Chapter 36: Zhang Guifang Follows an Imperial Decree to Campaign Westward

诗曰： 奉诏西征剖玉符，旛幢飘扬映长途。惊看画戟翻钱豹，更羡冰花佛剑凫。

The poem says: Following an imperial decree to campaign westward, I carve the jade seal; Banners and standards flutter and shine along the long road. Startled, I see painted halberds fanning out like coins of the money leopard; Even more enviable are the ice flowers and Buddhist sword mandarin ducks.

张桂擒军称号异，风林打将仗珠殊，纵然智巧皆亡败，无奈天心恶独夫。

Zhang Gui captured the army with an unusual title; At Fenglin, he struck down generals by wielding a special pearl. Even though their wisdom and cunning were great, they all ended in failure; Alas, Heaven's will detests tyrants alone.

话说晁雷离了西岐，星夜进五关，过渑池，渡黄河，往朝歌，非止一日，进了都城，先至闻太师府来。太师正在银安殿闲坐，忽报：“晁雷等令。”太师急令至檐前，忙问西岐光景。晁雷答曰：“末将兵至西岐，彼时有南宫适搦战。末将出马，大战三十合，未分胜败，两家鸣金。次日，晁田大战辛甲，辛甲败回。连战数日，胜败未分。奈因汜水关韩荣不肯应付粮草，三军慌乱。大抵粮草乃三军之性命，末将不得已，故此星夜来见太师。望乞速发粮草，再加添兵卒，以作应援。”闻太师沉吟半晌，曰：“前有火牌令箭，韩荣为何不发粮草应付？晁雷，你点三千人马，粮一千，星夜往西岐接济。等老夫再点大将，共破西岐，不得迟误。”晁雷领令，速点三千人马，粮草一千，暗暗来带家小，出了朝歌，星夜往西岐去了。有诗为证： 妙算神机世所稀，太公用计亦深微。当时慢道欺闻仲，此后征诛事渐非。

The story goes that Chao Lei left Xi Qi and traveled day and night through the Five Passes, passed Mianchi, crossed the Yellow River, heading toward Chaoguo. After more than one day's journey, he entered the capital city and first arrived at Lord Wen Tai Shi's residence. Lord Tai Shi was sitting idly in Yinan Hall when suddenly a report came: "Chao Lei has arrived to give orders." Lord Tai Shi quickly ordered him to come forward under the eaves and hurriedly asked about the conditions in Xi Qi. Chao Lei replied, "When my troops arrived at Xi Qi, there was then Nan Gong Shi challenging us to battle." I rode out and engaged in a fierce battle for thirty exchanges, without either side gaining the upper hand. Then both sides sounded their gongs to call off the fight. The next day, Chao Tian fought a great battle against Xin Jia, and Xin Jia was defeated and retreated. They continued to fight for several days, with no clear victory or defeat yet decided. Unfortunately, Han Rong of Sishui Pass refused to supply provisions and fodder, causing great confusion among the three armies. Provisions are the lifeblood of an army; therefore, I had no choice but to come here at night to see you, Lord Tai Shi. I humbly request that you quickly dispatch provisions and add more soldiers for reinforcement." Lord Wen Tai Shi fell into deep thought for a moment, then said, "Earlier there was a red-edged order and an arrow of command; why did Han Rong not supply the provisions?" Chao Lei, you are to lead 3,000 troops and 1,000 units of grain. Go day and night to Xi Qi for relief. "I will appoint another general soon, and together we shall attack Xi Qi; do not delay." Chao Lei accepted the order and quickly mustered 3,000 soldiers along with 1,000 rations of provisions. Secretly bringing his family, he left Chaoguo and journeyed day and night toward Xi Qi. There is a poem to attest: Wondrous calculations and divine strategy are rare in the world; Tai Gong's plans were also profound and subtle. At that time, one might have thought lightly of insulting Lord Wen Zhong, but afterward the campaign and punishment gradually took a different course.

话说闻太师发三千人马，粮草一千，命晁雷去了三四日。忽然想起：“汜水关韩荣为何不肯支应？其中必有缘故！”太师焚香，将三个金钱搜求八卦妙理玄机，算出其中情由，太师拍案大呼曰：“吾失打点，反被此贼诓了家小去了！气杀吾也！”欲点兵追赶，去之已远。随问徒弟吉立、余庆：“今令何人可伐西岐？”吉立曰：“老爷欲伐西岐，非青龙关张桂芳不可。”太师大悦；随发火牌、令箭，差宫往青龙关去讫。一面又点神威大将军丘引，交代镇守关隘。

The story continues: Lord Tai Shi had dispatched 3,000 men along with 1,000 provisions and ordered Chao Lei to go. Three or four days had passed since then. Suddenly he thought: "Why did Han Rong at Sishui Pass refuse to supply provisions?" "There must be a reason behind it!" Lord Tai Shi burned incense and cast three bronze coins to seek the profound mysteries of the Eight Trigrams, calculating the underlying circumstances. Lord Tai Shi slammed his desk in alarm and cried out: "I was careless! I have been deceived by this villain into sending my family away!" This has enraged me to death!" He wanted to raise troops and chase after them, but they were already far away. He then asked his disciples Ji Li and Yu Qing, "Now who among you can be sent to attack Xi Qi?" Ji Li said, "If my lord wishes to attack Xi Qi, none but Zhang Gui Fang of Qinglong Pass can do it." Lord Tai Shi was greatly pleased; He immediately issued a red-edged order and command arrow, sending an official to Qinglong Pass. At the same time, he also appointed General Qiu Yin of Shenwei, entrusting him with defending the pass.

