When falsehood is true, truth is falsehood; when nothingness is existence, existence is n

The Taoist priest asked in surprise, "How did you know I was Gongsun Sheng?"

Song Jiang laughed and said, "I observe that although you are young, you possess an otherworldly air and a divine bearing, transcending the mundane and unlike ordinary people. As far as I know, apart from Daoist Yiqing and his master, Master Luo, there seems to be no third person like you!"

Gongsun Sheng was even more surprised. Few people knew his name, even fewer knew his Taoist name, and his master, Master Luo, was even less known. He never expected that this clerk Song would know so much about him. This was quite interesting!

But he was no ordinary man. Putting aside his doubts, he smiled at Song Jiang and said, "It was quite an easy task to find you, Clerk. I had previously searched for you in Song Family Village, but your brother kept his mouth shut. I had no choice but to go to King Chao, and that's how I found you, Clerk!"

Song Jiang felt somewhat guilty. Gongsun Sheng was an extremely mysterious figure in the Water Margin, and he was not on the same side as him. Instead, he was more inclined to support Chao Gai. Moreover, these monks and Taoists were beyond the Three Realms and the Five Elements, so worldly laws could not restrain them. In addition, because they were inclined to believe in gods and ghosts, they all had some abilities beyond common knowledge. Unless necessary, Song Jiang did not want to have too much contact with them!

Moreover, Gongsun Sheng had come all this way to find me, so he must have something important to discuss. And my biggest secret and trump card was time travel. Could it be that Gongsun Sheng could foresee the future and knew that I was from the future?

"You may leave now!" Song Jiang said to Liu Tang and the others. Although he was somewhat uneasy, Song Jiang remained calm and composed, feigning ease as he said, "What business do you have that you, Daoist, have traveled so far to find Gongming?"

The fleeting change in Song Jiang's expression did not escape Gongsun Sheng's notice. Although he did not know what Song Jiang was thinking, he was certain that Song Jiang had a secret. Otherwise, a normal person's expression would not be one of panic but surprise. Although it was only for a moment, he still caught it!

However, Gongsun Sheng did not expose him, but said solemnly, "This humble Taoist is here on the orders of my master to invite you, Clerk, to Erxian Mountain for a chat!"

Song Jiang's heart skipped a beat. It wasn't Gongsun Sheng who wanted to see him, but Luo Zhenren. This character, even more extraordinary than Gongsun Sheng, was practically the pinnacle of existence in the Water Margin. What could he possibly want with him? For the first time since his transmigration, Song Jiang was filled with worry and confusion!

Should he refuse? Song Jiang hesitated. Gongsun Sheng didn't urge him, but just watched Song Jiang quietly.

"Since Master Luo wants to see Gongming, then Gongming must go!" Song Jiang was still determined to go to Jizhou. Some things are better left unresolved in one's heart.

Gongsun Sheng's eyes lit up as he said, "A month ago, my master observed the celestial phenomena at night and discovered that the Ziwei star appeared, its purple light shining brightly, and purple energy coming from the east, indicating that an emperor is about to descend to earth. With the stars shifting and the Greedy Wolf, Broken Army, and Seven Killings stars in their respective temples, the world is likely to be in great chaos again!"

Song Jiang was momentarily unable to grasp the meaning behind Gongsun Sheng's words!

Gongsun Sheng glanced at Song Jiang and continued, "That night, my master had another dream. He didn't tell me what happened in the dream, but he did recite a poem!"

Song Jiang remained silent, waiting for Gongsun Sheng to continue.

Gongsun Sheng recited aloud: "Emperor Song's might shook the eight directions, yet he remained a guest in a foreign land. The Black Dragon was born, disturbing the heavens and earth, and only then did he realize his original intention and bestow grace. After my master finished reciting the poem, he told me to come to Shandong and find a clerk named Song Jiang, and to persuade him to go to Erxian Mountain no matter what!"

