Chapter 2: Jizhou Hou Su Hu rebels against Shang

诗曰： 丞相金銮直谏君，忠肝义胆孰能群。早知侯伯来朝觐，空费倾葵纸上文。

The poem says: The prime minister Jinluan directly advised his sovereign; who could rival his loyal heart and righteous courage? Had I known the marquises and dukes would come to court, in vain had I spent effort on my paper writings filled with devotion.

话说纣王听奏大喜，即时还宫。一宵经过。次日早朝，聚两班文武朝贺毕。纣王便问当驾官：“即传朕旨意，颁行四镇诸侯，与朕每一镇地方拣选良家美女百名，不论富贵贫贱，只以容貌端庄，情性和婉，礼度贤淑，举止大方，以充后宫役使。”天子传旨未毕，只见左班中一人应声出奏，俯伏言曰：“老臣商容啓奏陛下：君有道则万民乐业，不令而从。况陛下后宫美女，不啻千人，嫔御而上，又有妃后。今劈空欲选美女，恐失民望。臣闻：‘乐民之乐者，民亦乐其乐；忧民之忧者，民亦忧其忧。’此时水旱频仍，乃事女色，实为陛下不取也。故尧、舜与民偕乐，以仁德化天下，不事干戈，不行杀伐，景星耀天，甘露下降，凤凰止于庭，芝草生于野；民丰物阜，行人让路，犬无吠声，夜雨昼晴，稻生双穗；此乃有道兴隆之象也。今陛下若取近时之乐，则目眩多色，耳听淫声，沈湎酒色，游于苑圃，猎于山林，此乃无道败亡之象也。老臣待罪首相，位列朝纲，侍君三世，不得不啓陛下。臣愿陛下：进贤，退不肖，修行仁义，通达道德，则和气贯于天下，自然民富财丰，天下太平，四海雍熙，与百姓共享无穷之福。况今北海干戈未息，正宜修其德，爱其民，惜其财费，重其使令，虽尧、舜不过如是；又何必区区选侍，然后为乐哉？臣愚不识忌讳，望祈容纳。”纣王沈思良久：“卿言甚善，朕即免行。”言罢，群臣退朝，圣驾还宫。不题。

Upon hearing the report, King Zhou was greatly pleased and immediately returned to his palace. One night passed. The next day at the early court assembly, both ranks of civil and military officials gathered to offer congratulations upon completing their formalities. King Zhou then asked the official in charge of the court: "Immediately convey my imperial decree to issue throughout the four frontier marquises, and for each region, select one hundred beautiful young women from good families, regardless of their wealth or poverty. Selection should be based solely on graceful appearance, gentle disposition, refined manners, virtuous conduct, and dignified behavior, in order to serve in the palace." The Son of Heaven had not yet finished issuing the decree when suddenly a man from among the left rank responded and stepped forward to present his report, bowing low and saying: "Your old minister Shang Rong respectfully addresses Your Majesty: When a ruler is virtuous, all the people will be happy in their occupations; they follow without being commanded." Moreover, Your Majesty's palace already contains more than a thousand beautiful women. Above the concubines and attendants are also consorts and empresses. Now, to suddenly wish to select more beauties may cause the people to lose faith in Your Majesty. I have heard: 'He who takes joy in the joys of his people, the people will also take joy in his joys; 'He who shares the worries of his people, the people too will share his burdens.' At this time, when floods and droughts frequently occur, to indulge in women's beauty is indeed not becoming of Your Majesty. Therefore, Yao and Shun shared joy with the people. With benevolence and virtue they transformed the world; they did not resort to weapons or warfare. Auspicious stars shone in the sky, sweet dew fell from above, phoenixes rested in their courtyards, and lingzhi grass grew in the fields; the people were prosperous and resources abundant. Travelers yielded to one another on the roads, dogs did not bark, nights brought rain while days remained clear, and rice plants bore two ears; this was the sign of a virtuous ruler's flourishing reign. Now, if Your Majesty seeks pleasure in the present moment, your eyes will be dazzled by many colors and ears filled with licentious sounds; you will indulge in wine and beauty, wandering through gardens and hunting in forests. This is precisely the sign of a tyrant's downfall. As an old minister who has long held office as prime minister, I hold a position in the court hierarchy and have served three successive sovereigns. I must respectfully address Your Majesty on this matter. I wish for Your Majesty to promote the virtuous and remove the unworthy, cultivate benevolence and righteousness, and become well-versed in morality. Then harmony will pervade the realm; naturally, the people will prosper, wealth will abound, peace will reign throughout the land, all under heaven will enjoy tranquility, and You shall share boundless blessings with Your subjects. Moreover, at present the wars in the Northern Sea have not yet ceased; it is precisely when You should cultivate virtue, cherish Your people, conserve resources, and value commands. Even Yao and Shun would do no more than this; Why must one seek petty pleasures such as selecting attendants in order to find joy? Your humble servant is foolish and unaware of taboos; I humbly request Your Majesty's tolerance." King Zhou pondered for a long time, saying: "Your words are most wise. I shall immediately abandon the plan." After speaking these words, the ministers withdrew from court and the Son of Heaven returned to his palace. No further mention is made.

不意纣王八年，夏四月，天下四大诸侯率领八百镇朝觐于商。那四镇诸侯乃东伯侯姜桓楚，南伯侯鄂崇禹，西伯侯姬昌，北伯侯崇侯虎。天下诸侯俱进朝歌。此时太师闻仲不在都城，纣王宠用费仲、尤浑。各诸侯俱知二人把持朝政，擅权作威，少不得先以礼贿之以结其心，正所谓：“未去朝天子，先来谒相公。”内中有位诸侯，乃冀州侯，姓苏名护，此人生得性如烈火，刚方正直，那里知道奔竞夤缘；平昔见稍有不公不法之事，便执法处分，不少假借，故此与二人俱未曾送有礼物。也是合当有事，那日二人查天下诸侯俱送有礼物，独苏护并无礼单，心中大怒，怀恨于心。不题。

Unbeknownst to all, in the eighth year of King Zhou's reign, during the fourth month of summer, the four great feudal lords of the realm led eight hundred vassal states and paid homage at Shang. The four feudal lords were Dongbohou Jiang Huanchu, Nanbohou E Chongyu, Xibo Hou Ji Chang, and Beibohou Chonghou Hu. All the feudal lords from throughout the realm proceeded to Chaogē. 藟 At this time, Taishi Wen Zhong was not in the capital city; King Zhou favored Fei Zhong and You Hun. All the feudal lords knew that these two men controlled court affairs, wielded power arbitrarily, and issued threats. Therefore, they could not help but first offer gifts and courtesy to win their favor. As the saying goes: "Before going to pay homage to the Son of Heaven, one must first visit the prime minister." Among them was a feudal lord, the Duke of Jizhou, surnamed Su and named Hu. This man had a fiery temper, being firm, upright, and just; he knew nothing about vying for favor or seeking advancement through underhanded means; in the past, whenever he encountered even slightly unjust or illegal matters, he would strictly enforce the law and impose punishment without showing any leniency. Therefore, he had never sent gifts to these two men. It was also fated that on that day, the two men discovered that all the feudal lords had sent gifts, yet Su Hu alone did not submit a gift list. This greatly angered them and they harbored resentment toward him in their hearts. No further mention is made.

其日元旦吉晨，天子早朝，设聚两班文武，众官拜贺毕。黄门官啓奏陛下：“今年乃朝贺之年，天下诸侯皆在午门外朝贺，听候玉音发落。”纣王问首相商容，容曰：“陛下止可宣四镇首领臣面君，采问民风土俗，淳庞浇竞，国治邦安；其馀诸侯俱在午门外朝贺。”天子闻言大悦：“卿言极善。”随命黄门官传旨：“宣四镇诸侯见驾，其馀午门朝贺。”

On that day, on the auspicious morning of New Year's Day, the Son of Heaven held an early court assembly and gathered both ranks of civil and military ministers. After all officials had paid their respects and offered congratulations. A Huangmen official presented a report to the Son of Heaven: "This year is one for paying homage. All feudal lords from throughout the land are assembled outside the Wu Gate, waiting to receive Your Majesty's decree." King Zhou asked the prime minister Shang Rong, who replied: "Your Majesty may only summon the four regional leaders to appear before You. Inquire about local customs and folkways, whether they are virtuous or corrupt, so as to ensure good governance and national stability; the rest of the feudal lords may remain outside the Wu Gate to pay homage." The Son of Heaven, upon hearing this, was greatly pleased: "Your words are most excellent." He then ordered the Huangmen official to convey his decree: "Summon the four regional feudal lords to appear before me; the rest shall pay homage at the Wu Gate."

