Chapter 27: Grand Master Tai Returns with Troops and Presents Ten Strategies

诗曰： 天运循环有替隆，任他胜算总无功。方才少进和平策，又道提兵欲破戎。 数定岂容人力转，期逢自与鬼神同。从来逆孽终归尽，纵有回天手亦穷。

The poem says: Heaven's mandate cycles in succession and decline; however much one may outwit others, all efforts remain fruitless. Only recently had they slightly advanced a policy of peace and harmony when it was said that troops were being raised to break through the enemy forces. When fate is determined, how could human effort possibly change it? The timing of events naturally aligns with the will of spirits and deities. From ancient times, rebellious evils have ultimately perished; even if one possesses a hand capable of turning back heaven itself, such power is ultimately exhausted.

话说黄元帅见比干如此不言，迳出午门，命黄明、周纪：“随看老殿下往何处去。”二将领命去讫。且说比干马走如飞，只闻得风声之响。约走五七里之遥，只听得路傍有一妇人手提筐篮，叫卖无心菜。比干忽听得，勒马问曰：“怎么是无心菜？”妇人曰：“民妇卖的是无心菜。”比干曰：“人若是无心，如何？”妇人曰：“人若无心，即死。”比干大叫一声，撞下马来，一腔热血溅尘埃。有诗为证： 御札飞来实可伤，妲己设计害忠良。比干倚仗昆仑术，卜兆焉知在路傍。话说卖菜妇人见比干落马，不知何故，慌的躲了。黄明、周纪二骑马，赶出北门，看见比干死于马下，一地鲜血，溅染衣袍，仰面朝天，瞑目无语。二将不知所以然──当时子牙留下简帖，上书符印，将符烧灰入水，服于腹中，护其五脏，故能乘马出北门耳。见卖无心菜的，比干问其因由，妇人言“人无心即死”，若是回道“人无心还活”，比干亦可不死。比干取心，下台，上马，血不出者，乃子牙符水玄妙之功。话说黄明、周纪飞马赶出北门，见如此行径，回至九间殿来，回黄元帅说“见比干……如此而死”，说了一遍。微子等百官无不伤情。内有一下大夫厉声大叫：“昏君无事擅杀叔父，纪纲绝灭！吾自见驾！”此官乃是夏招，自往鹿台，不听宣召，迳上台来。纣王将比干心立等做羹汤，又被夏招上台见驾。纣王出见夏招，见招竖目扬眉，圆睁两眼，面君不拜。纣王曰：“夏招，无旨有何事见朕？”招曰：“特来弑君！”纣王笑曰：“自古以来，那有臣弑君之理！”招曰：“昏君！你也知道无弑君之理！世上那有无故侄杀叔父之情！比干乃昏君位之嫡叔，帝乙之弟，今听妖妇妲己之谋，取比干心作羹，诚为弑叔父！臣弑昏君，以尽成汤之法！”招把鹿台上挂的飞云剑掣在手，望纣王劈面杀来。纣王乃文武全才，岂惧此一个儒生，将身一闪让过，夏招扑个空。纣王大怒，命：“武士拿下！”武士领旨，方来擒拿。夏招大叫曰：“不必来！昏君杀叔父，招宜弑君，此事之当然。”众人向前。夏招一跳。撞下鹿台。可怜粉骨碎身，死于非命！有诗赞曰： 夏招怒发气当嗔，只为君王行不仁。不惜残躯拚直谏，可怜血肉已成尘！ 忠心自合留千古，赤胆应知重万钧，今日虽投台下死，芳名常共日华新！

It was said that General Huang, seeing Bingan remain silent like this, went directly out of Wumen Gate and ordered Huang Ming and Zhou Ji: "Follow and see where the young prince is going." The two generals accepted the order and departed accordingly. Meanwhile, Bingan rode off at a speed like flying, hearing only the sound of the wind. After riding about five or seven li away, he heard a woman by the roadside holding a basket and calling out to sell "wuxin cai" (a type of vegetable). Bingan suddenly heard this, reined in his horse and asked: "Why is it called 'wuxin cai'?" The woman said: "What I am selling is wuxin cai." Bingan asked: "If a person has no heart, how would it be?" The woman replied: "If a person has no heart, he will die immediately." Bingan let out a loud cry and fell from his horse, splashing a gush of hot blood onto the dust. There is a poem to attest: The imperial decree arrived and caused great sorrow; Daji devised plans to harm the loyal and virtuous. Bingan relied on Kunlun shu (a divination technique), but how could he foresee the omen by the roadside? It was said that when the vegetable-selling woman saw Bingan fall from his horse, she did not know what had happened and hurriedly fled. Huang Ming and Zhou Ji, riding their horses, rushed out of the northern gate and saw Bingan lying dead beneath his horse, with fresh blood spattered across the ground and staining his robes. He lay on his back facing heaven, eyes closed and silent. The two generals did not know the reason. At that time, Ziya had left behind a note with a talisman and seal on it; by burning the talisman into ashes and mixing them in water to drink, he protected his five internal organs, which is why he was able to ride out through the northern gate. When Bingan saw the woman selling "wuxin cai" and asked her about it, she said, "A person without a heart will die." If instead he had replied, "A person without a heart can still live," Bingan would also have been spared death. Bingan took out his heart, descended from the platform, mounted his horse, and blood did not flow—this was due to the mysterious power of Ziya's talisman-infused water. It was said that Huang Ming and Zhou Ji rode swiftly out of the northern gate, saw such a scene, returned to the Nine-Bay Hall, and reported back to General Huang: "We saw Bingan ... die in this manner," recounting everything. Wei Zi and all the other hundred officials were deeply grieved. Among them, one junior official shouted in a loud voice: "This foolish king has dared to kill his uncle without cause; the principles of discipline and order are utterly destroyed!" "I shall confront him myself!" lou This official was Xia Zhao, who went directly to Lütai Pavilion without waiting for an imperial summons and ascended the platform. King Zhou immediately prepared a soup with Bingan's heart, but just as he did so, Xia Zhao arrived on the platform to pay his respects. King Zhou came out to see Xia Zhao, who stood with glaring eyes and raised eyebrows, staring fiercely at the king without bowing. King Zhou said: "Xia Zhao, you have come to see me without an imperial summons—what business do you have with the Son of Heaven?" Zhao replied: "I have come especially to kill you!" King Zhou laughed and said, "Since ancient times, how can there be a principle of subjects killing their sovereign?" Zhao replied: "Foolish king!" You also know that there is no principle of killing one's sovereign! In the world, how can there be such a case where a nephew kills his uncle without cause! Bingan is your uncle by blood, the younger brother of Emperor Yi. Now you have heeded the plot of the wicked woman Daji and taken Bingan's heart to make soup—this truly constitutes killing one's own uncle! "I shall kill this foolish king, to fulfill the laws of Emperor Chengtang!" Zhao drew the Feiyun Sword hanging on Lütai Pavilion, raised it high, and charged toward King Zhou to strike. King Zhou was a man of complete literary and martial talent; how could he fear this single scholar? He quickly sidestepped, dodging the attack, and Xia Zhao lunged in vain. King Zhou became furious and ordered: "Palace guards, seize him!" The palace guards accepted the order and came to arrest him. Xia Zhao shouted loudly: "Do not come!" "This foolish king has killed his uncle. I, Xia Zhao, should kill you—this is the natural course of events." The crowd moved forward. Xia Zhao leaped up in one bound. He crashed down from Lütai Pavilion. Alas, his bones were crushed and body shattered—he died a tragic death! There is a poem praising this: Xia Zhao's anger flared with righteous fury, for the king had acted unkindly. He spared no thought for his broken body in striving to offer honest remonstration—alas, now his blood and flesh have turned to dust! Loyal hearts are destined to be remembered through the ages; a crimson, courageous spirit is known to weigh ten thousand jin. Though today he fell dead beneath the platform, his noble name will forever shine as bright as the morning sun!

