Explore Chapter 40 of '水浒新传' with the original Chinese text, English translation, detailed Chinese vocabulary explanations, and audio of the Chinese original. Listen and improve your reading skills.
It is said that Yao Pingzhong stationed his troops in the outskirts of Bianjing. Hearing that Jin troops had besieged the city, he grew anxious and wished to lead his troops to raid the enemy camp. Zhong Shidao advised caution, but Pingzhong would not listen. He mustered five thousand of his own men and sallied forth by night.
Unexpectedly, Jin troops had long been prepared. Ambushes sprang up on all sides, encircling Yao Pingzhong at the core. Pingzhong charged left and right but could not break free. He lost more than half of his men.
Meanwhile, Guan Sheng, obeying the order of Lu Junyi, led a contingent of troops towards Yizhou to provide support. Halfway there, he encountered a squad of Jin troops scouts. Guan Sheng brandished his sword and advanced. He engaged in a minor skirmish, killing over a hundred men.
Guan Sheng pressed on after his victory. However, he heard the news of Yao Pingzhong's defeat. With no other choice, he changed his route to avoid falling into a heavy encirclement.