话说四镇诸侯整齐朝服，轻摇玉佩，进午门，行过九龙桥，至丹墀，山呼朝拜毕，俯伏。王慰劳曰：“卿等与朕宣猷赞化，抚绥黎庶，镇摄荒服，威远宁迩，多有勤劳，皆卿等之功耳。朕心喜悦。”东伯侯奏曰：“臣等荷蒙圣恩，官居总镇。臣等自叨职掌，日夜兢兢，常恐不克负荷，有辜圣心；纵有犬马微劳，不过臣子分内事，尚不足报涓涯于万一耳，又何劳圣心垂念！臣等不胜感激！”天子龙颜大喜，命首相商容、亚相比乾于显庆殿治宴相待。四臣叩头谢恩，离丹墀前至显庆殿，相序筵宴。不题。

The narrative continues: the four regional feudal lords, dressed in their formal court attire and lightly jingling their jade pendants, entered through the Wu Gate. They crossed the 九龙桥 (Nine-Dragon Bridge) and arrived at the red-tiled courtyard. After chanting homage and bowing deeply, they prostrated themselves. The king consoled them, saying: "You have all assisted in governance and promoted civilization for me; you have pacified the common people, maintained order on the frontier, extended Your Majesty's authority to distant lands, and brought peace to nearby regions. You have labored much, and this is due entirely to your merits. This brings joy to my heart." Dongbohou presented a report, saying: "We have received Your Majesty's grace and hold the position of overall commander. Since assuming our duties, we have been constantly vigilant day and night, always fearing that we may not be able to shoulder the responsibility and thus fail Your Majesty's trust; Even if we have rendered the slightest service, it is merely our duty as subjects. It is still insufficient to repay even a fraction of Your Majesty's boundless grace; how could such service deserve Your Majesty's concern! We are deeply moved!" The Son of Heaven was greatly pleased and ordered the prime minister Shang Rong and the vice-prime minister Bi Gan to host a banquet in the Xianqing Hall to entertain them. The four ministers kowtowed and expressed their gratitude, then left the red-tiled courtyard and proceeded in order to the Xianqing Hall for the banquet. No further mention is made.

天子退朝至便殿，宣费仲、尤浑二人，问曰：“前卿奏朕，欲令天下四镇大诸侯进美女，朕欲颁旨，又被商容谏止；今四镇诸侯在此，明早召入，当面颁行，俟四人回国，以便拣选进献，且免使臣往返。二卿意下若何？”费仲俯伏奏曰：“首相谏止采选美女，陛下当日容纳，即行停旨，此美德也。臣下共知，众庶共知，天下景仰。今一旦复行，是陛下不足以取信于臣民，切为不可。臣近访得冀州侯苏护有一女，艳色天姿，幽闲淑性，若选进宫帏，随侍左右，堪任役使。况选一人之女，又不惊扰天下百姓，自不动人耳目。”纣王听言，不觉大悦：“卿言极善！”即命随侍官传旨：“宣苏护。”使命来至馆驿传旨：“宣冀州侯苏护商议国政。”苏护即随使命至龙德殿朝见，礼毕，俯伏听命。王曰：“朕闻卿有一女，德性幽闲，举止中度。朕欲选侍后宫。卿为国戚，食其天禄，受其显位，永镇冀州，坐享安康，名扬四海，天下莫不欣羡。卿意下如何？”苏护听言，正色而奏曰：“陛下宫中，上有后妃，下至嫔御，不啻数千。妖冶妩媚，何不足以悦王之耳目？乃听左右谄谀之言，陷陛下于不义。况臣女蒲柳陋质，素不谙礼度，德色俱无足取。乞陛下留心邦本，连斩此进谗言之小人，使天下后世知陛下正心修身，纳言听谏，非好色之君，岂不美哉！”纣王大笑曰：“卿言甚不谙大体。自古及今，谁不愿女作门楣。况女为后妃，贵敌天子；卿为皇亲国戚，赫奕显荣，孰过于此！卿毋迷惑，当自裁审。”苏护闻言，不觉厉声言曰：“臣闻人君修德勤政，则万民悦服，四海景从，天禄永终。昔日有夏失政，淫荒酒色；惟我祖宗不迩声色，不殖货财，德懋懋官，功懋懋赏，克宽克仁，方能割正有夏，彰信兆民，邦乃其昌，永保天命。今陛下不取法祖宗，而效彼夏王，是取败之道也。况人君爱色，必颠覆社稷；卿大夫爱色，必绝灭宗庙；士庶人爱色，必戕贼其身。且君为臣之标率，君不向道，臣下将化之，而朋比作奸，天下事尚忍言哉！臣恐商家六百馀年基业，必自陛下紊乱之矣。”纣王听苏护之言，勃然大怒曰：“君命召，不俟驾；君赐死，不敢违；况选汝一女为后妃乎！敢以戆言忤旨，面折朕躬，以亡国之君匹朕，大不敬孰过于此！著随侍官，拿出午门，送法司勘问正法！”左右随将苏护拿下。转出费仲、尤浑二人，上殿俯伏奏曰：“苏护忤旨，本该勘问；但陛下因选侍其女，以致得罪；使天下闻之，道陛下轻贤重色，阻塞言路。不若赦之归国，彼感皇上不杀之恩，自然将此女进贡宫闱，以侍皇上。庶百姓知陛下宽仁大度，纳谏容流，而保护有功之臣。是一举两得之意。愿陛下准臣施行。”纣王闻言，天颜少霁：“依卿所奏。即降赦，令彼还国，不得久羁朝歌。”