不说夏招死于鹿台之下，且说各文武听得夏招尽节鹿台之下，又去北门外收比干之尸。世子微子德披麻执杖，拜谢百官。内有武成王黄飞虎、微子、箕子，伤悼不已；将比干用棺椁停在北门外，搭起芦棚，扬纸旛安定魂魄。

Without mentioning Xia Zhao's death beneath Lütai Pavilion, let us now speak of the various civil and military officials who, upon hearing that Xia Zhao had died a loyal death at Lütai, went to the northern gate to retrieve Bingan's body. Prince Weizi De donned mourning clothes and held a staff of mourning, bowing in gratitude to all the officials. Among them were General Huang Feihuo, Weizi, and Jizi, who mourned without ceasing; they placed Bingan's body in a coffin and laid it outside the northern gate, erected a reed shelter, raised paper banners to pacify his spirit.

忽听探马报：“闻太师奏凯回朝。”百官齐上马，迎接十里。至辕门，军政司报太师：“百官迎接辕门。”大师传令：“百官暂回，午门相会。”众官速至午门等候。闻太师乘墨麒辚往北门而进，忽见纸旛飘荡，便问左右：“是何人灵柩？”左右答曰：“是亚相比干之柩。”太师惊讶。进城，又见鹿台高耸，光景嵯峨。到了午门，见百官道傍相迎。太师下骑，笑脸问曰：“列位老大人，仲远征北海，离别多年，景物城中尽多变了。”武成王曰：“太师在北，可闻天下离乱，朝政荒芜，诸侯四叛？”太师曰：“年年见报，月月通知，只心悬两地，北海难平。托赖天地之恩，主上威福，方灭北海妖孽。吾恨胁无双翼，飞至都城面君为快。”众官随至九间大殿。太师见龙书案何以生尘，寂静凄凉，又见殿东边黄邓邓大圆柱子。太师问执殿官：“黄邓邓大柱子，为何放在殿上？”执殿官跪而答曰：“此大柱子，所置新刑，名曰炮烙。”太师又问：“何为炮烙？”只见武成王向前言曰：“太师，此刑乃铜造成的，有三层火门。凡有谏官阻事，尽忠无私，赤心为国的，言天子之过，说天子不仁，正天子不义，便将此物将炭烧红，用铁索将人两手抱住铜柱，左右裹将过去，四肢烙为灰烬，殿前臭不可闻。为造此刑：忠良隐遁，贤者退位，能者去国，忠者死节。”闻太师听得此言，心中大怒，三目交辉，只急得当中那一只神目睁开，白光现尺馀远近。命执殿官：“鸣钟鼓请驾！”百官大悦。

Suddenly, a scout arrived with news: "It is heard that the Grand Master has returned in triumph." All the officials mounted their horses and went to meet him ten li away. Upon reaching Yuamen Gate, the military administration office reported to the Grand Master: "The hundred officials are waiting at Yuamen Gate." The Grand Master gave orders: "Let all officials return for now; we shall meet at Wumen Gate." All the officials quickly arrived at Wumen Gate to wait. As they heard the Grand Master ride in on a black qilin carriage heading toward the northern gate, he suddenly saw paper banners fluttering and asked those around him: "Whose funeral procession is this?" Those nearby replied: "It is the coffin of Grand Minister Bingan." The Grand Master was greatly surprised. Upon entering the city, he saw Lütai Pavilion towering high above, its scenery rugged and imposing. When he arrived at Wumen Gate, he saw all the officials waiting by the roadside to greet him. The Grand Master dismounted and, with a smiling face, asked: "Esteemed elders, since Zhong embarked on the expedition to Beihai, many years have passed. The scenery within the city has changed greatly." General Huang Feihuo said: "While you were in the north, did you hear of how the world has fallen into chaos, court affairs have become neglected, and feudal lords have rebelled on all sides?" The Grand Master said: "Year after year reports were submitted, month after month updates received. My heart was torn between two places; the north could not be pacified." It is due to Heaven's grace and the Son of Heaven's power that I was finally able to quell the demonic forces in Beihai. I regret not having a pair of wings, so I could have flown here swiftly to present myself before His Majesty." The officials followed him to the Nine-Bay Grand Hall. The Grand Master saw that the dragon desk was covered in dust, and the hall felt quiet and desolate. He also noticed a large round column on the eastern side of the hall. The Grand Master asked the official in charge of the hall: "This large yellow column, Huang Dengdeng, why is it placed here on the hall?" The official in charge of the hall knelt and replied: "This large column is a new form of punishment placed here, called Paoluo." The Grand Master asked again: "What exactly is this 'Paoluo'?" Just then, General Huang Feihuo stepped forward and said: "Grand Master, this punishment is made of bronze with three tiers of fire openings. Whenever there are officials who advise against matters, act with complete loyalty and selflessness, and speak out with a red heart for the country—pointing out the king's faults, criticizing his unkindness, or correcting his injustice—they will be subjected to this device. The bronze column is heated until it glows red; iron chains are used to bind both hands of the person around the copper pillar, dragging them back and forth on either side. Their limbs are seared into ashes, and the stench before the hall becomes unbearable." This punishment was created to drive loyal and virtuous men into hiding, cause the wise to resign their posts, force capable individuals to leave the country, and lead the faithful to die for their principles." Upon hearing these words, the Grand Master became extremely angry. His three eyes shone with a brilliant light; in particular, his central divine eye opened wide, emitting white beams visible for more than a chi in all directions. He ordered the official in charge of the hall: "Sound the bells and drums to summon His Majesty!" All the officials were greatly pleased.