话说晁雷人马出了五关，至西岐，回见子牙，叩头在地：“丞相妙计，百发百中。今末将父母妻子俱进都城。丞相恩德，永矢不忘！”又把见闻太师的话说了一遍。子牙曰：“闻太师必点兵前来征伐，此处也要防御打点，有场大战。”按下不表。

The story continues: Chao Lei's troops passed through the Five Passes and arrived at Xi Qi. He returned to see Zi Ya, knelt on the ground, and kowtowed, saying, "Minister-in-Chief, your brilliant strategy is always successful." Now my parents, wife, and children have all been taken to the capital city. "Minister-in-Chief's kindness and virtue will be eternally remembered by me!" He also recounted the words he had heard from Lord Tai Shi. Zi Ya said, "Lord Tai Shi will surely raise an army to come and attack. We must also prepare for defense here; a great battle is coming." We shall set this aside for now.

且说闻太师的差官到了青龙关，张桂芳得了太师令箭、火牌。交代官乃神威大将军丘引。张桂芳把人马点十万。先行官姓风，名林，乃风后苗裔。等至数日，丘引来到，交代明白。张桂芳一声炮响，十万雄师尽发；过了些府、州、县、道，夜住晓行。怎见得，有诗为证： 浩浩旌旗滚，翩翩绣带飘。枪缨红似火，刀刃白如镣。斧列宣花样，旛摇豹尾翛。鞭鐧瓜槌棍，征云透九霄。三军如猛虎，战马怪龙袅。鼓擂春雷振，锣鸣地角遥。桂芳为大将，西岐事更昭。

Meanwhile, the official sent by Lord Tai Shi arrived at Qinglong Pass, and Zhang Gui Fang received the command arrow and red-edged order from Lord Tai Shi. The officer in charge was General Qiu Yin of Shenwei. Zhang Gui Fang mustered 100,000 troops. The vanguard officer was surnamed Feng and named Lin; he was a descendant of the ancient Feng Hou. After several days, General Qiu Yin arrived and completed the handover clearly. With a single cannon shot, Zhang Gui Fang launched his 100,00 troops; They passed through several prefectures, states, counties, and roads, resting at night and traveling by day. How was this journey? A poem attests: Vast banners wave in a rolling tide, Colorful sashes flutter gracefully. Spear tassels red as fire, Blade edges white like silver. Axes arranged in the Xuanhua pattern, Banners flutter with leopard-tail elegance. Whips, chains, melon hammers, and staffs— The war clouds pierce the heavens high above. The three armies are like fierce tigers; Warhorses twist like dragons in a frenzy. Drums boom like spring thunder, Gongs ring from the distant corners of the earth. Zhang Gui Fang as general—Xi Qi's fate becomes even clearer.

话说张桂芳大队人马非止一日。哨探马报入中军：“启总兵：人马已到西岐。”离城五里安营，放炮呐喊，设下宝帐，先行参谒。桂芳按兵不动。

The story continues: Zhang Gui Fang's large army had been traveling for more than one day. A scout horseman reported to the central camp: "To General-in-Chief, our troops have arrived at Xi Qi." They set up camp five li outside the city, fired cannons and shouted war cries, erected their precious tent, and sent vanguard officers to pay respects. Zhang Gui Fang held his troops in readiness without moving.

话说西岐报马报入相府：“张桂芳领十万人马，南门安营。”子牙升殿，聚将共议退兵之策。子牙曰：“黄将军，张桂芳用兵如何？”飞虎曰：“丞相下问，末将不得不以实陈。”子牙曰：“将军何故出此言？吾与你皆系大臣，为主心腹，何故说‘不得不实陈’者何也？”飞虎曰：“张桂芳乃左道傍门术士，有幻术伤人。”子牙曰：“有何幻术？”飞虎曰：“此术异常。但凡与人交兵会战，必先通名报姓。如末将叫黄某，正战之间，他就叫：‘黄飞虎不下马更待何时！’末将自然下马。故有此术。似难对战。丞相须分付众位将军，但遇桂芳交战，切不可通名。如有通名者，无不获去之理。”子牙听罢，面有忧色。傍有诸将不服此言的，道：“岂有此理！那有叫名便下马的？若这等，我们百员将官只消叫的百十声，便都拏尽。”众将官俱各含笑而已。

The story continues: A scout horseman from Xi Qi rushed to the prime minister's residence and reported, "Zhang Gui Fang has led 100,00 soldiers and set up camp at the southern gate." Zi Ya ascended the hall and gathered his generals to discuss strategies for repelling the enemy. Zi Ya asked, "General Huang, how would you assess Zhang Gui Fang's military tactics?" Fei Hu replied, "Minister-in-Chief asks me this question; I must not hesitate to speak the truth." Zi Ya asked, "General, why do you say that?" We are both ministers and trusted advisors to the ruler. Why must you say 'I cannot but speak the truth'?" Fei Hu said, "Zhang Gui Fang is a practitioner of left-hand path and heterodox arts; he possesses illusionary techniques that can harm people." Zi Ya asked, "What kind of illusions does he use?" Fei Hu said, "This technique is extraordinary. Whenever he engages in battle with others, he first announces his name and surname." For example, if I were to call myself Huang a certain name, while we are in the midst of battle, he would shout: 'Huang Fei Hu, why don't you dismount and surrender now!' I naturally dismounted. That is the power of his technique. It seems difficult to fight against him. Minister-in-Chief must instruct all the generals: whenever they engage Zhang Gui Fang in battle, they must never announce their names. Anyone who announces his name will surely be captured." After hearing this, Zi Ya's face showed signs of worry. Some nearby generals were dissatisfied with these words and said, "How can such a thing be possible!" Is there really someone who would dismount simply because his name was called?" If that were the case, then with just a hundred or so shouts of their names, we could capture all one hundred generals." The assembled generals merely smiled in amusement.