The Son of Heaven withdrew from court to the convenience hall and summoned Fei Zhong and You Hun, asking them: "Previously you advised me that I should issue an order for the four great feudal lords throughout the realm to present beautiful women. I was about to issue a decree when it was stopped by Shang Rong; now the four feudal lords are here. Tomorrow morning, summon them in and issue the decree directly before their faces. Once these four return to their states, they may then select and present the women, thus avoiding the need for envoys to travel back and forth." What do you two think?" Fei Zhong kowtowed and presented a report, saying: "The prime minister advised against selecting beauties. When Your Majesty accepted his advice and immediately stopped the decree on that day, it was an act of virtue. Ministers all know this, common people all know this; the realm looks up to Your Majesty with admiration. Now, if one were suddenly to resume such a practice, it would mean that Your Majesty is not worthy of the trust of ministers and subjects. This must absolutely be avoided. Recently, I have learned that the Duke of Jizhou Su Hu has a daughter who is naturally beautiful and graceful in demeanor. She possesses refined virtues; if selected to enter the palace and serve at Your Majesty's side, she would be well-suited for such duties. Moreover, selecting just one girl will not disturb the common people throughout the realm and thus will not attract public attention." King Zhou, upon hearing these words, was delighted: "Your words are most excellent!" He immediately ordered the attendants to convey his decree: "Summon Su Hu." The imperial messenger arrived at the guesthouse to deliver the decree: "Summon Duke of Jizhou Su Hu for a discussion on state affairs." Su Hu immediately followed the imperial messenger to the Longde Hall for an audience. After completing the formalities, he prostrated himself and awaited instructions. The king said: "I have heard that you have a daughter of virtuous character, graceful in demeanor and composed in her conduct. I wish to select her as an attendant for the palace. As a noble relative of the state, you enjoy imperial favor and hold an honored position. You will forever govern Jizhou in peace, sit back and enjoy safety and well-being, your name spreading across all under heaven—there is none who does not admire and envy you. What are your thoughts on this?" Su Hu, upon hearing the words, responded with a serious expression: "In Your Majesty's palace, above are empresses and consorts, below are concubines and attendants—there are no less than thousands. Seductive and charming beauties abound; what lack is there to please Your Majesty's eyes and ears? Yet now, You have listened to flattery from those around You and placed Yourself in a position of injustice. Moreover, my daughter is but an unremarkable girl, lacking both virtue and beauty; she has never been taught the ways of courtly etiquette. There is nothing commendable about her. I humbly beg Your Majesty to focus on the fundamentals of state governance and execute these petty villains who have spread slander. Let all under heaven and future generations know that You are a ruler who cultivates virtue, accepts advice, and listens to remonstrances—certainly not one obsessed with beauty. Would this not be admirable!" King Zhou laughed loudly and said: "Your words show a complete lack of understanding of the greater picture. Since ancient times until now, who would not wish for their daughter to become a pillar of honor at the imperial gate? Moreover, if a woman becomes an empress or consort, her status rivals that of the Son of Heaven himself; you, as a royal relative and noble of the state, will bask in unprecedented glory—none can surpass this! Do not be confused; you must make your own decision." Upon hearing these words, Su Hu could not help but speak in a stern voice: "I have heard that when a sovereign cultivates virtue and diligently governs, the people will be pleased and submit willingly; all under heaven will follow with admiration, and Heaven's blessings will endure forever. "In ancient times, when the Xia dynasty lost its governance, it indulged in licentiousness and drunken revelry; only our ancestors, who kept distant from music and beauty and did not accumulate wealth, by cultivating virtue to promote officials and rewarding merit with honors, and by being both lenient and benevolent, were able to overthrow the corrupt Xia dynasty, establish trust among the people, bring prosperity to the state, and forever preserve Heaven's mandate. Now, Your Majesty does not follow the example of our ancestors but instead imitates that Xia king; this is a path to failure. Moreover, when a sovereign loves beauty, it will inevitably lead to the downfall of state and dynasty; when high officials love beauty, they will surely bring ruin to ancestral temples; and when commoners or scholars love beauty, it will certainly harm their own lives. Furthermore, the sovereign is the model for his ministers; if a ruler does not pursue virtue, his subjects will follow suit and become corrupt, forming factions to commit villainy. How can one even speak of such affairs in the realm! I fear that Your Majesty will be the one who disrupts and ruins the six-hundred-year legacy of the Shang dynasty." King Zhou, upon hearing Su Hu's words, suddenly became furious and said: "When the sovereign summons you, one does not wait for a second command; when the sovereign grants death, one dares not disobey; how much less is it to select your daughter as a consort or empress! To dare speak foolish words that defy my decree, to openly challenge me in person, and to compare me with a ruler who lost his kingdom—what greater disrespect could there be! Take Su Hu out through the Wu Gate and deliver him to the judicial officials for interrogation and execution!" Guards immediately seized Su Hu. Fei Zhong and You Hun then stepped forward onto the hall, kowtowed, and presented a report: "Su Hu has defied Your Majesty's decree; he should be interrogated; but since Your Majesty wished to select his daughter for the palace, this is why he committed an offense; if the realm hears of it, they will say that Your Majesty values beauty over virtue and has obstructed the path for remonstrance. It would be better to pardon him and allow him to return to his state. He will surely feel gratitude for Your Majesty's clemency, and naturally present this girl as a tribute to the palace to serve Your Majesty. Thus, the common people will know that Your Majesty is broad-minded and benevolent, accepts remonstrance, tolerates criticism, and protects meritorious officials. This would be a case of achieving two benefits with one action. We humbly request that Your Majesty approve our proposal." King Zhou, upon hearing their words, slightly softened his expression: "As you have advised. Immediately issue a pardon and order him to return to his state; he must not be detained in Chaogē for long."

话说圣旨一下，迅如峰火，即催逼苏护出城，不容停止。那苏护辞朝回至驿亭，众家将接见慰问：“圣上召将军进朝，有何商议？”苏护大怒，骂曰：“无道昏君，不思量祖宗德业，宠信谗臣谄媚之言，欲选吾女进宫为妃。此必是费仲、尤浑以酒色迷惑君心，欲专朝政。我听旨不觉直言谏诤；昏君道我忤旨，拿送法司。二贼子又奏昏君，赦我归国，谅我感昏君不杀之恩，必将吾女送进朝歌，以遂二贼奸计。我想闻太师远徵，二贼弄权，眼见昏君必荒淫酒色，紊乱朝政，天下荒荒，黎民倒悬，可怜成汤社稷化为乌有。我自思：若不将此女进贡，昏君必兴问罪之师；若要送此女进宫，以后昏君失德，使天下人耻笑我不智。诸将必有良策教我。”众将闻言，齐曰：“吾闻‘君不正则臣投外国’，今主上轻贤重色，眼见昏乱，不若反出朝歌，自守一国，上可以保宗社，下可保一家。”此时苏护正在盛怒之下，一闻此言，下觉性起，竟不思维，便曰：“大丈夫不可做不明白事。”叫左右：“取文房四宝来，题诗在午门墙上，以表我永不朝商之意。”诗曰： “君坏臣纲，有败五常。冀州苏护，永不朝商！”

The narrative continues: upon the imperial decree being issued, it spread swiftly like wildfire. Su Hu was immediately pressured to leave the city and no delay was allowed. Su Hu, upon bidding farewell to court and returning to the relay station, was met by his officers who greeted and inquired: "The Son of Heaven summoned General into court; what matters were discussed?" Su Hu became furious and cursed, saying: "This lawless tyrant does not consider the virtue and achievements of his ancestors; he is swayed by the flattery of sycophantic ministers and wishes to select my daughter to enter the palace as a concubine. This must be because Fei Zhong and You Hun have used wine and beauty to bewitch the king's mind, seeking to monopolize court affairs. I could not help but speak out bluntly in remonstration upon receiving the decree; the tyrant claimed I had offended his decree and ordered me to be taken before the judicial officials. These two villains then advised the tyrant to pardon me and allow my return, believing that I would be grateful for his clemency and surely send my daughter into Chaogē, thus fulfilling their treacherous scheme. I think that upon hearing of the Grand Master's distant campaign, these two villains have seized power. I foresee this tyrant will indulge in wine and beauty, corrupting court affairs; the realm will fall into chaos, the people suffer greatly, and 可怜 the legacy of King Chengtang will be reduced to nothing. I have considered this: if I do not present my daughter as tribute, the tyrant will surely raise an army to punish me; but if I were to send this girl into the palace, in the future when the tyrant loses virtue, all under heaven will mock me for my lack of wisdom. Surely you officers must have a good plan to teach me." Upon hearing this, the officers all said together: "We have heard that 'if a ruler is unjust, his ministers should seek foreign lands.' Now our sovereign values beauty over virtue and is clearly corrupt; it would be better to rebel against Chaogē and establish our own state. This way we can protect our ancestral legacy above and safeguard our family below." At this moment, Su Hu was in a furious mood. Upon hearing these words, he suddenly felt inspired and without thinking further, said: "A true man cannot do things that are unclear." He called to those on his side: "Bring the four treasures of the study, and let me compose a poem on the gate wall at Wumen to express my resolve never again to pay homage to Shang." The poem says: "The ruler has corrupted the ministerial code, and the Five Constants have been violated. Jizhou Su Hu will never again pay homage to Shang!"

苏护题了诗，领家将迳出朝歌，奔本国而去。

Su Hu composed the poem, led his officers directly out of Chaogē, and fled back to his own state.

且言纣王见苏护当面折诤一番，不能遂愿：“虽准费、尤二人所奏，不知彼可能将女进贡深宫，以遂朕于飞之乐？”正踌躇不悦，只见看午门内臣俯伏奏曰：“臣在午门，见墙上苏护题有反诗十六字，不敢隐匿，伏乞圣裁。”随侍接诗铺在御案上。纣王一见，大骂：“贼子如此无礼！朕体上天好生之德，不杀鼠贼，赦令归国，彼反写诗午门，大辱朝廷，罪在不赦！”即命：“宣殷破败、晁田、鲁雄等，统领六师，朕须亲征，必灭其国！”当驾官随宣鲁雄等见驾。不一时，鲁雄等朝见，礼毕。王曰：“苏护反商，题诗午门，甚辱朝纲，情殊可恨，法纪难容。卿等统人马廿万为先锋；朕亲率六师，以声其罪。”鲁雄听罢，低首暗想：“苏护乃忠良之士，素怀忠义，何事触忤天子，自欲亲征，冀州休矣！”鲁雄为苏护俯伏奏曰：“苏护得罪于陛下，何劳御驾亲征。况且四大镇诸侯俱在都城，尚未归国，陛下可点一二路征伐，以擒苏护，明正其罪，自不失挞伐之威。何必圣驾远事其地。”纣王问曰：“四侯之内，谁可征伐？”费仲在傍，出班奏曰：“冀州乃北方崇侯虎属下，可命侯虎征伐。”纣王即准施行。鲁雄在侧自思：“崇侯虎乃贪鄙暴横之夫，提兵远徵，所经地方，必遭残害，黎庶何以得安。现有西伯姬昌，仁德四布，信义素著。何不保举此人，庶几两全。”纣王方命传旨，鲁雄奏曰：“侯虎虽镇北地，恩信尚未孚于人，恐此行未能伸朝廷威德；不如西伯姬昌，仁义素闻，陛下若假以节钺，自不劳矢石，可擒苏护，以正其罪。”纣王思想良久，俱准奏。特旨令二侯秉节钺，得专征伐。使命持旨到显庆殿宣读。不题。

