Explore Chapter 67 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.
Now it is said that Song Jiang, after the turmoil at Mount Hua in the West, returned to Liangshan Marsh and mustered his troops. He found that Duan Jingzhu was missing. Song Jiang asked for the reason. A soldier reported: "Duan Jingzhu, along with Yang Lin and Shi Yong, went north to buy horses. They selected over two hundred fine steeds. On their way back to Qingzhou, they were ambushed by a band of robbers. The leader, known as Road-Block Spirit Yu Baosi, gathered more than two hundred men. They seized all the horses and sent them to Zengtou Citadel." Upon hearing this, Song Jiang was furious. He said, "They stole our horses before, and now they are so insolent!" He then prepared to lead troops for revenge.
Wu Yong advised: "Brother, calm your anger. We must deliberate this matter carefully." Song Jiang said: "Zengtou Citadel is so insolent. If we don't avenge this, when will we?" As they were discussing, Dai Zong reported again: "Zengtou Citadel has seized more horses from Liangshan Marsh." Song Jiang grew even angrier. He mustered troops to attack Zengtou Citadel.
On Zengtou Citadel, Elder Zeng saw the troops from Liangshan Marsh approaching. He discussed with Shi Wengong. Shi Wengong said: "The bandits of Liangshan Marsh are nothing to fear!" They deployed their forces. The two armies faced each other. Song Jiang rode out and pointed at Elder Zeng, cursing: "Old thief, return my horses!" Elder Zeng was enraged. He ordered Shi Wengong to go forth. Shi Wengong brandished his spear and charged directly at Song Jiang. Guan Sheng spurred his horse to meet him. After a few rounds, Guan Sheng feigned defeat and fled. Shi Wengong pursued. Lu Junyi suddenly appeared from the side and captured Shi Wengong alive.
Song Jiang seized the opportunity to press the attack. Zengtou Citadel was utterly defeated. Song Jiang withdrew his troops back to the stronghold. He had Shi Wengong bound, disemboweled, and his heart extracted to offer in sacrifice to Chao Gai. All the Chieftains urged Song Jiang to take the first seat of honor. Song Jiang deferred to Lu Junyi. Lu Junyi firmly declined. Song Jiang had no choice but to resume his seat as before. A banquet was held to celebrate. But that is another story.