话说纣王自取比干心作汤，疗妲己之疾，一时全愈，正在台上温存。当驾官启奏曰：“九间殿鸣钟鼓，乃闻太师还朝，请驾登殿。”纣王闻得此说，默然不语，随传旨：“排銮舆临轩。”车御、保驾等官，扈拥天子登九间大殿。百官朝贺。闻太师进礼，山呼毕，纣王秉圭谕曰：“太师远征北海，登涉艰苦，鞍马劳心，运筹无暇。欣然奏捷，其功不小。”太师拜伏于地曰：“仰仗天威，感陛下洪福，灭怪除妖，斩逆剿贼。征伐十五年，臣捐躯报国，不敢有负先王。臣在外闻得内廷浊乱，各路诸侯反叛，使臣心悬两地，恨不得插翅面君。今睹天颜，其情可实？”纣王曰：“姜桓楚谋逆弑朕，鄂崇禹纵恶为叛，俱已伏诛；但其子肆虐，不遵国法，乱离各地，使关隘扰攘，甚是不法，良可痛恨！”太师奏曰：“姜桓楚篡位，鄂崇禹纵恶，谁可以为证？”纣王无辞以对。太师近前复奏曰：“臣征在外，苦战多年；陛下仁政不修，荒淫酒色，诛谏杀忠，致使诸侯反乱。臣且启陛下：殿东放著黄邓邓的是甚东西？”纣王曰：“谏臣恶口忤君，沽忠买直，故设此刑。名曰炮烙。”太师又启：“臣进都城，见高耸青霄是甚所在？”纣王曰：“朕至暑天，苦无憩地，造此行乐，亦观高望远，不致耳目蔽塞耳。名曰鹿台。”太师听罢，心中甚是不平，乃大言曰：“今四海荒荒，诸侯齐叛，皆陛下有负于诸侯，故有离叛之患。今陛下仁政不施，恩泽不降，忠谏不纳，近奸色而远贤良，恋歌饮而不分昼夜，广施土木，民连累而反，军粮而绝散。文武军民，乃君王四肢。四支顺，其身康健；四肢不顺，其身缺残。君以礼待臣，臣以忠事君。想先王在日，四夷拱手，八方宾服，享太平乐业之丰，受巩固皇基之福。今陛下登临大宝，残虐万姓，诸侯离叛，民乱军怨。北海刀兵，使臣一片苦心，殄灭妖党。今陛下不修德政，一意荒淫，数年以来，不知朝纲大变，国体全无，使臣日劳边疆，正如辛勤立燕巢于朽幕耳。惟陛下思之！臣今回朝，自有治国之策，容臣再陈。陛下暂请回宫。”纣王无言可对，只得进宫阙去了。

