Water Margin: The Sequel

They built a stronghold on Lake Tai, relying on Ruan Xiaoqi’s knowledge of Fang La’s old routes and a carefully laid maze in the reed beds to foil the government’s attempts to encircle them time and again. Here, they were no longer mere outlaws; they had become the people’s protectors. When Wang Lun, the brother-in-law of the Changzhou prefect, abducted fishermen and enslaved them, they devised a rescue. They also recruited oppressed officials and Gu Yanwu, a schoolteacher, who helped them establish free schools so ordinary people could learn to read and understand what was right.

Li Kui broke through the enemy lines and joined them, strengthening their ranks. Meanwhile, the Jurchen army invaded the south, and the nation was in peril. The former Liangshan band put aside their grudges and joined forces with righteous men from across the land, taking their place in the resistance led by Li Gang and Zong Ze. They not only fought foreign invaders but also executed treacherous ministers such as Cai Jing and Gao Qiu, who had brought ruin to the country. But when circumstances left them no choice, they finally broke through the Jurchen encirclement and set sail for the open sea.

Overseas, Li Jun was acclaimed ruler of Siam. Working together, the group conquered the islands and established a new home. They never forgot their roots: they upheld the Song dynasty’s legitimacy and accepted titles from Emperor Gaozong, allowing Liangshan’s spirit of loyalty and righteousness to flourish overseas. The book features the heroes’ brilliant and courageous battles, as well as deep reflections on the fate of their country. It continues the Liangshan heroes’ legend with stirring grandeur, portraying their heroism and chivalrous sense of duty in richer detail. It is a thrilling and moving read.