Chapter 35

诗曰： 黄家出寨若飞鸢，盼至西岐拟到天，兵过五关人寂寂，将来几次血涓涓。 子牙妙算安周室，闻仲无谋改纣愆。纵有雄师皆离德，晁田空自涉风烟。

The poem says: The Huang family leaves the village like a soaring kite, Looking forward to reaching Xiqi as if reaching heaven. Troops pass through five passes while people are silent and still; In the future, how many times will blood flow in streams? Zi Ya's ingenious calculations ensure peace for the Zhou dynasty; Wen Zhong, lacking strategy, repeats Jiu's faults. Even if there are mighty armies, they all depart from virtue; Chao Tian in vain traverses wind and smoke.

话说闻太师自从追赶黄飞虎至临潼关，被道德真君一捏神砂退了闻太师兵回。太师乃碧游宫金灵圣母门下；五行大道，倒海移山，闻风知胜败，嗅土定军情，怎么一捏神砂，便自不知？大抵天数已归周主，闻太师这一会阴阳交错，一时失计。闻太师看著兵回，自己迷了。到得朝歌，百官听候回旨，俱来见太师，间其追袭原故，太师把追袭说了一遍，众官无言。闻太师沉吟半晌，自思：“纵黄飞虎逃去，左有青龙关张桂方所阻；右有魔家四将可拦，中有五关，料他插翅也不能飞去。”忽听得报：“临潼关萧银开栓锁，杀张凤，放了黄飞虎出关。”太师不语。又报：“黄飞虎潼关杀陈桐。”又报：“穿云关杀了陈梧。”又报：“界牌关黄滚纵子投西岐。”又报：“汜水关韩荣有告急又书。”闻太师看过，大怒曰：“吾掌朝歌先君托孤之重。不料当今失政，刀兵四起，先反东南二路；岂知祸生萧墙，元旦灾来，反了股肱重臣，追之不及，中途中计而归，此乃天命。如今成败未知，兴亡怎定，吾不敢负先帝托孤之恩，尽人臣之节，以死报先帝可也。”命左右：“擂聚将鼓响。”不一时，众官俱至参谒。太师问：“列位将军，今黄飞虎反叛，已归姬发，必生祸乱，今不若先起兵，明正其罪，方是讨伐不臣。尔等意下如何？”内有总兵官鲁雄出而言曰：“末将启太师：东伯侯姜文焕年年不息兵戈，使游魂关窦荣劳力费心；南伯侯鄂顺，月月三山关，苦坏生灵，邓九公睡不安枕。黄飞虎今虽反出五关，太师可点大将镇守，严备关防，料姬发纵起兵来，中有五关之阻，左右有青龙、佳梦二关，飞虎纵有本事，亦不能有为，又何劳太师怒激。方今二处干戈未息，又何必生此一方兵戈，自寻多事。况如今库藏空虚，钱粮不足，还当酌量。古云：‘大将者，必战守通明，方是安天下之道。’”太师曰：“老将军之言虽是；犹恐西土不守本分，倘生祸乱，吾安得而无准备。况西岐南宫适勇贯三军，散宜生谋谟百出，又有姜尚乃道德之士，不可不防。一著空虚百著空。临渴掘井，悔之何及！”鲁雄曰：“太师若是犹豫未决，可差一二将，出五关打听西岐消息：如动，则动；如止，则止。”太师曰：“将军之言是也。”随问左右：“谁为我往西岐走一遭？”内有一将应声曰：“末将愿往。”来者乃佑圣上将军晁田，见太师欠背打躬曰：“末将此去，一则探虚实，二则观西岐进退巢穴，‘入目便知兴废事，三寸舌动可安邦。’”有诗为证： 愿探西岐虚实情，提兵三万出都城。子牙妙策权施展，管取将军谒圣明。