It was said that after King Zhou took Bingan's heart and made it into a soup to cure Daji's illness, she recovered completely. At the moment, they were on the pavilion, indulging in affectionate moments. The official responsible for announcing imperial audiences reported: "The bells and drums are ringing at the Nine-Bay Hall. It is heard that the Grand Master has arrived back in court, requesting Your Majesty to ascend the hall." King Zhou heard this and remained silent. He then issued an order: "Prepare the imperial palanquin for a procession to the 轩." The officials in charge of the chariot and those responsible for escorting His Majesty accompanied the Son of Heaven up to the Nine-Bay Grand Hall, surrounding him with honor. All the officials paid homage and offered congratulations. Upon hearing the Grand Master's formal greeting, after the mountain-calling ceremony was completed, King Zhou held a jade tablet and addressed him: "Grand Master, your distant expedition to Beihai involved many hardships. You endured arduous travel on horseback, and were so occupied with strategy that you had no time for rest. You joyfully reported your victory—your merit is great indeed." The Grand Master knelt on the ground and said: "I relied upon Heaven's might and was blessed by Your Majesty's great fortune to destroy monsters, eliminate demons, and cut down rebels and bandits. For fifteen years of warfare, I have devoted my life in service to the country; I dare not betray the former kings." While away, I heard of corruption within the palace and rebellion among the feudal lords on all sides. This caused my heart to be torn between two places, and I could not help but wish for wings so that I might fly back before Your Majesty. Now that I have seen the Son of Heaven in person, is this situation truly as grave?" King Zhou said: "Jiang Huanchu plotted rebellion and attempted to kill me, while E Chongyu harbored evil and became a traitor; both have already been executed. But their sons have acted tyrannically, defying national law and causing chaos in various regions. They have disturbed the passes and borders, committing many illegal acts—this is truly a cause for sorrow and anger!" The Grand Master replied: "Jiang Huanchu usurped the throne, and E Chongyu harbored evildoers—who can serve as a witness to these events?" King Zhou had no words with which to respond. The Grand Master stepped forward and added: "While I was on campaign, I endured many years of bitter warfare; Your Majesty neglected benevolent governance and indulged in debauchery, wine, and lust. You executed those who advised you and killed loyal officials, which led the feudal lords to rebel." I would also like to ask Your Majesty: What is that object called Huang Dengdeng placed on the eastern side of this hall?" King Zhou said: "Advising ministers used harsh words to defy their sovereign, seeking false loyalty and righteousness. Therefore, this punishment was established." It is called Paoluo." The Grand Master asked again: "When I entered the capital, I saw a tall pavilion reaching into the blue sky—what is that place?" King Zhou said: "During the hot summer, I had no place to rest. This pavilion was built for recreation and leisure; it also allows me to look far into the distance without my vision or hearing being obstructed." It is called Lutai." After hearing this, the Grand Master felt deeply indignant and loudly declared: "Now the four seas are in chaos, and all the feudal lords have rebelled together. This is because Your Majesty has wronged them, hence they suffer from rebellion." Now, Your Majesty does not practice benevolent governance or bestow kindness and grace. You do not accept loyal advice but instead favor villains and concubines while distancing yourself from the virtuous and capable. You indulge in music and drinking without distinguishing between day and night. You recklessly construct grand buildings, causing the people to suffer and rebel, and your military supplies have been exhausted." The literati, officials, soldiers, and common people are like a sovereign's limbs. When the four limbs function properly, the body remains healthy; when the four limbs are out of order, the body becomes crippled. A ruler treats his ministers with propriety; in return, ministers serve their sovereign with loyalty. I recall that when the former kings were alive, all four barbarian regions submitted respectfully and people from eight directions came in peace. The realm enjoyed prosperity and harmony, and the imperial foundation was firmly established for the benefit of all." Now that Your Majesty has ascended to the throne, you have cruelly oppressed the people. The feudal lords have turned against you, and both civilians and soldiers are in turmoil and resentment." The troops from Beihai, under my command with all my efforts, have exterminated the band of villains. Now, Your Majesty neglects virtuous governance and indulges in debauchery. For many years now, you have been unaware of the great changes to court discipline and the complete collapse of national dignity. This has forced me to labor tirelessly on the frontiers, just like painstakingly building a swallow's nest upon a decaying curtain. I only hope Your Majesty will reflect upon this! This time I return to court, I have strategies for governing the nation. Please allow me to present them again. Your Majesty may please return to the palace temporarily." King Zhou had no words to reply and could only retreat into the palace.

且说闻太师立于殿上曰：“众位先生，大夫，不必回府第，俱同老夫到府内共议。吾自有处。”百官跟随，同至太师府，到银安殿上，各依次坐下。太师就问：“列位大夫，诸先生，老夫在外多年，远征北地，不得在朝，但我闻仲感先王托孤之重，不敢有负遗言。但当今颠倒宪章，有不道之事。各以公论，不可架捏。我自有平定之说。”内有一大夫孙容，欠身言曰：“太师在上：朝廷听谗远贤，沉湎酒色，杀忠阻谏，殄灭彝伦，怠荒国政，事迹多端。恐众官齐言，有紊太师清听。不若众位静坐，只是武成王黄老大人从头至尾讲与老太师听。一来老太师便于听闻；百官不致搀越。不识太师意下如何？”闻太师听罢，“孙大夫之言甚善。黄老大人，老夫洗耳，愿闻其详。”黄飞虎欠身曰：“既从尊命，末将不得不细细实陈：天子自从纳了苏护之女，朝中日渐荒乱。将元配姜娘娘剜目烙手，杀子绝伦。诓诸侯入朝歌，戮醢大臣，妄斩司天监太史杜元铣。听妲己之狐媚，造炮烙之刑。坏上大夫梅伯。因姬昌于羑里七年。摘星楼内设虿盆，宫娥惨死。造酒池、肉林，内侍遭殃。造鹿台广兴土木之工，致上大夫赵启坠楼而死。肆用崇侯虎监工，贿赂通行，三丁抽二，独丁赴役，有钱者买闲在家，累死百姓，填于台下。上大夫杨任谏阻鹿台之工；将杨任剜去二目，至今尸骸无踪。前者鹿台上有四、五十狐狸化作仙人赴宴，被比干看破，妲己怀恨。今不明不白，内廷私纳一女，不知来历。昨日听信妲己，诈言心疼，要玲珑心作汤疗疾，勒逼比干剖心，死于非命；灵柩见停北门。国家将兴，祯祥自现，国家将亡，妖孽频出。谗佞信如胶漆，忠良视如寇雠；惨虐异常，荒淫无忌。即不才等屡具谏章，视如故纸，甚至上下阻隔。正无可奈何之时，适太师奏凯还国，社稷幸甚！万民幸甚！”黄飞虎这一遍言语，从头至尾，细细说完，就把闻太师急得厉声大叫曰：“有这等反常之事！只因北海刀兵，致天子紊乱纲常。我负先王，有误国事，实老夫之罪也！众大夫、先生请回。我三日后上殿，自有条陈。”太师送众宫出府，唤徐急雨，令封了府门，一应公文不许投递。至第四日面君，方许开门应接事体。徐急雨得令，即闭府门。有诗为证，诗曰： 太师兵回奏凯还，岂知国内事多奸。君王失政乾坤乱，海宇分崩国政艰。 十道条陈安社稷，九重金阙削奸顽。山河旺气该如此，总用心机只等闲。”

