Chapter 467: The Ruan Three Heroes

After resting another day at the camp, Chen Wen digested the information gathered from Yuncheng County and worked out a more detailed contact plan. Early on the third day, he took Shi Dun and a guard named Zhao Si, who was fluent in the local accent and adaptable, posing as northern merchants who had come upon hearing their reputation, and headed straight for Shijie Village.

Shijie Village lies on the edge of Liangshanpo, built beside the water, with most of its inhabitants being fishermen.

Approaching noon, cooking smoke curled gently in the village, and the air was filled with the mixed smell of fishy odor and water vapor.

At the village entrance, several naked-bottomed children were playing; seeing strangers, they were not shy, merely gazing curiously.

Chen Wen's party of three, leading their horses, quickly attracted the villagers' attention.

A sturdy man wearing a tattered short jacket with his chest exposed stepped out of a thatched hut, eyeing them warily, and asked in a deep, gruff voice:

"You folks look unfamiliar; what brings you to our Shijie Village?"

Shi Dun stepped forward, and according to the prearranged story, clasped his fists and said:

"Greetings, elder brother. We are merchants from Hebei, dealing in cloth and sundries. Having long heard of the Ruan Three Heroes of Shijie Village, whose brotherhood is deep and whose water skills are superb, we have come specially to pay our respects and also to inquire about the situation on these waters, hoping to make friends."

Upon hearing this, the man's expression eased slightly, but his vigilance did not fade.

"You're looking for my second, fifth, and seventh brothers? They're probably down by the water sorting fishing nets right now. Wait a moment, I'll go let them know."

Having said that, he turned and ran quickly toward the water's edge.

Chen Wen waited quietly, his gaze sweeping over the somewhat run-down yet lively fishing village, sensing a folkways more blunt and valiant than that of Yuncheng County town.

Not long after, the man returned, leading the three over from the water's edge.

Leading them was a man about thirty, with a slightly dark complexion, a broad frame, steady steps, and eyes showing the seasoned calm of one who has weathered many storms—this must be Ruan Xiaoer.

Behind him was a somewhat younger man, lean and capable, with lively eyes and a hint of a smile perpetually playing at the corner of his mouth, giving an air of unconstraint—this must be Ruan Xiaowu.

Last was the youngest, about twenty, bare-chested, revealing bronzed skin and solid muscles, his brows and eyes exuding a fearless, dauntless sharpness—this could only be Ruan Xiaoqi.

Though all three wore ordinary fisherman's garb, they carried an extraordinary bearing in their movements, especially Ruan Xiaoqi, whose glance flashed with sharp light, clearly indicating an explosive temperament.

"Are you the ones looking for our brothers?"

As the eldest brother, Ruan Xiaoer spoke first, his voice steady, his gaze carefully scanning Chen Wen and his three companions, lingering a moment longer on the remarkable demeanor of Chen Wen and the stalwart, burly Shi Dun.

Chen Wen stepped forward, clasped his hands in a salute, his posture neither humble nor arrogant.

"I am Chen Wen, a merchant come this far. I have long heard of the great names of the three Ruan brothers, like thunder in my ears; today I have come especially to pay my respects, and I hope you will forgive any impropriety."

His voice was calm, his bearing composed, naturally possessing a quality that wins hearts.

Ruan Xiaoqi, the most impatient, blurted out:

"You northern merchants, why come to pay respects to us fishermen? Could it be you also want to collect fish? Lately the fish market has been unsettled, and the government levies heavy taxes!"

Chen Wen gave a slight smile, did not answer directly, but turned his gaze toward the waters and exclaimed:

"What a magnificent expanse of Liangshanpo! Misty waves vast and boundless, crisscrossing harbors and channels—truly a land where dragons lie hidden and tigers crouch."

He shifted his tone, looking at the Ruan brothers.

"Yet, such a treasure land, yet it lets three heroes like you suffer under the burden of fishing taxes—what a pity."

Ruan Xiaowu raised his eyebrows, a glint flashing in his eyes.

"Oh? I sense there's more to what Mr. Chen says. Too bad, then what? Do you perhaps have a way to exempt us from our fishing taxes?"

"I dare not claim such a connection."

Chen Wen shook his head, his gaze sincere.

"I am merely a humble merchant, my knowledge shallow; I have merely traveled south and north, seen a bit of the world."

"I have heard the saying, 'A flood dragon is no creature of a pond.'"

"You three brothers have the power to overturn rivers and seas, yet you are trapped by the petty extortion of clerks, spending your days running about for a few coins of fishing tax—is that not like a flood dragon stranded in shallow water?"

"This eight-hundred-li expanse of Liangshanpo—could it really only raise timid, submissive fishermen, leaving no room for a few true heroes who roam the lakes and rivers at large?"

These words, though spoken casually, subtly struck the latent sense of injustice harbored in the hearts of the Ruan brothers.

Ruan Xiaoer's eyes twitched slightly, yet he remained steady.

"Mr. Chen certainly knows how to speak. However, though we brothers are coarse, we also understand the law; we cannot commit unlawful or disorderly acts."

"The law?"

Chen Wen gave a light smile, his expression carrying an ineffable nuance.

"If this law serves only to extort the people and shield the powerful, then … is it still worth obeying?"

"When I passed through Yuncheng, I heard that Chao Baozheng of Dongxi Village, righteous and generous, aiding the poor and helpless, is praised by the locals. Have his actions ever fully followed the 'law' of the county office?"

"Where righteousness lies, even if tens of thousands stand against me, I will go forward. Sometimes, the people's will is the highest law."

His mention of Chao Gai further stirred the Ruan brothers' expressions.