It is said that after Grand Master Wen pursued Huang Feihu to the Lintong Pass, he was forced to retreat his troops back when Zun Daozhenjun crushed them with divine sand. Grand Master Wen was a disciple of the Immortal Jinling, who resided at Biyou Palace; He mastered the Five Elements' great Dao, could overturn seas and move mountains, discern victory or defeat by the wind, and determine military situations by smelling the soil. How then could a mere pinch of divine sand cause him to be unaware? It is likely that Heaven's decree has already returned to the Zhou ruler. At this moment, Grand Master Wen encountered an intermingling of yin and yang, causing him momentarily to lose his strategy. Grand Master Wen watched as his troops retreated, and he himself became confused. When he arrived at Chaoguo, the officials were waiting to receive his report and all came to see Grand Master Wen. When they asked about the original cause of the pursuit, the Grand Master recounted it in full; the officials remained silent. Grand Master Wen fell into deep thought for a moment, pondering to himself: "Even if Huang Feihu escapes, on the left is Qinglong Pass where Zhang Guifang will block his path; on the right are the Four Generals of Mo who can intercept him, and in the middle lie five passes. I estimate that even if he had wings, he could not fly away." Suddenly a report was heard: "At Lintong Pass, Xiao Yin opened the locks and bars, killed Zhang Feng, and released Huang Feihu from the pass." Grand Master Wen remained silent. Another report came: "Huang Feihu killed Chen Tong at Tongguan Pass." Another report said: "At Chuanyun Pass, Chen Wu was killed." Another report came: "At Jiepai Pass, Huang Gun allowed his son to flee and join Xiqi." Another report said: "From Sishui Pass, Han Rong sent an urgent letter of alarm." After reading the reports, Grand Master Wen became furious and said: "I hold the great responsibility of being entrusted with the regency by the late ruler of Chaoguo. I did not expect that under the current administration, governance has failed and war erupted everywhere; first, the two southern routes have rebelled. How could I know that disaster would arise from within the palace walls, coming on New Year's Day? A trusted minister of great importance has rebelled; we failed to catch him in pursuit and returned midway due to a miscalculation. This is Heaven's will. Now, success or failure remains uncertain; how can we determine rise or fall? I dare not betray the late emperor's trust in me as his regent. I will fulfill my duty as a loyal minister and die to repay the late emperor." He ordered those around him: "Beat the war drums for the assembly of generals." In no time, all the officials arrived to pay their respects. Grand Master Wen asked: "My esteemed generals, now that Huang Feihu has rebelled and joined Ji Fa, surely disaster will follow. We should not hesitate but rather raise our troops first to publicly condemn his crimes; this is the proper way to punish a disloyal subject. What are your thoughts on this?" Among them, General Lu Xiong, the overall commander, stepped forward and said: "Your subordinate general respectfully addresses Grand Master Wen: Dongbo Hou Jiang Wenhuan has ceaselessly waged war year after year, causing Dou Rong at Youhun Pass to exhaust his strength and efforts; Nanbo Hou E Shun, month after month at Sanshan Pass, has caused great suffering to the people, leaving Deng Jiugong unable to sleep in peace. Although Huang Feihu has now rebelled and escaped through the five passes, Grand Master Wen can appoint capable generals to garrison them, strictly guarding the pass defenses. Even if Ji Fa raises an army, he will be blocked by these five passes in the middle, with Qinglong Pass and Jiameng Pass on either side. No matter how capable Huang Feihu is, he cannot achieve much. Why then should Grand Master Wen become so angry? At present, warfare has not ceased in these two regions; why create yet another conflict and bring upon unnecessary troubles for ourselves? Moreover, the treasury is now empty, with insufficient funds and grain supplies. We should carefully consider this matter. As an old saying goes: "A great general must be well-versed in both warfare and defense; only then is it the way to ensure peace for the world." Grand Master Wen said: "Although General's words are correct; I still fear that the western territories may not remain within their proper bounds, and if disaster arises, how can I afford to be unprepared? Moreover, Nan Gong Shi of Xiqi is a warrior whose bravery surpasses the entire army; Sanye Sheng devises countless strategies. In addition, Jiang Shang is a man of virtue and morality—this cannot be ignored without caution. A single moment of weakness leads to a hundred moments of vulnerability. To dig a well when thirsty is too late; by then, regret will be in vain!" Lu Xiong said: "If Grand Master Wen is still indecisive, he may send one or two generals to go beyond the five passes and investigate news from Xiqi. If they move, then we shall act; if they remain inactive, then so shall we." Grand Master Wen said: "The general's words are correct." He then asked those around him: "Who will go to Xiqi for me?" Among them, a general volunteered and said: "Your subordinate general is willing to go." The one who came forward was General Chao Tian, a subordinate of the imperial guard. Bowing respectfully before Grand Master Wen, he said: "Your subordinate general's mission is twofold: first, to investigate the truth; second, to observe Xiqi's movements and their strongholds. 'With but a glance, one can discern rise or decline; with three inches of tongue, a nation may be stabilized.'" There is a poem to attest: I wish to investigate Xiqi's true strength, Leading thirty thousand troops out of the capital city. Zi Ya's ingenious strategies are skillfully deployed; Surely, generals will pay homage to the enlightened ruler.

话说闻太师见晁田欲往，大悦。点人马三万，即日辞朝，出朝歌。一路上只见： 轰天炮响，震地锣鸣。轰天炮响，汪洋大海起春雷；镇地锣鸣，万仞山前飞霹雳。人如猛虎离山，马似蛟龙出水。旗旛摆动，浑如五色祥云；戟剑辉煌，却似三冬瑞雪。迷空杀气罩乾坤，遍地征云笼宇宙。征夫勇猛要争先，虎将鞍鞽持利刃。银盔荡荡白云飞，铠甲鲜明光灿烂。滚滚人行如泄水，滔滔马走似狻猊。

It is said that when Grand Master Wen saw Chao Tian's willingness to go, he was greatly pleased. He assigned thirty thousand troops and horses; on the same day, Chao Tian bid farewell to court and departed from Chaoguo. Along the way, one could see: Thunderous cannons roared; earth-shaking gongs rang out. The thunderous cannon's boom echoed like spring thunder rising from the vast ocean; The earth-shaking gong resounded as if lightning flew before a ten-thousand-foot mountain. People moved like tigers leaving the mountains, and horses galloped like dragons emerging from water. The banners fluttered as if they were colorful auspicious clouds; Spear and sword gleamed like the pure snow of winter. Murky killing aura covered heaven and earth; war clouds blanketed the universe everywhere. The soldiers, brave and bold, vied to lead the charge; tiger-like generals held sharp blades in their saddles. Silver helmets gleamed as white clouds flew by, and shining armor glittered brilliantly. The surging crowd moved like water rushing out; the galloping horses ran like suanni beasts.