Meanwhile, Lord Wen Tai Shi stood on the hall and said: "All esteemed scholars and officials, there is no need to return to your residences. Please accompany me to my residence for a discussion." I have already made arrangements." The officials followed him and went together to the Grand Master's residence. Upon arriving at Yin'an Hall, they each took their seats in order. The Grand Master then asked: "Esteemed officials and scholars, I have been away from court for many years, waging distant campaigns in the north. Though unable to be present at court, I heard that Zhong Gan was entrusted with a great responsibility by the late king; I dared not betray his final words. Yet now laws and regulations have been turned upside down, and there are acts of impiety." Matters must be judged by public opinion; they cannot be fabricated or distorted. I have my own plan to bring about stability." Among them was an official named Sun Rong, who bowed and said: "Respectfully to the Grand Master: The court listens to slander and distances itself from virtuous men. It indulges in wine and lust, executes loyal officials, obstructs remonstrance, destroys moral order, neglects state affairs, and has committed many such acts." I fear that if all the officials speak at once, it may disrupt your Grand Master's clear judgment. It would be better if all of you remain silent and let General Wucheng Wang Huang Lao speak to the Grand Master from beginning to end." First, this will make it easier for the Grand Master to listen; and second, the officials will not interrupt each other. I wonder if this is agreeable to you, Grand Master?" Lord Wen Tai Shi, after hearing this, said: "Minister Sun's words are most appropriate. General Huang Lao, I am all ears and would like to hear the details." Huang Feihuo bowed and said: "Since you have given the command, I must now speak in detail. Ever since His Majesty took Su Hu's daughter as a concubine, court affairs have gradually fallen into disorder." He gouged out the eyes and scorched the hands of his first wife, Empress Jiang, and killed her son in a most heinous manner. He lured feudal lords to Chao Ge, slaughtered and minced ministers, and recklessly executed Tai Shi Du Yuanxi of the Bureau of Astronomy. He listened to Daji's sly flattery and created the Paoluo punishment. He destroyed Senior Minister Mei Bo. Because of Ji Chang, who was imprisoned in Youli for seven years. The Chai Peng was set up inside Zhaixing Tower, where palace ladies died cruelly. He built wine pools and meat forests, causing eunuchs to suffer misfortune. The construction of Lutai involved large-scale building projects, which led Senior Minister Zhao Qi to fall from the tower and die. He entrusted Song Hou Hu to supervise the work, and bribery became rampant. Two out of every three families were drafted for labor; those with only one male had to serve alone. Those who could afford it remained idle at home while commoners died from exhaustion, their bodies filling the area beneath the terrace. Senior Minister Yang Ren advised against the construction of Lutai; they gouged out his two eyes, and to this day, no trace of his remains can be found. Earlier, on the Lutai terrace, there were about forty to fifty foxes who transformed into immortals and attended a banquet. They were discovered by Bi Gan, which caused Daji to bear resentment. Now, without clear justification, the inner court secretly took in a woman whose origins are unknown. Yesterday, he trusted Daji's false words that his chest hurt and claimed a linglong heart was needed to make medicine. He forced Bi Gan to remove his own heart, causing him to die an unjust death; his coffin is now temporarily placed at the northern gate. When a nation is about to prosper, auspicious omens naturally appear; when a nation is on the verge of collapse, demons and villains emerge frequently. Slanderers and sycophants are trusted as closely as glue or lacquer; loyal and virtuous men are treated like enemies. The cruelty is extreme, and debauchery is carried out without restraint. Even though I and others have repeatedly submitted remonstrances, they were treated as old paper; in fact, communication between the sovereign and his ministers has been completely severed. Just when we had no choice but to be helpless, it was fortunate that the Grand Master returned in triumph—what a blessing for our nation! What a blessing for all the people!" After Huang Feihuo had spoken in full, from beginning to end, Lord Wen Tai Shi was so agitated that he shouted loudly: "How could there be such abnormal events! It is all because of the troops from Beihai that have caused His Majesty to disrupt laws and moral order. I have betrayed the late king and failed in my duty to the state—this is indeed my fault as an old man!" All officials and scholars, please return. I will present my plans in three days." The Grand Master saw the officials out of his residence and summoned Xu Jiyu, ordering him to seal the gates. No official documents were to be delivered in any form. The gates would not be opened for any business until the fourth day, when he was scheduled to appear before the king. Xu Jiyu received the order and immediately closed the residence gates. There is a poem to attest to this, which says: The Grand Master returns in triumph with his troops, yet how could he know that many treacherous affairs have taken place within the kingdom. The sovereign has lost control of governance; heaven and earth are in chaos, while the realm is divided and national affairs grow difficult. Ten proposals will stabilize the nation; from the nine-tiered golden palace, the wicked shall be purged. The vitality of mountains and rivers should be restored in this way; all that is needed is careful planning, which will come to pass as if by idle ease."

话说闻太师三日内造成条陈十道。第四日入朝面君。文武官员已知闻太师有本上殿。那日早朝，聚两班文武，百官朝毕。纣王曰：“有奏章出班，无事朝散。”左班中闻太师进礼称臣曰：“臣有疏。”将本铺展御案。纣王览表： “具疏太师臣闻仲上言。奏为国政大变，有伤风化，宠淫近佞，逆治惨刑，大干天变，隐忧莫测事：臣闻：尧受命以天下为己忧，而未常以位为乐也。故诛逐乱臣，务求贤圣，是以得舜、禹、稷、契及咎繇，众圣辅德，贤能佐职，教化大行，天下和洽，万民皆安仁乐义，各得其宜，动作应礼，从容中道，乃‘王者必世而后仁’之谓也。尧在位七十载，乃逊位以禅虞舜。尧崩，天下不归尧子丹朱而归舜。舜知不可避，乃即天子之位，以禹为相，因尧之辅佐，继其统业，是以垂拱无为而天下治。所作韶乐，尽美尽善。今陛下继承大位，当行仁义，普施恩泽，惜爱军民，礼文敬武，顺天和地，则社稷奠安，生民乐业。岂意陛下近淫酒，亲奸佞，亡恩爱，将皇后炮手剜睛，杀子嗣，自剪其后。此皆无道之君所行，自取灭亡之祸。臣愿陛下痛改前非，行仁兴义，远小人，近君子；庶几社稷奠安，万民钦服，天心效顺，国祚灵长，风和雨顺，天下享承平之福矣。臣带罪冒犯天颜，条陈开列于后： 　笫一件：拆鹿台，安民不乱； 　第二件：废炮烙，使谏官尽忠； 　第三件：填虿盆，宫患自安； 　第四件：去酒池、肉林，掩诸侯谤议； 　第五件：贬妲己，别立正宫，使内庭无蛊惑之虞； 　第六件：勘佞臣，速斩费仲、尤浑而快人心，使不肖者自远； 　第七件：开仓廪，赈民饥馑； 　第八件：遣使命招安于东南； 　第九件：访遗贤于山泽，释天下疑似者之心； 　第十件：纳忠谏，大开言路，使天下无壅塞之蔽。”

