disappeared from the high blue sky, leaving only the pale waning moon.

The girls and patrons of Cuiyun Tower, having fought all night, were still fast asleep. Without the allure of insects, even the industrious birds no longer rose early. While ordinary people were still sound asleep, some diligent students and martial arts practitioners had already begun their daily practice. Strangely, in a small courtyard of Cuiyun Tower, someone was practicing boxing, and with lightning speed, only a shadowy figure could be seen flashing and shifting, each movement accompanied by a piercing whistling sound.

Having enjoyed a blissful first night together, Da Qiao woke early, hoping to catch one last glimpse of her beloved before daylight arrived. Turning her head tenderly to look beside her, she found him gone, leaving only her tired yet happy-looking sister.

Da Qiao felt a sudden pang of heartache, and her beautiful eyes welled up with tears. Had he only seen her sister as a fleeting dream, leaving without a trace upon waking? The thought shattered her heart, and tears silently streamed down her face.

But then, his handsome, refined face flashed into her mind again, and remembering the tender gaze he had given her the night before, Da Qiao felt a surge of sweetness. Perhaps he had left quietly because he couldn't bear the pain of separation. Thinking of this, Da Qiao's face lit up with happiness once more, and she was lost in the memory of her lover's erudition and their passionate night together.

After a long while, Da Qiao finally came to her senses. Seeing that the sky outside was gradually brightening, she couldn't help but worry again. Perhaps new guests would arrive soon, and she and her sister would have to start a life of prostitution. How could she ever face her lover again?

Da Qiao pondered these thoughts for a long time before hearing the piercing whistling sound outside the window. Her heart skipped a beat, and she rushed to the window. As soon as she moved, she felt a sharp pain in her lower body. Da Qiao didn't care about anything else, gritted her teeth, ran to the window, and opened it. Inside the courtyard was her lover.

The piercing whistling sound was actually her lover practicing his boxing. Last night, she had only thought that her lover was in good health, but she hadn't expected him to be so skilled in martial arts. If someone had told her that there was a man whose literary talent was comparable to that of a great scholar and whose martial arts skills could surpass all others, she probably wouldn't have believed it. She never thought that she would be so lucky to meet one, and even give him her virginity. If she could stay with him forever, reciting poetry among the flowers and practicing swordsmanship under the moon every day, how wonderful that would be! Thinking of this, she became lost in thought.

As Zhang Yang was engrossed in practicing his martial arts, he caught a glimpse of a beautiful woman staring blankly at him through the window , her naked body exposed to the air, a few drops of undried pearls still clinging to her face, seemingly lost in thought.

It was morning, a time of heightened passion for men, and seeing this scene, Zhang Yang was overcome with desire. He leaped through the window, his hands immediately reaching for her firm, full breasts, beginning to knead them.

Da Qiao immediately felt the man's fiery passion. Although her lower body still ached somewhat, the thought of their impending separation dispelled any lingering pain, and she responded passionately to Zhang Yang.

Zhang Yang tore off his clothes, about to mount her, when he touched the still swollen and red lower body of the beautiful woman. His senses cleared instantly, and he suppressed his lust, gently kissing Da Qiao's fair forehead. He smiled and said, "You've just lost your virginity; I'll take you later."

Seeing Zhang Yang's tenderness, Da Qiao felt a pang of sorrow. Thinking of when they would meet again, her passion burned brighter. She smiled seductively and said, "I want it." As she spoke, she swayed her hips slightly, rubbing her lower body against Zhang Yang's erect penis.

A strange pleasure surged from his lower body, and Zhang Yang couldn't help but recall the ecstasy of the previous night. His reason vanished again, and he kneaded her breasts even more forcefully, passionately kissing her near-perfect face.

Seeing her lover once more engrossed in passion, Da Qiao became even more alluring. Her soft hand traced circles down his firm chest, stopping only at his most sensual spot. Her fingers loosely clenched, slowly stroking his penis.

Zhang Yang felt a tightening in his lower body as the smooth fingers of the beautiful woman began to caress his manhood. Intoxicated by this pleasure for the first time, Zhang Yang suddenly felt a bitter taste in his mouth. Looking up, he realized he had licked the woman's still-wet tears. Zhang Yang slowed his movements and asked, "Why are you crying?"

Seeing her lover regain his senses, Da Qiao quickened her pace, smiling seductively, "I was so happy to see your martial arts skills that I lost my composure. Please forgive me."

Zhang Yang, having been taught to pay attention to details in the special forces, had noticed Da Qiao's red and swollen eyes and tear tracks on her face. He had intended to ask, but seeing her alluring body, he had been overcome by lust. Tears of joy were just a few small ripples of happiness, leaving no lasting mark. He reluctantly removed his hand from the beauty, feigning anger, and said, "I don't like being lied to."

Seeing her lover seemed angry, Da Qiao panicked and said, "My lord, don't be angry. I woke up and didn't see you, so I thought you had left, and that's why I was a little sad. I won't lie to you again."

Zhang Yang, who had noticed Da Qiao's admiration during their poetry discussion the previous night, helped her up and smiled, "Da Qiao, don't worry, we'll be together from now on."

Da Qiao forgot the exorbitant ransom from the brothel and happily threw herself into her lover's arms, only to have her lower abdomen pressed against his even hotter, harder penis.

Lost in her lover's promise of eternal love, Da Qiao remembered a skill she had learned. She winked at him and gracefully knelt down, but was startled when she saw the monstrous member before her. After a moment's hesitation, she opened her mouth wide and laboriously took it in.

A wisp of hot breath sprayed onto the sensitive tip, and the nimble, soft tongue licked it, a strange pleasure amplified by the feeling of conquest. Zhang Yang felt an intoxicating pleasure surging from his lower body. He completely forgot about Liang Guodong and Liang Zhongshu. Even if the Heavenly King himself came, Zhang Yang would dare to challenge him.

Xiao Qiao, sound asleep, was awakened by a strange sound. Opening her eyes, she saw her sister performing oral sex on her lover. Remembering the intoxicating pleasure of the previous night, she immediately wanted a share. The moment she moved, she felt a tearing pain in her lower body and couldn't help but cry out.

Seeing that Xiao Qiao was awake, Zhang Yang gestured for Da Qiao to move to the bedside. Da Qiao understood and moved to the bed while still sucking.

Looking at their erotic posture and recalling the ecstasy of the previous night, Xiao Qiao felt a surge of lust and stared intently at their joined bodies.

Once on the bed, Da Qiao also felt a sore throat. Seeing her sister's expression, she gestured for her to take over.

Xiao Qiao, unaware of the pain, happily climbed under her lover, only to realize how grotesque and terrifying the thing that had given her such ecstasy the night before truly was.

Zhang Yang, caught up in the throes of passion, didn't care. He pressed Xiao Qiao's head down and forcefully entered her mouth, and Xiao Qiao experienced the pain her sister had endured. After a long while, she adjusted to her lover's size and began to unleash the fruits of her labor. Xiao Qiao's oral sex was as elusive as her personality; her tongue moved unpredictably, occasionally licking the tip of his penis.

Zhang Yang played with Da Qiao's full, firm breasts, enjoying Xiao Qiao's unique service. Before long, they reached the peak of pleasure, and a powerful stream of essence shot into Xiao Qiao's mouth.

Xiao Qiao swallowed the legendary beauty-enhancing substance. Climbing onto her lover, she said coquettishly, "I'm exhausted, husband, how will you reward me?"

Zhang Yang looked at the two sisters on his chest, whom he could only distinguish by their voices, yet who had completely different personalities. He touched Xiao Qiao's round and pert buttocks with his large hand and laughed, "In a few days, when we go home, I'll let you fly to the clouds again."

Xiao Qiao couldn't help but recall the ecstasy of the previous night.

Da Qiao's eyes lit up, staring intently at her lover, "Husband, are you taking us home?" Seeing

Da Qiao's serious expression, Zhang Yang also smiled and said, "I've already redeemed you, the contract is in my clothes. We'll go home in a bit."

Upon hearing this, Da Qiao couldn't help but pounce on Zhang Yang, her fragrant lips kissing her lover's large mouth, their tongues exchanging a sweet kiss.

After his transformation, Zhang Yang's breathing became much longer. Enjoying the beauty's passion, Zhang Yang found himself somewhat suffocated after a while, while Da Qiao continued to kiss him passionately, showing no signs of difficulty breathing.

Strangely, Zhang Yang released his lips and found Da Qiao unaffected, thinking to himself: Is this human potential? It seems that even after genetic modification, I am far from reaching the human peak.

Seeing her lover looking at her strangely, Da Qiao blushed and buried her face in his arms.