话说晁田、晁雷人马出朝歌，渡黄河，出五关，晓行夜住，非止一日。哨探马报：“人马至西岐。”晁田传令：“安营。”点炮静营，三军呐喊，兵扎西门。

It is said that General Chao Tian and his troops, along with Chao Lei, departed from Chaoguo, crossed the Yellow River, passed through the five passes, traveling by day and resting at night, not stopping for more than one day. A scout horseman reported: "The troops have arrived at Xiqi." Chao Tian gave orders: "Set up camp." Gunpowder was set to quiet the camp, and the three armies shouted in unison as troops encamped at the western gate.

且说子牙在相府闲坐，忽听得有喊声震地，子牙传出府来：“为何有喊杀之声？”不时有报马至府前：“启老爷：朝歌人马住扎西门，不知何事。”子牙默思：“成汤何事起兵来侵？”传令：“擂鼓聚将。”不一时，众将上殿参谒。子牙曰：“成汤人马来侵，不知何故？”众将佥曰：“不知。”

Meanwhile, in his residence, Zi Ya was sitting idly when suddenly he heard a deafening shout. Zi Ya came out of the mansion and asked: "Why is there such shouting?" Soon, a horseman arrived at the residence to report: "Respectfully reporting to Master: troops from Chaoguo have encamped at the western gate; we do not know their purpose." Zi Ya fell into deep thought and pondered: "What reason does Cheng Tang have to raise an army and invade?" He gave orders: "Beat the drum to assemble the generals." In no time, the generals ascended the hall and paid their respects. Zi Ya said: "Troops from Cheng Tang have come to invade; we do not yet know why?" The generals all replied in unison: "We do not know."

且说晁田安营，与弟共议：“今奉太师命，来探西岐虚实，元来也无准备。今日往西岐见阵，如何？”晁雷曰：“长兄言之有理。”晁雷上马提刀，往城下请战。子牙正议，探马报称：“有将搦战。”子牙问曰：“谁去问虚实走一遭？”言未毕，大将南宫适应声出曰：“末将愿往。”子牙许之。南宫适领一枝人马出城，排开阵势，立马旗门，看时，乃是晁雷。南宫适曰：“晁将军慢来！今天子无故以兵加西土，却是为何？”晁雷答曰：“吾奉天子敕命，闻太师军令，问不道姬发，自立武王，不遵天子之谕，收叛臣黄飞虎，情殊可恨！汝可速进城，禀你主公，早早把反臣献出，解往朝歌，免你一郡之殃。若待迟延，侮之何及！”南宫适笑曰：“晁雷，纣王罪恶深重，醢大臣，不思功绩；斩元铣，有失司天；造炮烙，不容谏言；治虿盆，难及深宫；杀叔父，剖心疗疾；起鹿台，万姓遭殃；君欺臣妻，五伦尽灭；宠小人，大坏纲常。吾主坐守西岐，奉法守仁，君尊臣敬，子孝父慈，三分天下，二分归西，民乐安康，军心顺悦。你今日敢将人马侵犯西岐，乃自取辱身之祸。”晁雷大怒，纵马舞刀来取南宫适。南宫适举刀赴面相迎。两马相交，双刀并举，一场大战。南宫适与晁雷战有三十回合，把晁雷只杀得力尽筋舒，那里是南宫适敌手！被南宫适卖一个破绽，生擒过马，望下一摔，绳缚二背。得胜鼓响，推进西岐。南宫适至相府听令。左右报于子牙，命：“令来。”南宫适进殿，子牙问：“出战胜负？”南宫适曰：“晁雷来伐西岐，末将生擒，听令指挥。”子牙传令：“推来！”左右把晁雷推至滴水檐前。晁雷立而不跪。子牙曰：“晁雷既被吾将擒来，为何不屈膝求生？”晁雷竖目大喝曰：“汝不过编篱卖面一小人！吾乃天朝上国命臣，不幸被擒，有死而已，岂肯屈膝！”子牙命：“推出斩首！”众人将晁雷推出去了。两边大小众将听晁雷骂子牙之短，众将暗笑子牙出身浅薄。子牙乃何等人物，便知众将之意。子牙谓诸将曰：“晁雷说吾编篱卖面，非辱吾也。昔伊尹乃莘野匹夫，后辅成汤，为商股肱，只在遇之迟早耳。”传令：“将晁雷斩讫来报！”只见武成王黄飞虎出曰：“丞相在上：晁雷只知有纣，不知有周，末将敢说此人归降，后来伐纣，亦可得其一臂之力。”子牙许之。黄飞虎出相府，见晁雷跪候行刑。飞虎曰：“晁将军！”晁雷见武成王至，不语。飞虎曰：“你天时不识，地利不知，人和不明。三分天下，周土已得二分。东南西北，俱少属纣。纣虽强胜一时，乃老健春寒耳。纣之罪恶得罪于天下百姓，兵戈自无休息。况东