且说张桂芳命先行官风林先往西岐见头阵。风林上马，往西岐城下请战。报马忙进相府：启丞相：有将搦战。”子牙问：“谁见首阵走一遭？”内有一将，乃文王殿下姬叔乾也。此人性如烈火，因夜来听了黄将军的话，故此不服，要见头阵。上马拎枪出来。只见翠蓝旛下一将，面如蓝靛，发似朱砂，獠牙生上下。怎见得： 花冠分五角，蓝脸映须红。金甲袍如火，玉带扣玲珑。手提狼牙棒，乌骓猛似熊。胸中藏锦绣，到处定成功。封神为吊客，先锋自不同。大红旛上写，首将姓为风。

Meanwhile, Zhang Gui Fang ordered his vanguard officer Feng Lin to go ahead and confront the first line of defense at Xi Qi. Feng Lin mounted his horse and went down to the walls of Xi Qi City to challenge for battle. A scout horseman quickly entered the prime minister's residence: "To Minister-in-Chief, a general is challenging us to battle." Zi Ya asked, "Who will go out and face the first line of attack?" Inside, a general stepped forward; he was Ji Shu Qian, a prince under King Wen. This man's temper is as fierce as fire; because he had heard General Huang's words the night before, he was 不服 (unconvinced) and wanted to confront the vanguard. He mounted his horse, took up his spear, and rode out. How was he described: A flowered crown with five corners, a blue face contrasting against red beard. Golden armor and robe as fiery as flames; jade sash with intricate, delicate fastenings. He held a spiked club in his hand; his black steed was fierce like a bear. 锦绣 lies hidden within his chest, and wherever he goes, success is assured. He will be enshrined in the God of Gods' register as a wandering soul; naturally, a vanguard is no ordinary man. On the large red banner was written: The first general's surname is Feng.

话说姬叔乾一马至军前，见来将甚是凶恶，问曰：“来将可是张桂芳？”风林曰：“非也。吾乃张总兵先行官风林是也。奉诏征讨反叛。今尔主无故背德，自立武王，又收反臣黄飞虎，助恶成害。天兵到日，尚不引颈受戮，乃敢拒敌大兵！快早通名来，速投棒下！”姬叔乾大怒曰：“天下诸侯，人人悦而归周，天命已是有在；怎敢侵犯西土，自取死亡。今日饶你，只叫张桂芳出来！”风林大骂：“反贼焉敢欺吾！”纵马使两根狼牙棒飞来直取。姬叔乾摇枪急架相还。二马相交，枪棒并举，一场大战。怎见得： 二将阵前各逞，锣鸣鼓响人惊。该因世上动刀兵，不由心头发恨。枪来那分上下，棒去两眼难睁。你拏我，诛身报国辅明君；我捉你，枭首辕门号令。

The story continues: Ji Shu Qian rode up to the front of the army and saw that the approaching general was extremely fierce. He asked, "Are you General Zhang Gui Fang?" Feng Lin replied, "No." I am Feng Lin, the vanguard officer of General Zhang." I have been ordered to campaign and punish rebels. Your ruler has, without cause, betrayed virtue, declared himself King Wu, and also harbored the traitorous minister Huang Fei Hu, aiding evil and causing harm. When Heaven's army arrives, you have not yet submitted to death by beheading; how dare you resist our great forces!" Quickly announce your name and surrender at once under my staff!" Ji Shu Qian was furious and said, "All the feudal lords of the world are happy to submit to Zhou; Heaven's mandate already belongs to him. How dare you invade the western lands and invite your own death!" Today I spare you, but bring Zhang Gui Fang out here yourself!" Feng Lin shouted in anger: "Traitorous rebel! How dare you insult me!" He spurred his horse and swung two fangya staffs, rushing straight at the enemy. Ji Shu Qian quickly raised his spear to block and counterattack. The two horses clashed, spears and staffs raised together; a great battle ensued. How was it seen: The two generals displayed their prowess on the battlefield, cymbals clashing and drums beating in a scene that startled people. Because of the war raging in the world, anger arose from my heart involuntarily. The spear came without distinction between up and down; with each staff strike, both eyes could hardly open. If you capture me, I shall be executed to serve the country and assist a wise ruler; If I capture you, your head will be displayed at the 辕门 as an example."

二将战有三十馀合，未分胜败。姬叔乾枪法传授神妙，演习精奇，浑身罩定，毫无渗漏。风林是短家火，攻不进长枪去，被姬叔乾卖个破绽，叫声：“著打！”风林左脚上中了一枪。风林拨马逃回本营。姬叔乾纵马赶来；──不知风林乃左道之士，逞势追赶。风林虽是带伤，法术无损；回头见叔乾赶来，口里念念有词，把口一吐，一道黑烟喷出，就化为一网；里边现一粒红珠，有碗口大小，望姬叔乾劈脸打来。可怜！姬殿下乃文王第十二子，被此珠打下马来。风林勒回马，复一棒打死，枭了首级，掌鼓回营，见张桂芳报功。桂芳令：“辕门号令。”