Meanwhile, King Zhou saw that Su Hu had openly defied and remonstrated with him, failing to achieve his wish. He said: "Although I have approved the proposal of Fei Zhong and You Hun, I wonder if he will indeed present his daughter into the inner palace to fulfill my joy as a pair in flight?" He was hesitating and unhappy when suddenly an official from the Wumen gate knelt before him and reported: "Minister, while I was at Wumen, I saw a sixteen-character rebellious poem written on the wall by Su Hu. I dared not conceal it; I humbly request Your Majesty's judgment." The attendants immediately presented the poem and laid it upon the imperial desk. King Zhou, upon seeing it, shouted in anger: "This villain is so disrespectful! I embody the Heaven's virtue of preserving life and did not kill this rat-thief, but pardoned him and allowed his return to his state. Yet he dared write a poem at Wumen, greatly dishonoring the court; his crime is beyond pardon!" He immediately ordered: "Summon Yin Pobai, Chao Tian, Lu Xiong and others to command the six armies. I must personally lead a campaign and will surely destroy his state!" The imperial attendants immediately summoned Lu Xiong et al. to appear before the throne. In no time, Lu Xiong and his companions paid homage at court; the rituals were completed. The king said: "Su Hu has rebelled against Shang and written a poem at Wumen; this greatly disgraces the court's order. His actions are especially despicable and cannot be tolerated under law or discipline. You shall command twenty thousand troops as vanguard; I will personally lead the six armies to denounce his crimes." Upon hearing this, Lu Xiong lowered his head and silently thought: "Su Hu is a loyal and virtuous man who has always cherished loyalty and righteousness. What could he have done to offend the Son of Heaven? Why would His Majesty personally lead an expedition? Jizhou is doomed!" Lu Xiong, on Su Hu's behalf, knelt and said: "Su Hu has offended Your Majesty; why should the Son of Heaven personally lead an expedition. Moreover, the four great regional lords are all in the capital and have not yet returned to their states. Your Majesty may select one or two of them to lead a campaign to capture Su Hu, publicly punish him for his crimes, and still maintain the authority of military action without personally leading an expedition." Why must Your Majesty travel far from court to deal with this matter?" King Zhou asked: "Among the four lords, who is suitable for leading a campaign?" 隆重 Fei Zhong, standing nearby, stepped forward and said: "Jizhou belongs to Chong Hou Hu of the north; it would be appropriate to order Hou Hu to lead a campaign." King Zhou immediately approved the proposal. Lu Xiong, standing by, thought to himself: "Chong Hou Hu is a greedy and brutal man. If he leads troops on a distant campaign, the regions his army passes through will surely suffer great harm; how can the common people find peace? Now there is Xi Bo Ji Chang, whose benevolence and virtue are widely known, and who has long been renowned for his integrity and righteousness. Why not recommend this man? This would ensure a favorable outcome for all." Just as the decree was about to be issued, Lu Xiong said: "Although Hou Hu governs the northern region, his kindness and trustworthiness have not yet won the people's confidence. I fear that this campaign may fail to demonstrate the court's authority and virtue; it would be better to entrust Xi Bo Ji Chang, who has long been known for his benevolence and righteousness. If Your Majesty grants him authority with a scepter and axe, he will surely capture Su Hu without the need for arrows or stones, thus punishing him for his crime." King Zhou pondered for a long time and finally approved both proposals. A special decree was issued ordering the two lords to wield scepters and axes, granting them full authority over military campaigns. The imperial messenger carried the decree to Xianqing Hall for proclamation. Details are omitted.

只见四镇诸侯与二相饮宴未散，忽报“旨意下”，不知何事。天使曰：“西伯侯、北伯侯接旨。”二侯出席接旨，跪听宣读： “诏曰：朕闻冠履之分维严，事使之道无两，故君命召，不俟驾；君赐死，不敢返命；乃所以隆尊卑，崇任使也。兹不道苏护，狂悖无礼，立殿忤君，纪纲已失，被赦归国，不思自新，辄敢写诗午门，安心叛主，罪在不赦。赐尔姬昌等节钺，便宜行事，往惩其忤，毋得宽纵，罪有攸归。故兹诏示汝往。钦哉。谢恩。”

Just then, the four regional lords and two prime ministers were still feasting when suddenly a report came: "An imperial decree has arrived," but no one knew what it concerned. The imperial messenger said: "Xi Bo Hou and Bei Bo Hou, receive the decree." The two lords stepped forward to receive the decree and knelt while listening as it was read: "Imperial edict says: I have heard that the distinction between hats and shoes must be strictly observed, and in matters of service there is no duality. Therefore, when a sovereign summons, one does not wait for the chariot; when a sovereign grants death, one dares not refuse the command; this is how we uphold hierarchy and respect for service. Now this lawless Su Hu has acted recklessly and disrespectfully, defying the sovereign in court, violating discipline. Though pardoned and allowed to return home, he did not reflect on reforming himself but dared write a poem at Wumen Gate, clearly intent on betraying his lord; such crimes cannot be forgiven. Therefore, I bestow upon you Ji Chang and others the scepter and axe to act at your discretion. Go forth to punish this defiance; do not show leniency, for there must be accountability for his crimes." Hence, I issue this decree to command you to proceed. Heed these words with reverence. "Thank Your Majesty for your grace."

天使读毕，二侯谢恩平身。姬昌对二丞相、三侯伯言曰：“苏护朝商，未进殿庭，未参圣上；今诏旨有‘立殿忤君’，不知此语何来？且此人素怀忠义，累有军功，午门题诗，必有诈伪。天子听信何人之言，欲伐有功之臣。恐天下诸侯不服。望二位丞相明日早朝见驾，请察其详。苏护所得何罪？果言而正，伐之可也；倘言而不正，合当止之。”比乾言曰：“君侯言之是也。”崇侯虎在傍言曰：“‘王言如丝，其出如纶。’今诏旨已出，谁敢抗违。况苏护题诗午门，必然有据；天子岂无故而发此难端。今诸侯八百，俱不遵王命，大肆猖獗，是王命不能行于诸侯，乃取乱之道也。”姬昌曰：“公言虽善，是执其一端耳。不知苏护乃忠良君子，素秉丹诚，忠心为国，教民有方，治兵有法，数年以来，并无过失。今天子不知为谁人迷惑，兴师问罪于善类。此一节恐非国家之祥瑞。只愿当今不事干戈，不行杀伐，共乐尧年。况兵乃凶象，所经地方，必有惊扰之虞，且劳民伤财，穷兵黩武，师出无名，皆非盛世所宜有者也。”崇侯虎曰：“公言固是有理，独不思君命所差，概不由己？且煌煌天语，谁敢有违，以自取欺君之罪。”昌曰：“既如此，公可领兵前行，我兵随后便至。”当时各散。西伯便对二丞相言：“侯虎先去，姬昌暂回西岐，领兵续进。”遂各辞散。不题。