After Gongsun Sheng finished speaking, Song Jiang felt as if a raging storm was crashing against his heart, one wave after another washing over his chaotic mind!

At that moment, he didn't know what to say; he only felt a sense of fear and dread.

Although Gongsun Sheng said nothing, it seemed as if he had said everything. He didn't say everything, but every word was precious, as if he had completely revealed his identity!

Could there really be ghosts and gods in this world? Song Jiang was momentarily dazed and began to have a slight doubt about the materialism of later generations!

These monks and Taoists always acted mysteriously, and they really did have some skills. That was all Song Jiang was thinking!

Gongsun Sheng remained silent, waiting for Song Jiang to express his opinion!

Letting out a long breath, Song Jiang regained his calm and composed demeanor and said, "Since Master Luo has invited me, I, Gongming, shall certainly go. May I ask when we shall depart?"

This time, it was Gongsun Sheng who was somewhat startled. He then said admiringly, "Since you've made preparations, how about tomorrow?" He had witnessed Song Jiang's performance just now, and he hadn't expected him to adjust his mindset so quickly. This Song Jiang was truly no ordinary man!

Song Jiang laughed and said, "There's no time like the present. This matter should be handled as soon as possible. It's already late today, so let's do as the Taoist priest suggests and meet tomorrow!" Song Jiang was indeed a little worried at first, as it seemed that Luo Zhenren had completely seen through his identity. However, his surprise and doubt quickly turned into nonchalance. After all, he was already about to raise the flag of rebellion, so what was there to be afraid of when he met Luo Zhenren?

Now that you've opened your mind, there's nothing to fear!

"Speak frankly, Clerk!" Seeing that Song Jiang seemed hesitant to speak, Gongsun Sheng spoke first.

Song Jiang no longer hesitated and said, "I have heard that you, Daoist, possess profound magical powers, able to summon wind and rain, turn beans into soldiers, and turn stones into gold! You are also proficient in the Five Thunder Heavenly Gang Technique to slay all demons and evil spirits in the world. I wonder if this is true?" Whether Gongsun Sheng possessed magical powers had always been a mystery to Song Jiang. Now that the person in question was right in front of him, if he did not find out the truth, Song Jiang feared he would not be able to eat or sleep in peace!

Gongsun Sheng chuckled and said, "Where did you hear such bizarre words, sir? This magic is the art of immortals; how could I possibly know it?"

Song Jiang wanted to get to the bottom of things, but considering that his relationship with Gongsun Sheng wasn't that close yet, and since Gongsun Sheng had already admitted he didn't know, it would be pointless to keep pressing him. So he decided to stop there.

The two remained silent for a moment, neither of them breaking the silence.

"Brother!" Another familiar voice broke the silence!

Song Jiang turned around and saw his younger brother, Song Qing, rushing towards him with Ruan Xiao Wu! Seeing Gongsun Sheng also there, he bowed and said, "Daoist Master, you beat me to it!"

Gongsun Sheng returned the greeting but only smiled and didn't say anything!

Song Jiang frowned. Song Qing was brewing wine at home; he wouldn't come unless it was something extremely important! Had something serious happened at home?

"Brother, something terrible has happened! Something terrible has happened!" Song Qing gasped for breath, still trying to tell Song Jiang that something bad had occurred!

"Don't panic, what happened!" There were just too many things to handle today, even Song Jiang was caught off guard!

"Jeju Prefecture! Thieves broke into the Jeju Prefecture government office late last night and stole valuables. The entire Jeju is now in chaos!" Song Qing said anxiously.

"What treasure is it?" Song Jiang wasn't particularly panicked. He thought the sky was falling, but it hadn't. As for losing things, so be it! He'd find them!

"I don't know, but I heard it's a treasure presented to the Emperor! Chief Zhu Tong was looking for my brother at home and asked me to tell him that the county magistrate wants everyone to go to the county office!" Song Qing replied.