The two generals fought for more than thirty rounds without a decisive outcome. Ji Shu Qian's spear techniques were taught in a divine and wondrous manner, his practice was exquisite and unique; he completely covered himself with no gaps or weaknesses. Feng Lin, whose style was short and fiery, could not penetrate the long spear; he was caught in a gap by Ji Shu Qian, who shouted, "Strike!" Feng Lin was struck on his left foot with a spear. Feng Lin turned his horse and fled back to his own camp. Ji Shu Qian spurred his horse in pursuit; ——Unbeknownst to him, Feng Lin was a practitioner of dark arts and took advantage of the situation to chase after. Though wounded, Feng Lin's magical abilities remained undiminished; He turned around and saw Ji Shu Qian chasing after him. Muttering incantations, he spat from his mouth, releasing a jet of black smoke that transformed into a net; Inside appeared a red pearl the size of a bowl, which struck Ji Shu Qian in the face. Pitiful! Prince Ji, the twelfth son of King Wen, was knocked off his horse by this pearl. Feng Lin reined in his horse, struck again with a staff and killed him, beheaded the corpse, took hold of the head, beat the drum, returned to camp, and reported the feat to Zhang Gui Fang. Zhang Gui Fang ordered: "Display his head at the 辕门 as a warning."

且说西岐败残人马进城，报于姜丞相。子牙知姬叔乾阵亡，郁郁不乐。武王知弟死，著实伤悼。诸将切齿。次日，张桂芳大队排开，坐名请子牙答话。子牙曰：“不入虎穴，焉得虎子。”随传令：“摆五方队伍。”两边摆列鞭龙降虎将，打阵众英豪。出城，只见对阵旗旛脚下有一将，银盔素铠，白马长枪，上下似一块寒冰，如一堆瑞雪。怎见得： 顶上银盔排凤翅，连环素铠似秋霜。白袍暗现团龙滚，腰束羊脂八宝厢。护心镜射光明显，四面鐧挂马鞍傍。银合马走龙出海，倒提安邦臼杵枪。胸中炼就无穷术，授秘玄功宝异常。青龙关上声名远，纣王驾下紫金梁。素白旗上书大字：“奉敕西征张桂芳。”

Meanwhile, the remnants of the defeated forces from Xi Qi entered the city and reported to Chancellor Jiang. Jiang Ziya learned that Prince Ji Shu Qian had died in battle, and he was deeply saddened. King Wu learned of his brother's death and was genuinely grieved. The generals were furious, gnashing their teeth in anger. The next day, Zhang Gui Fang deployed his main forces and demanded a meeting with Jiang Ziya by name. Jiang Ziya said, "One cannot get the cub without entering the tiger's den." He immediately gave orders: "Form the Five Directions formation." On both sides, the whip-dragon and tiger-subduing generals were arranged, along with a host of heroic warriors ready to break through the formation. When they left the city, they saw a general standing opposite them beneath the banners. He wore a silver helmet and plain armor, rode a white horse, and wielded a long spear; his entire appearance was like a block of cold ice or a pile of pure snow. How is it described: On his head, the silver helmet bore phoenix-like crests; the plain armor was like autumn frost in its linked rings. The white robe faintly displayed coiling dragons, and his waist was girded with a jade belt adorned with eight treasures. The chest guard shimmered brightly; on all sides were bells hanging beside the horse's saddle. His silver-coated steed galloped like a dragon emerging from the sea, and he held his Anbang Jouchu spear upside down. In his chest lay endless techniques refined to perfection; he had been taught secret mystical arts of extraordinary power. His fame from Qinglong Pass spreads far and wide, and he is a pillar of purple gold under King Zhou's reign. On the white banner were large characters that read: "Zhang Gui Fang, commissioned to campaign westward."

话说张桂芳见子牙人马出城，队伍齐整，纪法森严，左右有雄壮之威，前后有进退之法。金盔者，英风赳赳；银盔者，气概昂昂。一对对出来，其实骁勇。又见子牙坐青罚马，一身道服，落腮银须，手提雌雄宝剑。怎见得，有西江月为证： 鱼尾金冠鹤氅，丝绦双结乾坤。雌雄宝剑手中抡，八卦仙衣内衬。善能移山倒海，惯能撒豆成兵。仙风道骨果神清，极乐神仙临阵。

As it happened, Zhang Gui Fang saw Jiang Ziya's troops exiting the city. The formation was orderly and disciplined; on both flanks there was a mighty presence of strength, and in front and behind, the tactics for advancing or retreating were well-organized. Those with golden helmets displayed bold and valiant bearing; Those in silver helmets exuded lofty and proud demeanor. Pair by pair, they emerged, truly valiant and courageous. He also saw Jiang Ziya seated on a green-penalty horse, clad in Taoist robes, with a beard of silver stubble and holding the twin precious swords. How is this described? The "Xijiang Yue" verse attests: A golden crown like a fish's tail, with crane robes and silk sashes tied in double knots to bind heaven and earth. He brandished the twin precious swords; beneath his robe was an Eight Trigrams immortal garment. Skilled in moving mountains and reversing seas, he could summon soldiers from scattering beans with ease. His divine aura and Taoist bearing were indeed ethereal; a deity of bliss had descended to the battlefield.