After the messenger finished reading, the two lords thanked the emperor and rose. Ji Chang said to the two prime ministers and three regional lords: "Su Hu came to Shang, but did not enter the court or pay homage to His Majesty; now the decree states that he 'defied the sovereign in court'; I wonder where this statement comes from? Moreover, this man has always cherished loyalty and righteousness and has repeatedly earned military merit. The poem at Wumen must be a forgery. Which minister did the Son of Heaven believe, that he wishes to attack a meritorious official? I fear this will cause dissatisfaction among all the regional lords. I hope that both prime ministers will appear before court at the early morning audience tomorrow and request a thorough investigation." What crime has Su Hu committed? If the accusations are indeed true and justified, then attacking him is acceptable; if the charges are unfounded or unjust, we should stop this campaign." Bi Gan said: "Your Lordship speaks rightly." Chong Hou Hu, standing nearby, said: "'The king's words are like silk threads, but when issued they become official decrees.' Now the decree has been issued; who dares to defy it? Moreover, Su Hu's poem at Wumen must have some basis; the Son of Heaven would not raise this matter without reason. Now, among the eight hundred regional lords, none obey royal commands and they act recklessly. This means that royal authority cannot be enforced over the lords; it is a path to chaos." Ji Chang said: "Your words are well-intentioned, but they grasp only one aspect of the matter. You do not know that Su Hu is a loyal and upright gentleman who has always upheld sincerity, served the state with loyalty, governed his people effectively, and trained his troops according to proper methods. For many years now, he has committed no faults. Now the Son of Heaven is evidently being misled by someone and is launching a campaign against an innocent man. This matter may not bode well for the state's fortune. I only hope that our current sovereign will refrain from war and violence, and together we may enjoy a reign as harmonious as Yao's. Moreover, war is an ill omen; wherever the army passes, there will surely be disturbances and alarm. It exhausts the people's strength and resources, indulges in endless warfare, and lacks a just cause—none of these are suitable for a flourishing era." Chong Hou Hu said: "Your words certainly make sense, but have you not considered that when the sovereign issues a command, one cannot act independently? Moreover, such solemn imperial words—how dare anyone defy them and risk committing the crime of deceiving the sovereign?" Ji Chang said: "If that is so, you may lead your troops forward first; my forces will follow shortly." At this time, they all dispersed. Xi Bo then said to the two prime ministers: "Hou Hu will go first; Ji Chang will return temporarily to Xiqi and lead his troops forward later." Thus, they each took their leave. Details are omitted.

次日，崇侯虎下教场，整点人马，辞朝起行。

The next day, Chong Hou Hu went to the drill ground, mustered his troops, bid farewell at court, and set out.

且言苏护离了朝歌，同众士卒，不一日回到冀州。护之长子苏全忠率领诸将出郭迎接。其时父子相会进城，帅府下马。众将到殿前见毕。护曰：“当今天子失政，天下诸侯朝觐，不知那一个奸臣，暗奏吾女姿色，昏君宣吾进殿，欲将吾女选立宫妃。彼时被我当面谏诤，不意昏君大怒，将我拿问忤旨之罪，当有费仲、尤浑二人保奏，将我赦回，欲我送女进献。彼时心甚不快，偶题诗帖于午门而反商。此回昏君必点诸侯前来问罪。众将官听令：且将人马训练，城垣多用滚木炮石，以防攻打之虞。”诸将听令，日夜防维，不敢稍懈，以待厮杀。

Meanwhile, Su Hu left Chaogē with the soldiers; within a day or two he returned to Jizhou. Su Quanzhong, Su Hu's eldest son, led the officers out of the city gates to welcome him. At this time, father and son met and entered the city; they dismounted at the general's residence. The officers paid their respects before the hall. Hu said: "The current Son of Heaven has lost his virtue. Among the regional lords who pay homage, I wonder which sycophant secretly reported my daughter's beauty to the court. This tyrant summoned me into court and wishes to select her as a palace concubine. At that time, I bluntly remonstrated in his face. Unexpectedly, the tyrant became furious and ordered my arrest for having offended him. Fortunately, Fei Zhong and You Hun recommended me to be pardoned, allowing me to return home with the expectation that I would send my daughter as a tribute. At that time, greatly distressed, I happened to compose and post a poem at Wumen before returning to Shang. This time, the tyrant must be summoning feudal lords to come and accuse me of crimes. All officers, listen to my orders: First, train the troops thoroughly; reinforce the city walls with rolling logs and stones for defense against potential attacks." The officers obeyed the orders, maintaining vigilance day and night without the slightest relaxation in preparation for battle.

话说崇侯虎领五万人马，即日出兵，离了朝歌，望冀州进发。但见： 轰天炮响，振地锣鸣。轰天炮响，汪洋大海起春雷；振地锣鸣，万仞山前丢霹雳。幡幢招展，三春杨柳交加；号带飘扬，七夕彩云蔽日。刀枪闪灼，三冬瑞雪重铺；剑戟森严，九月秋霜盖地。腾腾杀气锁天台，隐隐红云遮碧岸。十里汪洋波浪滚，一座兵山出土来。

Now speaking of Chong Hou Hu, who led 50,000 troops and departed the same day from Chaoge, heading toward Jizhou. One could see: The thunderous roar of cannons shook the sky; the clanging of gongs reverberated through the earth. The thunderous roar of cannon fire, as if spring thunder awoke from the vast ocean; The clanging gongs shook the earth like lightning crashing before towering mountains. Banners fluttered and waved, with spring willows intertwining in March; The signal ribbons fluttered in the wind like colorful clouds on the Qixi Festival obscuring the sun. Swords and spears gleamed, as if fresh snow from three winters was laid anew; Swords and halberds stood in grim array, like autumn frost covering the earth in September. Murderous qi surged up to block the sky, while faint red clouds veiled the emerald shore. Ten miles of surging ocean waves rolled; a mountain of soldiers rose from the earth.

大兵正行，所过州府县道，非止一日。前哨马来报：“人马已至冀州，请千岁军令定夺。”侯虎传令安营。怎见得： 东摆芦叶点钢枪，南摆月样宣花斧，西摆马闸雁翎刀，北摆黄花硬柄弩，中央戊己按勾陈，杀气离营四十五。辕门下按九宫星，大寨暗藏八卦谱。

The large army marched forward, and it took more than one day to pass through all the states, prefectures, and counties along the way. A scout horseman reported: "The troops have arrived at Jizhou; please, Your Majesty, issue orders for the campaign." Hou Hu gave orders to set up camp. How was this seen: To the east, steel spears were arranged like reeds; to the south, axes shaped like crescent moons stood in formation. To the west, horse barriers held swallow-tail sabers; to the north, yellow-flowered crossbows with sturdy stocks were deployed. In the center, according to the Wuji system, the Gouchen formation was set up, and from the camp, a killing aura extended for forty-five li. The yuanyuan gate followed the Nine Palaces Star pattern; the main encampment secretly concealed the Eight Trigrams formation.

侯虎安下营寨，早有报马报进冀州。苏护问曰：“是那路诸侯为将？”探事回曰：“乃北伯侯崇侯虎。”苏护大怒曰：“若是别镇诸侯，还有他议；此人素行不道，断不能以礼解释。不若乘此大破其兵，以振军威，且为万姓除害。”传令：“点兵出城厮战！”众将听令，各整军器出城，一声炮响，杀气振天。城门开处，将军马一字摆开。苏护大叫曰：“传将进去，请主将辕门答话！”探事马飞报进营。侯虎传令整点人马。只见门旗开处，侯虎坐逍遥马，统领众将出营，展两杆龙凤绣旗。后有长子崇应彪压住阵脚。苏让见侯虎飞凤盔，金锁甲，大红袍，玉束带，紫骅骝，斩将大刀，担于鞍鞽之上。苏护一见，马上欠身曰：“贤侯别来无恙。不才甲胄在身，不能全礼。今天子无道，轻贤重色，不思量留心邦本；听谗佞之言，强纳臣子之女为妃，荒淫酒色，不久天下变乱。不才自各守边疆，贤侯何故兴此无名之师？”崇侯听言大怒曰：“你忤逆天子诏旨，题反诗于午门，是为贼臣，罪不容诛。今奉诏问罪，则当肘膝辕门，尚敢巧言支吾，持兵贯甲，以骋其强暴哉！”崇侯回顾左右：“谁与我擒此逆贼？”言未了，左哨下有一将，头带凤翅盔；黄金甲，大红袍，狮鸾带，青骢马；厉声而言曰：“待末将擒此叛贼！”连人带马滚至军前。这壁厢有苏护之子苏全忠，见那阵上一将当先，剌斜里纵马摇戟曰：“慢来！”全忠认得是偏将梅武。梅武曰：“苏全忠，你父子反叛，得罪天子，尚不倒戈服罪，而强欲抗天兵，是自取灭族之祸矣。”全忠拍马摇戟，劈胸来刺。梅武手中斧劈面相迎。但见： 二将阵前交战，锣鸣鼓响人惊。该因世上动刀兵，致使英雄相驰骋。这个那分上下，那个两眼难睁。你拿我，凌湮阁上标名；我捉你，丹凤楼前画影。斧来戟架，绕身一点凤摇头；戟去斧迎，不离腮边过顶额。

