Suo Chao
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Suo Chao (索超) is a character in the epic Chinese tale, the Water Margin.
Suo Chao stood at 7 feet, with a round face and big ears, a squarish mouth and a face covered by his beard. He gives people an impressive bearing, much like a hero. He was originally a general in Damingfu, serving under General Secretary Liang. Every time Suo Chao went into battle, he was the first to charge at the enemy, hence he got the nickname 'Daring Vanguard' (急先锋). He was armed with a huge and long golden axe, much like the one carried by Xu Huang from the Three Kingdoms period.
When Yang Zhi was exiled to Damingfu, Grand Secretary Liang recognised Yang's abilities and wanted to give him a post. Suo Chao objected and challenged Yang Zhi to a contest, in which neither of them won the other; Yang Zhi even caught an arrow shot by Suo Chao, with his bare hands. Liang was impressed and decided to make full use of both warriors.
Later, when Lu Junyi and Shi Xiu were held captive in Damingfu, Song Jiang led the Liangshan heroes to attack Damingfu. Suo Chao was assigned to hold off the invaders, and they fought fiercely at Feihu Valley. Suo Chao and Qin Ming had a duel but neither won the other. Han Tao fired an arrow which hit Suo on the left arm, forcing Suo Chao to retreat back to the city.
Song Jiang led his army back and defeated Guan Sheng, before returning to the attack on Damingfu. Suo Chao entered the battle once again, but fell into a pit and was caught by the heroes. Song Jiang treated Suo with respect and managed to persuade Suo Chao to join the band.
Suo Chao became one of the 8 vanguard generals of the Liangshan cavalry and one of the 36 Heavenly Chieftains. He followed the heroes on the campaigns against the Liao Tartars and the southern rebels. During the Fang La campaign, Suo Chao was assigned to attack the northern gate of Hangzhou, where he fought fiercely with Shi Bao. Shi Bao pretended to retreat and lure Suo Chao to follow behind. All of sudden, Shi Bao turned back and struck Suo Chao with his club, killing him.