Song Jiang nodded. Losing a treasure meant trying to cover it up as soon as possible to prevent the common people from finding out. The simpler and less concerned they were, the better. Otherwise, if it became public knowledge, it would eventually reach the ears of the court officials. After all, who doesn't have political enemies? If they were to impeach you before the emperor, adding fuel to the fire, you could be waiting to be beheaded!

Song Jiang knew all too well about these intricacies, so he wasn't particularly surprised. However, since Shi Wenbin had gathered everyone, he was bound to go!

He glanced at Gongsun Sheng with some guilt, but Gongsun Sheng didn't seem to mind and said, "In that case, I'll accompany you down the mountain. This matter is rather strange, and traveling together will provide mutual support!"

Sensing that Gongsun Sheng's words had a hidden meaning, Song Jiang didn't press further, but simply nodded.

Song Jiang summoned Wu Yong and the other Liangshan leaders, and said in a low voice, "I estimate I'll be away from the mountain for a few days. During this time, all matters, big and small, will be decided by you all together. If you're unsure, vote on it; the minority must obey the majority!"

This was Song Jiang's third departure from Liangshan. This time, he was accompanied by Gongsun Sheng, Li Kui, Song Qing, and Zhu Gui. Li Kui and Zhu Gui were returning to Yishui County the next day, so Song Jiang offered them a ride.

Nothing more was said that night. The next morning, Song Jiang, along with Li Kui and Zhu Gui, headed towards the main road, carrying two more gourds of wine. This first batch of wine, after a month of aging, was even more mellow and fragrant than before. Song Jiang carried it with him, intending to take it to the county office for Shi Wenbin to taste. Of course, there was also a gourd of wine, but it wasn't baijiu! It was fruit wine that Song Qing had tried making after Song Jiang's suggestion!

After walking for more than ten miles, Li Kui said, "Brother, let's stop here. There's no need for you to see me off any further."

Song Jiang said, "The journey is long, what harm is there in escorting you a few more steps?"

Zhu Gui said, "Brother has other important matters to attend to, so there's really no need to see me off."

Song Jiang laughed and said, "These are turbulent times. I might not even be at Liangshan by the time you return. Don't be late on your journey, and come back as soon as possible!"

Just then, a horse galloped towards them from afar. The three were startled. If they were hit by the horse, their bones would break and they would surely die. They quickly dodged away!

The person on horseback quickly pulled on the reins, dismounted, and hurried towards the three. The rider was a young girl, her face showing remorse, presumably because her horse had almost hit them and she was filled with regret.

The girl was about fifteen or sixteen years old, and the horse was a bright red horse, spirited and spirited, with a fiery body, bright eyes, and hooves as big as basins. Even though Song Jiang didn't know much about horses, he could tell that this horse was no ordinary breed!

And what did that girl look like?

Her eyes were like the moon, her eyebrows curved like willow branches, and her jade lips were shy and her breath was cold as mist.

Her slender waist and white gauze are more beautiful than winter snow; who says women are inferior to men?

The girl before me was neither coquettish nor vulgar; she was heroic and spirited, neither as petite as other women nor as charming as others.

She wore a gold hairpin, had willow-leaf eyebrows, and a pair of clear, peach-blossom eyes. Dressed in white, she resembled a fairy, and her leather boots accentuated her aloof and unapproachable demeanor. She was tall, standing at seven feet, which would be over 1.7 meters in modern terms. This height would be considered tall even in modern times, let alone in ancient times. Song Jiang had spent a month in ancient times and had never seen such a tall woman.

As Li Kui saw the young woman approaching, he was about to erupt in anger when Song Jiang laughed and said, "She's just a woman; there's no need to get angry!"

The girl walked over apologetically and said, "I was in such a hurry that I almost bumped into you. Are you alright?"

That's not bad. She almost hit someone but didn't run away. Instead, she dismounted and came to ask. Judging from her demeanor, she's not an ordinary woman!

