In the Water Margin
Zhu Tong is a mounted constable in Yuncheng, recognized by his long beard and dignified bearing. He works alongside Lei Heng, but friendship repeatedly complicates his official duties. He quietly leaves a way out for Chao Gai and later protects Song Jiang when the authorities close in.
After freeing Lei Heng, Zhu Tong is sentenced to exile in Cangzhou. The prefect trusts him to care for his young son. Liangshan then forces his hand in a cruel way: Li Kui kills the child, making a return to that household impossible. Zhu Tong joins the band in anger and demands separation from Li Kui. He becomes the twelfth chief under the Tianman star, but the story does not erase the cost of his recruitment.