Hou Hu had just set up his camp when a scout horseman quickly galloped into Jizhou to report. Su Hu asked, "Which feudal lord is the general?" The scout replied: "It is Beibo Hou Chong Hou Hu." Su Hu was furious and said, "If it were a general from another region, there might still be room for discussion; this man has long behaved immorally; we certainly cannot resolve this through courtesy. We should instead take advantage of the situation to crush his forces, boost our military prestige, and at the same time remove a threat for the people." He gave orders: "Muster the troops and march out of the city to engage in battle!" The officers obeyed, each preparing their weapons before leaving the city. With a single cannon blast, a murderous aura shook the heavens. As the city gates opened, the general's cavalry formed a line stretching wide as one. Su Hu shouted loudly: "Send an officer forward and invite the main commander to speak at the yuanyuan gate!" The scout horseman galloped swiftly into the camp. Hou Hu gave orders for the troops to be mustered and inspected. Just then, as the gate banners opened, Hou Hu rode out on a Xiaoyao horse, leading his officers from camp with two embroidered dragon and phoenix flags unfurled. Behind him was his eldest son Chong Yingbiao, holding the rear of the formation. Su Rang saw that Hou Hu wore a flying phoenix helmet, golden chain armor, a crimson robe with jade sash, and rode a purple Huailou horse. A large general's saber was slung across his saddle. Su Hu saw this and bowed from the saddle, saying: "Honorable Lord, I hope you are well since we last met. I am unworthy, but clad in armor, I cannot perform a full courtesy. The current Son of Heaven is unjust, valuing beauty over virtue and neglecting the foundation of the state; he listens to flatterers, forcefully taking a subject's daughter as concubine, indulging in wine and lust—thus the realm will soon descend into chaos. I have been guarding my own borders diligently; Honorable Lord, why then do you raise this nameless army?" Chong Hou, upon hearing these words, became furious and said: "You have defied the Son of Heaven's decree by posting a rebellious poem at Wumen. You are a traitorous minister whose crimes cannot be left unpunished. Now I have come by imperial decree to hold you accountable. You should have knelt at the yuanyuan gates in submission, yet here you dare use clever words to evade responsibility and raise arms clad in armor to display your violence!" Chong Hou turned to his men on both sides and said: "Who will go with me to capture this traitor?" Before the words were finished, a general from the left vanguard stepped forward. He wore a phoenix-wing helmet; golden armor, crimson robe with lion and 鸾 sash, riding a green qingcong horse; he spoke loudly: "Let me, the junior general, capture this rebel!" He and his horse dashed forward to the front of the army. On this side, Su Quanzhong, the son of Su Hu, saw a general charging forward from the opposing ranks. He suddenly spurred his horse and brandished his halberd diagonally, shouting: "Hold on!" Quanzhong recognized him as the subordinate general Mei Wu. Mei Wu said: "Su Quanzhong, your father and you have rebelled against the Son of Heaven. You still dare not surrender and repent but instead stubbornly resist imperial forces—this is self-inflicted doom for your entire clan." Quanzhong spurred his horse, raised his halberd, and charged forward to strike at Mei Wu's chest. Mei Wu met the attack head-on with a fierce swing of his axe. One could see: The two generals clashed on the battlefield, gongs clanged and drums thundered, startling all who watched. War had broken out in the world, causing heroes to display their martial prowess on the field. One could not tell who was superior or inferior; both struggled fiercely with eyes wide open from exertion. If you capture me, my name will be recorded on the Lingyan Pavilion; if I seize you, your silhouette shall be painted before Danfeng Tower. Axes clashed with halberds; a single feint circled the body like a phoenix shaking its head; halberds struck and axes met, never straying from cheeks or crowns.

两马相交，二十回合，早被苏全忠一戟剌梅武于马下。苏护见子得胜，传令擂鼓。冀州阵上大将赵丙、陈季贞纵马抡刀杀将来。一声喊起，只杀的愁云荡荡，旭日辉辉，尸横遍野，血溅成渠。侯虎麾下金葵、黄元济、崇应彪且战且走，败至十里之外。

After twenty exchanges of blows on horseback, Su Quanzhong finally struck down Mei Wu with a halberd blow to the ground. Su Hu, seeing his son's victory, gave orders for drums to be beaten. From the Jizhou ranks, generals Zhao Bing and Chen Jizhen rode forward, brandishing their swords to charge in. With a single cry of battle, the sky was cleared of gloom and the rising sun shone brightly. Corpses lay scattered across the field, blood pooling into streams. Under Hou Hu's command, Jin Kui, Huang Yuanji, and Chong Yingbiao fought while retreating, fleeing to a distance of ten li.

苏护传令鸣金收兵，同城到帅府，升殿坐下，赏劳有功诸将：“今日虽大破一阵，彼必整兵复雠，不然定请兵益将，冀州必危，如之奈何？”言未毕，副将赵丙上前言曰：“君侯今日虽胜，而徵战似无已时。前者题反诗，今日杀军斩将，拒敌王命，此皆不赦之罪。况天下诸侯，非止侯虎一人，倘朝廷盛怒之下，又点几路兵来，冀州不过弹丸之地，诚所谓‘以石投水，’立见倾危。若依末将愚见，‘一不做，二不休’，侯虎新败，不过十里远近；乘其不备，人衔枚，马摘辔，暗劫营寨，杀彼片甲不存，方知我等利害。然后再寻那一路贤良诸侯，依附于彼，庶可进退，亦可以保全宗社。不知君侯尊意何如？”护闻此言大悦，曰：“公言甚善，正合吾意。”即传令：命子全忠领三千人马出西门十里，五冈镇埋伏。全忠领命而去。陈季贞统左营，赵丙统右营，护自统中营。时值黄昏之际，卷幡息鼓，人皆衔枚，马皆摘辔，听炮为号，诸将听令。不表。

Su Hu gave orders to sound the gongs and withdraw the troops. Returning with them to the general's residence in the city, he ascended the hall and sat down, rewarding those who had distinguished themselves: "Today we have won a great victory, but they will surely regroup their forces for revenge. If not, they must certainly request reinforcements. Jizhou is bound to be in danger—what should we do?" Before he could finish speaking, the deputy general Zhao Bing stepped forward and said: "My Lord, although we have won today, this war seems to have no end in sight. Previously, you posted a rebellious poem; today, you killed soldiers and beheaded generals, defying the royal decree. These are all unforgivable crimes. Moreover, the feudal lords of the realm are not limited to Hou Hu alone. If the imperial court becomes enraged and sends several armies in response, Jizhou is but a small territory—this would be like "throwing a stone into water," with danger imminent. If I may offer my humble opinion, we should follow the saying: "Once begun, never stop." Hou Hu has just suffered a defeat and is no more than ten li away; we should take advantage of his unpreparedness, have the soldiers move silently with their mouths covered and horses' reins removed, secretly attack the camp, and annihilate them completely. Only then will they truly understand our strength." Then we can seek out a virtuous feudal lord from another region, pledge allegiance to him. Only then may we have the means to advance or retreat and preserve our family's legacy. I wonder what your Lordship thinks?" Hu, upon hearing this, was greatly pleased and said: "Your words are excellent—they perfectly align with my thoughts." He immediately gave orders: Command your son Quanzhong to lead 3,000 soldiers out through the western gate for ten li and set an ambush at Wugang Town. Quanzhong accepted the order and departed. Chen Jizhen commanded the left wing, Zhao Bing led the right wing, while Hu personally took charge of the central forces. At that time, it was dusk; banners were furled and drums ceased. Soldiers moved silently with their mouths covered, horses had their reins removed. All awaited the cannon signal for action, as officers stood ready to obey orders. Details are omitted.

且言崇侯虎恃才妄作，提兵远伐，孰知今日损军折将，心甚羞惭。只得将败残军兵收聚，扎下行营，纳闷中军，郁郁不乐，对众将曰：“吾自行军，征伐多年，未尝有败；今日折了梅武，损了三军，如之奈何？”旁有大将黄元济谏曰：“君侯岂不知‘胜败乃兵家常事’，想西伯侯大兵不久即至，破冀州如反掌耳。君侯且省愁烦，宜当保重。”侯虎军中置酒，众将欢饮。不题。有诗为证，诗曰： 侯虎提兵事远徵，冀州城外驻行旌；三千铁骑摧残后，始信当年浪得名。”

Meanwhile, Chong Hou Hu had relied on his talent and acted recklessly by leading troops far to attack. Who could have foreseen that today he would suffer losses in men and generals? He was deeply ashamed. He had no choice but to gather the remnants of his defeated forces, set up a temporary camp, and brood in the central command. In low spirits, he said to his officers: "I have led campaigns for many years without ever suffering defeat; today I lost Mei Wu and suffered heavy casualties—what can we do?" A nearby general, Huang Yuanji, advised: "My Lord, do you not know that 'victory and defeat are common in warfare'? The forces of Xibo Hou will surely arrive soon. They will conquer Jizhou as easily as turning one's palm." My Lord, please cease your worries and take care of yourself." Hou Hu held a banquet in his camp; the officers drank joyfully. Details are omitted. There is a poem to attest, the poem says: Hou Hu led his troops on a distant campaign; he stationed his banners outside Jizhou city; After 3,000 iron cavalry were shattered, one could finally believe that his reputation was undeserved."