They had long been on good terms with Chao Gai, often interacting, and held his character in high esteem.

Ruan Xiaoqi could not help but clap his hands and say:

"Well said! A figure like the Heavenly King Chao is a true hero—far stronger than those who merely swagger in the government offices!"

Ruan Xiaowu, meanwhile, gazed at Chen Wen with thoughtful eyes.

"Mr. Chen's insight is extraordinary; he is certainly no ordinary merchant. I doubt your visit today is merely to praise us brothers a few words."

Sensing the moment was right, Chen Wen stopped beating around the bush.

"To be frank, on this trip I have two aims: first, to befriend heroes like you three brothers; second, I genuinely intend to undertake some business here."

"These waters abound in produce, with constant traffic of merchants and travelers, offering great opportunities."

"Yet, a mighty dragon does not overwhelm a local serpent; without the backing of gentlemen like you, I fear I could not move an inch."

"If you three brothers do not spurn me, I, Chen Wen, am willing to cooperate for mutual benefit. I dare not promise more, but at least I could ensure you no longer have to watch others' faces over a few coins of fishing tax."

He did not directly raise "Northward Aspiration" or any sensitive topic, but began with the most practical mutual-interest cooperation, which is the easiest way to build trust.

Ruan Xiaoer pondered for a moment, then exchanged glances with his two younger brothers.

They could sense that this "Mr. Chen" before them bore an extraordinary demeanor, his words and conduct far beyond those of an ordinary merchant, and his retinue were likewise outstanding individuals.

The cooperation proposed by the other side sounded genuinely profitable and could also resolve some of their present difficulties.

More importantly, the other party's appreciation for them brothers comes from the heart.

"Mr. Chen is straightforward and blunt, a refreshing person."

Ruan Xiao Er finally spoke.

"This matter is no small affair; let us brothers discuss it."

"If you're not in a hurry to leave, why not stay in the village for a day? Tonight we'll prepare some simple wine and dishes, then we can discuss in detail—how does that sound?"

This is the signal of willingness to further engage.

Chen Wen felt certain in his heart, clasped his hands and smiled:

"It is exactly what I wish for; I dare not ask for more. Then I will impose on the three elder brothers."

At once, the Ruan brothers arranged for Chen Wen and his two companions to rest temporarily in an idle thatched hut in the village.

Taking advantage of the arrangement, Chen Wen silently circulated the Shi Yong technique, closely sensing the Ruan brothers.

Indeed, on the three of them he could clearly 'see' the latent yet vigorous Star Power.

Ruan Xiao Er's steadfastness is like a boulder;

Ruan Xiao Wu's adaptability is like flowing water;

Ruan Xiao Qi's fierceness is like blazing fire.

The three strands of Star Power differ in attribute, yet share a common origin, intertwining to form a force not to be underestimated.

Moreover, these three strands of Star Power have not yet been visibly tainted by the Iron Crow Army's Nether Energy spiderweb, retaining relative purity.

This is undoubtedly excellent news.

As night fell, Ruan Xiao Er's home set out a feast.

Though called a feast, it was nothing more than freshly caught fish, a few vegetable dishes, and a jug of village-brewed cloudy wine, yet it carried a distinct martial vigor.

The three Ruan brothers kept him company; after three rounds of drinks, the atmosphere grew ever more harmonious.

Shi Dun was naturally hearty; after a few bowls of wine with Ruan Xiao Qi, he began calling them brothers, discoursing on various lands' scenery and occasional military bearing, which made the Ruan brothers feel he was their kindred spirit.

Chen Wen, meanwhile, discussed the marsh's situation and his travels with Ruan Xiao Er and Ruan Xiao Wu; his offhand remarks revealed insight into the times and understanding of the people's hardships, leaving the Ruan brothers secretly startled and increasingly feeling he was unfathomable.

"Mr. Chen," Ruan Xiao Er, emboldened by drink, asked.

"In your opinion, what should become of our Liangshanpo in the future?"

Chen Wen set down his wine bowl, his gaze sweeping over the three brothers' expectant faces, and spoke slowly:

"Though the marsh is perilous, it is ultimately no place for lasting peace."

"Gathering for righteousness and survival is commendable, but if one knows only robbery and banditry, one remains mere outlaws, unable to achieve greatness."

"True heroes ought to harbor the ambition to swallow heaven and earth, and the heart to protect one realm."

"Take Chao Tianwang, for example—if he ever gets the chance, he could very well establish a new order within this marsh, turning these eight hundred li of water into a Peach Blossom Spring for the poor, rather than… a blade in some people's hands."

His words were veiled, yet they shocked the Ruan brothers' hearts deeply.

Establish new rules? A Peach Blossom Spring for the poor?

This resonated vaguely with what they had often thought, yet it was even grander.

Ruan Xiao Qi slammed the table hard.

"Elder Brother Chen is right! I've long despised those birdbrained officials! If Chao Tianwang takes the lead, I, Ruan Xiao Qi, will be the first to follow!"

Ruan Xiao Er glared at Qi Lang, yet his eyes also flashed with excitement.

He looked toward Chen Wen and solemnly raised his wine bowl.

"Mr. Chen's words today are like parting clouds to see the sun. I, Ruan Xiao Er, toast you a bowl! We brothers accept this undertaking! Henceforth in this marsh, if there are any orders, just speak up!"

"Bottoms up!"

Everyone raised their bowls and clinked them; the cloudy wine went down their throats, and a heroic fervor surged in their chests.

Preliminary trust has been established.

Chen Wen knew that the first seed he had planted in Liangshanpo had already taken firm root.

All that remained was how to nurture it, so that this seed would sprout the branches and leaves he hoped for.