Chapter 43: Lord Wen's Great Battle at Xi Qi

诗曰： 黑夜交兵实可伤，抛盔弃甲未披裳。冒烟突火寻归路，失志丢魂觅去乡。 多少英雄茫昧死，几许壮士梦中亡。谁知吉立多饶舌，又送天君入北邙。

The poem says: In darkness, soldiers clash in bitter strife; They cast aside their helmets and armor, still clad not in garments. Smoke rises and flames burst forth as they seek a path home; Losing resolve and abandoning their spirits, they search for the way back to their native land. How many heroes perished in confusion! How many valiant warriors died in dreams! Who would have known that Ji Li, so verbose and deceitful, Would send the Heavenly Lord to Beimang?

话说子牙与众将来劫闻太师行营，势如风火。只见哪吒登风火轮，持火尖枪杀来。闻太师忙上了墨麒麟，拎鞭迎敌。黄天化自恃英雄，持两柄银锤，催动玉麒麟，前来接战，裹住闻太师不放。金木二吒挥宝剑，上前助战。韩毒龙、薛恶虎各持剑左右相攻。杀气纷纷，兵戈闪灼。怎见得一夜好战，有赞为证，赞曰： 黄昏兵到，黑夜军临。黄昏兵到，冲开队伍怎支持；黑夜兵临，撞倒栅栏焉可立。马闻金鼓之声，惊驰乱走；军听喊杀喧哗，难辨你我。刀枪乱刺，那知上下交锋；将士相迎，孰识东西南北。劫营将如同猛虎，踏营军一似欢龙。鸣金小校，擂鼓儿郎。鸣金小校，灰迷二目难睁；擂鼓儿郎，两手慌忙槌乱打。初起时，两下抖搜精神；次后来，胜败难分敌手：败了的，似伤弓之鸟，见曲木而高飞；得胜的，如猛虎登崖，闯群羊而弄猛；著刀的，连肩拽背；逢斧的，头断身开；挡剑的，劈开甲胄；中枪的，腹内流红。人撞人，自相践踏，马撞马，遍地尸横。伤残军士，哀哀叫苦；带箭儿郎，戚戚之声。弃金鼓，旛幢满地；烧粮草，四野通红。只知道奉命征讨，谁知道片甲无存。愁云只上九重天，遍地尸骸真惨切。

It is said that Ziya, together with his generals, launched a sudden attack on Tai Shi's military camp, advancing with the force of wind and fire. They saw Nezha mount the Fenghuo Lun (Wind-Fire Wheel) and charge forward, wielding the Huojian Qiang (Fire-Tip Spear). Tai Shi hurriedly mounted his Hei Qilin (Black Qilin), seized his whip, and rode out to meet the enemy. Huang Tianhua, confident in his valor, wielded two silver hammers and spurred forward on the Yu Qilin (Jade Qilin) to engage Tai Shi. He closed in tightly around Tai Shi, refusing to let him go. Jin Zhu and Mu Zhu brandished their treasure swords and rushed forward to assist in the battle. Han Dulong and Xue Ehu, each wielding a sword, attacked from left and right. The air was thick with killing intent; weapons flashed and glowed in the fray. How vividly can one describe a night of fierce battle? A eulogy attests to it, which says: As dusk fell, the troops arrived; in darkness, the army descended. At dusk, the soldiers arrived, breaking through the ranks—how could they hold out? In darkness, the army approached, toppling the barriers—who could remain standing? The horses heard the clang of gongs and drums, startling them into frantic flight; Soldiers fled in disorder. The soldiers, hearing cries and shouts, could hardly distinguish friend from foe. Swords and spears struck wildly—who could tell where the attacks came from above or below; Arrows rained down in all directions, piercing through ranks of men. Generals and soldiers clashed in confusion—who could discern east from west, south from north? The raiding generals were like fierce tigers; the attacking troops surged forward like jubilant dragons. The junior officer sounded the gong, while the young drummer beat the war drum. The junior officer sounding the gong had both eyes obscured by dust and could barely open them; The young drummer, caught in the chaos, lost his way. The young drummer, with trembling hands, wildly struck the drum in confusion. At first, both sides fought with full vigor; Later on, they grew weary and faltered. In the later stages, it became hard to tell who would win or lose: those defeated were like wounded birds startled by a bent bowstring, taking flight at the sight of crooked trees; Those victorious acted as if they had conquered heaven and earth, strutting about with pride. The victors were like tigers ascending a cliff, charging through flocks of sheep to display their might; The battlefield was filled with the cries of wounded men and the wails of the dying. Those struck by blades staggered, dragging each other along; The fallen lay in heaps, their blood soaking into the earth. Those who met axes had their heads severed and bodies split open; The air was thick with smoke and fire, as if the heavens themselves were ablaze. Swords clashed, armor and helmets cleaved in two; Arrows flew like rain, piercing flesh and bone. Those struck by spears bled from within, their crimson blood flowing freely. Men collided with men, trampling each other in the chaos; horses crashed into horses, and corpses lay strewn across the ground. Wounded soldiers cried out in agony; The wounded and dying filled the air with their pitiful wails. Young men pierced by arrows let out mournful cries, their voices trembling with sorrow. Gongs and drums were abandoned; banners and flags lay scattered across the field; Weapons and armor were left behind in the dust. Grain stores and grass caught fire, turning the four directions a fiery red. All they knew was to obey orders and go on campaign; who could have known that not a single piece of armor would remain? Gloomy clouds rose into the nine heavens, while corpses littered the earth in truly heart-rending scenes.