Meanwhile, as Chao Tian set up camp and discussed with his brother: "Now that we have been ordered by Grand Master Wen to investigate Xiqi's strength or weakness, it turns out they are not prepared at all. Shall we go see their formation in Xiqi today?" Chao Lei said: "Elder brother speaks wisely." Chao Lei mounted his horse, drew his sword, and went down to the city walls to challenge for battle. While Zi Ya was still discussing, a scout reported: "A general is challenging us for battle." Zi Ya asked: "Who will go and investigate the situation?" Before he could finish speaking, General Nan Gong Shi stepped forward and said: "Your subordinate general is willing to go." Zi Ya gave his approval. Nan Gong Shi led a contingent of troops out of the city, deployed their formation, and stationed himself at the flag gate. Looking up, he saw it was Chao Lei. Nan Gong Shi said: "General Chao, hold on! The Son of Heaven has sent troops to attack the western lands without cause—why is this so?" Chao Lei replied: "I have received the Son of Heaven's imperial decree and Grand Master Wen's military order. We are here to question Ji Fa, who has acted in defiance. He has declared himself King Wu without authorization, disobeyed the Son of Heaven's commands, and harbored the traitor Huang Feihu—this is most regrettable! You may quickly return to the city and inform your lord. If he promptly surrenders this rebel, delivering him to Chaoguo, you will avoid disaster for your entire region." If there is any delay, it will be too late to regret!" Nan Gong Shi laughed and said: "Chao Lei, King Zhou's sins are deep and grave. He killed his ministers with impunity and never considered their merits; he executed Yuan Xi, failing in the duty of observing heavenly signs; he built cauldrons for roasting alive and would not accept advice; he constructed 虿盆, a cruel punishment that reached even the inner palace; he killed his uncle and cut out his heart to cure an illness; he built the Luxi Terrace, causing suffering for ten thousand people; he insulted his ministers' wives, completely destroying the Five Relationships; he favored villains and gravely disrupted the moral order. Our lord, residing in Xiqi, upholds the law and benevolence. He respects his superiors and is honored by his subordinates; sons are filial and fathers kind. Under a divided realm, two parts belong to the west. The people live in peace and happiness, and the army's morale is harmonious and content. You dare today lead your troops to invade Xiqi—this will only bring disaster and disgrace upon yourself." Chao Lei became furious, urged his horse forward, brandished his sword, and charged at Nan Gong Shi. Nan Gong Shi raised his blade to meet him head-on. The two horses clashed, and both generals brandished their swords in a fierce battle. After thirty exchanges of blows, Nan Gong Shi and Chao Lei were locked in fierce combat. Chao Lei was exhausted, his strength spent, and clearly no match for Nan Gong Shi! Nan Gong Shi feigned a weakness, then seized Chao Lei and dragged him across his horse. With one powerful throw, he sent him crashing to the ground below, where ropes bound his arms behind his back. Victory drums resounded as they pushed forward into Xiqi. Nan Gong Shi returned to the prime minister's residence to await orders. The attendants reported this to Zi Ya, who ordered: "Bring him in." Nan Gong Shi entered the hall. Zi Ya asked: "What was the outcome of your battle?" Nan Gong Shi replied, "Chao Lei came to attack Xiqi. Your servant captured him alive and brings him here for your command." Zi Ya issued an order: "Bring him forward!" The attendants pushed Chao Lei to the eaves of the hall where water dripped. Chao Lei stood upright and refused to kneel. Zi Ya said, "Chao Lei, since you have been captured by my general, why do you not kneel and beg for your life?" Chao Lei glared fiercely and shouted, "You are nothing but a petty man who sells noodles in the marketplace!" "I am an official of the Celestial Empire, appointed by Heaven. Though unfortunate enough to be captured, I would rather die than kneel before you!" Zi Ya ordered: "Drag him out and behead him!" The crowd dragged Chao Lei outside and executed him. On both sides, the generals present overheard Chao Lei's insults against Zi Ya and secretly laughed at his humble origins. Zi Ya was a man of great discernment and immediately sensed the thoughts of the generals. Zi Ya said to his generals, "Chao Lei called me a noodle seller from the marketplace; this is not an insult to me." "In ancient times, Yi Yin was but a common man in the fields of Shen. Later he assisted King Cheng Tang and became a pillar of the Shang dynasty. It all depends on whether one is given an opportunity early or late." Zi Ya gave orders: "Report back once Chao Lei has been executed!" At that moment, Wu Chengwang Huang Feihu stepped forward and said: "My lord Chancellor, Chao Lei knew only of King Zhou and not of the Zhou. Your servant dares to suggest that this man be made to surrender; in the future when we attack King Zhou, he could lend us a hand." Zi Ya agreed. Huang Feihu left the prime minister's residence and saw Chao Lei kneeling in wait for execution. Fei Hu said, "General Chao!" Chao Lei saw Wu Chengwang arrive but remained silent. Fei Hu said, "You do not recognize the right time, you are unaware of geographical advantage, and you fail to understand human harmony. The three parts of the world have already been divided; two belong to the Zhou." In all directions—east, south, west, and north—only a small part remains loyal to King Zhou. Though King Zhou may seem strong for the moment, he is like an old man enduring spring colds. King Zhou's crimes have offended all the people under heaven; war and conflict will never cease. Moreover, in the east...