且言苏护把人马暗暗调出城来，只待劫营。时至初更，已行十里。探马报与苏护，护即传令，将号炮点起。一声响亮，如天崩地塌，三千铁骑，一齐发喊，冲杀进营。如何抵当，好生利害，怎见得： 黄昏兵到，黑夜军临。黄昏兵到，冲开队伍怎支持？黑夜军临，撞倒寨门焉可立？人闻战鼓之声，惟知怆惶奔走；马听轰天之炮，难分南北东西。刀枪乱刺，那明上下交锋；将士相迎，岂知自家别个。浓睡军东冲西走；未醒将怎著头盔。先行官不及鞍马，中军帅赤足无鞋。围子手东三西四；拐子马南北奔逃。劫营将骁如猛虎；冲寨军一似蛟龙。著刀的连肩拽背；著枪的两臂流红；逢剑的砍开甲胄；遇斧的劈破天灵。人撞人，自相践踏；马撞马，遍地尸横。著伤军哀哀叫苦；中箭将咽咽悲声。弃金鼓幡幢满地；烧粮草四野通红。只知道奉命征讨，谁承望片甲无存。愁云直上九重天，一派败兵随地拥。只见三路雄兵，人人敢勇，个个争先，一片喊杀之声，冲开七层围子，撞倒八面虎狼。

Meanwhile, Su Hu quietly moved his troops out of the city and waited for the opportunity to attack the enemy camp. By the first watch of the night, they had already traveled ten li. A scout horseman reported to Su Hu, who immediately gave orders and lit a signal cannon. With one loud explosion, like the collapse of heaven and earth, 3,000 iron cavalries all shouted together and charged into the camp. How could they resist? It was extremely dangerous. How did it appear: Troops arrived at dusk, and the army came in darkness. At dusk, when troops arrived, how could they hold up against a charge breaking through their ranks? In the dark of night, with the army approaching, how could one stand firm after the camp gate was smashed down? People hearing the sound of war drums knew only to panic and run; Horses, hearing the thunderous cannons, could not distinguish north from south or east from west. Swords and spears wildly pierced; who could tell where upper and lower ranks clashed? Officers and soldiers met each other, yet did not know they were from their own side. The drowsy troops dashed east and west; Unconscious generals had no idea how to put on their helmets. The vanguard officer could not mount his horse in time, and the central army commander ran barefoot without shoes. Camp guards were scattered here and there; Flanking horses fled north and south in panic. The raiding generals were fierce as tigers; The charging troops were like dragons. Those struck by blades had their shoulders and backs torn; Those pierced by spears had blood flowing from both arms; Those who met swords had their armor and breastplates slashed open; Those struck by axes had their foreheads split apart. People collided with each other, trampling one another; Horses crashed into horses, and corpses lay everywhere on the ground. Injured soldiers cried out in agony; Arrows-struck generals choked on their sorrowful cries. Discarded drums, gongs, banners, and standards lay scattered across the ground; Burning grain and fodder turned the surrounding fields blood-red. They only knew they had been ordered to campaign; who could have foreseen that not a single piece of armor remained? Gloomy clouds rose straight up into the nine heavens, while defeated troops crowded the ground in disarray. They saw three divisions of mighty troops, each soldier brave and bold, all vying to lead. A chorus of shouts broke through seven layers of encirclement and shattered eight sides of fierce beasts.

单言苏护，一骑马，一条枪，直杀入阵来，捉拿崇侯虎。左右营门，喊声振地。崇侯虎正在梦中闻见杀声，披袍而起，上马提刀，冲出帐来。只见灯光影里，看苏护金盔金甲，大红袍，玉束带，青骢马，火龙枪，大叫曰：“侯虎休走！速下马受缚！”拈手中枪劈心刺来。崇侯虎落慌，将手中刀对面来迎，两马交锋。正战时，只见这崇侯虎长子应彪带领金葵、黄元济杀将来助战。崇营左粮道门赵丙杀来，右粮道门陈季贞杀来。两家混战，夤夜交兵。怎见得： 徵云笼地户，杀气锁天关。天昏地暗排兵，月下星前布阵。四下里齐举火把，八方处乱掌灯球。那营里数员战将厮杀；这营中千匹战马如龙。灯影战马，火映徵夫。灯影战马，千条烈焰照貔貅；火映徵夫，万道红霞笼懈豸。开弓射箭，星前月下吐寒光；转背抡刀，灯里火中生灿烂。鸣金小校，恹恹二目竟难睁；擂鼓儿郎，渐渐双手不能举。刀来枪架，马蹄下人头乱滚；剑去戟迎，头盔上血水淋漓。锤鞭并举，灯前小校尽倾生；斧鐧伤人，目下儿郎都丧命。喊天振地自相残，哭泣苍天连叫苦。只杀得满营炮响冲霄汉，星月无光斗府迷。

Speaking only of Su Hu, on a single horse with one spear, he charged straight into the formation to capture Chong Hou Hu. The shouts from both sides of the camp gates shook the earth. Chong Hou Hu, hearing the sounds of battle in his sleep, put on his robe and rushed up. He mounted his horse, took up a sword, and charged out from his tent. He saw in the light of the lanterns that Su Hu wore a golden helmet and armor, a crimson robe, a jade sash, rode a dark green steed, and wielded a fire-dragon spear. He shouted loudly: "Hou Hu, do not run away! Surrender at once!" He raised his spear and thrust it straight toward the heart. Chong Hou Hu was taken by surprise, so he raised his sword to meet the attack head-on; their horses clashed in battle. While they were fighting, suddenly Chong Hou Hu's eldest son Yingbiao led Jin Kui and Huang Yuanji to come to his aid. From the left grain road gate, Zhao Bing charged in; from the right grain road gate, Chen Jizhen also came rushing forward. The two sides engaged in chaotic battle, clashing through the dead of night. How was it seen: War clouds covered the earth's gates; killing aura locked the heavenly pass. The heavens darkened and the earth dimmed as troops were deployed; under the moon, before the stars, an array was formed. Torches were lit in all directions, and lanterns flickered chaotically across eight points of the compass. Within that camp, several valiant generals engaged in fierce combat; In this camp, thousands of battle horses galloped like dragons. Lantern shadows danced on the warhorses; firelight illuminated the warriors. Lantern-lit warhorses, thousands of blazing flames illuminating the tigers and dragons; Firelight reflected on the warriors, ten thousand streaks of red clouds enveloping the mythical creatures. Drawing bows and shooting arrows, they exhaled cold light under stars and moon; Turning their backs to swing swords, dazzling brilliance arose from within the lanterns and flames. The junior officer beating the gong had both eyes so weary they could barely open; The drummer boy, gradually unable to raise his hands. Swords came and spears blocked; under the hooves of horses, heads rolled in chaos; Swords went out to meet halberds; blood dripped from helmets. Maces and whips were raised together, junior officers before the lanterns all perished; Axes and hammers wounded people, and under their eyes, young soldiers lost their lives. Shouts shaking heaven and earth as they slaughtered each other; crying out to the heavens in sorrow and woe. They fought so fiercely that cannons roared throughout the camp, piercing the sky, leaving stars and moon dimmed, and constellations confused.