话说子牙劫闻太师行营，哪吒等把闻太师围困垓心。黄飞虎父子冲左营，与邓忠、张节大战，杀的乾坤暗暗；南宫适、辛甲等冲右营，与辛环、陶荣接战，俱系夜间，只杀得惨惨悲风，愁云滚滚。正酣战之际，杨戬从闻太师后营杀进去，纵马摇枪，只杀至粮草堆上，放起火来。好火！怎见得，有诗为证： 烈焰冲霄势更凶，金蛇万道绕空中。烟飞卷荡三千里，烧毁行粮天助功。

It is said that when Ziya raided Tai Shi's camp, Nezha and others encircled Tai Shi at the heart of the battlefield. Huang Feihuo and his sons charged into the left wing, clashing fiercely with Deng Zhong and Zhang Jie; they fought so violently that heaven and earth seemed to darken. Nangong Shi, Xin Jia, and others charged into the right wing, engaging Xin Huan and Tao Rong in battle. It was all done at night; they fought until sorrowful winds howled and dark clouds rolled heavily overhead. 𝑙 Just as the battle raged fiercely, Yang Jian charged into Tai Shi's rear camp. He spurred his horse and wielded his spear, cutting through to the grain stacks, where he set fire to them. What a fierce fire! How vivid was the scene? A poem attests to it: The fierce flames surged toward the heavens, growing ever more violent; Ten thousand golden serpents coiled through the air. Smoke billowed and rolled for three thousand li, as if heaven itself aided in burning away the supplies.

话说杨戬借胸中三昧真火，将粮草烧著，照彻天地。闻太师正战之间，忽见火起，心中大惊，自思：“粮草被烧，大营难立。”把金鞭架枪、挡剑，无心恋战。又见子牙骑到，把打神鞭祭于空中，闻太师难逃这一鞭之厄，只打得闻太师三昧火喷出三四尺远近。太师把墨麒麟纵出圈子，且战且走；黄飞虎等追袭。邓忠、张节见中军失守，只得保著闻太师夺路而走。南宫适等追赶辛环、陶荣。吉立、余庆见势头不好，护持不下，只得败走。辛环肉翅在空中，保著闻太师，退走往岐山。不表。

It is said that Yang Jian, drawing upon the Sanmei Zhenhuo (Threefold True Fire) within his chest, set fire to the grain and grass, illuminating heaven and earth. While Tai Shi was in the midst of battle, he suddenly saw the fire break out and was greatly alarmed. He thought to himself: "The grain and grass have been burned—how can I maintain my main camp?" He raised his golden whip, spear, and sword in hand, but had no heart left for the battle. As he saw Ziya riding up, the latter raised his Dashen Bian (God-Beating Whip) into the air. Tai Shi could not escape this fateful strike; the blow forced out Sanmei Huo (Threefold Fire) from Tai Shi's body for several chi in all directions. Tai Shi urged his Hei Qilin beyond the circle of combat, fighting as he retreated; The heavens trembled and the earth quaked in response. Huang Feihuo and others pursued him hotly. Deng Zhong and Zhang Jie, seeing the central camp lost, had no choice but to protect Tai Shi and break through the encirclement. Nangong Shi and others chased after Xin Huan and Tao Rong. Ji Li and Yu Qing, seeing the tide of battle turn against them and unable to hold their ground, had no choice but to retreat in defeat. Xin Huan, with his fleshy wings, flew through the air to protect Tai Shi as they retreated toward Qishan Mountain. No further details are given.