Now the story returns to Lord Wen Tai Shi, who prepared ten proposals within three days. On the fourth day he entered court to present his plans before the king. The literati and military officials already knew that Lord Wen Tai Shi had a memorial to present in court. On that day, during the morning court session, both ranks of civil and military officials gathered; all the ministers paid their respects as required. King Zhou said: "Any minister with a memorial may step forward to present it. If there are no matters, the court will adjourn." From among the left rank, Lord Wen Tai Shi stepped forward with a bow and said: "I have a memorial to present." He laid out his memorial on the imperial desk. King Zhou read the memorial: "Memorial from Grand Master Minister Wen Zhong, respectfully submitted." The memorial reads: "Regarding the great changes in national governance, which have harmed moral customs; the favoring of debauchery and flatterers, the cruel punishment under unjust rule, all of which greatly disrupt heavenly order and cause hidden dangers that are unpredictable. I have heard: Yao accepted his mandate with concern for the world as if it were his own burden, never regarding his position as a source of pleasure." Therefore, he expelled corrupt ministers and sought virtuous sages. Thus, he gained the assistance of Shun, Yu, Ji, Qi, and You Yáo. These great sages supported virtue, while capable men assisted in their duties. Moral education flourished, harmony prevailed throughout the realm, all people lived peacefully with benevolence and righteousness, each finding their proper place. Their actions conformed to propriety, and they moved gracefully along the middle path—this is what is meant by 'a true ruler must spend a generation before achieving virtue.'" Yao reigned for seventy years, and then abdicated in favor of Yu Shun. After Yao's death, the realm did not belong to his son Dan Zhu but to Shun. Shun knew he could not avoid the responsibility, so he assumed the throne as Son of Heaven. He appointed Yu as his prime minister and continued the legacy of Yao by relying on those who had assisted him before. Thus, with effortless governance, the realm was well governed. The music he composed, called Shao Yue, was both beautiful and virtuous in its perfection. Now, Your Majesty has inherited the throne. You should practice benevolence and righteousness; widely bestow grace and kindness; cherish and care for soldiers and civilians; honor literati and respect warriors; follow heaven's will and harmonize with earth—then the nation will be stable, and its people will enjoy peace and prosperity. How could it be that Your Majesty indulges in wine, favors villains and flatterers, forgets kindness and love, gouged out the eyes of Empress Jiang with fire torture, killed her son, and thus cut off your own descendants? These are all actions taken by an unjust ruler, bringing upon himself the calamity of destruction. I humbly request that Your Majesty deeply repent your past mistakes, practice benevolence and promote righteousness, distance yourself from villains, and bring virtuous men closer; then perhaps the nation will find stability, all people will respect and submit to you, heaven's favor will follow, your dynasty will flourish for generations, winds and rains will be timely, and the realm will enjoy peace and happiness. I have committed a crime by daring to address Your Majesty directly, but I now list my proposals as follows: First proposal: Demolish Lutai and ensure the people remain at peace; Second proposal: Abolish Paoluo punishment so that remonstrating officials may serve with loyalty; Third proposal: Fill in the Chai Peng, and palace troubles will naturally be resolved; Fourth proposal: Remove the wine pools and meat forests to silence the criticisms of feudal lords; Fifth proposal: Demote Daji, and establish a new empress so that the inner court is free from her influence; Sixth proposal: Investigate sycophantic ministers and swiftly execute Fei Zhong and You Hun to satisfy the people's anger, so that unworthy men will distance themselves; Seventh proposal: Open granaries and provide relief to the starving people; Eighth proposal: Send envoys to pacify the southeast region; Ninth proposal: Seek out hidden virtuous men in mountains and marshes, thus easing the doubts of people throughout the land; Tenth proposal: Accept loyal remonstrations and widely open channels for speech, so that the realm is free from obstruction and deception."

闻太师立于龙书案傍，磨墨润毫，将笔递与纣王：“请陛下批准施行。”纣王看十款之中，头一件便是拆鹿台。纣王曰：“鹿台之工，费无限钱粮，成功不毁。今一旦拆去，实是可惜。此等再议。二件，‘炮烙’，准行。三件，‘虿盆’准行。五件，‘贬苏后’，今妲己德性幽闲，并无失德，如何便加谪眨？也再议。六件，中大夫费、尤二人，素有功而无过，何为谗佞，岂得便加诛戮！除此三件，以下准行。”太师奏曰：“鹿台功大，劳民伤财，万民深怨，拆之所以消天下百姓之隐恨。皇后谏陛下造此惨刑，神怒鬼怨，屈魂无申，乞速贬苏后，则神喜鬼舒，屈魂瞑目，所以消在天之幽怨。勘斩费仲、尤浑，则朝纲清净，国内无谗，圣心无惑乱之虞，则朝政不期清而自清矣。愿陛下速赐施行，幸无迟疑不决，以误国事，则臣不胜幸甚！”纣王没奈何，立语曰：“太师所奏，朕准七件；此三件候议妥再行。”闻太师曰：“陛下莫谓三事小节而不足为，此三事关系治乱之源，陛下不可不察，毋得草草放过。”君臣立辨，只见中大夫费仲还不识时务，出班上殿见驾。闻太师认不得费仲，问曰：“这员官是谁？”仲曰：“卑职费仲是也。”太师道：“先生就是费仲。先生上殿有甚么话讲？”仲曰：“太师虽位极人臣，不按国体：持笔逼君批行奏疏，非礼也；本参皇后，非臣也；令杀无辜之臣，非法也。太师灭君恃己，以下凌上，肆行殿庭，大失人臣之礼，可谓大不敬！”太师听说，当中神目睁开，长髯直竖，大声曰：“费仲巧言惑主，气杀我也！”将手一拳，把费仲打下丹墀，面门青肿。只见尤浑怒上心来，上殿言曰：“太师当殿毁打大臣，非打费仲，即打陛下矣！”太师曰：“汝是何官？”尤浑曰：“吾乃是尤浑。”太师笑曰：“原来是你！两个贼臣表里弄权，互相回护！”趋向前，只一掌打去，把那奸臣翻筋斗跌下丹墀有丈馀远近。唤左右：“将费、尤二人拿出午门斩了！”当朝武士最恼此二人，听得太师发怒，将二人推出午门。闻太师怒冲牛斗。纣王默默无语，口里不言，心中暗道：“费、尤二人不知起倒，自讨其辱。”闻太师复奏请纣王发行刑旨。纣王怎肯杀费、尤二人。纣王曰：“太师奏疏，俱说得是。此三件事，朕俱总行；待朕再商议而行。费、尤二臣，虽是冒犯参卿，其罪无证，且发下法司勘问，情真罪当，彼亦无怨。”闻太师见纣王再三委曲，反有兢业颜色，自思：“吾虽为国直谏尽忠，使君惧臣，吾先得欺君之罪矣。”太师跪而奏曰：“臣但愿四方绥服，百姓奠安，诸侯宾服，臣之愿足矣，敢有他望哉！”纣王传旨