张桂芳又见宝纛旛下，武成王黄飞虎坐骑提枪，心中大怒，一马闯至军前；见子牙而言曰：“姜尚，你原为纣臣，曾受恩禄，为何又背朝廷，而助姬发作恶，又纳叛臣黄飞虎，复施诡计，说晁田降周；恶大罪深，纵死莫赎。吾今奉诏亲征，速宜下马受缚，以正欺君叛国之罪。尚敢抗拒天兵，只待踏平西土，玉石俱焚，那时悔之晚矣。”子牙马上笑曰：“公言差矣！岂不闻‘贤臣择主而仕，良禽相木而栖’，天下尽反，岂在西岐！料公一忠臣，也不能辅纣王之稔恶。吾君臣守法奉公，谨修臣节。今日提兵，侵犯西土，乃是公来欺我，非我欺足下。倘或失利，遗笑他人，深为可惜。不如依吾拙谏，请公回兵，此为上策。毋得自取祸端，以遗伊戚。”桂芳曰：“闻你在昆仑学艺数年，你也不知天地间有无穷变化。据你所言，就如婴儿作笑，不识轻重。你非智者之言。”令先行官：“与吾把姜尚拏了！”风林走马出阵，冲杀过来。只见子牙旗门角下一将，连人带马，如映金赤日玛瑙一般，纵马舞刀，迎敌风林，──乃大将军南宫适；也不答话，刀棒并举，一场大战。怎见得： 二将阵前把脸变，催开战马心不善。这一个指望万载把名标；那一个声名留在金銮殿。这一个钢刀起去似寒冰；那一个棒举虹飞惊紫电。自来恶战果蹊跷，二虎相争心胆颤。

Zhang Gui Fang also saw, beneath the precious banner, General Huang Fei Hu of Wucheng Wang seated on his horse with spear in hand. Filled with rage, he charged forward alone to the front lines; he confronted Jiang Ziya and said, "Jiang Shang, you were originally a minister of King Zhou and had received his favors and emoluments. Why have you now betrayed the court to assist Ji Fa in doing evil? You also harbored the traitor Huang Fei Hu and used devious schemes to persuade Chao Tian to surrender to Zhou; Your crimes are grave, and even death cannot atone for them. I have personally come to campaign under imperial decree; you should quickly dismount and surrender, so that your crime of deceiving the king and betraying the country may be properly punished. How dare you still resist Heaven's army? We shall soon level the western lands, and all will be reduced to ashes—then it will be too late to regret." Jiang Ziya laughed from his horse and said, "Your words are mistaken! Have you not heard the saying: 'A virtuous minister chooses his lord, and a fine bird selects its tree to roost in.' The whole world has turned against Zhou; it is not only about Xi Qi! Even if you are a loyal minister, I know that you cannot assist King Zhou in his accumulated evils. My sovereign and I uphold the law for the public good, carefully observing our duties as ministers. Today, by raising your troops to invade the western lands, it is you who have come to bully us, not we who have wronged you. If you suffer a loss and become the laughingstock of others, that would be truly regrettable. It is better to follow my humble advice and request that you withdraw your troops; this would be the best course of action. Do not invite disaster upon yourself, lest it bring sorrow." Zhang Gui Fang said, "I have heard that you studied arts for many years on Kunlun Mountain. Yet you do not know the infinite transformations of heaven and earth. According to what you say, it is like a baby laughing, unaware of weight or consequence. "You are not speaking with the wisdom of a sage." He ordered his vanguard officer: "Seize Jiang Ziya for me!" Feng Lin rode out of the formation and charged forward fiercely. Just then, a general emerged from the corner of Jiang Ziya's banner. Rider and horse together gleamed like golden sunstone; he spurred his horse forward with sword in hand to meet Feng Lin—this was General Nan Gong Shi; Without a word, the two raised their weapons and engaged in fierce battle. How was it seen: The two generals on the battlefield twisted their faces, spurred forward on their horses with ill intent. One wished to carve his name in history for ten thousand years; The other sought a lasting reputation within the golden throne hall. One's steel blade rose like cold ice; The other raised his staff, its arc flashing like a rainbow and startling the purple lightning. From ancient times, fierce battles have been full of twists; two tigers contending shake with fear in their hearts.

话说二将交兵，只杀的征云绕地，锣鼓喧天。且说张桂芳在马上又见武成王黄飞虎在子牙宝纛旛脚下，怒纳不住，纵马杀将过来。黄飞虎也把五色神牛催开，大骂：“逆贼！怎敢冲吾阵脚！”牛马相交，双枪并举，恶战龙潭。张桂芳仗胸中左道之术，一心要擒飞虎。二将酣战，未及十五合，张桂芳大叫：“黄飞虎不下骑更待何时！”飞虎不由自己，撞下鞍鞽。军士方欲上前擒获，只见对阵上一将，乃是周纪，飞马冲来，抡斧直取张桂芳；黄飞彪、飞豹二将齐出，把飞虎抢去。周纪大战桂芳。张桂芳掩一枪就走。周纪不知其故，随后赶来。张桂芳知道周纪，大叫一声：“周纪不下马，更待何时！”周纪吊下马来。及至众将救时，已被众士卒生擒活捉，拏进辕门。且说风林战南宫适：风林拨马就走，南宫适也赶去，被风林如前，把口一张，黑烟喷出，烟内现碗口大小一粒珠，把南宫适打下马来，生擒去了。张桂芳大获全胜，掌鼓回营。子牙收兵进城，见折了二将，郁郁不乐。