且说终南山玉柱洞云中子在碧游床，忽然想起闻太师征伐西岐，正是雷震子下山之时，忙命金霞童儿：“请你师兄来。”童子去不多时，将雷震子请至碧游床前，倒身下拜。云中子曰：“徒弟，你可往西岐，去见你兄武王姬发，便可谒见你师叔姜子牙，助他伐纣，你可立功，速去。倘或中途若遇有肉翅之人，便可立功，方不负贫道传你两翅玄功，以助周室。”正是： 两枚仙杏安天下，方保周家八百年。且说雷震子出洞，把风雷翅一展，脚登天，头往下，二翅腾开，顷刻万里。怎见得，有赞为证： 大雨燕山曾出世，一声雷响现无生。终南秘授先天诀，八卦炉边师训成。七岁临潼曾会父，回山学艺更精明。二枚仙杏分离坎，两翅飞腾有昃盈。洞府传就黄金棍，展动舒开云雾生。奉师法旨离玉柱，方见岐山旧有名。

Meanwhile, Yun Zhongzi of Yuzhu Dong (Jade Pillar Cave) on Zhongnan Mountain, reclining on the Biyou Chuang (Emerald Tourbillon Couch), suddenly recalled that Tai Shi was waging war against Xiqi. It was precisely the time when Leizhenzi had descended from the mountain. He quickly ordered Jinxia Tonger: "Go and fetch your elder brother." The young attendant did not take long to return, bringing Leizhenzi before the Biyou Chuang. He knelt down and paid his respects. Yun Zhongzi said, "Disciple, you must go to Xiqi and see your elder brother King Wu Ji Fa. Then pay respects to your uncle-teacher Jiang Ziya and assist him in his campaign against Zhou. You may thus establish a great merit—hurry along." "Should you encounter anyone with fleshy wings on your way, you may establish merit by dealing with them—only then will you not have wasted my effort in passing down the secret art of the two wings to you, meant to aid the Zhou dynasty." Indeed: Two divine apricots bring peace to the world; Only thus can the Zhou family preserve eight hundred years of rule. Meanwhile, Leizhenzi left the cave and spread his Fenglei Chi (Wind-Thunder Wings). With a single leap, he ascended into the sky, head down, feet up. His wings flared open, and in an instant, he had traveled ten thousand li. How vivid was the scene? The following eulogy attests: A great rain once fell on Yanshan, and from it emerged a being; With one thunderclap, he appeared, manifesting without birth. From Zhongnan Mountain came secret teachings of the Primordial Arts; He was trained by his master at the Eight Trigrams Furnace, completing his cultivation. At seven years old, he met his father at Lintong; Returning to the mountain to study arts, he became even more skilled and astute. Two divine apricots separated the Water trigram (Kan); With two wings, he soared through the heavens, rising and falling with the stars. Within his cave dwelling, he was taught the Golden Staff; When brandished, it spread clouds and mist as it moved. Following his master's decree, he left Yuzhu Dong; Only then did Qishan Mountain reveal its long-standing renown.

且说雷震子离了终南，把二翅一夹，有风雷之声；飞至西岐山，远远望见闻太师兵败而来。雷震子大喜：“幸遇败兵，正好用心杀他一阵！”且说闻太师正挫锋锐，慌忙疾走，猛然抬头，见空中飞有一人，面如蓝靛，发似朱砂，獠牙生于上下，好凶恶之像。闻太师叫：“辛环！你看前面飞来一人，甚是凶恶，你可仔细小心！”说犹未了，雷震子大呼曰：“吾来了！”举棍就打。辛环锤钻迎面交还。空中四翅翻腾，锤棍交加响亮。雷震子乃仙传棍法；辛环生就英雄。怎见得，有赞为证： 四翅在空中，风雷响亮冲：这一个杀气三千丈；那一个灵光透九重；这一个肉身成正道；那一个凡体受神封；这一个棍起生烈焰；那一个锤钻逞英雄。平地征云起，空中火焰凶。金棍光辉分上下，锤钻精通最有功。自来也有将军战，不似空中类转蓬。