Zhang Yang lingered with the two women for a long time before getting up to arrange their escape.

~~~~~~~~~~~

I wrote an article on my blog titled "Twenty Years Later, It's Men Who Shout for Gender Equality," feel free to check it out if you're interested. There are only two days left on the list, so please give me more votes. There's one more chapter coming up.

Chapter Thirty-Seven: Leaving the City with Beauties

The sky is high and the clouds are light, gazing at the swallows flying south. It was already late autumn, and most of the leaves on the trees, after being cleansed by the autumn wind, had already fallen to the ground. The remaining few drooped their heads, donned their autumn attire, and prepared to return to the earth when the next autumn wind came. Unfortunately, it was a rare sunny day, and the squirrels were all enjoying this rare good weather before the cold winter.

Zhang Yang came out of the house and saw that the weather was nice. In addition, he had just enjoyed a set of sensual services and felt that the weather was cool and autumnal. Although he had just relieved himself, Zhang Yang did not feel any soreness or weakness in his back or legs.

Stepping out of the courtyard, he saw a person on his left slip behind a flowering tree. The clothes were the same as those of the servant behind Liang Guodong last night, so he must be the one sent by Liang Guodong to keep watch.

Zhang Yang pretended to admire the scenery and looked around. Seeing that no one was around, he walked towards the flowering tree where the person was hiding.

When the servant saw Zhang Yang actually walking towards his hiding place, he shrank even deeper under the tree, not daring to breathe, hoping that Zhang Yang would not find him. Just as he was silently praying, he saw Zhang Yang leap over. Just as he was about to escape, his throat was grabbed.

Zhang Yang tightened his grip on the man's throat, saying in a deep voice, "Answer honestly later, or I'll turn you into fertilizer."

The servant felt a sharp pain in his throat, and Zhang Yang's fierce expression made it seem as if he would have his neck snapped if he hesitated even slightly. Hearing this, he nodded hastily.

Zhang Yang loosened his grip slightly and asked, "How many men did Liang Guodong send to watch me?" He then tightened his grip again.

The servant felt as if Zhang Yang's hand was about to break his neck and hurriedly replied, "Only me."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Yang laughed and said, "That makes things easier. You can rest for a bit." Before the servant could react, he knocked him unconscious with a single blow and hid behind a flowering tree. Then he walked towards his own courtyard.

After Shi Yong got up, the maid told him that Zhang Yang had asked him to wait in the courtyard. After a while, Zhang Yang entered, looking radiant.

Zhang Yang took his bundle, handed Shi Yong five hundred strings of cash, and said, "Go buy two good horses, then go out the north gate and follow the official road to find them. Don't waste too much time."

Shi Yong took the cash without asking any questions and went to the horse market to buy horses.

Zhang Yang didn't check out of the shop either. When he arrived at the back of the brothel, he saw a fat man about to get into a carriage at the entrance. Zhang Yang stepped forward and said, "Excuse me, I'd like to buy this carriage for five hundred strings of cash. I wonder if you'd be willing to part with it, sir?"

At this time, a horse cost no more than a hundred strings of cash, and the fat man, hearing of such a good deal, hurriedly said, "Since you have business to attend to, sir, you might as well take it and use it."

Zhang Yang handed the fat man five hundred strings of cash and smiled, "Thank you for your generosity, sir.

I hope we can meet again someday." The fat man looked at the cash in his hand

and said with a beaming smile, "I am Huang Baichuan, and I live in the East City. If you ever need anything like this again, sir, I'd be happy to serve you again." Seeing how greedy he was, Zhang Yang didn't bother with him and cupped his hands, saying, "I have other business to attend to. You can take the coachman with you."

Seeing this, the fat man also told the coachman to head home.

Zhang Yang returned to the courtyard of the Two Qiaos. The two women were already wearing autumn clothes. Although the clothes were somewhat heavy, the well-fitting cuts still highlighted their beautiful figures. Xiao Qiao was packing up some beautiful jewelry. Zhang Yang, not wanting to waste any time, said, "Those things are from this establishment, don't take them. I'll get them for you later."

Xiao Qiao looked at the jewelry in her hands, reluctantly saying, "But they're so beautiful!"

Seeing Xiao Qiao's reluctance, Zhang Yang knew that women's love for jewelry was like a man's love for a beautiful woman. Not wanting to disappoint her, he smiled and said, "Then take these."

Xiao Qiao was overjoyed and immediately put all the jewelry into her dressing case, then hugged it tightly to her chest.

Zhang Yang couldn't help but chuckle at Xiao Qiao's expression, which resembled a hen carrying eggs. Seeing that Xiao Qiao was still looking at the other jewelry with lingering interest, he quickly said, "Let's go." Da

Qiao, seeing her sister's disheveled state and fearing her lover's displeasure, pulled her away.

As the three left the courtyard, the madam arrived with two servants. Zhang Yang casually pulled out several thousand strings of cash and handed it to the madam, saying, "Consider this money for the clothes and jewelry you two are wearing. We have other matters to attend to, so we'll be leaving now."

Seeing the lingering blush on the two Qiaos' faces and the tender affection in their eyes, the madam couldn't help but envy their fate. Taking the cash without checking the amount, she said absentmindedly, "The two Qiaos are truly blessed to have found such a good home. You should hurry and leave; Young Master Liang will surely come again."

Hearing this, Zhang Yang also bid farewell to the madam and walked out of the courtyard with the two Qiaos.

At this time, the servants and girls who had no customers were already busy preparing for new business. Seeing the three of them come out, and having heard about Zhang Yang's extravagant redemption last night, they all cast envious and jealous glances at the two women. Fortunately, the two women had just started their business and didn't have any close friends yet, so no one said goodbye.

Once out on the street, Zhang Yang carried the two women into the carriage. He sat on the carriage floor, cracked the whip, and urged the horses onward.

Sitting on the carriage floor, Zhang Yang watched the people on the street starting their day's work, a strange feeling stirring within him.

The two Qiaos, sold into a brothel from a young age, spent their days studying literature and practicing music, never having seen the bustling world. After getting into the carriage, they lifted the curtain and peered out at the various stalls on the street.

Passersby, seeing two identical fairies, forgot their work. The noisy street instantly became deathly quiet. Everyone stopped to look at the carriage, and even more comical were the vendors. The vegetable seller, holding a pumpkin, opened his mouth to call out, but upon seeing the two women, he forgot, staring blankly at the carriage. The fried dough stick seller forgot his spoon and reached for the dough sticks with his bare hand. The scalding hot oil gave him a bloody, pig-like scream, finally snapping everyone out of their daze.

Seeing this, Zhang Yang turned his head and couldn't help but laugh, "You two quickly lower the curtain, lest we be unable to leave the city."

Da Qiao reluctantly lowered the curtain upon hearing this. Xiao Qiao, however, said sweetly, "Husband, this is my first time going to the street, please let me see."

Zhang Yang didn't want to be blocked by pedestrians, and if Liang Guodong led his men to chase after them, he wouldn't be able to take the two women away from the enemy ranks. He shook his head and said, "We'll see later. Last night I snatched you from the garrison commander's hands; it wouldn't be good if he came after us."

Hearing that her lover had offended the most powerful garrison commander in the city for her sake, the two women's beautiful eyes immediately sparkled, and they were immersed in happiness. Xiao Qiao also obediently sat in the carriage.

Not long after the three left the city, Shi Yong rode up. Seeing the three of them whispering sweet nothings, Shi Yong said, "My lord, I'll go ahead and scout the way, lest we encounter any fellow martial artists."

This place was only a few miles from Beijing; who would dare to rob them on the road? Zhang Yang knew he didn't want to disturb him, so he smiled and said, "Go ahead, be careful."

Zhang Yang then poured out his heart to the two women, reciting love letters he had read before. The two women had never heard of love letters written by so many famous modern writers, and they felt even more that their lover was exceptionally talented, their hearts filled with sweetness.

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I wrote another piece on my blog about the September 18th Incident, patriots should check it out.

Chapter Thirty-Eight: The纨绔子弟(Wán kù zǐ dì, spoiled brat) Let's talk

about Liang Guodong. He returned to the garrison headquarters in a huff last night, and after venting his anger on two maids, he finally fell into a deep sleep. Liang Zhongshu only had this one son, and he spoiled him rotten, so he didn't discipline him much, and the servants naturally dared not disturb his sweet dreams.

When he woke up, the sun was already high in the sky. Looking at the two ordinary-looking women beside him, he remembered that the two sisters had been outdone last night, and he was furious. If his father hadn't said that the Cuiyun Tower had a complicated background, he would have smashed it to pieces.

Seeing the two maids still fast asleep, he grew even angrier. He threw back the covers and kicked the maid beside him off the bed.

The two maids had been tortured by Liang Guodong the previous night, and only fell asleep in pain half the night after he did, which was why they woke up late. The maid who had been kicked awake glared at him angrily. Remembering the torture she had endured the previous night, she was terrified and trembled as she got up, knelt down, and kowtowed, saying, "This servant was wrong, please forgive me, young master."

Liang Guodong saw that the maid was covered in bruises and trembling uncontrollably, a stark contrast to the elegant beauty of the two sisters from the previous night. Forgetting whose handiwork it was, he roared, "Damn servants! You've forgotten your place if you don't teach me a lesson! Get dressed!" He then got up and kicked the other maid awake. The two maids, enduring excruciating pain, dressed Liang Guodong.

The suave Liang Guodong didn't even glance at the two maids before getting up and leaving.

The two women dared to weep softly only after he left the room.

Liang Guodong's personal servant was already waiting at the door. He then ordered his men to gather the idlers he kept in the manor, and the group marched in a grand procession towards Cuiyun Tower. Upon arriving

at Cuiyun Tower, the servant, seeing the group armed with spears and clubs, dared not stop them.

As the group entered the hall, the madam hurriedly greeted them, saying, "Which girl would you like to serve, young master?"

Liang Guodong replied, "I want the two who were listed last night."

The madam, knowing his status, quickly smiled obsequiously, "They've already been redeemed and left. How about I get you two other top-ranking girls? They'll surely satisfy you."

Liang Guodong was stunned. "Left... redeemed them?"

The madam said, "It's the young master from last night. He redeemed the two Qiaos with 100,000 strings of cash."

Liang Guodong realized he had made a wasted trip. "Where does he live? I'm going to have those two beauties today!"

Liang Guodong roared. The madam cursed him inwardly for his infatuation, but fearing she might be caught in the crossfire, she said, "I only heard he's from Shandong, and he set off back early this morning."

Hearing this, Liang Guodong hurriedly said, "Someone, fetch the horses! We must catch up with them!" Then, remembering the servant he had left to keep watch, he added, "Zhang San, take two men and stay here. If you see Li Si, kill him!" With that, he led a group of men back into the mansion.

Before long, dozens of men rode from the garrison headquarters straight to the east gate, trampling and knocking down civilians who were slow to dodge. The road was in complete chaos, with countless dead and injured. The gatekeepers heard the rapid sound of hooves coming from inside the city and were about to close the gate to intercept them when they saw Liang Guodong leading the way. They quickly ran to the sides to avoid being caught in the crossfire. The group left the city and headed east in pursuit.

It was late autumn, and travelers and those visiting relatives and friends were hurrying home before the cold winter arrived.

Liang Guodong only found the official road bustling with carriages and horses after leaving the city. Normally, he would have given up long ago, but thinking of the beauty of the Two Qiaos, he couldn't bear to return empty-handed. So he led his men to search each carriage. Most carriages carried women, so they weren't allowed to search freely. Fortunately, they outnumbered him and looked fierce, so ordinary people dared not resist. Some who thought themselves superior and tried to act tough were beaten up.

After all, Liang Guodong's father was the most powerful person in Beijing, and his maternal grandfather was the Grand Tutor, who held absolute power in the court; he couldn't be bothered with ordinary officials. However, this undoubtedly slowed them down considerably, and Zhang Yang didn't intend to return to Liangshan, heading straight for the north gate.

The group traveled over twenty li without finding their target. Although Liang Guodong could ride a horse, he was used to a life of luxury. The bumpy ride nearly gave him a spinal cord injury; if it weren't for the erection that kept him going whenever he thought of the two Qiao sisters, he would have already ridden back home. After searching for several more miles, still without success, Liang Guodong gradually lost patience.

His servant, used to his arrogance, couldn't bear such hardship and cautiously said, "Perhaps they took a back road, and we'll have a hard time catching up. After all, you're a garrison commander, they wouldn't dare take the main road. I think that young lady was quite nice; why bother going to such lengths?"

Liang Guodong, who was also looking for an excuse to return home, nodded and said, "This time, that kid got off easy. If he dares to come to Beijing again, we'll make sure he doesn't leave alive. Let's go home."

The other idlers breathed a sigh of relief.

The group turned and walked a short distance when the servant pointed to a carriage ahead and said, "That young lady was in this carriage. Young master, you must be tired. Why not take the carriage back to the manor?"

Liang Guodong, already furious, leered and said, "Good idea! Kill the coachman and bury him by the roadside."

The coachman, seeing the group return, was terrified. Seeing several men rushing towards him with knives, he abandoned his mistress, jumped off the carriage, and ran towards the roadside bushes. The roadside was rugged and difficult to traverse, impossible for horses to pass through. Just as the coachman secretly breathed a sigh of relief, he felt a sharp pain in his chest. Looking down, he saw an arrowhead protruding from his chest. He remembered the vow he had made before leaving—"I will protect my mistress with my life, or I will be struck by sword and arrow"—and it had truly come true.

The coachman laboriously looked back at the carriage, his eyes filled with regret. Perhaps he should have fought bravely to protect his mistress; perhaps then he could have escaped this calamity. He had just taken a step back when he felt his strength draining from his chest, making it extremely difficult to lift his foot. His vision blurred, and he vaguely saw several men with knives approaching. Then, a red dance of blood splattered from his chest, a rather beautiful sight.

Several idlers cursed as they cut down the coachman, shoved him behind some bushes, and returned to the main road to report to the young master, but he was nowhere to be seen. Seeing his companions staring lewdly at the carriage, and hearing the lewd laughter and the woman's cries coming from inside, they understood. One of the idlers drove the carriage around and headed towards the city, with the others following behind, listening to the sounds inside. Gradually, the sounds of flesh colliding came from inside the carriage, and the woman seemed to have been gagged, only able to make whimpering sounds.

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Last day of the Newcomer Ranking! Hurry up and add it to your favorites if you haven't already.

Chapter Thirty-Nine: First Encounter with Wu

Song After leaving the city, Zhang Yang and his group headed north. One day, they arrived at a place surrounded by high mountains, with a post road running through the middle. Shi Yong, however, recognized the place and said to Zhang Yang, "Brother, this place is called Yinmachuan. There are often many people living there, but I don't know what's happening with them lately. Should we take a detour?"

Zhang Yang, skilled and daring, and also looking to recruit heroes, laughed and said, "No problem. The mountain stronghold is recruiting soldiers, and I also want to meet heroes from all over the world."