南士马不宁，天下事可知矣。武王文足安邦，武可定国。想吾在纣官拜镇国武成王，到此只改一字──开国武成王。天下归心，悦而从周。武王之德，乃尧舜之德，不是过耳。吾今为你，力劝丞相，准将军归降，可保簪缨万世。若是执迷，行刑令下，难保性命，悔之不及。”晁雷被黄飞虎一篇言语，心明意朗，口称：“黄将军，方才末将抵触了子牙，恐不肯赦免。”飞虎曰：“你有归降之心，吾当力保。”晁雷曰：“既蒙将军大恩保全，实是再生之德，末将敢不如命。”且说飞虎复进内见子牙，备言晁雷归降一事。子牙曰：“杀降诛服，是为不义。黄将军既言，传令放来。”晁雷至檐下，拜伏在地，“末将一时卤莽，冒犯尊颜，理当正法。荷蒙赦宥，感德如山。”子牙曰：“将军既真心为国，赤胆佐君，皆是一殿之臣，同是股肱之佐，何罪之有！将军今已归周，城外人马可调进城来。”晁雷曰：“城外营中，还有末将的兄晁田见在营里。待末将出城，招来同见丞相。”子牙许之。

the southern troops are restless; thus, one can already discern what will happen to the world. King Wu has the wisdom to stabilize the nation and the martial strength to establish a state. I once served as Zhengu Wu Chengwang in King Zhou's court, but now I merely change one character—Kai Guo Wu Chengwang, the Martial Duke of a Founding Nation. The people across the land have turned their hearts to us and joyfully follow the Zhou. King Wu's virtue is that of Yao and Shun; this is no exaggeration. I now plead on your behalf to the chancellor, urging him to allow you to surrender and thus ensure that your family's honor will last for generations. If you remain stubbornly infatuated with the old regime, once the execution order is given, it will be hard to preserve your life; then it will be too late to regret." Chao Lei, moved by Huang Feihu's words, suddenly felt clarity in his heart and mind. He said, "General Huang, just now your servant was defiant toward Zi Ya and feared he would not be pardoned." Fei Hu replied, "Since you have the will to surrender, I shall do my best to guarantee your safety." Chao Lei said, "Since you have shown me such great kindness and spared my life, it is truly a second chance at life. Your servant dares not disobey your command." Meanwhile, Fei Hu returned inside to see Zi Ya and reported the matter of Chao Lei's surrender. Zi Ya said: "To kill those who have surrendered or punish those who submit is an act of injustice. Since General Huang has spoken, issue the order to release him." Chao Lei arrived at the eaves and knelt on the ground, bowing his head to the earth. "Your servant was rash for a moment and dared to offend your noble presence; I should be punished according to law. I am deeply grateful for your clemency, which is as great as the mountains." Zi Ya said: "Since General, you have truly served the nation with sincerity and loyalty to your ruler, we are all ministers of one hall, both pillars supporting the throne. What crime could there be! Now that you have surrendered to the Zhou, your troops outside the city may enter." Chao Lei said: "In my camp outside the city, there is still my elder brother Chao Tian present. I shall go out of the city and bring him here to meet with you, Chancellor." Zi Ya agreed.

不说晁雷归周，话说晁田在营，忽报：“二爷被擒。”晁田心下不乐，“闻太师令吾等来探虚实，今方出战，不料被擒，挫动锋锐。言未了，又报：“二爷辕门下马。”晁雷进帐见兄。晁田曰：“言你被擒，为何而返？”晁雷曰：“弟被南宫适擒见子牙，吾当面深辱子牙一番，将吾斩首。有武成王一篇言语，说的我肝胆尽裂。吾今归周，请你进城。”晁田闻言，大骂曰：“该死匹夫！你信黄飞虎一片巧言，降了西土，你与反贼同党，有何面见闻太师也！”晁雷曰：“兄长不知，今不但吾等归周，天下尚且悦而归周。”晁田曰：“天下悦而归周，吾也知之；你我归降，独不思父、母、妻、子俱在朝歌。吾等虽得安康，致令父母遭其诛戮，你我心里安乐否？”晁雷曰：“为今之计奈何？”晁田曰：“你快上马，须当……如此如此，以掩其功，方好回见太师。”晁雷依计上马，进城至相府，见子牙曰，“末将领令，招兄晁田归降，吾兄愿从麾下。只是一件：末将兄说：奉纣王旨意征讨西岐，此系钦命，虽未将被擒归周，而吾兄如束手来见，恐诸将后来借口。望丞相抬举，命一将至营，招请一番，可存体面。”子牙曰：“原来你令兄要请，方进西岐。”子牙问曰：“左右谁去请晁田走一遭？”左有黄飞虎言曰：“末将愿往。”子牙许之。二将出相府去了。子牙令辛甲、辛免领简帖速行。二将得令。子牙令南宫适领简帖速行。得令去讫。不表。