As it happened, the two generals engaged in battle, killing so fiercely that war clouds surrounded the earth and cymbals and drums roared to the heavens. Meanwhile, Zhang Gui Fang on horseback saw General Huang Fei Hu of the Wucheng Wang standing beneath Jiang Ziya's precious banner. Unable to contain his anger, he spurred forward and charged into battle. Huang Fei Hu also urged on his five-colored divine ox and shouted in rage: "Rebellious traitor! How dare you charge into my formation!" Horse and ox clashed, two spears raised together; they fiercely fought like a battle in the dragon pond. Zhang Gui Fang relied on his dark arts and was determined to capture Huang Fei Hu. The two generals fiercely engaged in battle; before fifteen rounds had passed, Zhang Gui Fang shouted, "Huang Fei Hu! When will you dismount and surrender!" Uncontrollably, Huang Fei Hu was thrown from his saddle. As the soldiers were about to move forward and capture him, a general from the opposite side suddenly appeared. It was Zhou Ji, who galloped forward fiercely, brandishing an axe directly at Zhang Gui Fang; The two generals Huang Feibiao and Feipao rushed out together and rescued Huang Fei Hu. Zhou Ji engaged Zhang Gui Fang in fierce battle. Zhang Gui Fang feigned a spear strike and then retreated. Unaware of the trick, Zhou Ji pursued him closely. Zhang Gui Fang recognized Zhou Ji and shouted loudly: "Zhou Ji! When will you dismount, if not now!" Zhou Ji was thrown from his horse. By the time the generals came to rescue him, Zhou Ji had already been captured alive by the soldiers and taken into the 辕门. Meanwhile, speaking of Feng Lin's battle with Nan Gong Shi: Feng Lin turned his horse and fled. Nan Gong Shi pursued him, but just as before, Feng Lin opened his mouth wide, spewing out a jet-black smoke from which appeared a pearl the size of a bowl opening. The pearl struck Nan Gong Shi, knocking him off his horse, who was then captured alive. Zhang Gui Fang achieved a complete victory and returned to camp with the sound of drums. Zi Ya withdrew his troops into the city, but seeing that two generals had been lost, he was deeply troubled and unhappy.

且说张桂芳升帐，把周纪、南宫适推至中军，张桂芳曰：“立而不跪者何也？”南宫适大喝：“狂诈匹夫！将身许国，岂惜一死！既被妖术所获，但凭汝为，有甚闲说！”桂芳传令：“且将二人因于陷车之内，待破了西岐，解往朝歌，听圣旨发落。”不题。次日，张桂芳亲往城下搦战。探马报入丞相府曰：“张桂芳搦战。”子牙因他开口叫名字便落马，故不敢传令，且将“免战牌”挂出去。张桂芳笑曰：“姜尚被吾一阵便杀得‘免战牌’高悬！”故此按兵不动。

Meanwhile, Zhang Gui Fang entered his tent and had Zhou Ji and Nan Gong Shi brought before the central camp. Zhang Gui Fang said, "Why do you stand without kneeling?" Nan Gong Shi shouted angrily: "Foolish pretender!" "I have pledged my life to the state; how could I fear death!" "Having been captured by your sorcery, do as you will with me—what need is there for idle words!" Zhang Gui Fang gave orders: "Take the two men and place them in a cage cart. Once we have captured Xi Qi, send them to Chao Ge for imperial decree." No further mention is made of this. The next day, Zhang Gui Fang personally went to the city walls and challenged for battle. A scout horseman reported into the Prime Minister's office: "Zhang Gui Fang has issued a challenge." Because Zi Ya had seen how the enemy general fell from his horse merely by calling out his name, he dared not issue orders and instead had the "No Battle" sign hung outside. Zhang Gui Fang laughed and said, "Jiang Shang has been so thoroughly defeated by my single attack that he now hoists the 'No Battle' sign high!" Therefore, he kept his troops in readiness without taking action.

且说乾元山金光洞太乙真人坐碧游床运元神，忽然心血来潮，早知其故；命金霞童儿：“请你师兄来。”童儿领命，来桃园见哪吒，口称：“师兄，老爷有请。”哪吒至蒲团下拜。真人曰：“此处不是你久居之所。你速往西岐，去佐你师叔姜子牙，可立你功名事业。如今三十六路兵伐西岐，你可前去辅佐明君，以应上天垂象。”哪吒满心欢喜，即刻辞别下山；上了风火轮，提火尖枪，斜挂豹皮囊，往西岐来。怎见得好快，有诗为证： 风火之声起在空，遍游天下任西东，乾坤顷刻须臾到，妙理玄功自不同。

Meanwhile, on Qianyuan Mountain's Jinguang Cave, Taiyi Zhenren sat on the Biyou Bed cultivating his spiritual essence. Suddenly, a surge of intuition arose within him, and he immediately understood what had happened; He ordered Jinxia Tonger: "Go and fetch your elder brother." The boy accepted the order, went to Peach Garden to see Nezha, and said: "Elder Brother, Master requests your presence." Nezha knelt before the cushion and paid his respects. The Immortal said, "This is not a place where you should remain for long. You must quickly go to Xi Qi and assist your uncle-teacher Jiang Ziya; this will allow you to establish your fame and achievements." "Now, with the thirty-six armies marching against Xi Qi, you should go ahead to assist a wise ruler and respond to Heaven's will." Nezha was overjoyed and immediately bid farewell before descending the mountain; He mounted his Fenghuo Lun, held up his Huojian Qiang, slung a leopard-skin bag diagonally across his shoulder, and headed toward Xi Qi. How swift was his journey? A poem attests to this: The sound of wind and fire rises in the air, Roaming east or west across the land at will. Heaven and Earth are traversed in a moment, A wondrous mystery—his supernatural power is unlike any other.