Upon hearing this, Shi Yong also rode his horse to protect the carriage.

Just as the carriage and horses passed the edge of the mountain, a gong sounded, and one or two hundred henchmen came out and blocked the road. Leading them were two brave men, each brandishing a broadsword, who shouted, "Travelers, stop! If you know what's good for you, pay the toll, and we'll spare your lives!"

Shi Yong, also exceptionally brave, said upon seeing this, "I'll go and meet these two first."

Zhang Yang shook his head and said, "No need, you protect the carriage, I'll go and meet these two." After saying this, he jumped off the carriage and walked towards the men blocking the road.

The man at the head of the group, his eyes bloodshot, overheard their conversation and laughed, "What a pair of ungrateful bastards! It seems my knife will be drawn again today. I'll test you out. Adding a lackey doesn't make you a hero."

Seeing Zhang Yang unarmed, he added, "Hey, what weapon do you use? I'll have someone fetch it for you, so no one will say I'm taking advantage of you."

Zhang Yang laughed, "I don't use any weapons. Just bring it on; I can handle it barehanded."

Hearing this, the man tossed his iron chain to a nearby lackey, saying, "I won't take advantage of you. Let's settle this with our fists. If you win, we won't make things difficult for you." Seeing

the man's upright character, Zhang Yang cupped his hands and said, "Please."

The man returned the gesture without ceremony and unleashed his "Black Tiger Claws at the Heart" attack. Although the move was simple, the man was strong, and his punches even created a slight whooshing sound.

Zhang Yang was already skilled in hand-to-hand combat, and after his transformation, his physical abilities improved significantly. He gradually became accustomed to relying on speed and strength to win. Seeing this, he reached out and grabbed the man's fist, clenching his fist tightly.

The man, seeing Zhang Yang grab his fist, tried to struggle, but felt as if his fist were being clamped by an iron vise. The intense pain made half his body numb, and he was about to collapse. He knew the difference in strength between them was vast, but he couldn't beg for mercy, so he could only grit his teeth and persevere.

Seeing that the man's forehead was already sweating, Zhang Yang released his grip and said, "Forgive me."

The man barely straightened up, slightly moving his right hand, and said, "Brother, your strength is divine. I humbly admit defeat. Please forgive my offense." He then turned back to let the henchmen behind him make way.

Another fair-skinned man, seeing his companion defeated in one move, cupped his hands and asked, "May I ask your name, brother?"

Seeing that someone had finally asked his name, Zhang Yang smiled and said, "I am Zhang Yang of Liangshan."

Upon hearing this, the two men exchanged glances and then knelt down. The man with bloodshot eyes said, "So it's Brother Zhang Yang who captured Huyan Zhuo alive! No wonder I was so easily defeated. I've only heard of your great name from fellow martial artists lately, but I never imagined I'd be able to meet you here today!"

Zhang Yang helped the two up and said, "Friends of the martial world, you flatter me. May I ask your names, sirs?"

The man with bloodshot eyes said, "My surname is Deng, and my given name is Fei. Because of my bloodshot eyes, people in the martial world call me the Fiery-Eyed Lion. My brother beside me is surnamed Meng, and my given name is Kang. We are from Zhen Ding Prefecture and are skilled at building ships of all sizes. Because we were escorting the tribute of precious stones, we needed to build a large ship. I resented the official who was pressing us too hard and demanding payment, so he killed the official on the spot. We abandoned our family and fled to the martial world, where we have been living as outlaws for many years. Because he is tall and fair-skinned, people have noticed his good physique." He was given a nickname, called Meng Kang, the Jade

Banner Pole. There was also his elder brother, Pei Xuan, on the mountain. He was originally a clerk in the local government, extremely skilled with the pen; he was honest, upright, and intelligent, never compromising his principles, and was known locally as the Iron-Faced Clerk. He was also skilled with spears, clubs, swords, and knives, possessing both wisdom and courage. Because the court was sending a corrupt prefect to exile him to Shamen Island, he was passing through here when we killed the guards escorting him and rescued him, allowing him to settle here and gather two or three hundred men. This Pei Xuan was extremely skilled with dual swords; being the eldest, he was now the leader of the mountain stronghold. We would be grateful if you would come with us to our small stronghold for a short meeting.”

Zhang Yang, who was looking to recruit heroes, replied, “Since you have so kindly invited me, how could I refuse?” He then had the two Qiaos alight from the carriage.

The people of Yinma River were stunned to see two women who were almost identical in appearance. Zhang Yang, aware of the two women's lethality, coughed, and Deng Fei, regaining his senses, hurriedly ordered his men to report the news up the mountain.

When the group reached the outpost, Pei Xuan, having received the message, came out to greet them. Zhang Yang, observing Pei Xuan's resolute face, secretly decided to appoint him to oversee military law, lest the strategist's power become too great and uncontrollable.

Pei Xuan then arranged for the two Qiaos to rest in the guest rooms and invited Zhang Yang and Deng Fei to the Hall of Righteousness. After exchanging pleasantries,

Zhang Yang was seated first, followed by Pei Xuan, Shi Yong, Deng Fei, and Meng Kang—the five heroes. They were treated as guests and host, and the banquet began. During the meal, Zhang Yang spoke of the grandeur of Liangshan Marsh and the deeds of its leaders and heroes.

Pei Xuan had long sensed that Yinmachuan was small and poorly stocked, constantly in danger of destruction. Upon hearing this, he knelt down and said, "My village has about three hundred men and more than ten cartloads of supplies, not counting food and fodder. If you, sir, do not despise our humble origins and accept us, we are willing to serve under your command. What do you think?"

Zhang Yang helped Pei Xuan up and said, "Brother, how could I refuse your offer to come up the mountain? However, I still need to go to Cangzhou to meet someone. Perhaps I can write a letter, and you can take it up the mountain. They will arrange things for you once they see my letter. I will also return to the mountain soon."

Pei Xuan said, "Very well, let's go to the stronghold and wait for you, brother."

The group drank quite a bit more wine, and only returned to their respective strongholds to rest in the evening.

The next day, the people of Yinmachuan headed towards Liangshan. Zhang Yang and his group headed straight for Cangzhou. Within a day, they arrived at the border of Cangzhou and asked, "Where is Master Chai's manor?" They inquired about the location and followed the directions. Soon, they could see the manor, surrounded by a frozen stream, its banks lined with massive trees.

Shi Yong approached and asked a servant, "Is Master Chai at the manor?"

Seeing Shi Yong's travel-worn appearance, the servant, recognizing him as a wandering swordsman seeking refuge, replied, "Sir, you've come at the right time. The manor lord is indeed here. Please follow me inside."

Zhang Yang helped the two Qiaos out of the carriage, and under the astonished gazes of the servants, they entered the living room.

A short while later, a man in his mid-thirties entered, with striking features: dragon-like eyebrows and phoenix eyes, pearly white teeth and red lips, a three-pronged mustache, and impeccably dressed. Upon seeing the two Qiaos, his eyes lit up, but he quickly shifted his gaze to Zhang Yang and the other man. Seeing Shi Yong's imposing physique and Zhang Yang's extraordinary bearing, Zhang Yang dared not be negligent. He clasped his hands and said, "I am Chai Jin. May I ask your esteemed names?"

Seeing that Chai Jin's gaze lingered only briefly on the two Qiaos, Zhang Yang secretly praised his resolve and returned the greeting, saying, "I am Zhang Yang from Liangshan. I heard that Master Chai is dedicated to welcoming heroes from all over the world, so I have come to pay my respects."

Chai Jin, who had always loved associating with江湖人士 (jianghu figures), upon hearing of the recently rising fame of Zhang Yang, immediately bowed and said, "I have long admired your great name, brother. I never expected to grace my humble abode with my presence today, fulfilling a lifelong wish."

However, Chai Jin's status differed from the others. Although Zhang Yang was unwilling, he had no choice but to follow Song Dynasty etiquette and bow to the ground, replying, "Zhang Yang is but a humble commoner; how can I accept such a grand gesture from the master?"

Seeing this, Chai Jin quickly helped Zhang Yang up, saying, "Last night the lamplight flickered, and this morning the magpies chattered. I never expected to find you here, brother." His face beamed with smiles.

Seeing Chai Jin's enthusiastic reception, Zhang Yang was delighted and summoned Shi Yong and the two Qiao sisters to greet him as well.

Chai Jin ordered his servants to pack everyone's belongings and assemble them for a resting place in the west wing of the back hall. Chai Jin took Zhang Yang's hand and led them into the main hall, where they sat down as host and guests.

Chai Jin said, "I dare not ask, but I have heard of your great achievements at Liangshan. How did you find the time to come to this humble village?"

Zhang Yang had come for the sake of Wu Song, the hero of the Water Margin, but he could not tell the truth. He could only reply, "I have long admired your great name, sir. There is nothing much going on at the stronghold, so I just came to visit."

Upon hearing this, Chai Jin laughed and said, "Brother, if you think so highly of me, please stay. It is not that I am boasting, but even the imperial troops who are hunting down bandits would not dare to look at my humble village with a second glance."

The forces in the stronghold were complex and intertwined, and Zhang Yang did not dare to stay down the mountain for too long. He said, "I originally intended to stay with you, Master, for a while longer, but I have been delayed on the road for several days. The stronghold is still in its infancy, so it is not appropriate to stay too long. Please stay at the manor for three days."

Chai Jin did not want to keep him any longer and invited Zhang Yang to the back of the hall, where food and wine had been prepared. He asked Zhang Yang to sit facing him, with Chai Jin sitting opposite him. Shi Yong sat to the side.

The three men sat down, and a dozen or so servants and several managers took turns serving them wine and urging them to drink. Chai Jin repeatedly urged Zhang Yang and Zhang Yang to drink a few cups, and Zhang Yang, who had a large capacity for alcohol, accepted all offers. When they were half-drunk, the three men shared their deep affection for each other.

Seeing that it was getting late, they lit candles.

They ate until the first watch of the night, when Chai Jin was already somewhat drunk, before escorting Zhang Yang back to his room. Turning to the east corridor, they saw a large man there, warming himself with a shovel over a fire. Zhang Yang recalled the scene of Song Jiang meeting Wu Song and knew that the burly man was most likely the one he had found. He asked, "Who is that?"

Chai Jin glanced at him and said irritably, "That man is from Qinghe County. His surname is Wu, his given name is Song, and he is the second son. He has been here for a year now."

Zhang Yang said, "I see that he is strong and powerful, so I imagine he is quite skilled in martial arts."

Chai Jin said, "Brother, you have a discerning eye. This man is indeed very strong, but he has a bad temper when drunk. Whenever he gets drunk, he starts to beat people."

Zhang Yang also knew that Wu Song was upright and straightforward, and that Chai Jin had been influenced by the slander of the servants, which was why he had been somewhat neglectful towards him. Hearing this, he didn't say much and went back to his room to rest.

Early the next morning, Chai Jin came to invite Zhang Yang to demonstrate his martial arts. The group went to the open space in the backyard. Zhang Yang didn't know any weapons, so he demonstrated the combat boxing he had learned. Although the moves of military boxing were simple, they were fast, ruthless, and accurate, and Zhang Yang had a deep understanding of their essence. Each punch he threw possessed the force of a tyrant splitting a mountain, and his movements were swift and fluid. He completed a set of punches without even changing his expression.

The crowd had never seen such concise and ferocious boxing techniques before, and only when Zhang Yang approached did they erupt in cheers.

Chai Jin said, "Brother, your martial arts are indeed extraordinary. No wonder you were able to capture Huyan Zhuo alive in one move. I've truly broadened my horizons today. Let's go to the front courtyard for some wine, and later I'll take you for a walk around."

Zhang Yang saw Wu Song in the crowd and said, "Alright, Wu Song is from my hometown too. Let's invite him as well. It'll make things more lively."

Chai Jin couldn't refuse Zhang Yang's offer, so he led Zhang Yang to Wu Song and said, "Wu Er, this is Brother Zhang Yang from Liangshan. Why don't you pay your respects?" Wu Song

had been neglected by Chai Jin these past few days and was thinking of seeking refuge elsewhere. Hearing this, he immediately knelt down and said, "I've long admired your name, brother. I never expected to meet you here today."

Zhang Yang also greatly admired Wu Song from the Water Margin, which was why he had come specifically to find him. Seeing this, he quickly helped him up. Zhang Yang said, "I only heard from Master Chai last night that you were also from Shandong, so I wanted to meet you. Please don't stand on ceremony. May I ask how you ended up here?"

Wu Song replied, "In Qinghe County, I got drunk and got into a fight with a local official. In a fit of rage, I punched him unconscious. I thought he was dead, so I fled here to seek refuge with you, Master Chai, for over a year. Later, I learned that he wasn't dead and had been saved. I was just about to return home to find you, but I contracted malaria and couldn't go back. Unexpectedly, this misfortune has turned into a blessing, and I've met you, brother."

Zhang Yang knew that Wu Song wouldn't easily join him as an outlaw, so he could only comfort him gently and take him with him every day, drinking and keeping him company. Wu Song's previous illness also stopped flaring up.

After three days, Zhang Yang packed his bags, bid farewell to Chai Jin, and returned to the mountain. Seeing Zhang Yang's kindness and unwilling to endure Chai Jin's coldness any longer, Wu Song agreed to travel with Zhang Yang. Along the way, Zhang Yang subdued Tang Long, the Golden Leopard. Zhang Yang then earnestly invited Wu Song to stay on the mountain for a few days, and Wu Song, seeing Zhang Yang's kindness, couldn't refuse. The group then headed towards Liangshan.

Chapter Forty: Returning to the Mountain with a Beauty.

The journey was uneventful. Zhang Yang and his companions arrived at an inn set up by the mountain stronghold outside the marsh and boarded a small boat to sail into the marsh.

By this time, the reeds were in full bloom, possessing both the lightness of willow catkins and the whiteness of cotton. A gentle breeze blew, and they swirled and fell freely in the air like snowflakes, turning the entire marsh into a snow-white world. The reeds clustered together, like smoke and clouds.

It was the first time Zhang Yang and his companions had seen such a beautiful scene, and they were all deeply intoxicated by this pure world. Xiao Qiao, in particular, became playful, chasing the reeds on the boat. A flock of wild ducks migrating south flapped their wings and landed on the nearby lake. The loud splashing startled everyone from their reverie, except for Xiao Qiao, who continued chasing the reeds with undiminished enthusiasm.

Zhang Yang, seeing Xiao Qiao running around the boat, quickly scooped her up and asked, "Can you swim?"

Xiao Qiao retorted, "I grew up in a brothel, how could I swim?"

Upon hearing this, Zhang Yang nearly tripped and said, "Then why do you dare to run around like that? Be careful you don't fall into the water and become the Dragon King's captive wife."

Xiao Qiao giggled sweetly, "Isn't there you?"

Zhang Yang couldn't help but smile. It seemed she thought he was omnipotent. However, swimming was a compulsory subject in the army, and he was quite skilled at it. Nevertheless, Zhang Yang didn't want to go into the water to rescue her, so he simply held onto Xiao Qiao.

Xiao Qiao struggled a few times and then felt something gradually hardening pressing against her buttocks. Although the three of them hadn't shared a room during the journey, their desires were still unavoidable. Xiao Qiao knew what it was, and seeing several other people nearby, her face flushed red, and she dared not move again. Zhang Yang, who had been suppressing his anger the whole way, was also burning with rage, but the occasion was inappropriate, so he had to endure it. The two quietly embraced and admired the beautiful scenery together.

As they approached Liangshan, they heard a loud and unrestrained song: "

Grandpa was born in Liangshan Marsh, I neither planted seedlings nor hemp.

I killed all the corrupt officials and cruel bureaucrats, and wholeheartedly followed Zhang Shanggu.