Leaving aside the story of Chao Lei surrendering to the Zhou, let us speak of Chao Tian in his camp. Suddenly a report came: "Second Lord has been captured." Chao Tian was greatly distressed. "I heard the Grand Master ordered us to come and probe their strength, but just as we began our attack, my brother was captured without warning, which has shaken our morale." He had not yet finished speaking when another report came: "Second Lord is dismounting at the gate!" Chao Lei entered the tent to see his elder brother. Chao Tian said, "They told me you had been captured—why have you returned?" Chao Lei replied, "I was captured by Nan Gong Shi and brought before Zi Ya. I publicly insulted Zi Ya in person, and they were about to behead me. But General Wu Chengwang spoke a few words that shattered my very soul. I have now surrendered to the Zhou and ask you to enter the city with me." Chao Tian, upon hearing this, shouted in anger: "You wretched scoundrel! You have been deceived by Huang Feihu's flattery, surrendered to the western forces, and now you are a traitor! How dare you show your face before Grand Master Wen!" Chao Lei said: "Elder brother, you do not understand. Not only have we surrendered to the Zhou, but all under heaven is already joyfully submitting to them." Chao Tian said: "I know that people across the world are happy to submit to the Zhou; but have you and I not thought of our fathers, mothers, wives, and children who remain in Chao Ge? Even if we now enjoy safety and peace, our parents may suffer punishment or death. Can you truly feel at ease in your heart?" Chao Lei asked: "What should we do now?" Chao Tian said, "You must mount your horse quickly and act as I say—do this and that—to cover up the deed. Only then can we return to see Grand Master Wen." Chao Lei followed his brother's plan, mounted his horse, and entered the city to arrive at the prime minister's residence. He said to Zi Ya: "Your servant has carried out your order and summoned my elder brother Chao Tian to surrender. My elder brother is willing to serve under your command. There is, however, one condition: My elder brother said that he was ordered by King Zhou to campaign against Xiqi; this was a royal command. Although your servant has been captured and surrendered to the Zhou, if my elder brother simply comes in with his hands tied behind his back, it may give later excuses for the other generals." I hope Chancellor will show leniency and send a general to his camp to invite him formally, so that he may preserve some dignity." Zi Ya said: "So your elder brother wants an invitation before entering Xiqi." Zi Ya asked, "Which of you on my staff will go to invite Chao Tian?" From the left side, Huang Feihu spoke up: "Your servant is willing to go." Zi Ya agreed. The two generals left the prime minister's residence. Zi Ya ordered Xin Jia and Xin Mian to take a letter and proceed quickly. The two generals accepted the order. Zi Ya ordered Nan Gong Shi to take a letter and go quickly. The order was carried out. We will not elaborate further.

且说黄飞虎同晁雷出城，至营门，只见晁田辕门躬身欠背，迎迓武成王，口称：“千岁请！”飞虎进了三层围子手，晁田喝声：“拏了！”两边刀斧手一齐动手，挠钩搭住，卸袍服，绳缠索绑。飞虎大骂：“你负义逆贼！恩将雠报！”晁田曰：“‘踏破铁鞋无觅处，得来全不费功夫。’正要擒反叛解往朝歌，你今来得凑巧。”传令：“起兵速回五关！”有诗为证： 晁田设计擒周将，妙算何如相父明。画虎不成类为犬，弟兄困缚进都城。

Meanwhile, Huang Feihu and Chao Lei left the city together and arrived at the camp gate. There they saw Chao Tian bowing respectfully with his back bent as he greeted Wu Chengwang at the entrance of the camp, saying: "Your Highness, please enter!" Fei Hu had barely entered three layers of guards when Chao Tian shouted, "Seize him!" At once, the executioners on both sides sprang into action. They seized Fei Hu with hooks and shackles, stripped him of his robe, and bound him tightly with ropes. Fei Hu shouted in fury: "You ungrateful traitor! You repay kindness with hatred!" Chao Tian replied, "As the saying goes: 'After wearing out iron shoes in search, I find it without effort.'" We were just about to capture this rebel and send him back to Chao Ge. You have come at the perfect time." An order was given: "Muster the troops and return quickly to the Five Passes!" There is a poem to attest to this: Chao Tian devises a plan to capture the Zhou general, but how can his clever strategy compare with the wisdom of Chancellor Zi Ya? To paint a tiger and end up with a dog—brothers bound in chains are taken into the capital.

