Although Meng Zhao did not know what Wang Xu was thinking, he could tell that the man feared him greatly. His smile did not fade as he said,
"You know me? You've praised me as though there's no one like me in heaven or on earth. Even I'm blushing!"
Seeing that Meng Zhao was not so cold toward him, Wang Xu felt somewhat steadier. He no longer thought of fleeing and remained quietly where he was, forcing out a smile as he tried his utmost to show goodwill.
"General Meng's bearing and appearance are unmatched in this world, and your mighty name shakes the land. Even if this lowly one were blind, I would still recognize you, General."
Meng Zhao nodded. Judging from this man's behavior, he was not particularly tough-boned; at the very least, he lacked the ruthless air of someone unafraid of blades at his throat. He asked directly,
"Fine. Since you know me, there's no need for more nonsense. You are one of the Jingshan Bandits. Why did you lead a group of men into the refugee camp?"
Wang Xu's heart jolted. His mind was already in turmoil, but he did not dare hesitate and immediately said,
"Reporting to General, this lowly one's stronghold in Liang Prefecture was seized by others. Some of my brothers died, while others fled, so I had no choice but to head south with the refugees and come to Lingwu City for food.
"Since you have investigated this lowly one's identity, you surely know that we are no good people. We are registered with the Imperial Court's Heavenly Punishment Hall as well. We truly did not wish to stir up more trouble, which is why we kept quiet. We absolutely had no intention of dealing with you, General, or the Meng Family.