" It was the first time Xiao Qiao had heard such a bold and unrestrained song, and she asked, "Who is singing this?"

Zhang Yang had heard this song many times. The three Ruan brothers had composed several similar songs, and he himself found them pleasant, so he had them used as training chants. He said, "This is the mountain stronghold's navy training, and also informing the people that the area ahead is a forbidden zone."

As he spoke, a small boat sped towards them from afar, with several burly men in blue standing at the bow. They shouted from a distance, "This is Liangshan's forbidden zone! Who's on board?"

Zhang Yang shouted, "I am Zhang Yang. You can continue your patrol." As he spoke, the boat arrived in front of them.

The navy soldiers recognized Zhang Yang at the bow, saluted, and then sailed eastward.

Xiao Qiao said, "Husband, the mountain bandits are even more powerful than the Imperial Guards of Beijing."

Zhang Yang laughed, "How do you know?"

Xiao Qiao said, "I once saw the Imperial Guards fighting in a brothel, and they all seemed to lack training. The mountain bandits, on the other hand, were all burly and their salutes were perfectly synchronized, showing they were all well-trained veterans. The superiority is self-evident."

Zhang Yang also knew that the Song Dynasty had enjoyed a long period of peace, and its army lacked training. He didn't expect even someone like Xiao Qiao, who knew nothing about military affairs, to see this. No wonder the Song Dynasty, despite its strong cities and powerful weapons, was powerless to resist when the Jin Dynasty marched south. What was even more worrying was that Beijing still had 30,000 Imperial Guards, and the local garrison troops were mostly old and weak. There were also many powerful families using their retainers to impersonate soldiers and collect pay, only showing up at the military camp for a few days during inspections. Their combat effectiveness was even more questionable. The only fighting force left in the whole country was the hundred thousand or so troops fighting against the Western Xia in the northwest frontier.

Just then, they arrived near the Golden Sands Beach. Although it was already mid-October, and there were some ice crystals in the lake, Ruan Xiao'er was still leading his navy in training in the water. Although the weather was a bit cold, Zhang Yang noticed that his men seemed unaffected. Many people winter swim these days; once they get used to it, there's no problem.

Seeing Zhang Yang return, Ruan Xiao'er quickly blew his conch shell to summon everyone to the beach. When the boat docked, Ruan Xiao'er had already assembled the navy, who lined up to greet them. The sailors, all wearing only their underwear, had tanned, shiny skin after a summer of training. The stronghold had no shortage of provisions, and each soldier was robust and imposing.

The two women, seeing that most of their bodies were exposed, blushed and clung tightly to Zhang Yang's arms.

The others were also amazed to see their leader had brought back two identical beauties.

Seeing the two women's expressions, Zhang Yang said, "Good training. Tell the kitchen to add more dishes later." He then asked Ruan Xiao'er to accompany him up the mountain. Upon reaching the main stronghold, he instructed Ruan Xiao'er to strike the golden drum in front of the assembly hall.

Zhang Yang led the two Qiao sisters back to the secluded courtyard. At the gate, Da Qiao asked worriedly, "Husband, will our two sisters accept us?"

Zhang Yang smiled and hugged Da Qiao, saying, "Don't worry, Lian'er is gentle and kind, and Qiaoyun (Liu Gao's wife, Zhen Shi) is a pitiful person. I don't think they'll reject you. Besides, don't you have me to protect you?" Da Qiao

leaned against her lover's broad chest, feeling as if she had found support. She said coquettishly, "It's just that I'm overthinking things. Let's go in quickly."

Actually, he hadn't given Zhen Qiaoyun much thought, after all, he only saw her as a machine to satisfy his lust. He was just a little worried that Wen Lian would be secretly heartbroken, but Zhang Yang also knew that he was already somewhat promiscuous, and after the reformation, he was even more energetic, and wouldn't lack women in the future. He had to teach her to accept it, so he steeled himself and led the two women into the courtyard.

The maids in the courtyard saw Zhang Yang return and were about to step forward to greet him. Zhang Yang gestured for them to be quiet and walked to the door. Da Qiao said, "Husband, you should go in first and tell the two sisters, so they won't misunderstand."

Seeing that Da Qiao was still a little uneasy, Zhang Yang said, "Alright then."

Wen Lian was embroidering with Zhen Qiaoyun when she heard someone come in. She looked up and saw that it was her husband who had come down from the mountain for his travels. She was overjoyed. She put down her needlework and came to help Zhang Yang

change his clothes. Zhang Yang hugged Wen Lian and said, "I have to go to the Hall of Righteousness later, so I won't change my clothes. Tell your husband, have you missed me?"

Although Wen Lian had been married to Zhang Yang for several months, she was still not used to his constant affection. Being hugged by Zhang Yang in front of the maids made her blush. But she knew that Zhang Yang would not give up until he got what he wanted, so she whispered, "Yes, I have. Sister Zhen is still here. Husband, please let go."

Zhang Yang knew that Wen Lian was a traditional woman, so he let go of her. Seeing Zhen Qiaoyun's envious expression, and remembering her usual submissiveness to Wen Lian and her obsequiousness in bed, he embraced her in return.

Wen Lian, however, noticed two more people outside the door. Knowing Zhang Yang didn't usually bring anyone, she asked curiously, "Husband, did you bring anyone?"

Zhang Yang replied, "Lian'er, I've found you two sisters. They're waiting outside. You see…"

Wen Lian, being kind-hearted, instinctively said, "How can I let my two sisters stand outside?" She then stepped out of the room and was momentarily stunned by the two women's perfect faces.

Da Qiao, judging from Wen Lian's attire and age, knew she was now the legal wife. She realized that half of her sisters' fate would now be in her hands. She tugged at her younger sister's sleeve, gave a timid curtsy, and said, "Da Qiao greets elder sister."

Seeing this, Wen Lian quickly said, "No need for formalities, both sisters. It's cold outside, please come inside."

Da Qiao, seeing Wen Lian's kind tone, breathed a slight sigh of relief and let Wen Lian go inside first before pulling her younger sister in.

Wen Lian was kind-hearted, and Zhen Qiaoyun, knowing her status, dared not cause trouble. With Da Qiao's deliberate attempt to befriend her, the atmosphere was harmonious.

Seeing no tension, Zhang Yang also headed towards the Hall of Righteousness.

(
Chapter 41: Song Jiang's Arrangements)

While everyone was chatting, they saw Zhang Yang enter through a side door and all rose to greet him. After exchanging greetings, Zhang Yang, seeing that everyone had arrived, introduced the newly arrived Shi Yong and Tang Long, saying, "I am fortunate to have the company of several brothers since I came down the mountain. I will now arrange everyone's duties." Upon

hearing this, Chao Gai hurriedly said, "Chief, some time ago, Brother Song Jiang, the Timely Rain from Yuncheng County, also came to the stronghold to seek refuge. Please help arrange things for us, brother."

Zhang Yang was taken aback, thinking to himself: In *Water Margin*, Wu Yong deliberately left a letter to get Song Jiang to come up the mountain, but I also greatly appreciate Wu Yong and have given him important power. He shouldn't be pulling any tricks like this when I come down the mountain. Could it be that Song Jiang came uninvited? If so, I must be careful.

Although he thought this to himself, he still pretended to be pleasantly surprised and said, "How can we let Brother Song Jiang wait outside?" After saying this, he got up and went outside to personally invite Song Jiang and Song Qing in.

Song Jiang was also secretly pleased to see Zhang Yang personally welcoming him. Upon entering the hall, Song Jiang bowed deeply and said, "I accidentally killed someone. Hearing that the chieftain is recruiting talented individuals, I have come to join him. I hope the chieftain will accept me."

Although Zhang Yang did not want to add another supporter of surrender to the imperial court to the stronghold, he had to help Song Jiang up to protect his reputation for recruiting talent. He said, "I also heard that you, brother, are generous and righteous. Your joining us is a blessing to the stronghold. How could I refuse?"

Seeing that the first step was successful, Song Jiang said happily, "The chieftain's kindness in accepting me is immense. I will repay it with my life."

Looking at Song Jiang's fawning manner, Zhang Yang felt a surge of disgust, recalling his power grab in the Water Margin. He turned and went up to the platform, saying, "Let all the newly arrived leaders pass the test together, and then we will assign positions according to their individual martial prowess."

Zhang Yang originally intended to directly appoint Shi Yong and his men as commanders of a thousand men, but Song Jiang's sudden appearance made it difficult to show favoritism. However, Zhang Yang did not want Song Jiang to hold real power, hence this alternative.

After joining the stronghold, Song Jiang not only deliberately cultivated relationships with the other leaders but also observed the strength of each stronghold. Knowing that he could at most defeat Zhang Yang's two personal guards, he would only become a centurion, and even if he were to be recruited later, he wouldn't gain any benefits. Upon hearing this, he hurriedly said, "I used to work in the county government and have a basic understanding of writing. I would like to do some copying of official documents."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Yang inwardly cursed Song Jiang's cunning. Given Song Jiang's reputation in Shandong, if he were to have him copy official documents, the rumors would surely chill the hearts of the heroes. He also wouldn't trust him to manage the official documents. After a moment's thought, he said, "The stronghold doesn't have many documents, and Brother Xiao Rang is already in charge. You will assist Brother Gongsun Sheng in managing the money and provisions; Brother Qing will be responsible for arranging the banquets."

Song Jiang was overjoyed to hear that he had such important power.

In truth, Zhang Yang had considered this carefully. The soldiers already knew about the stronghold's pay; if even a single coin was shortchanged, the soldiers wouldn't let it go, and a delayed handover would also cause discontent. Zhang Yang would also periodically inquire about the money and provisions, making it impossible for Song Jiang to use more money to win hearts and minds; Qing's position was even more awkward. He was in charge of every leader's birthday celebration and welcoming banquet, but everyone's status was different, and there were many rules to follow, making it a thankless task.

Although Song Jiang and his brothers were assigned to the task, Zhang Yang had already stipulated that the newly arrived leaders must pass the test. Fortunately, Shi Yong and Deng Fei were exceptionally skilled and managed to defeat the three men.

Zhang Yang then appointed Shi Yong and Deng Fei as centurions, with their troops to be selected from the reserve forces. Meng Kang, the Jade Banner Pole, was in charge of overseeing the construction of warships of various sizes, Tang Long, the Golden Leopard, supervised the forging of all military equipment and armor, and Pei Xuan, the Iron-Faced Clerk, was responsible for determining rewards and punishments in the military administration, while also keeping intelligence under his control.

With everyone's duties assigned, a banquet was held to welcome the newcomers. They all dispersed in the evening.

Zhang Yang returned to his secluded courtyard, and hearing the occasional sounds of laughter and chatter coming from inside, he felt a surge of warmth in his heart and quickened his pace.

Wen Lian was chatting with three women when she saw Zhang Yang enter, reeking of alcohol, and quickly went to help him.

Zhang Yang, who had been abstaining from sex all the way, was already in high spirits, and now that he was finally home, he had no more reservations.

As soon as Wen Lian arrived, Zhang Yang grabbed her in a hug. Her most vulnerable spot was suddenly breached, and a strange pleasure washed over her, making her mature body go limp. But remembering her two newly acquainted sisters beside her, she quickly said, "There are two younger sisters here."

Zhang Yang, who had planned to have his way with both young and old tonight, laughed and said, "No one can escape tonight." His movements became even more ruthless.

Previously, Zhang Yang had always been gentle with Wen Lian, but now he was suddenly wild. Although Wen Lian felt a slight pain in her breasts, the unusual sensation stirred her passion. Knowing her husband wouldn't change his mind, and having previously shared the bed with Zhen Shi, she became lost in desire.

After ravaging Wen Lian's high breasts for a while, Zhang Yang felt a surge of pain in his lower body and immediately carried her to the bed. Da Qiao and the other two tried to dodge, but Zhang Yang pounced on them all. Then came the sound of tearing silk, and four flawless bodies were exposed to the air.

Wen Lian and the two Qiaos hadn't expected everyone to be so naked so soon, and they tried their best to cover their private parts. Zhen Shi, knowing that Zhang Yang's lust for her outweighed his affection, flirtatiously winked at him, her hands caressing her full, white breasts, striking a pose like a lonely young woman.

Seeing the four women, some innocent and shy, others mature and alluring, Zhang Yang's lust intensified. He quickly tore off his clothes and pounced on Wen Lian. Seeing that her husband still thought of her first, the slight worry in Wen Lian's heart quietly disappeared.

Zhang Yang was already driven by lust, barely able to distinguish between primary and secondary desires. Touching Wen Lian's smooth skin, he immediately lost himself in lust—his hands began to roughly knead Wen Lian's increasingly full breasts, and his mouth rained down on Wen Lian's face and neck.

Wen Lian felt Zhang Yang's passion, which was different from before, and her own unquenched lust erupted. Her fair, delicate body flushed a beautiful pink from passion. Under Zhang Yang's advances, her small mouth emitted seductive moans. Zhen Shi also rose and climbed to Zhang Yang's side, massaging his firm back with her full breasts.

Zhang Yang felt that the time was ripe, so he thrust his hips forward and entered her smoothly. The warm, tight feeling made Zhang Yang thrust harder. At the same time, his right hand climbed up Zhen Shi's even fuller breasts. Compared to the not-yet-fully-developed breasts of Wen Lian and the other two women, Zhang Yang preferred Zhen Shi's large breasts. After a

while, Wen Lian screamed and arched her swan-like neck.

Zhen Shi's lower body was already overflowing with desire. Seeing this, she quickly climbed onto the bed, sticking out her round, full buttocks.

Zhang Yang admired Zhen Shi's full breasts and buttocks. Seeing that she was so responsive, he also got up, held her round buttocks, and thrust his hips hard into her, beginning to thrust powerfully. Zhen Shi knew that Zhang Yang liked her to be wanton in bed, and for a time she cried out in a continuous stream of moans and groans.

The two Qiao sisters, watching the erotic scene, were also deeply moved, but upon hearing Zhen's cries, their faces flushed with embarrassment. However, seeing Zhang Yang's excited expression, they seemed to understand something.

After a long while, Zhen finally lay limply on the bed.

Zhang Yang then resumed his activities. It wasn't until dawn that Zhang Yang finally fell asleep with the four women, who had already fallen asleep.

Chapter 42: Song Jiang's Move

The next day, Zhang Yang resumed his military training, and also took the time to teach Wu Song several sets of boxing techniques he had learned in the army.

Wu Song possessed superhuman strength, but had grown up in poverty and had never received proper instruction. After learning Zhang Yang's boxing techniques, he progressed rapidly. He was very grateful to Zhang Yang and had considered following him several times, but his loyalty overshadowed his desire to follow. After staying for more than ten days, he felt increasingly homesick and came to bid farewell to Zhang Yang.

Seeing that Wu Song was determined to leave, Zhang Yang did not try to keep him, but instead gathered the leaders to hold a farewell banquet for him.

They drank until the moon was high in the sky before dispersing. Wu Song had just returned to his room when he heard a knock at the door. Opening it, he saw Song Jiang and hurriedly said, "Brother Song Jiang, please come in."

Song Jiang entered and said, "Brother, I'm going down the mountain tomorrow, and I've come to say a few words to you."

These past few days, Song Jiang had been visiting Wu Song whenever he had free time, and Wu Song, misled by his "benevolent" appearance, respected him greatly. Hearing this, Wu Song said, "Brother, please speak freely."

Song Jiang asked, "What do you plan to do after you go down the mountain?"

Wu Song replied, "First, I'll find my brother, and then I'll find some work to do."