话说晁田兄弟忻然而回，炮声不响，人无喊声，飞云掣电而走。行过三十五里，兵至龙山口，只见两杆旗摇，布开人马，应声大叫：“晁田！早早留下武成王！吾奉姜丞相命，在此久候多时了！”晁田怒曰：“吾不伤西岐将佐，焉敢中途抢截朝廷犯官！”纵马舞刀来战。辛甲使开斧，赴面交还。两马相交，刀斧并举，大战二十回合。辛免见辛甲的斧胜似晁田，自思：“既来救黄将军，须当上前。”催马使斧，杀进营来。晁雷见辛免马至，理屈词穷，举刀来战。战未数合，晁雷情知中计，拨马落荒便走。辛免杀官兵逃走，救了黄飞虎。飞虎感谢，走骑出来，看辛甲大战晁田。武成王大怒曰：“吾有义与晁田，这个贼狠心之徒！”纵骑持短兵来战。未及数合，早被黄将军擒下马来，拏绳缠二背。武成王指面大骂曰：“逆贼！你欺心定计擒我，岂能出姜丞相奇谋妙算！天命有在！”解回西岐。不表。且说晁雷得命逃归，有路就走，路径生疏，迷踪失迳，左串右串，只在西岐山内。走到二更时分，方上大路，只见前面有夜不收，灯笼高挑。晁雷的马走鸾铃响处，忽听得炮声呐喊，当头一将乃南宫适也。灯光影里，晁雷曰：“南将军，放一条生路，后日恩当重报。”南宫适曰：“不须多言，早早下马受缚！”晁雷大怒，舞刀来战。那里是南将军敌手，大喝一声，生擒下马。两边将绳索绑缚，拏回西岐来。此时天色微明，黄飞虎在相府前伺候。南宫适也回来。飞虎称谢毕。少时间，听得鼓响，众将参谒。左右报：“辛甲回令。”令：“至殿前。”曰：“末将奉令，龙山口擒了晁田，救了黄将军，在府前听令。”令：“来。”飞虎感谢曰：“若非丞相救拔，几乎遭了逆党毒手。”子牙曰：“来意可疑，吾故知此贼之诡诈矣，故令三将于二处伺候，果不出吾之所料。”又报：“南宫适听令。”令：“至殿前。”南宫适曰：“奉命岐山把守，二更时分，果擒晁雷，请令定夺。”子牙传令：“来！”把二将推至檐下。子牙大喝曰：“匹夫！用此诡计，怎么瞒得过我！此皆是儿曹之辈！”命：“推出斩了！”军政官得令，把二将簇拥推出相府。只听晁雷大叫：“冤枉！”子牙笑曰：“明明暗算害人，为何又称冤枉？”分付左右：“推回晁雷来。”子牙曰：“匹夫！弟兄谋害忠良，指望功高归国，不知老夫豫已知之。今既被擒，理当斩首，何为冤枉？”晁雷曰：“丞相在上：天下归周，人皆尽知。吾兄言，父母俱在朝歌，子归真主，父母遭殃。自思无计可行，故设小计。今被丞相看破，擒归斩首，情实可矜。”子牙曰：“你既有父母在朝歌，与吾共议，设