话说哪吒顷刻来到西岐，落了风火轮，找问相府。左右指引：“小金桥是相府。”哪吒至相府下轮。左右报入：“有一道童求见。”子牙不敢忘本，传令：“请来。”哪吒至殿前，倒身下拜，口称：“师叔。”子牙问曰：“你是那里来的？”哪吒答曰：“弟子是乾元山金光洞太乙真人徒弟，姓李，名哪吒；奉师命下山，听师叔左右驱使。”子牙大喜，未及温慰，只见武成王出班，称谢前救援之德。哪吒问：“有何人在此伐西岐？”黄飞虎答曰：“有青龙关张桂芳，左道惊人，连擒二将。姜丞相故悬‘免战牌’在外。”哪吒曰：“吾既下山来佐师叔，岂有袖手旁观之理。”哪吒来见子牙曰：“师叔在上：弟子奉师命下山，今悬‘免战’，此非长策；弟子愿去见阵，张桂芳可擒也。”子牙许之；传令：“去了‘免战牌’。”彼时探马报与张桂芳：“西岐摘了‘免战牌’。”桂芳谓先行风林曰：“姜子牙连日不出战，那里取得救兵来了。今日摘去‘免战牌’，你可去搦战。”先行风林领令出营，城下搦战。探马报入相府。哪吒答言曰：“弟子愿往。”子牙曰：“是必小心。桂芳左道，呼名落马。”哪吒答曰：“弟子见机而作。”即登风火轮，开门出城。见一将蓝靛脸，朱砂发，凶恶多端，用狼牙棒，走马出阵，见哪吒脚踏二轮，问曰：“汝是何人？”哪吒答曰：“吾乃姜丞相师侄李哪吒是也。尔可是张桂芳──专会呼名落马的？”风林曰：“非也。吾乃是先行官风林。”哪吒曰：“饶你不死，只唤出张桂芳来！”风林大怒，纵马使棒来取。哪吒手内枪两相架隔。轮马相交，枪棒并举，大战城下。有诗为证： 下山首战会风林，发手成功岂易寻。不是武王洪福大，西岐城下事难禁。

Meanwhile, Nezha arrived at Xi Qi in the blink of an eye. He dismounted from his Fenghuo Lun and began to inquire for the Prime Minister's residence. The attendants pointed out: "Xiao Jin Qiao is where the Prime Minister resides." Nezha dismounted at the residence of the Prime Minister. The attendants reported inside: "A Daoist disciple requests an audience." Zi Ya, unwilling to forget his roots, gave orders: "Bring him in." Nezha arrived before the hall, fell on his knees and bowed deeply, addressing respectfully: "Uncle-teacher." Zi Ya asked, "Where have you come from?" Nezha replied: "I am a disciple of Taiyi Zhenren at Qianyuan Mountain's Jinguang Cave. My name is Li Nezha; I have come down the mountain upon my master's command, and I am at your uncle-teacher's disposal." Zi Ya was greatly pleased. Before he could offer any words of comfort, Duke Wucheng stepped forward and expressed gratitude for the previous rescue. Nezha asked: "Who are those who have come to attack Xi Qi?" Huang Fei Hu replied, "There is Zhang Gui Fang of Qinglong Pass. He uses strange sorcery and has already captured two generals." That is why Prime Minister Jiang has the 'No Battle' sign hanging outside." Nezha said, "Since I have come down from the mountain to assist my uncle-teacher, how could I possibly stand by and do nothing?" Nezha came to see Zi Ya and said, "Uncle-teacher above: I have descended the mountain at my master's command. Now that we are hoisting the 'No Battle' banner, this is not a lasting strategy; I wish to go and confront the formation myself—Zhang Gui Fang can be captured." Zi Ya agreed; He gave orders: "Remove the 'No Battle' sign." At that time, a scout horseman reported to Zhang Gui Fang: "Xi Qi has removed its 'No Battle' sign." Zhang Gui Fang said to Feng Lin, the vanguard: "Jiang Ziya has not come out for battle these past few days. It seems reinforcements have arrived from somewhere." "Now that they have removed the 'No Battle' sign, you may go and issue a challenge to them." The vanguard Feng Lin accepted the order and left camp to issue a battle challenge beneath the city walls. A scout horseman reported this into the Prime Minister's residence. Nezha responded, "I am willing to go." Zi Ya said, "You must be cautious." "Be wary of Zhang Gui Fang's sorcery—merely calling out a name can cause one to fall from their horse." Nezha replied, "I shall act according to the situation I encounter." He immediately mounted his Fenghuo Lun and exited the city through the gate. He saw a general with a blue-green face, red hair, and an extremely fierce appearance wielding a tusked club. The general rode out of the formation and, upon seeing Nezha standing on two wheels, asked: "Who are you?" Nezha replied: "I am Li Nezha, the nephew of Prime Minister Jiang." Are you Zhang Gui Fang—the one who specializes in making people fall from their horses by calling out their names?" Feng Lin said, "No." "I am Feng Lin, the vanguard officer." Nezha said: "I spare your life this time—just summon Zhang Gui Fang out!" Feng Lin became furious and charged forward with his club. Nezha blocked the attack with his spear in hand, skillfully parrying both sides. They rode past each other, spears and clubs raised high, engaging in fierce battle beneath the city walls. A poem attests to this: Nezha's first battle after descending the mountain was with Feng Lin; Success in his initial strike was no easy feat. Were it not for King Wu's great fortune, such events at Xi Qi's city walls would have been impossible to prevent.

话说二将大战二十回合，风林暗想：“观哪吒道骨稀奇，若不下手，恐受他累。”掩一棒，拨马便走。哪吒随后赶来。──前走一似猛风吹败叶，后随恰如急雨打残花。──风林回头一看，见哪吒赶来，把口一张，喷出一道黑烟，烟里现有碗口大小一珠，劈面打来。哪吒笑曰：“此术非是正道。”哪吒用手一指，其烟自灭。风林见哪吒破了他的法术，厉声大叫：“气杀吾也！敢破吾法术！”勒马复战，被哪吒豹皮囊取出那乾坤圈，丢起，正打风林左肩甲，只打的筋断骨折，几乎落马，败回营去。哪吒打了风林，立在辕门，坐名要张桂芳。且说风林败回进营，见桂芳备言事。又报：“哪吒坐名搦战。”张桂芳大怒，忙上马提枪出营，一见哪吒耀武扬威，张桂芳问曰：“踏风火轮者可是哪吒么？”哪吒答曰：“然。”张桂芳曰：“你打吾先行官，是尔？”哪吒大喝一声：“匹夫！说你善能呼名落马，特来会尔！”把枪一愰来取，桂芳急架相迎。输马相交，双枪并举，好场杀：一个是莲花化身灵珠子；一个是“封神榜”上一丧门。有赋为证： 征云笼宇宙，杀气绕乾坤！这一个展钢枪，要安社稷；那一个踏双轮，发手无存。这一个为江山以身报国；那一个争世界岂肯轻论？这个枪似金鳌搅海；那个枪似大蟒翻身。几时才罢干戈事，老少安康见太平。