Song Jiang had been trying to win over the leaders of the stronghold these past few days with little success, so he decided to try and win over Wu Song. Hearing this, Song Jiang shook his head and said, "Brother, going there would be like a lamb entering a tiger's den. In this world, treacherous officials are in power, and there is no room for the loyal and good. Brother, you are also straightforward and cannot tolerate the slightest compromise. I'm afraid your future is bleak. Why not stay on the mountain and make a name for yourself with the brothers?"

Wu Song was not afraid of death. Hearing this, he said, "Brother, you are mistaken. Although treacherous officials hold

power, they can still tolerate an ordinary person like me, right?" Song Jiang said, "Brother, with your martial arts skills, are you willing to be an ordinary person?"

Wu Song said, "My parents died when I was young, and you raised me. Now, I only want to depend on you for survival."

Song Jiang wanted to say more, but seeing that Wu Song was already impatient, he knew that continuing would only make him resentful, so he changed his tune and expressed his reluctance to part with him.

Early the next morning, Zhang Yang and the other leaders saw Wu Song off down the mountain. After traveling five or seven li from the camp, Wu Song bid farewell, saying, "Brother, you've gone too far. Please return. There are still many matters to attend to at the stronghold."

Zhang Yang replied, "Why not see me off a few more steps?" They chatted idly along the way, and before they knew it, another two or three li had passed.

Wu Song took Zhang Yang's arm, saying, "Brother, there's no need to see me off so far. As the saying goes, '

Even if you see someone off for a thousand li, you must eventually part ways.'" Zhang Yang stopped as well, saying, "I believe we brothers will meet again after this parting. With my skills, the journey may have been somewhat perilous, but it might not have been a bad thing. However, you must be careful around those two women. If you ever find yourself without shelter, remember to come to my stronghold."

Upon hearing this, Wu Song was taken aback, saying, "Brother, rest assured, although I am foolish, I don't care much for women. If anything unforeseen happens, I will definitely come to the stronghold."

Wu Yong and the others, who knew the power of Zhang Yang's prophecy, looked at Wu Song with sympathy and felt even greater respect for Zhang Yang.

Wu Song bid farewell to everyone and went to Qinghe County to find his brother. The events of fighting tigers and catching adulterers also occurred according to the records in Water Margin.

As the sun

sets, a heartbroken traveler wanders the ends of the earth. Jiang strolls leisurely through the stronghold, seemingly carefree, yet his heart is filled with anguish. He had initially thought he held power in the stronghold, and was filled with pride. But after becoming familiar with the situation, he realized he was merely a figurehead. The stronghold had no income, only a monthly stipend for weapons and armor. The stipend was public knowledge throughout the stronghold, and he couldn't curry favor with the other leaders; delaying its distribution would only incite discontent among the soldiers. The weapons and armor were personally distributed by Zhang Yang, and those responsible for procurement didn't hold military power, so bribing them was useless. Moreover, Zhang Yang had invented a strange system of numbers (Arabic numerals), making the accounts crystal clear and difficult to falsify.

As he pondered this, he unconsciously arrived at Hua Rong's courtyard and saw Wang Ying spying on something at the gate. A sense of unease stirred within him. He quietly approached Wang Ying from behind and peeked out. He saw Hua Rong's younger sister, Hua Yu, practicing her swordplay in the courtyard. A thought struck him, and he took a few steps back, asking, "What are you looking at, Brother Wang Ying?"

Wang Ying, captivated by Hua Yu's beauty, was startled by the voice behind him. He turned around and saw Song Jiang. He quickly replied, "Nothing, I just wanted to see if Brother Hua Rong was here."

Seeing Wang Ying's panicked expression, Song Jiang became even more certain of his suspicions. Moreover, Hua Rong had previously been on guard against the bandits of Qingfeng Mountain. Although they were now in the same stronghold, their relationship wasn't particularly good. Song Jiang was certain that Wang Ying wouldn't have any private business with Hua Rong.

Thinking of this, he laughed and said, "I've known Brother Hua Rong for several years, and I was just about to go have a drink with him. Of course, you should go with me."

Wang Ying was worried about who could mediate, so upon hearing this, he knelt down and said, "Brother, I have a favor to ask. If you can help me, I will serve you like a cow or a horse to repay you."

Song Jiang was secretly pleased to hear Wang Ying's words and quickly went to help him up, but Wang Ying refused to get up.

Song Jiang said, "Brother, speak freely. Anything I can do, I will do."

Wang Ying said, "I've taken a liking to Brother Hua Rong's sister. Unless you agree to mediate between us, I will kneel here forever."

Song Jiang had already guessed his thoughts and feigned difficulty, saying, "This is not a good matter."

Seeing this, Wang Ying actually grabbed Song Jiang's leg, saying, "Since I saw that woman, I haven't been able to eat or drink. If I can't have her, I'm afraid I won't live much longer. Brother, you must save me!"

Song Jiang originally wanted Wang Ying to pledge his loyalty again, but unexpectedly... Upon hearing this, Ying Hui was taken aback. Seeing the arrogant guards in the distance looking their way, he hurriedly said, "Get up quickly, I agree."

Wang Ying, hearing this, happily got up and said, "Brother, go now. I'll wait here for your good news."

Song Jiang said, "Alright, I'll play matchmaker for you. After it's done, you mustn't forget to invite me to your 'wedding feast'."

Wang Ying hurriedly said, "I won't forget. From now on, Wang Ying will serve you like a slave. Brother, go quickly."

Seeing Wang Ying's eagerness, Song Jiang couldn't help but feel contempt for him, but still walked towards the courtyard.

Song Jiang often came to cultivate his relationship with Hua Rong, and Hua Rong's family was quite familiar with him. Hua Yu, however, disliked Song Jiang's constant talk of benevolence and morality. When he entered, she pretended not to see him and continued wielding her sword. Song

Jiang knew that Hua Yu disliked him, so he didn't want to make a fool of himself and called out, "Is Brother Hua Rong here?"

Hearing this, Hua Rong hurriedly came out to invite Song Jiang into the house. The two men entered the house and sat down. After chatting for a while, Song Jiang said, "I see that your sister is not young anymore. I wonder if she has a fiancé?"

Hua Rong replied, "My sister has been spoiled by my late father since she was a child. She only practices swordsmanship and never touches needlework. No one would dare to marry her."

Upon hearing this, Song Jiang was secretly pleased and said with a smile, "I have a good candidate. He is also very skilled in martial arts and is the leader of the stronghold. He is a perfect match for your sister."

Hua Rong was worried about his sister's marriage. Hearing this, he said, "Brother

, tell me about him." Song Jiang said, "It is Brother Wang Ying. He is skilled in martial arts and is considered a good match for you in the village. What do you think?"

Hua Rong had heard many times before that Wang Ying was fond of women and had ruined the reputation of many women in the village. Moreover, he was also unsightly. How could he push his sister into such a pit? But Song Jiang, being a longtime friend, couldn't refuse outright, so he said, "My sister has never listened to me since she was little; this matter must be decided by her."

Song Jiang naturally knew Wang Ying was unlikely to be favored, and said, "An elder brother is like a father; as long as I agree, a marriage can be arranged. Why worry so much?"

Hua Rong, however, only made excuses.

Seeing that Hua Rong wouldn't give him face, Song Jiang had no choice but to leave.

Seeing Song Jiang come out, Wang Ying hurriedly went to greet him, asking, "How did things go?"

Song Jiang sighed and said, "Hua Rong won't budge. Don't worry, brother, let me think of another way; I'll definitely make sure you get what you want."

Wang Ying said, "Brother, you must save me."

Song Jiang hesitated for a while, but couldn't come up with a plan. Just then, he saw Zhang Yang accompanying several ladies for a walk, and an idea came to him. He said, "Why don't you go and ask the chieftain? If he's willing to make the decision, Hua Rong won't dare refuse. Just don't say it was my idea."

Wang Ying, upon hearing this, refused and scrambled towards Zhang Yang and the others, while Song Jiang hid to the side.

As soon as Zhang Yang and his companions came out, they saw Wang Ying running towards them. Xiao Qiao, seeing Wang Ying's sleazy appearance and his anxious look, couldn't help but laugh and say, "How come my husband has such a hero under his command?"

The other three women also couldn't help but laugh when they saw Wang Ying's appearance.

When Wang Ying got closer and saw the four women's charming smiles, he was captivated and forgot his original intentions.

Seeing Wang Ying's lustful gaze fixed on the four women, Zhang Yang was secretly enraged and said in a deep voice, "Brother Wang Ying, what is it?"

Startled by the voice, Wang Ying glanced at the four women again before crawling on the ground and saying, "I've taken a liking to Brother Hua Rong's sister. I beg you, brother, to grant me her hand in marriage."

The female members of the leaders often interacted, and Zhang Yang had seen Hua Yu a few times, harboring some improper thoughts. However, having just taken the two Qiao sisters, he was too embarrassed to add another, hence the delay. Of course, he wouldn't give her away. He said, "I can't make that decision myself. You might as well ask Brother Hua Rong what he thinks."

Wang Ying had long forgotten Song Jiang's instructions and hurriedly said, "Brother Song Jiang, I already asked Hua Rong, but that fellow is unwilling."

Hearing this, Zhang Yang thought to himself: It seems Song Jiang gave him this idea. Judging from Wang Ying's tone towards Hua Rong, if he were to forcefully refuse, Wang Ying would surely hold a grudge against him and would likely side with Song Jiang in the future. But he couldn't bear to push a beauty into the tiger's den, so he had no choice but to find an opportunity to get rid of the two. Thinking of this, he said, "Since Brother Hua Rong is unwilling, I won't force you. I'll find you a marriage partner later."

Seeing Zhang Yang's firm words, Wang Ying didn't want to make a scene. He glanced at the four women reluctantly, then turned and left.

After Wang Ying had gone some distance, Xiao Qiao said, "That man should take a good look in the mirror. He thinks he can marry Hua Yu with his looks?"

Zhang Yang didn't take it to heart and laughed, "Then

what would it take to be worthy of Hua Yu?" Xiao Qiao blurted out, "She'd have to be as talented in both literature and martial arts as my husband."

Zhang Yang half-jokingly said, "There aren't many extraordinary men like me in this world."

Xiao Qiao said, "That's true. Why don't we let Hua Yu keep us company?"

Zhang Yang didn't want to make a move himself right after rejecting Wang Ying, so he laughed, "I just acquired a pair of linked jade beads; I don't have time for that."

The two Qiaos felt a surge of shyness and joy upon hearing this, and Zhang Yang changed the subject.

Chapter 43 Li Kui Gets into Trouble

Meanwhile, Cai Jing, in order to amass wealth, appointed his relative by marriage, Hu Shiwen, as transport commissioner, and then his son, Cai Yun, as prefect of Hangzhou. Hangzhou was a fertile land, and after Cai Yun took office, he relied on his father's power to oppress his colleagues, plunder the people, and govern cruelly, causing widespread resentment among the populace, who secretly called Cai Yun "Cai the Tiger."

In this city, there was also a mediocre prefect named Huang Wenbing. Although he was well-versed in the classics, he was a sycophantic and treacherous man with a narrow mind. He was jealous of the virtuous and capable, harming those better than himself and manipulating those less capable, specializing in harming the local people. Hearing that Prefect Cai was the son of the Grand Tutor Cai, he frequently visited him across the river, hoping for a recommendation to take up an official post.

One day, Huang Wenbing, finding nothing to do while idly sitting at his private residence, took two servants and some fashionable gifts and went to visit Prefect Cai at his residence. Unfortunately, he stumbled upon a public banquet and dared not enter. Seeing the warm weather, Huang Wenbing went to Xunyang Tower for a stroll. He wandered into the wine cellar, looked around, and then went up to the wine shop to relax by the railing.

As he gazed at the river view, he overheard someone say, "Brother's eagles will be flying soon, won't they? Why not give them to Tie Niu to raise?"

Another person replied, "You're too rough around the edges; what kind of eagles do you keep? If you want to ride one, I'll have Da Hei and Xiao Hei carry you."

Huang Wenbing turned and saw that the speakers were Dai Zong, the famous Eagle Master of the city, and a burly, dark-skinned man. A thought suddenly struck him. Dai Zong kept a pair of giant eagles, each with a wingspan of over ten feet, which could be ridden to soar through the sky. Cai Yun had long coveted them, but the giant eagles were already well-trained, and he couldn't forcibly take them. Judging from their tone, it seemed the giant eagle had given birth. It seemed it was time for him to be promoted and make a fortune.

Huang Wenbing listened for a while longer and confirmed his guess. He then went to the front of the prefectural government office, just as the prefect was leaving court inside. He sent someone in to retaliate.

After a while, Prefect Cai sent someone out to invite him to the back hall. Prefect Cai came out and exchanged pleasantries with Huang Wenbing, presented gifts, and they sat down as guests.

Huang Wenbing said, "I just came to the prefectural government to pay my respects, but upon hearing of the banquet, I dared not enter without permission. Now I have come to pay my respects to Your Excellency."

Prefect Cai said, "The Vice Prefect is a close friend; please come in and sit with us! I have failed to greet you properly." Attendants served tea.

After tea, Huang Wenbing said, "I've come today with good news to report."

Cai Yun said, "Please tell me, Magistrate."

Huang Wenbing said, "Some time ago, I mentioned that there's a Protector of the Divine Eagles in this prefecture who keeps a pair of giant eagles, and you, sir, have been quite interested in them. Recently, I heard that the divine eagles have had offspring. If you really like them, you can ask him to send two to us to raise."

Since ancient times, humanity's dream of ascending to the heavens has never ceased. Cai Yun, especially, came from a distinguished family and had experienced everything that could be done on earth, making him even more curious about the sky. Upon hearing this, Cai Yun said, "It was just a joke, but I didn't expect the Prefect to take it to heart. However, this giant eagle is quite rare; it's perfect for keeping as a pet. After this is done, I will definitely recommend the Prefect for a post in a prosperous city." Huang

Wenbing, hearing that his efforts over the past few days had yielded results, was overjoyed and said, "If Wenbing is able to take up another post, I will never forget your kindness in nurturing me."

Cai Yun said, "This is easy to arrange. What is the man's name?"

Huang Wenbing said, "Dai Zong, currently serving as a prison warden in both the Imperial and Minor Courts. Why don't I go and instruct him to present the eagle, so that you won't have to trouble yourself, Prefect?"

Cai Yun smiled and said, "Then I'll trouble Wenbing to make the trip. I'll prepare a feast here to await you."

After Huang Wenbing took his leave, he went straight to Xunyang Tower. Upon reaching the upper floor and finding Dai Zong and Huang Wenbing still there, Huang stepped forward and bowed, saying, "Greetings, Dean Dai."

Dai Zong, recognizing Huang Wenbing, dared not offend him and rose, saying, "Greetings, Magistrate Huang. Please sit down and have some wine with us."

Huang Wenbing said, "Dean Dai, you are too kind. I am here today on the orders of the Prefect. I heard that your divine eagle has given birth, and the Prefect wishes to keep a couple for himself. I wonder if you would be willing to part with them?"

Dai Zong, unwilling to aid and abet wrongdoing, thought for a moment and declined, saying, "My little eagle has already been promised to someone. I would be grateful if you would inform the Prefect ..." " Your Excellency, if there are any more falcons next time, I will certainly present them to you."

Huang Wenbing laughed, "I wonder who the Dean promised to? I might as well go and ask him for them."

Dai Zong was merely making excuses, never expecting Huang Wenbing to be so shameless, so he had no choice but to bite the bullet and say, "They are not from this prefecture, I'm afraid the Prefect won't be able to find them."

Upon hearing this, Huang Wenbing naturally knew that Dai Zong was making excuses, and said in a deep voice, "The Dean still doesn't understand, it's not that I, Huang, am asking you, it's the Prefect's intention."

As soon as he finished speaking, he was punched to the ground by Li Kui beside him. Li Kui, stepping on Huang Wenbing, said, "You scoundrel, how dare you make such a racket! I said I wouldn't give it to you, and that's final. Even the Heavenly King himself wouldn't dare bully someone like this!"