Song Jiang laughed and said, "It's alright, just be careful on the road. If you accidentally knock someone down, it could be troublesome if you get into legal trouble!" He then waved his hand, indicating that the young woman could leave. Although the woman was beautiful, Song Jiang had no close friends, and now was not the time to flirt!

To everyone's surprise, the girl took a deep breath and exclaimed, "I never imagined that such fragrant wine existed in the world!"

It turned out that while Song Jiang was dodging, the gourd lid had come loose, and some of the wine had spilled out, filling the air with its aroma!

Just then, another horse galloped in from afar. The girl looked at the approaching horse, her delicate eyebrows furrowed slightly, and her face showed displeasure.

A young man dismounted and saw the woman running towards him, calling out, "Sister, don't run so fast, be careful not to fall off your horse, wait for me!"

Song Jiang sized up the newcomer. The young man in front of him looked to be about eighteen years old. Although he was quite handsome, there was a hint of ferocity in his expression, and the sinister look between his brows was impossible to hide.

The young woman turned her head and said, "I already told you this was with my father's approval. I don't like you, and I will never marry you. Don't bother me anymore." Then she looked at Song Jiang and asked, "Is this wine for sale?"

Song Jiang pondered whether or not to sell the "young girl's wine," when the young man, perhaps trying to save face in front of the girl, shouted at Song Jiang, "You shorty, I'm asking you a question! Are you mute?"

Li Kui, filled with rage, finally couldn't hold back any longer and roared, "You stupid bird, how dare you talk to my brother like that! You'll get a beating!"

After saying that, he threw a punch at the young man. The young man was also a martial arts expert. Seeing Li Kui's fierce attack, he hurriedly dodged the punch and then punched Li Kui in the face.

Li Kui was furious. He took the fist, turned around, and threw the young man in a back throw!

The young man was thrown around, completely disoriented and seeing stars. But Li Kui's offensive showed no signs of abating. He raised his fist, as big as a sand pot, and rained down blows like a storm. The young man cried out in pain, and Li Kui shouted, "You pretty boy, how dare you speak to my brother like that! Today I'll teach you a lesson!"

Seeing Li Kui's fierceness and fearing that someone might die, the girl hurriedly said, "Please, sir, have mercy."

Song Jiang knew that Li Kui was never one to hold back when he attacked. Killing this man would be troublesome, as the girl was clearly with him. Whatever the conflict, killing this man would inevitably lead to the truth being exposed. The girl, obviously, needed to be eliminated as well to maintain absolute secrecy! Thinking this, Song Jiang said, "Stop!"

Upon hearing Song Jiang speak, Li Kui released the young man and said, "I'll spare you this time, but if you dare to be rude again, I'll take your dog's head."

The young man stood up, glared fiercely at Li Kui, and threatened, "Do you know who I am? How dare you lay a hand on me?"

Li Kui shouted, "I'm going to beat you up, you thieving bird!" and was about to attack again.

The young man, fearing Li Kui, hurriedly hid behind the girl. Li Kui laughed heartily, saying he needed a woman to protect him.

Although the young man felt ashamed, he was more afraid that Li Kui would pounce on him again, so he didn't care about this insignificant matter of face.

Seeing that Li Kui had no intention of coming up, he grew bolder and shouted again, "If you have the guts, state your name."

Li Kui smiled disdainfully, but was stopped by Song Jiang just as he was about to speak.

Song Jiang asked, "Didn't Miss say she wanted to buy wine?"

The girl nodded and said, "Yes, I've never smelled such fragrant wine before."

Song Jiang opened a jar of wine and said, "Why don't you try it first?"

He poured a little onto the lid and handed it to the girl, gesturing for her to try it. The girl took it, sipped it slowly, and savored it.

"Good wine." He then took another sip.

The young woman seemed to enjoy wine as well, and asked, "Where did you get such fine wine?"

"I brewed it myself," Song Jiang replied casually.

"Why don't you come brew your own wine at my place? I guarantee it will be much better than what you brew at home."