Grand Master Tai stood by the Longshu table, ground ink, moistened his brush, and handed it to King Zhou: "I request Your Majesty's approval for implementation." King Zhou looked at the ten proposals; the first one was to demolish Lutai. King Zhou said, "The construction of Lutai consumed countless funds and grain; once completed, it cannot be destroyed. To dismantle it now would truly be a great pity." This matter will be discussed again. The second proposal, "Paoluo," is approved. Third proposal, the 'Chai Peng'—approved. Fifth proposal, "Reprimand Empress Su"—now Daji is virtuous and reserved, with no misconduct; how can she be suddenly demoted? This will also be discussed again. Sixth proposal, the two ministers Fei and You have long been meritorious without any fault; how can they be called sycophants? How dare you execute them so easily! "Except for these three proposals, the rest are approved." Grand Master Tai presented his opinion: "The construction of Lutai was a great feat, but it exhausted the people and wasted wealth; all the common folk deeply resent it. Demolishing it is necessary to eliminate the hidden grievances of the people throughout the realm. The empress remonstrated with Your Majesty to create such cruel punishments, which anger the gods and provoke resentment among ghosts; wronged souls have no recourse. I beg that Empress Su be quickly demoted so that deities will rejoice, spirits will find peace, and wronged souls may rest in peace—thus eliminating grievances in heaven. Investigating and executing Fei Zhong and You Hun will purify the court, eliminate slander within the country, and ensure Your Majesty's mind is free from confusion. Thus, government affairs will naturally become clear without needing to be forced. I humbly request Your Majesty to swiftly grant approval and implementation, may you not hesitate or delay, lest it harm state affairs. If so, I would be most grateful!" King Zhou had no choice but to say immediately: "Seven of the proposals presented by Grand Master Tai are approved by me; these three will be carried out after further discussion." Grand Master Tai said, "Your Majesty must not consider these three matters as trivial and unworthy of attention. These three issues are closely related to the source of order or chaos; Your Majesty cannot afford to be careless and must not let them pass lightly." The ruler and minister stood in discussion. Just then, Minister Fei Zhong, still unaware of the situation, stepped forward from his rank to present himself before the throne. Grand Master Tai did not recognize Fei Zhong and asked, "Who is this official?" Zhong said, "I am the humble official Fei Zhong." Grand Master Tai said, "You are indeed Fei Zhong. What business does the gentleman have to discuss before the throne?" Zhong said, "Although Grand Master Tai holds the highest rank among ministers, you have not followed proper court protocol: holding a brush to pressure Your Majesty into approving memorials is disrespectful; the matter concerns the empress, not me as an official; ordering the killing of innocent officials is against the law. Grand Master Tai, by overpowering Your Majesty and relying on his own authority, has allowed subordinates to defy their superiors, acted recklessly in the court, and gravely violated the etiquette of a loyal minister. This is nothing short of great disrespect!" Upon hearing this, Grand Master Tai's eyes blazed with fury; his long beard stood straight up as he shouted loudly, "Fei Zhong uses flattery to deceive the ruler. He has enraged me to death!" With a single punch, he struck Fei Zhong down from the danchi (the stone platform before the throne), leaving his face bruised and swollen. Just then, You Hun, filled with anger, stepped forward onto the hall and said, "Grand Master Tai has dared to strike a minister in court. To strike Fei Zhong is as good as striking Your Majesty himself!" Grand Master Tai asked, "What position do you hold?" You Hun said, "I am You Hun." Grand Master Tai laughed and said, "So it is you!" The two villainous ministers have colluded inside and outside the court to seize power, covering for each other!" He rushed forward, struck with one palm, and sent the treacherous minister tumbling backward off the danchi for more than a zhang. He called to those on his side: "Take Fei Zhong and You Hun out through Wumen Gate and behead them!" The imperial guards had long been annoyed by these two men. Upon hearing Grand Master Tai's anger, they dragged the two out through Wumen Gate. Grand Master Tai was so furious that his rage reached the heavens. King Zhou remained silent, saying nothing aloud, but in his heart he thought, "Fei Zhong and You Hun did not know their place; they brought this disgrace upon themselves." Grand Master Tai again presented a memorial requesting King Zhou to issue the order for execution. King Zhou would not agree to execute Fei Zhong and You hun. King Zhou said, "All the points in Grand Master Tai's memorial are correct. Regarding these three matters, I will carry them all out; I shall deliberate further before proceeding." "Ministers Fei and You, although they have offended by falsely accusing officials, their crimes lack evidence. I shall hand them over to the judicial authorities for investigation. If their guilt is proven, then they will face due punishment, and there will be no grounds for complaint." Grand Master Tai saw that King Zhou repeatedly evaded the issue and showed signs of resentment. He reflected to himself, "Although I have advised with loyalty for the good of the state, causing the ruler to fear me, I myself am already guilty of disrespecting my sovereign." Grand Master Tai knelt and presented his memorial, saying, "I only wish for peace in all directions, stability among the people, submission from feudal lords—this would satisfy my wishes. How dare I have any other expectations!" King Zhou issued an edict:

：“将费、尤发下法司勘问。七道条陈限即举行；三条再议妥施行。纣王回宫。百官各散。

"Send Fei Zhong and You Hun down to the judicial authorities for interrogation. The seven proposals must be carried out immediately; the remaining three will be implemented after further discussion." King Zhou returned to his palace. The hundred officials dispersed.