Seeing Li Kui had hit Huang Wenbing, Dai Zong quickly pulled Li Kui away, scolding, "Tie Niu, don't cause trouble." He then helped Huang Wenbing up, saying, "This black fellow is naturally boorish; please don't blame him, Magistrate. We can discuss the matter of Little Eagle later."

Huang Wenbing had never suffered such a loss before. He shook off Dai Zong, saying, "You wait here." He then turned and walked downstairs. Seeing

this, Li Kui angrily shouted, "You scoundrel, how rude! Take another beating from me!"

Seeing Li Kui chasing after him menacingly, Huang Wenbing hurriedly scrambled downstairs.

Dai Zong hugged Li Kui and said, "You scoundrel, you've really gotten us into trouble this time. Huang Wenbing has to frame others for no reason. Now he'll definitely add fuel to the fire when we get back. Do you think Cai Hu will let us off the hook?"

Li Kui said, "Brother, don't worry. If that prefect dares to do anything to us, great! If not, I'll chop his mother with my big axe!"

Dai Zong said, "You scoundrel, still talking back? Let's hurry up and leave, or we'll be stuck here."

Li Kui asked, bewildered, "Where to?"

Dai Zong said, "Let's get out of the city first."

Although Li Kui was rough, he knew the situation was urgent and quickly followed Dai Zong downstairs. Fortunately, neither of them had any family members. Dai Zong went home to get some valuables and three small hawks, and then headed straight for the outskirts of the city. When they reached an open space outside the city, Dai Zong blew the hawk flute, and soon two giant hawks circled down. The two of them each rode one and flew north.

They flew for half a day, crossed the great river, and finally landed on a ridge. Li Kui had already spotted an inn at the foot of the ridge, nestled against a precipice, with a strange tree at its entrance, and thatched huts in front and behind. A wine flag hung out in front of the door.

Li Kui was delighted and said to Dai Zong, "It's freezing cold, and we've flown all this way. Turns out there's an inn on this ridge. Let's go buy some wine and have a drink."

Dai Zong was also feeling hungry, and seeing that it was getting late, he said, "Let's rest here tonight and continue our journey tomorrow."

The two descended the ridge and entered the inn, finding a clean table to sit at. After a while, no one came out. Li Kui called out, "Where is the owner?"

A voice inside replied, "Coming! Coming!" Turning to the side of the roof, a burly man emerged. The man saw three... The tall eagle was also taken aback and greeted him respectfully, "Guest, how much wine would you like?"

Dai Zong said, "We're hungry from our journey. What kind of meat do you sell here?"

The man replied, "We only have cooked beef and cloudy white wine."

Dai Zong said, "That's best. First, cut five catties of cooked beef and bring me a dime of wine."

The man said, "Guest, please don't be offended. I sell wine on this ridge, but you have to pay first before you can drink."

Li Kui was about to lash out when Dai Zong said, "I'd like to pay first before drinking. Let me get you the silver." He then opened his bundle and took out some loose silver.

The man stood to the side, stealing glances. Seeing that Dai Zong's bundle was heavy and contained some oil, he was secretly pleased. After receiving the silver from Dai Zong, he went inside to scoop out a bucket of wine, cut out a plate of beef, set out two large bowls and three pairs of chopsticks, and began sifting the wine.

Li Kui asked, "Brother, where should we go?"

Dai Zong replied, "These little eagles have caused trouble. If Cai Hu is determined to take them, even though the world is vast, there is nowhere for us to hide, given the power of his father and brothers."

Li Kui said, "Brother, didn't you say a while ago that you met Wu Yong, the strategist of Liangshan? I heard they've robbed and plundered several prefectures, acting as righteous men, and the government troops dare not even look them in the eye. Why don't we join Liangshan and kill some corrupt officials and tyrants?"

Dai Zong said, "At this point, that's the only way."

Li Kui picked up his wine bowl, about to drink, when the man pouring the wine snatched it away and poured the wine on the ground. Li Kui had just been angry that the man had asked for payment for the wine first, and seeing this, he drew his fist to strike.

The man bowed down and said, "I am Li Li, the Judge of the Dead, and I almost offended you two brothers. I deserve a beating."

Li Kui was taken aback. Dai Zong asked, "What do you mean by that, brother?"

Li Li replied, "I saw that your bundle was heavy, so I had a wicked thought and put sleeping potion in your wine to steal your money. But after hearing your words, I realized that you are also a hero of the martial world."

Dai Zong secretly felt lucky and helped Li Li up, saying, "Ignorance is no excuse. I have heard of your great name before, brother, but I never expected to almost fall into your trap. It's like we became friends after a fight. I am Dai Zong, the Divine Eagle Protector, and he is Li Kui, the Black Whirlwind."

Li Li said, "So you are the Divine Eagle Protector, brother. No wonder you have three little eagles with you. I'll go and get some good wine first, and we can talk while we eat." He then got some good wine and drank a bowl to clear up his doubts.

As the three ate, Dai Zong recounted the day's events. When the topic of joining Liangshan came up, Li Li said, "Several of us brothers also wanted to join Liangshan, but we didn't know anyone there, and we were afraid we wouldn't be accepted. If you'd be willing to sign a contract, we'd be happy to serve you."

Dai Zong asked, "Who else is there? Tell us, brother."

Li Li replied, "Seven more: Mu Hong the Unobstructed, Mu Chun the Little Obstructed, Li Jun the River-Crossing Dragon, Tong Wei the Cave-Emerging Dragon, Tong Meng the River-Turning Mirage, Zhang Heng the Boat Fire, and Zhang Shun the White Leaping in the Waves. Each of them is highly skilled in martial arts, and Li Jun, the Tong brothers, and the Zhang brothers are all excellent in water combat."

Dai Zong, having traveled extensively delivering official documents, had heard of their reputations and laughed, "In that case, let's head up the mountain together."

Li Li was overjoyed to have his brothers settled. The three drank a great deal of wine and rested at the inn that night.

Chapter Forty-Four: Another Hero Joins the Fray

. Early the next morning, Dai Zong and Li Li descended the mountain. They hadn't gone far when three burly men came to greet them from the roadside. The one in the lead was over eight feet tall, with a purplish-red face, thick eyebrows, and large eyes. Li Li introduced him, "That's Li Jun and the Tong brothers."

As they approached, Li Jun cupped his hands and said, "We received a message from Brother Li Li last night saying that you, our elder brother, were coming. We've been waiting for you for a long time."

Dai Zong laughed, "Brother, you're too kind. Let's talk as we walk."

The six of them chatted and laughed until they reached a place where people were gathered and the market was bustling. Just as they arrived at the town, they saw a group of people gathered around. When the onlookers saw Li Jun, they all made way for him. Looking closer, they saw that it was two men sparring.

Li Jun said to Dai Zong, "The fairer-skinned one is Mu Chun, but the other one isn't from this town."

As he spoke, Mu Chun noticed the crowd, feinted, and jumped out of the circle, saying, "Brother Li is here."

The other burly man, seeing reinforcements arrive, wasn't flustered; he simply grabbed a cudgel from a nearby plaster stall.

Li Jun asked, "Young Master Mu, why are you sparring with this man?"

Mu Chun replied, "I came to welcome Brother Dai Zong, and being bored, I saw this man selling plasters with a weapon, so I decided to play a few rounds with him."

The Mu brothers were local bullies; prostitutes and entertainers who passed through town had to pay their respects before they could eat.

Hearing this, Li Jun knew that Mu Chun was probably making things difficult for the man because he hadn't paid his respects. Seeing Dai Zong nearby, Mu Chun didn't say much, lest Dai Zong look down on them. He said, "These are Brother Dai Zong and Brother Li Kui. Come and greet them."

Upon hearing this, Mu Chun quickly came forward to greet them and then said, "My brother and the Zhang brothers have already prepared a feast at the manor and are waiting for us. Let's go now."

Li Jun had just seen that the medicine seller's martial arts were superior to Mu Chun's, so he also had the intention of befriending him and asked, "What is your honorable name, instructor? Where are you from?"

The man, neither humble nor arrogant, replied, "My ancestral home is Luoyang, Henan. My surname is Xue, and my given name is Yong. My grandfather was a general in the army under General Zhong." "My official position was ruined by offending my colleagues, preventing me from being promoted. My descendants now make a living by fighting and selling medicine. In the martial world, they're known as Xue Yong

, the petty villain and the tiger. I'm new to your place and don't know the rules. Please forgive any offenses I may have caused." Li Jun laughed, "So it's Brother Xue Yong. How about we come together for a few drinks?"

Seeing that Li Jun seemed to have no ill intentions, and that everyone was quite handsome (regardless of whether they looked fierce or kind), Xue Yong felt a desire to befriend them and cupped his hands, saying, "I'd be honored."

The group then left the town and, after traveling less than two miles, saw a large manor emerge from behind a grove of trees.

Mu Hong, Zhang Heng, and Zhang Shun, having already heard the news, were waiting at the gate to greet them. After exchanging greetings, Mu Hong invited everyone to a banquet in the main hall, where they discussed joining the Liangshan bandits. Dai Zong said, "Brother Zhang Yang is recruiting talented people and acting on behalf of Heaven. With the natural defenses of the marshland, he has nothing to fear from government troops. Why don't Brother Xue Yong join the others on the mountain? It's better than you

end up wandering the rivers and lakes, exposed to the elements." Xue Yong replied, "Thank you for the invitation, brother. I have another brother named Hou Jian, originally from Hongdu. He's a master tailor, incredibly skilled with his needle and thread. He's also skilled in martial arts and once studied under Xue Yong. People call him 'Long-Armed Ape' because of his dark, thin, and agile appearance. He's currently struggling to make ends meet in Wuwei City. Could you perhaps take him with you on the mountain?"

Dai Zong said, "Wuwei City isn't far from here. Everyone needs to gather their belongings, so we'll wait for you here at the manor. Go quickly and return soon."

Xue Yong thanked Dai Zong. After drinking some more wine, he took his leave. A few days later, he returned with Hou Jian. Mu Hong had already sold the manor and land at a low price. He then took his grandfather and family, loading all their belongings and valuables onto the cart. Those among the villagers who were unwilling to go were given some silver and sent to find other masters; the hired laborers who were willing to go went together, along with the fishermen and cooks who had sought refuge with Zhang Heng and Li Li, totaling about a hundred people.

The group traveled for three days and came to a place called Huangmen Mountain. Li Jun, on horseback, said to Dai Zong, "This mountain has a strange and ominous shape; could there be a large group inside? Everyone must be careful."

Before he finished speaking, they heard gongs and drums sounding from the mountain's edge ahead. Li Jun said, "I told you! Don't move! Protect the old and the young, so we can fight them."

Hearing this, the Mu brothers each grabbed a broadsword and, along with the villagers, protected the old man's cart. Li Kui, wielding two axes, supported Dai Zong, and together they spurred their horses forward.

Three to five hundred henchmen suddenly appeared from the hillside, leading a group of four valiant heroes, each wielding a weapon, who shouted, "Those who know what's good for them, leave your money or you'll be killed!"

Before the words were even finished, Li Kui had already charged out, wielding two broad axes. A short, stocky man carrying a shovel rushed out from the opposite side as well.

The two instantly clashed, and all that could be heard was the clang of metal on metal. Both men possessed great strength, each strike a hard, direct attack.

Seeing that the two were evenly matched, Xue Yong also wanted to show off his skills, so he raised his staff and shouted, "Is there anyone over there who dares to fight me?"

A man wielding a rolling saber heard this and stepped forward to meet Xue Yong.

The two men each possessed unique skills, their moves exquisite, and another fierce battle ensued.

Seeing this, Jiang Jing of Huangmenshan said to Ou Peng, "There are a few men over there eager to try their skills. They seem quite capable, unlike ordinary merchants. Brother, why don't you scout their way out to avoid being caught off guard?"

Ou Peng was also alarmed by the strength of the approaching men, and upon hearing this, he shouted, "Who are you?"

Although Dai Zong was not afraid of them, he did not want to cause unnecessary casualties, so he replied, "I am Dai Zong, the Divine Eagle Protector. Accompanying me are several brothers, including Li Jun from Jieyang Town. May I ask who these heroes are blocking our way?"

Upon hearing this, Ou Peng quickly dismissed the two fighting men. Seeing that Li Kui was still pursuing them, Dai Zong hurriedly ordered Xue Yong to drag Li Kui back.

Ou Peng then cupped his hands and said, "We four brothers have also heard of Taibao's great name, but even if we wanted to kill him, we couldn't meet him. We apologize for offending you, brother. We are fortunate to meet you today. Our small stronghold has prepared some simple wine and food as a welcome feast. Please join us at our stronghold for a while."

Dai Zong returned the greeting and asked each of them their names.

The leader's surname was Ou, and his given name was Peng. His ancestors were from Huangzhou and were soldiers guarding the Yangtze River. Because he had offended his official, he fled to the Jianghu (江湖, the martial arts world) and became a bandit, where he earned the name Moyun Jinchi (摩云金翅, meaning "Golden Wings Soaring Through the Clouds").

The second hero was named Jiang Jing, from Tanzhou, Hunan. Originally a failed scholar, he abandoned his studies for martial arts after failing the imperial examinations. He was quite resourceful, proficient in mathematics, and could calculate thousands of numbers with perfect accuracy. He was also skilled in spear and staff fighting, and could arrange troops. Therefore, people called him the "Divine Calculator."

The third hero was named Ma Lin, from Jiankang, Nanjing. Originally a lowly laborer, he played two iron flutes and wielded a large rolling knife. A hundred or so men could not get close to him, so people called him the "Iron Flute Immortal."

The fourth hero was named Tao Zongwang, from Guang Prefecture. He came from a farming family, was skilled with an iron shovel, possessed great strength, and could also wield a spear and knife. Therefore, people called him the "Nine-Tailed Turtle."

The group gathered in the Hall of Righteousness for a banquet. During the drinking session, Dai Zong spoke up, "This time, we are going to join Brother Zhang Yang at Liangshan Marsh to build a righteous alliance. We wonder if the four of you heroes would be willing to leave this place and come with us to the Liangshan stronghold?"

Ou Peng replied, "We have also heard of Brother Zhang Yang's great reputation and are eager to join him. If you would be willing to take on this mission, we

would gladly serve you." Dai Zong was overjoyed to see that several more heroes had joined them.

The group stayed at the stronghold for one night. Ou Peng and the other three packed up their valuables and gold and silver, led three to five hundred men, burned down the stockade, and set off.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Happy Mid-Autumn Festival

Chapter Forty-Five: Finally Reaching Liangshan

The group had mostly traveled through plains, with only occasional small hills and peaks. However, when they reached the territory of Xuzhou, thirteen towering mountain peaks suddenly appeared, their slopes undulating.

Seeing the treacherous terrain of the mountain, Dai Zong instructed his men to proceed cautiously while simultaneously urging the rear guard to hurry.

This mountain was Mangdang Mountain, led by a man named Fan Rui, nicknamed the "Mixed-Up Demon King." He was skilled in interpreting the weather and had deceived many people into following him. He also possessed some military knowledge and had defeated several government sieges, gaining considerable influence.

He had two lieutenants: one named Xiang Chong, nicknamed "Eight-Armed Nezha," who wielded a shield with twenty-four throwing knives and carried an iron javelin; the other named Li Gun, nicknamed "Flying Great Sage," who also wielded a shield with twenty-four javelins and carried a sword. These three became sworn brothers, occupying Mangdang Mountain and engaging in robbery and plunder. While the three

were drinking on the mountain, a scout reported from below, "More than a hundred people are coming together." Xiang Chong volunteered to lead three hundred men down the mountain. Seeing Dai Zong's men at the foot of the mountain, they charged down with their men.

Seeing this, Dai Zong quickly ordered his men to surround the elderly and children.