Meanwhile, the two generals engaged in fierce battle for twenty rounds. Feng Lin secretly thought: "Nezha displays extraordinary Daoist cultivation; if I do not act now, he may become a burden to me." He feigned an attack with his club and then turned his horse to flee. Nezha pursued him closely from behind. The one fleeing ahead was like a withered leaf blown by the fierce wind, while the pursuer followed as if heavy rain pelted broken flowers. Feng Lin turned his head and saw Nezha approaching. Opening his mouth, he spewed out a jet-black cloud from which appeared a pearl as large as a bowl opening, striking directly toward Nezha's face. Nezha laughed and said: "This technique is not the righteous path." With a single gesture from Nezha, the smoke vanished on its own. Feng Lin saw that Nezha had broken his spell and shouted angrily: "This is infuriating!" How dare you break my magic!" He reined in his horse and charged back into battle, but Nezha retrieved the Qiankun Ring from his leopard-skin bag, threw it up, and it struck Feng Lin directly on the left shoulder plate. The impact shattered bones and tendons, nearly knocking him off his horse before he fled back to camp in defeat. After defeating Feng Lin, Nezha stood at the 辕门 and demanded Zhang Gui Fang by name. Meanwhile, Feng Lin returned to camp in defeat and reported the incident to Zhang Gui Fang. Another report came: "Nezha has issued a direct challenge by name." Zhang Gui Fang was furious and quickly mounted his horse, brandishing a spear as he left camp. Upon seeing Nezha displaying martial prowess with confidence, Zhang Gui Fang asked: "Is the one standing on the Fenghuo Lun really Nezha?" Nezha replied: "Yes." Zhang Gui Fang said, "You struck my vanguard officer—was it you?" Nezha shouted angrily: "Fool!" "I heard you are skilled at making people fall from their horses merely by calling out names, so I have come especially to meet you!" Nezha brandished his spear and charged forward. Zhang Gui Fang quickly raised his weapon in response. Their horses clashed, two spears raised high—what a fierce battle: one was the Lotus Incarnation, Lingzhu Zi; the other was a wretched soul destined for the "Fengshen Bang." A verse attests to this: War clouds shroud heaven and earth, Murderous aura coils through the cosmos! One wields a steel spear, determined to preserve the state; the other treads on twin wheels, striking with no mercy. One sacrifices his life for the nation and its rivers and mountains; the other, vying for dominion over the world, would never yield lightly? This spear is like a golden tortoise stirring up the sea; that spear is like a giant python turning over. When will the wars and weapons finally cease, so that both young and old may enjoy peace and prosperity?

话说张桂芳大战哪吒三四十回合。哪吒枪乃太乙仙传，使开如飞电绕长空，似风声吼玉树。张桂芳虽是枪法精传，也自雄威，力敌不能久战；随用道术，要擒哪吒。桂芳大呼曰：“哪吒不下轮来更待何时！”哪吒也吃一惊，把脚登定二轮，却不得下来。桂芳见叫不下轮来，大惊：“老师秘授之吐语捉将，道名拏人，往常响应，今日为何不准！”只得再叫一声。哪吒只是不理。连叫三声，哪吒大骂：“失时匹夫！我不下来凭我，难道勉强叫我下来！”张桂芳大怒，努力死战。哪吒把枪紧一紧，似银龙翻海底，如瑞雪满空飞，只杀的张桂芳力尽筋舒，遍身汗流。哪吒把乾坤圈飞起来打张桂芳。不知性命如何，且听下回分解。

Now let us speak of Zhang Gui Fang's fierce battle with Nezha for thirty to forty rounds. Nezha's spear was passed down by the immortal Taiyi; when wielded, it flashed like lightning across the sky and roared with the wind through jade trees. Though Zhang Gui Fang was skilled in spear techniques, he was also valiant and powerful, but could not sustain the battle for long; He then resorted to Daoist arts to capture Nezha. Zhang Gui Fang shouted loudly, "Nezha! If you do not descend from your wheel now, when else will it be?" Nezha was also startled. He pressed his feet onto the two wheels but could not descend. Zhang Gui Fang, seeing that Nezha would not descend from his wheel, was greatly alarmed and exclaimed, "Master's secret teachings on summoning generals by uttering incantations or capturing people by calling their names usually work instantly—why is it ineffective today!" He had no choice but to call out once more. Nezha simply ignored him. After calling out three times, Nezha shouted in anger: "Useless fool!" "I will not descend of my own accord. Do you think I can be forced to come down?"! Zhang Gui Fang became furious and fought with all his might. Nezha tightened his grip on the spear, like a silver dragon flipping beneath the sea, or auspicious snow swirling through the sky. He fought so fiercely that Zhang Gui Fang grew exhausted and drenched in sweat. Nezha hurled his Qiankun Ring to strike Zhang Gui Fang. Whether he would survive or not remains to be seen in the next chapter.