天下兴，好事行；天下亡，祸胎降。太师方上条陈，事已好将来了，不防东海反了平灵王。飞报进朝歌来，先至武成王府。黄元帅见报，叹曰：“兵戈四起，八方不宁，如今又反了平灵王，何时定息！”黄元帅把报差官送到闻太师府里去。太师在府正坐。堂候官报：“黄元帅差官见老爷。”太师命：“令来。”差官将报呈上。太师看罢，打发来人，随即往黄元帅府里来。黄元帅迎接到殿上行礼，分宾主坐下。闻太师道：“元帅，今反了东海平灵王，老夫来与将军共议：还是老夫去，还是元帅去？”黄元帅答曰：“末将去也可，老太师去也可，但凭太师主见。”太师想一想，道曰：“黄将军，你还随朝。老夫领二十万人马前往东海，剿平反叛，归国再商政事。”二人共议停当。

When the realm prospers, good deeds flourish; When the realm declines, calamity is born. Just as Grand Master Tai had submitted his proposals and matters seemed to be improving, unexpectedly the King Ping Ling of the East Sea rebelled. A fast report was sent to Chaoguo; it first arrived at the Prince Wucheng's mansion. Duke Huang, upon receiving the report, sighed and said, "Wars have erupted on all sides; peace is nowhere to be found. Now even King Ping Ling has rebelled—when will this ever end!" Duke Huang sent the messenger with the report to Grand Master Tai's residence. Grand Master Tai was seated in his mansion when this happened. The hall attendant reported, "An officer sent by Duke Huang requests an audience with you, my lord." Grand Master Tai ordered, "Bring him in." The officer presented the report. After reading it, Grand Master Tai dismissed the messenger and immediately went to Duke Huang's mansion. Duke Huang received him on the hall, paid respects, and both took their seats according to guest-host etiquette. Grand Master Tai said, "General Huang, now the King Ping Ling of East Sea has rebelled. I have come to discuss with you: shall it be me who goes or you?" Duke Huang replied, "I can go, or the Grand Master may go; it is entirely up to your judgment." Grand Master Tai thought for a moment and said, "General Huang, you should remain in court. I shall lead twenty thousand troops to East Sea to quell the rebellion and return to discuss state affairs." The two men discussed and finalized their plans.

次日早朝，闻太师朝贺毕。太师上表出师。纣王览表，惊问曰：“平灵王又反，如之奈何？”闻太师奏曰：“臣之丹心，忧国忧民，不得不去。今留黄飞虎守国；臣往东海，削平反叛。愿陛下早晚以社稷为重，条陈三件，待臣回再议。”纣王闻奏大悦，巴不得闻太师去了，不在面前搅扰，心中甚是清净；忙传谕：“发黄旄、白钺，即与闻太师饯行起兵。”纣王驾出朝歌东门。太师接见。纣王命斟酒赐与太师。闻仲接酒在手，转身递与黄飞虎，太师曰：“此酒黄将军先饮。”飞虎欠身曰：“太师远征，圣上所赐，黄飞虎怎敢先饮？”太师曰：“将军接此酒，老夫有一言相告。”黄飞虎依言，接酒在手。闻太师曰：“朝纲无人，全赖将军。当今若是有甚不平之事，礼当直谏，不可钳口结舌，非人臣爱君之心。”太师回身见纣王曰：“臣此去无别事忧心，愿陛下听忠告之言，以社稷为重，毋变乱旧章，有乖君道。臣此一去，多则一载，少则半载，不久便归。”太师用罢酒，一声炮响，起兵迳往东海去了。眼前一段蹊跷事，惹得刀兵滚滚来。不知胜负如何，且听下回分解。

The next morning, during the early court session, Grand Master Tai completed his greetings to the throne. Grand Master Tai submitted a memorial announcing his departure for military campaign. King Zhou read the memorial and was startled, asking, "King Ping Ling has rebelled again—what are we to do?" Grand Master Tai presented his reply: "With my loyal heart, I am concerned for the state and its people; I have no choice but to go. I now leave Huang Feihu to guard the capital; I shall go to East Sea and quell the rebellion. I humbly request, Your Majesty, that you always place the state above all else and deliberate on those three proposals; we shall discuss them further upon my return." King Zhou was greatly pleased by the memorial. He could not have been happier that Grand Master Tai would leave and no longer trouble him; his mind felt unusually at ease. He quickly issued an order: "Send the yellow banner and white halberd; immediately prepare a farewell banquet for Grand Master Tai to set out his troops." King Zhou departed from the eastern gate of Chaoguo. Grand Master Tai received him. King Zhou ordered wine to be poured and presented it to Grand Master Tai. Wen Zhong took the wine in hand, turned around, and passed it to Huang Feihu. Grand Master Tai said, "General Huang should drink this first." Huang Feihu bowed slightly and said, "Grand Master Tai is going on a distant campaign; this wine was bestowed by His Majesty. How could Huang Feihu dare to drink first?" Grand Master Tai said, "General, accept this wine; I have one word of advice for you." Huang Feihu followed his words and took the wine in hand. Grand Master Wen said, "The court lacks capable men; it all depends on you, General." "If there are any injustices in the current court," he continued, "you should advise directly as is proper; you must not keep silent or hold your tongue. That would not be the heart of a loyal subject who loves his sovereign." Grand Master Tai turned back to King Zhou and said, "My lord, I have no other worries on my mind as I depart. I only wish Your Majesty will heed this loyal advice, place the state above all else, do not alter or disrupt established regulations, and remain true to the way of a sovereign." "I shall be away at most one year, at least half a year; I will return shortly." After finishing the wine, Grand Master Tai departed with a cannon's blast and led his troops directly toward the East Sea. A strange event now unfolds before our eyes, which will provoke an outpouring of war and conflict. Whether victory or defeat shall come to pass remains unknown; we shall hear the continuation in the next chapter.