Xiang Chong also formed a battle formation and shouted, "Those who understand, leave your money, and we might spare your lives."

Dai Zong said, "We are on our way to Liangshan, brothers, could you lend us a way?"

Xiang Chong was also taken aback, but remembering Fan Rui's previous mention of Liangshan's ambition to seize it, he said, "Everyone must leave their toll."

Li Kui, a warmonger, was overjoyed at being stopped by Dai Zong earlier and charged at Xiang Chong with a roar.

Seeing this, Dai Zong, fearing for Li Kui's safety, instructed the Mu brothers to watch over the elderly and children while he led the others to charge.

Xiang Chong, seeing that the enemy numbered only about a hundred, also waved his hand and led his henchmen to charge. They ran headlong into Li Kui, who, despite his fierce appearance, did not frighten him. Li Kui's double axes came crashing down, powerful but lacking in any real technique. At that moment, Xiang Chong used his left hand to block Li Kui's axe with a shield, while his right hand aimed

his javelin at Li Kui's chest. Just as the javelin was about to strike, a dull thud was heard, and the shield was struck as if by lightning, his wrist throbbing with pain. Before he could dodge,

the shield, which had been thrown back, struck him in the chest, and he fell to the ground on the spot. Just as Li Kui was about to deliver another blow, his henchmen rushed to his aid. Seeing that several hundred more people seemed to be coming down from the mountain, Dai Zong quickly stepped forward and captured Xiang Chong alive. The henchmen tried to take him away, but Li Kui scattered them. The other heroes also slaughtered the Mangdang Mountain henchmen, leaving them powerless to fight back.

Seeing the ferocity of the crowd, especially Li Kui, who was covered in blood in a short time, and with more than a dozen henchmen already fallen under the axe, the Mangdang Mountain henchmen were filled with fear. Seeing that the Huangmen Mountain group was approaching from behind, they began to flee up the mountain.

Dai Zong also stopped the pursuers and joined Ou Peng and his men.

Fan Rui, however, had discovered that several hundred more men were approaching from behind. Fearing for Xiang Chong's safety, he personally led five hundred of his men down to provide backup. Unexpectedly, before the reinforcements arrived, Xiang Chong was defeated by the first hundred or so men and captured alive. Fan Rui knew the attackers were hostile. He gathered his retreating men halfway up the mountain, inquired about the situation, and then led his troops down.

Seeing that Xiang Chong was only tied up and not seriously injured, Fan Rui breathed a sigh of relief and said, "Who are you, friend, daring to cause trouble in my Mangdang Mountain?"

Dai Zong said, "Brother, that's not quite right. We've already stated that we're on the same side. But your people still made things difficult, which is why the conflict started."

Fan Rui had already inquired about the cause and effect, and upon hearing this, he pretended to be puzzled and said, "Perhaps my brother was reckless, but you also killed quite a few people from my mountain stronghold. I apologize first, and we can let it go, how about that?"

Dai Zong laughed and said, "That's fine too. Don't blame us for any offense."

Seeing that Dai Zong had no intention of releasing him, Fan Rui had no choice but to say, "If you release my brother, I will not stop you."

Dai Zong saw that the terrain ahead was still undulating and, not knowing the other party's background, dared not trust him easily. Laughing, Fan Rui said, "Since we are all of the same ilk, I would like this brother to escort us on our way, as a way of showing hospitality."

Seeing the large number of men and heroes among Dai Zong's group, Fan Rui knew that any further conflict would inevitably result in mutual destruction, so he harbored no ill intentions. He continued, "Liangshan only dares to resist government troops because of the natural defenses of the marshland. You heroes are all highly skilled; why should you become dependent on others? Mangdang Mountain is easy to defend and difficult to attack, and it has no shortage of money and supplies. If you heroes are willing to stay, Fan Rui is willing to stand on equal footing with you. Given time, we can recruit soldiers and horses, and then we can seize Liangshan. Then we can be in charge ourselves."

Dai Zong naturally knew the formidable strength of Liangshan. Not to mention their tens of thousands of soldiers and their renowned leaders, even Wu Yong alone was not someone he could contend with. He said, "I heard that Brother Zhang Yang of Liangshan is acting on behalf of Heaven, so I wanted to join him in this endeavor. I appreciate your kind intentions, brother."

Seeing that Dai Zong was unmoved and not wanting to damage his forces, Fan Rui said, "Since that's the case, I'll personally escort you, brother."

Dai Zong knew that they were afraid he would forcibly take Xiang Chong away, so he didn't object. They carefully left the mountains before ordering Xiang Chong's release. He then bowed to Fan Rui, who had been "escorting" him, and said, "Thank you for your escort, brother. We'll meet again sometime."

Having lost his advantage in terrain, Fan Rui dared not start a fight, and worried that Zhang Yang would attack if he knew his words. He muttered, "Farewell." Then he led his troops back to prepare for any possible attack.

Dai Zong and his group traveled for two more days and arrived outside Liangshan Marsh. Upon hearing that Dai Zong had come to join them, Zhang Yang personally came down to greet them. Dai Zong and his men, having heard the news, rushed to see Zhang Yang. Zhang Yang was overjoyed to see that everyone was exceptionally brave and skilled.

After his experience in Hangzhou, Dai Zong realized the great allure of eagles and knew it was impossible for him to raise three more. Seeing that Zhang Yang had given him face, and to avoid other leaders asking for favors later, he said to Zhang Yang, "I am new to the stronghold and have not accomplished anything, but I would like to offer you three eagles."

Upon hearing that Dai Zong possessed two giant eagles, Zhang Yang was greatly tempted. With these eagles, he could scout enemy positions from the air. Ordinary people couldn't see the ground clearly when flying high, and were vulnerable to arrows when flying low, but Zhang Yang's eyesight far surpassed that of ordinary people, allowing him to easily accomplish this, and he could even travel a thousand miles a day.

Zhang Yang had originally planned to travel to Jiangnan after spring, but Dai Zong had unexpectedly come to him, even offering three young eagles, which delighted him. He had someone take the young eagles, saying, "Brother, your kindness is truly appreciated, and I cannot refuse. Let's all go to the Hall of Righteousness and sit down; I'll arrange for the young eagles to come." After saying this, he had someone strike the golden drum in front of the Hall of Righteousness and then turned and walked towards the secluded courtyard.

Seeing that Zhang Yang liked the young eagles, Dai Zong also felt that it was worthwhile. For the

first time ever, Zhang Yang led his personal guards back to the secluded courtyard, instructed them to build an eagle's nest on the roof, and then returned to the Hall of Righteousness and Justice. All the leaders had arrived. Zhang Yang announced that Dai Zong would take over intelligence work, the strategist Jiang Jing would jointly manage finances with Gongsun Sheng and Song Jiang, Li Jun, Zhang Heng, Zhang Shun, Tong Wei, and Tong Meng would be the naval commanders, Hou Jian would be in charge of all banners and robes, Tao Zongwang would be in charge of the stronghold's construction, and Xue Yong, Ou Peng, Ma Lin, Mu Hong, Mu Chun, and Li Kui would all hold the rank of centurion and temporarily serve under him.

From then on, Liangshan had a clear division of responsibilities, and preparations were underway.

Chapter 46: The Kidnapping of Third Sister

. From the end of December, several heavy snowfalls occurred. Finally, the weather cleared, but before the snow melted, the Song court held its annual Lantern Festival in a very grand manner. This extremely lavish lantern festival in the imperial garden was, as usual, prepared from September or October of the previous year, with lanterns being hung before New Year's Eve. It reached its zenith on the Lantern Festival on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month. Emperor Huizong issued a special edict allowing all officials, soldiers, and civilians, regardless of gender, to visit the imperial garden to view the lanterns and enjoy the festivities, demonstrating his intention to share the joy with the people.

Zhang Yang, accompanied by four women, also spent his first Spring Festival back in ancient times. Hearing Emperor Huizong's exclamation, Zhang Yang learned that the Fang La Rebellion was about to erupt in the second year of the Xuanhe era, and that he himself was preparing to seize the opportunity to raise an army. He realized that such grand feasts would be rare in the future, and thus conceived the idea of descending the mountain to witness them.

At that moment, Zhang Yang summoned the leaders, and everyone sat down. Zhang Yang had another ulterior motive, fearing that some leaders might want to go down the mountain with him. So he said, "Today is already the fifth day, and tomorrow all the units will begin their drills. I want to go down the mountain to Tokyo to see what's happening in the court so I can decide on the future of all the brothers. The affairs of the stronghold will be handled by the two strategists and Brother Yang Zhi. I'll be back in a few days."

Wu Yong said, "No, Tokyo will soon be decorated with lanterns, and there will be many officials. What if something goes wrong?"

Zhang Yang laughed, "I'll go alone and won't cause any trouble. I'll wear some good clothes. There are many dignitaries in Tokyo, and the officials certainly won't dare to question me. Even if something happens, I'm afraid they won't be able to stop me."

Hearing this, Wu Yong didn't say anything more.

Seeing this, Zhang Yang was afraid that other leaders might want to go see the lanterns, so he asked again, "Are there any problems with the units?"

Everyone hurriedly replied, "No."

Zhang Yang gave a few more instructions and then told everyone to go back and prepare. Zhang Yang returned directly to the secluded courtyard and found the four women chatting inside. He said, "I'm going to Tokyo tomorrow and will be back in about ten days. What would you two like me to buy?"

Xiao Qiao immediately jumped up and said, "I've never been to Tokyo before. Husband, please take me there too!"

Zhang Yang, however, still had ulterior motives and naturally wouldn't take her down the mountain. He hugged Xiao Qiao affectionately and said, "You're pregnant now; how can you endure such a long journey? Once the baby is born, I'll definitely take you all across the Central Plains."

After more than two months of Zhang Yang's efforts, all four women were pregnant.

Xiao Qiao twisted her body and said sweetly, "But do I want to go down the mountain to play now?"

Zhang Yang laughed, "It's freezing cold now, and there's nothing fun to do down the mountain. Besides, I have things to do this time, so I don't have much time to play with you. How about this, I'll have Meng Kang build a flower boat later, and once the lake thaws, we can go boating on the lake every day."

Xiao Qiao was about to say something more when Da Qiao interrupted, "Since my husband has things to do, sister, don't be silly."

Seeing her sister speak, Xiao Qiao could only turn around and look at Zhang Yang pleadingly, hoping he would change his mind.

Seeing Xiao Qiao's pitiful act, Zhang Yang laughed, "Don't look at me, your sister won't help you. How about this, I'll buy you more rouge and jewelry. How about that?"

Seeing that Zhang Yang had made up his mind, Xiao Qiao didn't insist anymore. She immediately said, "I want three boxes of the best rouge."

Seeing that his goal had been achieved, Zhang Yang quickly said, "No problem, husband, be generous and buy you five boxes."

Zhang Yang had plundered several prefectures, so he naturally had quite a lot of jewelry. Zhang Yang casually gave a lot of rouge to the four women, but he had to go down the mountain to buy it often. There wasn't much good rouge in the nearby prefectures, and the two Qiao sisters, used to the fine rouge provided by brothels, were finding it somewhat unpleasant.

When Xiao Qiao heard Zhang Yang promise to buy her five boxes, she immediately jumped up and kissed him.

Zhang Yang then asked the other three women, "What do you want?"

The two Qiao sisters, however, were more worldly and looked at Wen Lian.

Wen Lian, born into poverty, didn't care much for jewelry and usually only lightly applied makeup. She didn't want anything, but seeing that Xiao Qiao had already spoken, she could only say, "Then I'll trouble my husband to bring me a box of rouge too."

Zhang Yang knew Wen Lian's nature and smiled, "How about this, five boxes of fine rouge for each of you. Do you want anything else?"

Although Wen Lian didn't want anything, she felt a sweet warmth in her heart and shook her head with a smile.

Seeing that Wen Lian didn't speak, the two Qiao sisters didn't ask for anything more.

Seeing this, Zhang Yang knew that the two women respected Wen Lian's status as his wife and was happy to save himself the trouble. He laughed, "Since that's the case, I won't buy anything. I'll try to get back as soon as possible to be with my four beautiful wives."

Zhang Yang chatted with the four women for a while longer before they all rested.

The next day, Zhang Yang went down the mountain early and headed towards Hu Family Village.

The two-foot-deep snow in the fields had frozen into ice. The snowflakes on the branches of trees near and far were whipped up by the strong wind, swirling up puffs of snow that flew down and rustled on the ground. A shrill whistling sound echoed in the wind, extremely piercing.

The earth was a pure white, dazzling silver, with not a single footprint in sight and not a sound of chickens or dogs.

After arriving at Hu Family Village, Zhang Yang waited impatiently for three days. Just as he was trying to figure out a way to lure Hu San Niang out, he saw the woman at the entrance of the village with two maids. Zhang Yang quickly went around to the front to wait.

After the New Year, Hu San Niang had been cooped up in the village for a few days and couldn't stand the boredom any longer, so she came out to play. Looking at the vast expanse of land and sky outside the village, my mood brightened considerably. The cold wind seemed even more welcoming. I hadn't walked far when I saw a person approaching from the left along the path.

In this extremely cold weather, the person appeared to be wearing only a single layer of clothing, looking quite thin in the wind. However, the person seemed unwell, simply walking with their head down, their steps quick and swift, and they arrived in no time. Upon

recognizing the man, Hu Sanniang exclaimed with delight, "Young Master Zhang!"

Zhang Yang feigned surprise, glanced up, walked up to Sanniang, and cupped his hands in greeting, saying, "I didn't expect to run into you here, Miss. How have you been?"

Hu Sanniang had been thinking of Zhang Yang ever since he rescued her, and seeing that he remembered her, she replied happily, "I'm fine. How have you been, Young Master?"

Zhang Yang smiled and said, "I'm in good health, thank you for your concern."

Sanniang said, "I saw you were in a hurry earlier, Young Master. I wonder what urgent matter you have? If there's anything I can do for you, please don't hesitate to ask."

Seeing that Sanniang's address was even more intimate, Zhang Yang smiled and said, "It's nothing much, I just heard that there's a grand celebration in Tokyo for the Lantern Festival, and I'd like to go and see it."

Upon hearing this, San Niang's eyes lit up. She said, "I've also heard that this year's festival is even grander than in previous years, but my brother is busy training the troops, so no one will accompany me." She then remembered that the training was to guard against Zhang Yang, and her expression turned awkward.

Zhang Yang had secretly stayed overnight at the manor for the past three nights and naturally knew that the Hu family manor had many more soldiers, but he hadn't paid much attention to them. Hearing this, he smiled and said, "In that case, it's a pity. I've heard that this year's festival is extremely grand; I'm afraid it won't be easy to see it again in the future."

Hearing this, Hu San Niang felt even more longing. After thinking for a while, she gritted her teeth and said, "Would you be willing to take me with you, young master?"

Seeing that San Niang had fallen for his trap, Zhang Yang said, "Zhang Yang naturally hopes to have a beauty accompany him, but I'm afraid your family won't allow it."

Hearing Zhang Yang's words, San Niang's heart sweetened. He chuckled, "Let's go first, then we'll send Xiaoqing and the other girl back. By the time they find out, they won't be able to catch up with us."

The two maids were shocked to hear this, but since Third Sister had always treated them well, they couldn't object. They could only nervously look at Zhang Yang, secretly hoping that he wouldn't agree.

Seeing this, Zhang Yang feigned reluctance and said, "Wouldn't that be inappropriate?"

Seeing Zhang Yang's refusal, San Niang's eyes darted around, and she said sweetly, "I think you're the greatest hero in the world, how can you not even grant a young lady's request?"

Seeing that San Niang was using reverse psychology, Zhang Yang laughed, "What's there to be afraid of? I'm just afraid you won't be able to explain it when you get back."