Meanwhile, Leizhenzi departed Zhongnan Mountain and clapped his two wings together, producing a sound of wind and thunder; He soared into the sky like an eagle. He flew to Xiqi Mountain and from afar saw Tai Shi's retreating army, defeated in battle. Leizhenzi was greatly pleased: "Fortunate indeed to encounter a routed army—this is the perfect opportunity to give them a thorough thrashing!" Meanwhile, Tai Shi was retreating in disarray and hurriedly fleeing. Suddenly raising his head, he saw a man flying through the air above—his face as blue as indigo, hair like cinnabar red, fangs protruding from upper and lower jaws; what an ominous and fearsome sight! Tai Shi cried out: "Xin Huan!" Look! A man is flying toward us from ahead—he looks extremely fierce. You must be cautious and careful!" Before the words had finished, Leizhenzi shouted: "I have come!" He raised his staff and struck down. Xin Huan met the blow head-on with his hammer and drill. In midair, four wings flapped wildly as hammers and staffs clashed in a loud cacophony. Leizhenzi wielded the staff techniques passed down from immortals; Xin Huan relied on his own martial prowess. Xin Huan was a naturally born hero. How vividly can this be described? A eulogy testifies: Four wings in the air, wind and thunder roaring upward—this one wields killing intent ten thousand zhang high; That one is a hero of great might. The other's divine radiance pierces through the nine heavens; This one attains the righteous path in his mortal body; The other, though of ordinary flesh, receives divine investiture. This one's staff strikes up fierce flames; That one's hammer and drill send forth thunderous shockwaves. The other wields his hammer and drill, displaying heroic might. Clouds rise from the earth; fierce flames rage in the sky. The golden staff's radiance divides heaven and earth; hammers and drills, when mastered, achieve great feats. Though battles between generals have always existed, none compare to this chaotic clash in the air like tumbleweed tossed about.

话说雷震子中途一战，只杀得辛环抵挡不住，抽身望岐山逃走。雷震子自思：“不可追赶。见了师叔、皇兄，料他还来，终久会我。”遂望西岐城相府中来。不题。

It is said that during this mid-journey battle, Leizhenzi's onslaught was so fierce that Xin Huan could no longer hold his ground and turned tail to flee toward Qishan Mountain. Leizhenzi thought to himself: "I must not pursue." "I have yet to meet my uncle-teacher and royal elder brother. I can be sure he will return eventually, for we are destined to meet." With that thought, he flew toward the prime minister's residence in Xiqi City. No further details are provided.

只见众人俱在子牙府里报功，劫营得胜，挫了闻太师的锋锐。子牙大喜，慰劳诸将曰：“今日之胜，皆出汝等之力，圣主社稷生民之福。”众将答曰：“武王洪福，丞相德政，故使闻仲不识时务，失其利也。”正话间，忽报：“有一道童求见。”子牙传：“请。”少时雷震子进府下拜，口称：“师叔！”子牙曰：“是那座名山弟子，今至此地？”雷震子曰：“弟子乃终南山玉柱洞云中子门下雷震子是也；今奉师命下山，一则谒师叔立功，二则见皇兄相会。”子牙曰：“你皇兄是谁？”雷震子曰：“皇兄乃是武王。”子牙问两边站立殿下：“你们可认得么？”众人曰：“认不得。”雷震子曰：“弟子七岁曾救文王出五关，弟子乃燕山雷震子。”子牙方悟，谓诸将曰：“此子──先王曾言，出五关遇雷震子救护。──今日进西岐，乃当今之洪福，得此异人。”遂引雷震子往见武王。子牙至皇城，有执殿官启武王：“丞相候旨。”武王传：“宣。”子牙进殿，行礼毕，奏曰：“大王御弟朝见。”武王曰：“孤弟何人？”子牙曰：“昔日先王在燕山收的雷震子，一向在终南山学艺，今日方归。”武王命：“请来。”雷震子进内庭，倒身下拜，口称：“皇兄。”武王称：“御弟，昔先王曾言贤弟之功，救危出关，复回终南；今日相逢，实为庆幸！”武王见雷震子形像凶恶，不敢命入内庭，恐惊太姬等。武王曰：“相父与孤代劳，相府宴弟。”子牙曰：“雷震子持斋；只随臣府宅，以便立功。”武王甚喜。雷震子彼时辞王回相府。不题。