话说两家大战，苏护有心劫营，崇侯虎不曾防备，冀州人马以一当十。金葵正战，早被赵丙一刀砍于马下。侯虎见势不能支，且战且走。有长子应彪保父，杀一条路逃走，好似丧家之犬，漏网之鱼。冀州人马，凶如猛虎，恶似豺狼，只杀的尸横遍野，血满沟渠。急忙奔走，夜半更深，不认路途而行，只要保全性命。苏护赶杀侯虎败残人马约二十馀里，传令鸣金收军。苏护得全胜回冀州。

It is said that in this great battle between the two sides, Su Hu had planned to raid the camp. Chong Hou Hu was unprepared, and the forces of Jizhou fought with tenacity, one against ten. Just as Jin Kui was engaged in battle, he was struck down from his horse by a single sword stroke from Zhao Bing. Seeing that the situation could not be sustained, Hou Hu fought while retreating. His eldest son Yingbiao protected his father and carved out a path to escape, like a homeless dog or a fish that had escaped the net. The Jizhou troops were fierce as tigers and vicious as wolves, leaving corpses strewn across the fields and blood filling ditches. They hurriedly fled; in the dead of night, they could not recognize the path ahead, only seeking to preserve their lives. Su Hu chased after Hou Hu's defeated and shattered forces for about twenty li before giving orders to beat the gong and withdraw his troops. Su Hu returned to Jizhou in complete victory.

单言崇侯虎父子，领败兵迤逦望前正走，只见黄元济、孙子羽催后军赶来，打马而行。侯虎在马上叫众将言曰：“吾自提兵以来，未尝大败；今被逆贼暗劫吾营，黑夜交兵，未曾准备，以致损折军将。此恨如何不报！吾想西伯侯姬昌自在安然，违避旨意，按兵不动，坐观成败，真是可恨！”长子应彪答曰：“军兵新败，锐气已失，不如按兵不动，遣一军催西伯侯起兵前来接应，再作区处。”侯虎曰：“我儿所见甚明。到天明收住人马，再作别议。”言末毕，一声炮响，喊杀连天，只听得叫：“崇侯虎快快下马受死！”侯虎父子、众将，急向前看时，见一员小将，束发金冠，金抹额，双摇两根雉尾，大红袍，金锁甲，银合马，画杆戟，面如满月，唇若涂朱，厉声大骂：“崇侯虎，吾奉父亲之命，在此候尔多时。可速倒戈受死！还不下马，更待何时！”侯虎大骂曰：“好贼子！你父子谋反，忤逆朝廷，杀了朝廷命官，伤了天子军马，罪业如山。寸磔汝尸，倘不足以赎其辜。偶尔夤夜中贼奸计，辄敢在此耀武扬威，大言不惭。不日天兵一到，汝父子死无葬身之地。谁与我拿此反贼？”黄元济纵马舞刀，直取苏全忠。全忠用手中戟，对面相还，两马相交，一场大战： 刮地寒风声似飒，滚滚徵尘飞紫雪，駜駜拨拨马蹄鸣，叮叮当当袍甲结。齐心刀砍锦徵袍，举意枪刺连环甲。只杀的摇旗小校手连颠，擂鼓儿郎槌乱匝。

Speaking only of Chong Hou Hu and his son, leading their defeated troops slowly ahead, they suddenly saw Huang Yuanji and Sunziyu urging the rear forces to chase after them, galloping forward. Hou Hu called out from his horse to the officers: "Since I led my troops, I have never suffered such a great defeat; Today, this rebel bandit secretly raided our camp. In the dark of night we were engaged in battle without preparation, which led to the loss of troops and generals. How can I not avenge this grievance! I think of Xibo Hou Ji Chang, who remains at ease and complacently avoids the imperial orders. He holds his troops back and sits idly by as we fight it out—he is truly despicable!" His eldest son Yingbiao replied: "Our troops have just suffered a defeat and lost their morale. It would be better to hold our forces back, send one division to urge Xibo Hou Ji Chang to raise his army and come to support us, then we can make further plans." Hou Hu said: "My son's insight is very clear. Until dawn, we will halt our troops and discuss other plans." Before he could finish speaking, a cannon roared, shouts echoed to the heavens. They heard someone cry: "Chong Hou Hu! Surrender and die at once!" Hou Hu, his son, and the officers rushed forward to look. They saw a young general with a bound-up hair and golden crown, a golden forehead band, two pheasant tails swaying on either side, wearing a crimson robe and gold-locked armor, riding a silver-coated horse, holding a painted pole halberd. His face was as round as the full moon, his lips like vermilion paint. He shouted fiercely: "Chong Hou Hu! I have been ordered by my father to wait for you here for quite some time." Surrender and die at once!" If you do not dismount now, when else will you wait?"! Hou Hu shouted in anger: "You good-for-nothing bandit!" Your father and son have rebelled, defied the imperial court, killed officials appointed by the emperor, and wounded the emperor's troops. Your crimes are as heavy as mountains. Even if your body is cut into pieces, it would barely be enough to atone for your guilt. By sheer luck, you fell victim to a bandit's midnight trickery and now dare to show off your might here with such bold words without shame. When the imperial troops arrive in no time, there will be nowhere for you and your father to hide from death." Who will help me seize this rebel bandit?" Huang Yuanji spurred his horse and brandished a sword, charging straight at Su Quanzhong. Quanzhong used the halberd in his hand to meet him head-on. Their horses clashed, and a great battle ensued: The cold wind swept the ground, its sound like rustling leaves; rolling war dust flew like purple snow. Hooves thundered with clatter, and armor rang with metallic clangs. With united intent they slashed at brocade battle robes; with determined will they pierced linked armor with spears. They fought so fiercely that the junior officer waving flags had his hands shaking, and the drummer boy's mallets struck in chaotic disorder.

二将酣战，正不分胜负。孙子羽纵马舞叉，双战全忠。全忠大喝一声，刺子羽于马下。全忠复奋勇来战侯虎。侯虎父子双迎上来，战住全忠。全忠抖擞神威，好似弄风猛虎，搅海蛟龙，战住三将。正战间，全忠卖个破绽，一戟把崇侯虎护腿金甲挑下了半边。侯虎大惊，将马一夹，跳出围来，往外便走。崇应彪见父亲败走，意急心忙，慌了手脚，不提防被全忠当心一戟刺来。应彪急闪时，早中左臂，血淋袍甲，几乎落马。众将急上前架住，救得性命，望前逃走。全忠欲要追赶，又恐黑夜之间不当稳便，只得收了人马进城。此时天色渐明，两边来报苏护。护令长子到前殿问曰：“可曾拿了那贼？”全忠答曰：“奉父亲将令，在五岗镇埋伏，至半夜败兵方至，孩儿奋勇刺死孙子羽；挑崇侯虎护腿甲；伤崇应彪左臂，几乎落马，被众将救逃。奈黑夜不敢造次追赶，故此回兵。”苏护曰：“好了这老贼！我儿且自安息。”不题。不知崇侯虎往何路借兵，且听下回分解。

The two generals engaged in a fierce battle, neither gaining an advantage. Sunziyu spurred his horse and wielded a trident to fight Quanzhong together. Quanzhong roared loudly, impaling Sunziyu from his horse with a single thrust. Quanzhong then rallied his courage once more to fight Hou Hu. Hou Hu and his father both charged forward, engaging Quanzhong in battle. Quanzhong displayed divine might, like a fierce tiger stirring the wind or a sea dragon agitating the waves, holding off all three generals. In the midst of the battle, Quanzhong feigned a weakness and with one thrust of his halberd, he knocked off half of Chong Houhu's golden leg armor. Hou Hu was greatly alarmed and spurred his horse with a kick, breaking free from the encirclement and fleeing outward. Chong Yingbiao, seeing his father defeated and retreating, became frantic with worry and flustered. He failed to notice Quanzhong thrusting a halberd straight at his chest. As Yingbiao tried to dodge, the blow struck his left arm, causing blood to soak through his robe and armor, nearly making him fall from his horse. The other generals rushed forward to support him, saving his life as they fled ahead. Quanzhong wanted to pursue them but feared it would be too risky in the dark, so he had no choice but to withdraw his troops and enter the city. At this time, as daylight began to break, messengers from both sides arrived at Su Hu's camp. Hu ordered his eldest son to the front hall and asked, "Have you captured that bandit?" Quanzhong replied, "Following my father's command, I lay in ambush at Wugang Zhen. When the retreating troops arrived at midnight, your son bravely killed Sunziyu." I knocked off Chong Houhu's leg armor; I wounded Chong Yingbiao in the left arm, nearly making him fall from his mount, but he was saved and escaped by other generals. But because of the darkness, I dared not recklessly pursue them further, so I returned with my troops." Su Hu said, "Good for that old bandit! Rest well, my son." No further mention. As for where Chong Houhu went to seek reinforcements, we shall hear of it in the next chapter.