San Niang smiled, "My father loves me the most, he certainly won't blame me," and then her voice turned sweet and coquettish, "Please, I'm begging you!"

Zhang Yang, seeing that San Niang's heroic appearance was also charming when transformed into coquettishness, was momentarily captivated and laughed, "In that case, let's go."

San Niang was overjoyed to see Zhang Yang agree, gave some instructions to her maid, and then she and Zhang Yang headed towards Dongjing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I originally skipped class this morning to send this message, but I got caught by the homeroom teacher and just finished writing a self-criticism. I'll try sending it in the evenings these next few days. Sorry for keeping everyone waiting.

Chapter Forty-Seven: Encounters in a Small Village

Zhang Yang and San Niang had been traveling for quite some time before finally reaching a village. The desolate surroundings made this rural scene appear even more barren. There were only a dozen or so households in the village, most of them dilapidated houses, their crumbling walls barely concealed. Snow weighed down the thatched eaves, and the cold stoves were smokeless, making the place look extremely dilapidated.

Seeing that San Niang's face was already red from the cold, Zhang Yang said, "It's getting late, let's eat something here before we continue."

San Niang came from a wealthy family, and although she had practiced martial arts since childhood, she had never experienced such hardship. She only endured it because of her feelings for Zhang Yang. Hearing this, she quickly replied, "Okay."

Zhang Yang noticed a house on the west side; although it was also an earthen house, the color of the earth on the walls differed, as if it had been repaired many times, and it was cleaner than the other houses. The snow outside the door also seemed to have been swept many times, accumulating only a thin layer. He stepped forward and called out, "Is anyone home?"

The door opened, and a man in his thirties came out. Seeing Zhang Yang and San Niang dressed in fine clothes, he hurriedly asked, "What can I do for you , sir?"

Zhang Yang cupped his hands and said, "We are travelers passing through, and we couldn't find a restaurant. We would like to ask if you could provide us with some food. Would you be so kind as to do us this favor?"

The man said, "We only have some coarse grains at home, which we're afraid our guests might find hard to swallow."

Zhang Yang also wanted to see what ordinary people ate, so he smiled and said, "It's alright, we'll just eat whatever we have."

Hearing this, the man invited the two of them into the house.

A woman in her thirties came out from the inner room upon hearing the commotion. Seeing the two men dressed in fine clothes, she was immediately at a loss for words.

The man said to Zhang Yang, "You're just a simple country bumpkin, I've never seen anything like this before. Please forgive my ignorance." Then he said to the woman, "Go and cook the remaining grains to entertain our guests."

Upon hearing this, the woman hesitated for a moment, but seeing her husband's angry expression, she hurriedly went into the inner room to prepare.

Seeing that the man's speech was unlike that of an ordinary farmer, Zhang Yang asked, "Master, you didn't grow up in the countryside, did you?"

The man replied, "Sir, you have a discerning eye. I did some work in the city, but I offended a minor official and had to move back to my hometown. However, in recent years, the taxes and levies have increased, and I'm afraid I can't stay here for long."

Zhang Yang said, "I heard that Zhang Yang of Liangshan has distributed all the land within a fifty-mile radius of the marshland to the people and has not collected any taxes. This place isn't far from Liangshan, why don't you go there, Master?"

The man said, "Although it is a paradise there, the King of Benevolence and Righteousness has attacked the city several times, and the imperial court will surely send troops to besiege it again. At that time, I'm afraid the people outside the marshland will also suffer. Those in the village who couldn't survive the winter have all gone. I still have some savings, which can barely last until summer, so I didn't go with them. But if there is another natural disaster this year, we will have no choice but to go there to survive."

Last year, in order to train some people familiar with internal affairs, Zhang Yang redistributed the land within a fifty-mile radius and distributed a lot of grain to some people who had no food. Therefore, Zhang Yang was known throughout the martial arts world as the epitome of benevolence and righteousness, while the common people called him the King of Benevolence and Righteousness. Hearing this, he understood his father's worries but didn't know what to say to his master.

Just then, an awkward silence fell as a child's voice came from outside: "Father, Mother, brother caught two

more sparrows!" As he spoke, the door was pushed open from the outside, and a gust of cold wind rushed into the room. A five- or six-year-old child jumped in, wearing an old cotton-padded jacket and trousers patched at the sleeves and knees, his small, red hands holding two sparrows. Upon seeing Zhang Yang and his brother, the child quickly hid the sparrows behind his back, looking timidly at his father.

A boy of about ten years old, who had entered afterward, saw guests and quickly led his younger brother into the inner room.

The man said awkwardly, "This child grew up in the countryside. Seeing that the two guests were dressed neatly, he probably thought it was another official coming to collect taxes."

Zhang Yang knew that officials were usually very vicious, often beating and scolding the people, and demanding the best food and drink. Hearing this, she laughed and said, "It's alright. I find this child very clever; he

'll surely bring honor to the family in the future." After chatting for a while, the woman brought out two bowls of porridge. Zhang Yang saw that it was just some buckwheat, brown rice, and red beans—truly coarse grain porridge. During his special training in the army, Zhang Yang had eaten raw cowhide, so being able to drink hot porridge on this cold day was already a great relief. Third Sister, however, had grown up in luxury, and looking at the porridge in her bowl, she found it hard to eat.

The two children also squatted in the corner with their small bowls and began to eat. Zhang Yang noticed that the child kept glancing at his bowl and was taken aback. He stood up and saw that their bowls contained porridge made from coarse bran and some black plant leaves, realizing that the host had already given them the best food.

Zhang Yang held out his bowl to the child and said, "Let's switch."

The child looked at the "delicious food" in Zhang Yang's bowl and couldn't help but swallow. Before he could speak, the child's father interjected, "He's used to eating bran porridge, guests don't need to worry about him."

Zhang Yang laughed, "I'll try some bran porridge too." He then exchanged bowls with the child and drank it all in one gulp. He felt a sharp pain in his throat from the rough bran.

Third Sister had also come over, and seeing the porridge in the older brother's bowl, she was taken aback and insisted on giving him her own bowl as well.

Seeing this, the host quickly said to his two sons, "Aren't you going to give it back to the guests?"

Zhang Yang laughed, "I'm already full, let them eat."

Third Sister also said, "I'm tired from my journey and can't eat anything."

The man, noticing Third Sister's expression, said awkwardly, "My family is poor, please forgive us, guests." He then had his wife fetch Third Sister a bowl of water.

Zhang Yang and Third Sister rested for a while, then bid farewell and continued on their way.

The child was no longer afraid of the two men and accompanied his father to the village entrance.

Zhang Yang said, "It's cold, host, please go back."

The man said, "Guests are unfamiliar with the road, let me see you off a little further."

Seeing the host's insistence, Zhang Yang had no choice but to walk a few more miles before stopping. He then gave the child a silver ingot, saying, "This is the first time I've met you, and I didn't bring any gifts, so I'm giving you this silver ingot to buy some clothes for you."

The man, seeing this, quickly said, "I haven't been hospitable enough; how could I dare accept money from a guest like this?"

Zhang Yang said, "It's alright, I don't lack money myself. The child's clothes are thin; you should take him home quickly."

Hearing this, the host realized the man truly didn't lack money and bowed, saying, "Thank you very much, guest. Please allow my son and I to see you off

. We will definitely visit your humble abode again on our return journey." Zhang Yang patted the child again before continuing his journey with San Niang. After walking a long way, the two saw the father and son still standing at the village entrance.

Third Sister asked, "Young Master Zhang, do you think there are many poor people like this in the world?"

Zhang Yang countered, "Then what do the farmers in your village eat?"

Third Sister replied, "It seems Father lent them a lot of coarse grains, probably similar to what we just ate."

Zhang Yang laughed, "That's because they met a good landlord, but who knows how many years it will take to pay back that borrowed grain. It's because of so many people who can't survive that many people in various places have become outlaws. But the emperor still only knows how to enjoy himself, and there are many treacherous officials who seize power. Only by overthrowing the Song Dynasty and establishing a new regime can the people live a good life."

Third Sister, who had only ever seen one household or village before, began to ponder upon hearing this.

Chapter Forty-Eight: Encountering a Black Inn

The snow on the ground had frozen into ice, forcing the carriages and horses to slow down. The oncoming cold wind cut like a knife, stinging the cheeks.

Third Sister hadn't eaten a single grain of rice at noon, and after walking for a while, her steps became unsteady, and she stumbled on the ice from time to time. Zhang Yang helped San Niang walk for a while longer, and seeing that she was exhausted, he carried her on his back without a word.

San Niang didn't want to expose her vulnerability to her beloved, and struggled to get down.

Zhang Yang ignored her pleas and wouldn't let her go.

San Niang struggled a few more times before realizing Zhang Yang's large hand was on her buttocks, and with her movements, strange sensations washed over her. San Niang felt the weather wasn't so cold anymore, but a wave of emotion washed over her, and she dared not struggle any further, obediently clinging to Zhang Yang's back. Without the biting wind, the already exhausted San Niang soon drifted off to sleep.

After his transformation, Zhang Yang possessed extraordinary strength; carrying someone felt effortless, and he continued walking briskly. After another half-day, they saw an inn at the foot of the mountain and woke San Niang.

San Niang groggily woke up and asked, "What's wrong?"

Zhang Yang replied, "It's getting late, let's rest at that inn up ahead. We can continue our journey tomorrow."

San Niang readily agreed.

The two entered the inn and found an empty seat. Zhang Yang called out a few more times before a burly man dressed as a waiter came out from the back.

The man was surprised to see Zhang Yang wearing only a thin shirt in the cold weather, but upon seeing San Niang, his expression immediately turned to one of amazement, his eyes fixed on her.

Zhang Yang slammed his hand on the table.

The man snapped out of his daze and bowed, asking, "What would you like, sir?"

Zhang Yang said, "Bring me a few of the best dishes and soups in the inn."

The man replied, "Yes, sir, please wait a moment." He glanced at San Niang again before turning and leaving.

San Niang felt that the man's gaze was lewd and made her very uncomfortable. Seeing the waiter enter the back room, she was about to speak when Zhang Yang waved his hand in a gesture of farewell, so she looked at Zhang Yang with a puzzled expression.

Hearing the bartender had already gone into the inner room, Zhang Yang slipped to the door and gently lifted the curtain, revealing a short, stocky man inside.

The man, seeing the bartender enter, whispered, "How's it going? Any money?"

The bartender replied, "Nothing much, just a woman as beautiful as a fairy. I'll drug them and let the two of us have some fun."

The man, hearing this, leered and said, "Hurry up, when the boss and the others come back, we'll have our soup."

Hearing this, Zhang Yang slipped inside. The two men only saw a blur of movement, and just as they were about to get up, they felt a sharp pain in their necks and lost consciousness.

Zhang Yang snapped their necks and gently placed them on the table.

Third Sister had also entered and, seeing the situation, asked, "What's wrong?"

Zhang Yang replied, "We went into a shady inn. These two were planning to drug us. Unfortunately, I overheard them, and I've already sent them on their way. Wait a moment, I'll go make you some food."

Third Sister had heard many stories about shady inns and had a bad feeling about the bartender earlier, so she didn't suspect anything upon hearing this and smiled, "Then I'll go help you."

The two found the kitchen, but Third Sister had never been in a kitchen before. Seeing the pots and pans, she was a little at a loss.

Zhang Yang found a few vegetables he knew how to cook and went to wash them. He glanced back and saw Third Sister holding the washed vegetables, ready to chop them, but unfortunately, she wasn't holding the knife correctly. He quickly took the knife from her and said, "You go wash the vegetables."

Third Sister, not knowing where to start, went to wash the vegetables as well.

The rest of the work was handled by Zhang Yang.

Seeing that Zhang Yang could even cook (in ancient times, few men of status knew how to cook; Confucius even said that a gentleman keeps away from the kitchen), San Niang became even more curious, and her initial reverie gradually turned into admiration. Seeing the sweat beading on Zhang Yang's forehead, she instinctively reached out to wipe it away.

Zhang Yang hadn't been in the kitchen for a long time, and he too was sweating. Just as he was feeling uncomfortable, he felt a delicate hand touch his forehead. Turning around, he saw San Niang's affectionate gaze and was overjoyed. Feeling San Niang's affection, Zhang Yang worked even harder, cooking all the dishes he knew how to make and even simmering a soup before finishing. San Niang continued to wipe Zhang Yang's sweat from time to time. The distance between them unconsciously closed considerably.

Unfortunately, beautiful moments always pass quickly, and soon Zhang Yang had prepared the meal.

Looking at the fragrant food on the table, Zhang Yang was quite confident in his culinary skills, but to avoid any mishap, he said, "It's been

a while since I've cooked. Third Sister, please try it." Third Sister, who hadn't eaten all day, had been craving food in the kitchen. Hearing this, she quickly picked up her chopsticks and began to eat. Firstly, Zhang Yang's cooking was indeed excellent, and secondly, Third Sister had feelings for him. After trying each dish, she said, "I didn't expect your cooking to be so good, young master."

Zhang Yang smiled and said, "Is it true that appearances can be deceiving?"

Third Sister quickly replied, "That's not what I meant. Young master,

you're quite handsome too." Seeing Third Sister's nervousness, Zhang Yang laughed and said, "I was just joking. Let's eat."

Third Sister, seeing Zhang Yang's teasing gaze, blushed deeply and lowered her head to eat the rice in her bowl.

Seeing this, Zhang Yang added a few more dishes to Third Sister's bowl.

Seeing Zhang Yang's intimate gesture, Third Sister blushed even more and continued eating with her head down.

Although Zhang Yang understood ancient history, he didn't pay much attention to certain details. Completely unaware that he had overstepped his bounds by serving food to San Niang, he continued to serve her food while San Niang kept her head down eating.

The two ate in this strange manner until San Niang finished her rice bowl, at which point she reluctantly looked up and said, "I'm full."

Zhang Yang then served San Niang a bowl of soup, finally ending this sweet yet strange dinner.

Afterwards, Zhang Yang found a clean guest room for San Niang and said, "San Niang, I heard they still have accomplices who haven't returned. I'd like to sleep on the floor to keep an eye on you, in case anything happens. What do you think?"

San Niang blushed slightly upon hearing that Zhang Yang wanted to share a room with her for the night. However, she didn't suspect Zhang Yang's intentions and whispered, "Okay."

Zhang Yang fetched a piece of luggage and laid it under San Niang's bed.

Although San Niang didn't suspect Zhang Yang, she still found it hard to sleep.

Zhang Yang, however, had no worries and knew San Niang had feelings for him, so he wasn't in a hurry and fell asleep soon after lying down.

San Niang lay in bed, soon hearing Zhang Yang's soft snoring. Thinking of the sweet memories in the kitchen, she finally drifted off to sleep.

Nothing more was said that night. The next day, Zhang Yang had breakfast with San Niang again. Seeing that the thief's accomplice hadn't returned, he initially wanted to burn down the inn, but San Niang was unwilling to destroy this place filled with sweet memories. Zhang Yang had no choice but to abandon his initial plan.

The two then continued their journey.

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