Meanwhile, the others were all in Ziya's residence reporting their achievements—the raid on the camp had been victorious and Tai Shi's momentum was broken. Ziya was greatly pleased and comforted the generals, saying: "Today's victory is due entirely to your efforts. This is a blessing for His Majesty, the state, and its people." The generals replied: "King Wu's great fortune and the Prime Minister's virtuous governance have caused Tai Shi Wen Zhong to fail to recognize the times, thus losing his advantage." Just as they were speaking, a messenger suddenly reported: "A young Daoist disciple is requesting an audience." Ziya said: "Please him in." After a short while, Leizhenzi entered the residence and knelt to pay his respects, addressing Ziya as: "Uncle-teacher!" Ziya asked: "Which immortal mountain's disciple are you? Why have you come to this place?" Leizhenzi replied: "I am Leizhenzi, a disciple of Yun Zhongzi from Yuzhu Dong on Zhongnan Mountain; My master sent me to assist you in your campaign against Zhou." I have now descended the mountain upon my master's command: first, to visit you and establish merit; second, to meet with His Majesty." Ziya asked: "Who is your royal elder brother?" Leizhenzi said: "My royal elder brother is King Wu." Ziya turned to the officials standing on both sides of the hall and asked, "Do you recognize him?" The crowd replied: "We do not recognize him." Leizhenzi said: "When I was seven years old, I once rescued King Wen from the Five Passes. I am Leizhenzi of Yanshan." Ziya suddenly understood and said to the generals: "This young man—His late Majesty once mentioned that he was rescued by a boy named Leizhenzi when escaping through the Five Passes. Now I see it is indeed him." Today, his arrival in Xi Qi is a great blessing for our present ruler to have such an extraordinary person. Ziya then led Leizhenzi to pay homage to King Wu. When Ziya arrived at the royal palace, an official in charge of the hall announced to King Wu: "The Prime Minister is waiting for your command." King Wu said: "Summon him in." Ziya entered the hall, paid his respects, and reported: "Your Majesty, your imperial younger brother has come to pay homage." King Wu asked: "Who is my younger brother?" Ziya said: "He was once adopted by His late Majesty at Yanshan and has been studying the arts on Zhongnan Mountain. He returns today." King Wu ordered: "Please him in." Leizhenzi entered the inner court, knelt down with his face to the ground, and addressed King Wu as: "Royal elder brother." King Wu said: "My imperial younger brother, His late Majesty once spoke of your virtue and merit. You rescued him in a time of danger when he was escaping through the pass, then returned to Zhongnan Mountain; Now you have come back at this critical moment for our cause." Meeting with you today is truly a joyous occasion!" King Wu, seeing that Leizhenzi had an ugly and fierce appearance, dared not invite him into the inner court for fear of startling Tai Ji and others. King Wu said: "Father-in-law, you and I will honor him on your behalf; hold a banquet for my younger brother at the prime minister's residence." Ziya said: "Leizhenzi observes vegetarianism; We must prepare pure vegetarian dishes and invite him to dine with us." He will stay at my residence for now, so that he may be ready to establish merit." King Wu was very pleased. At that time, Leizhenzi bid farewell to the king and returned to Ziya's residence. No further details are given.

且说闻太师兵败岐山七十里，收住败残人马，结下营寨查点，损折军兵二万有馀。太师升帐，长叹曰：“自来提兵征伐多年，未尝有挫锋锐；今日到此，失机丧师，殊为痛恨！”心下十分不乐。自思无门；欲调别将，各有镇守。太师乃丹心赤胆，恨不得一刻遂平西地，其心才快；岂意如今失机被辱，只急得当中神目睁开，长圩短叹。吉立迎前启曰：“太师不必忧虑；况且三山五岳之中，道友颇多，或请一二位，大事自然可成。”太师听说，“老夫著军务烦冗，紊乱心怀，一时忘却。”遂上帐，分付邓、辛二将：“好生看守大营，吾去来。”太师乘了墨麒麟，把风云角一拍，那兽起在空中。正是： 金鳌岛内邀仙友，“封神榜”上早标名。