Meanwhile, Chao Tian and his brother returned joyfully; no cannon roared, no cries were heard—like lightning through the clouds, they vanished in a flash. After traveling thirty-five li, the troops arrived at Longshan Kou. There they saw two banners waving and soldiers deployed in formation. A loud voice rang out: "Chao Tian! Surrender Wu Chengwang now!" I have been ordered by Chancellor Jiang and have waited here for a long time!" Chao Tian angrily said, "We did not harm any generals or assistants of Xiqi. How dare you intercept an official under arrest in the middle of our journey!" He urged his horse forward and brandished his saber to engage in battle. Xin Jia raised his axe and charged toward him head-on. The two horses clashed, swords and axes raised together; they fiercely fought for twenty rounds. Xin Mian saw that Xin Jia's axe was superior to Chao Tian's and thought, "Since I have come to rescue General Huang, I must step forward." He spurred his horse, raised his axe, and charged into the camp. Chao Lei saw Xin Mian's horse approaching, felt cornered with no words to defend himself, and raised his saber to fight. After only a few exchanges of blows, Chao Lei realized he had fallen into a trap and turned his horse to flee in disarray. Xin Mian killed the imperial soldiers and escaped, rescuing Huang Feihu. Fei Hu was grateful and rode out to watch Xin Jia fight Chao Tian. Wu Chengwang angrily said, "I have a bond of righteousness with Chao Tian; this is nothing but a cruel-hearted bandit!" He spurred his horse forward and wielded short weapons to engage in battle. Before a few exchanges could take place, General Huang quickly captured him and bound his hands behind his back with ropes. Wu Chengwang pointed at his face and scolded fiercely: "Rebellious bandit!" You devised a treacherous plan to capture me, but how could you escape Chancellor Jiang's ingenious strategies and brilliant calculations! It is the will of Heaven!" He was taken back to Xiqi. No further details are given. Meanwhile, Chao Lei fled for his life. He ran wherever there was a path, but the terrain was unfamiliar to him; he lost his way and wandered aimlessly left and right, ending up somewhere within the mountains of Xiqi. It was not until the second geng (around 10 PM) that he finally reached a main road. There, he saw ahead night patrols with lanterns held high. As Chao Lei's horse passed by the jingling of a 鸾铃 (a horse bell), he suddenly heard cannon fire and shouting. The general at the front was Nan Gong Shi. In the glow of the lantern light, Chao Lei said, "General Nan, grant me a way to live. I will repay you with great gratitude in the future." Nan Gong Shi replied, "Say no more—surrender and dismount at once!" Chao Lei was furious and brandished his saber to fight. How could he be a match for General Nan? With one loud shout, General Nan captured him alive and pulled him from his horse. The soldiers on both sides bound him with ropes and took him back to Xiqi. At this time, the sky was just beginning to brighten, and Huang Feihu was waiting in front of the chancellor's residence. Nan Gong Shi also returned. After Huang Feihu had finished expressing his thanks, In a short while, the sound of drums was heard and all the generals came to pay their respects. The attendants reported: "Xin Jia has returned with orders." The order was given: "To the front of the hall." Xin Jia said, "Your servant followed orders and captured Chao Tian at Longshan Kou and rescued General Huang. I am now waiting for further instructions in front of the residence." The order was given: "Come forward." Fei Hu expressed his gratitude, saying, "Had it not been for Chancellor Jiang's rescue and support, I would have nearly fallen into the hands of these traitors." Zi Ya said, "Their intentions are suspicious. I have long known this bandit to be deceitful and cunning, so I ordered three generals to wait in two locations. As expected, my suspicions were correct." Another report came: "Nan Gong Shi awaiting orders." The order was given: "To the front of the hall." Nan Gong Shi said, "I was ordered to guard Qi Mountain. At the second geng, I indeed captured Chao Lei. Please give orders for what should be done with him." Zi Ya gave an order: "Come forward!" The two generals were pushed under the eaves. Zi Ya shouted angrily, "You wretch!" How could you have used such a deceitful scheme and thought to deceive me!" You are nothing but scoundrels of the lowest sort!" An order was given: "Drag them out and behead them!" The military officials received the order and led the two generals out of the chancellor's residence in a crowd. Just then, Chao Lei shouted loudly, "It is unjust!" Zi Ya laughed and said, "You clearly plotted to harm others in secret. Why now claim injustice?" He ordered the attendants: "Bring Chao Lei back." Zi Ya said, "You wretch!" Your brothers conspired to harm loyal and virtuous men, hoping for great merit in serving the state. But I already knew of this beforehand." Now that you have been captured, it is only right to behead you—how can you claim injustice?" Chao Lei said, "Your Honor: The world knows that the Zhou dynasty has gained control of all under heaven. My elder brother claimed that our parents are still in Chao Ge, and if I return to the true ruler, my parents will suffer. I had no other plan available, so I devised this small scheme. Now that Chancellor Jiang has uncovered my plot and captured me for execution, the situation is indeed pitiable." Zi Ya said, "Since you have parents in Chao Ge, let us discuss together and devise a plan.

计搬取家眷；为何起这等狼心？”晁雷曰：“末将才庸智浅，并无远大之谋，早告明丞相，自无此厄也。”道罢，泪流满面。子牙曰：“你可是真情？”晁雷曰：“末将若无父母，故说此言，黄将军尽知。”子牙问：“黄将军，晁雷可有父母？”飞虎答曰：“有。”子牙曰：“既有父母，此情是实。”传令：“把晁田放回。”二人跪拜在地。子牙道：“将晁田为质，晁雷领简帖，……如此如此，往朝歌搬取家眷。”晁雷领令往朝歌。不知吉凶如何，且听下回分解。

a strategy to bring your family members out; why did you act with such cruel intentions?" Chao Lei said, "Your servant is of mediocre talent and shallow wisdom, lacking any grand strategy. If I had informed Chancellor Jiang earlier, this misfortune would not have occurred." As he finished speaking, tears streamed down his face. Zi Ya said, "Are you telling the truth?" Chao Lei replied, "If I had no parents, I would not say these words. General Huang knows this well." Zi Ya asked, "General Huang, does Chao Lei have any parents?" Fei Hu replied, "Yes." Zi Ya said, "Since he has parents, this situation is true." An order was given: "Release Chao Tian." The two men knelt and bowed to the ground. Zi Ya said, "Use Chao Tian as a hostage and have Chao Lei take the letter... acting in this way, go to Chao Ge and bring your family members." Chao Lei accepted the order and went to Chao Ge. Whether it will bring good or bad fortune remains unknown; we shall hear in the next chapter.