Meanwhile, Tai Shi Wen had suffered a defeat at Qishan and retreated seventy li. He gathered his remaining troops, set up camp to take stock, and found that more than twenty thousand soldiers had been lost or wounded. The Grand Master ascended his tent and sighed deeply, saying: "For many years I have led troops in campaigns without ever suffering a setback or losing my momentum; Now this defeat at the hands of Ziya has left me greatly troubled." To reach such a state today, to have lost an opportunity and suffered heavy casualties—this is deeply painful!" He was extremely unhappy. He pondered in frustration, with no clear path forward; His mind was filled with confusion and despair. He wished to call upon other generals, but each had their own duties and responsibilities for defending the region. Tai Shi Wen was a man of loyal heart and bold courage, and he could not help but wish to swiftly pacify the western territories in one fell swoop so that his mind might finally be at ease; Yet now, with this defeat, he felt as if time itself had slowed. He never expected that today he would miss the opportunity and be humiliated, which left him so agitated that his eyes bulged in frustration as he sighed long and short. Ji Li stepped forward and said: "Grand Master need not worry; The western forces are disorganized, and we can still find a way to recover." Moreover, among the Three Mountains and Five Great Peaks there are many Daoist friends. If we invite just one or two of them to assist us, our great cause will naturally succeed." Upon hearing this, Tai Shi Wen said: "Old man that I am, my military duties have been so busy and overwhelming that they have disturbed my mind, causing me to momentarily forget." He then ascended his tent and ordered Generals Deng and Xin: "Take good care of the main camp while I am away." Tai Shi Wen mounted his black Qilin, struck its wind and cloud horn once, and the beast rose into the air. Indeed: From Jin Ao Island he invites immortal friends; their names have long been inscribed on the "Feng Shen Bang."

话说闻太师的墨麒麟周游天下，霎时可至千里；其日行到东海金鳌岛。太师观看大海，青山幽静，因嗟叹曰：“吾因为国事烦琐，先王托孤之重，何日能脱却烦恼，静坐蒲团，参玄悟妙，闲看“黄庭”一卷，任乌兔如梭，何有与我。”真个好海岛，有无穷奇景，怎见得，有赞为证： 势镇汪洋，威宁摇海。潮涌银山鱼入穴，波翻雪浪蜃离渊。木火方隅高积土，东西崖畔耸危巅。丹岩怪石，峭壁奇峰。丹崖上彩凤双鸣；峭壁前麒麟独卧。峰头时听锦鸾啼，石窟每观龙出入。林中有寿鹿、仙狐；树上有灵禽、玄鸟。瑶草奇花不谢；青松翠柏长春。仙桃常结果，修竹每留云。一条涧壑藤萝密，四面源堤草色新。正是：百川会处擎天柱，万劫无移大地根。

Speaking of Tai Shi Wen's black Qilin, it could travel across the world in an instant, covering a thousand li in the blink of an eye; With but a thought, he arrived at Wudang Mountain. On that day, his journey took him to Jin Ao Island in the East Sea. Looking out over the vast sea and the quiet green hills, Tai Shi Wen sighed and said: "Because of my country's burdensome affairs and the heavy responsibility entrusted to me by His late Majesty, when will I ever be free from these worries? When can I sit in stillness on a mat, contemplate the mysteries of Dao, leisurely read through one scroll of 'Huangting,' and let the sun and moon pass like a shuttle—what would that have to do with me?" This was truly a magnificent island, filled with endless wonders. How so? A verse testifies: Its might dominates the vast ocean; its power stills even the surging sea. Tides surge like silver mountains, fish dart into their caves; waves crash like snow-laden tides, and mirages vanish from the depths. The corners of wood and fire are raised by high mounds; on both eastern and western cliffs, perilous peaks rise aloft. Scarlet rocks and strange stones, sheer cliffs and wondrous peaks. On the red cliffs, pairs of colorful phoenixes sing in harmony; Among the green pines, twin cranes dance gracefully. Before the precipice, a Qilin lies alone in repose. From mountain peaks one often hears the cries of brocade 鸾 birds; within stone grottoes, one frequently sees dragons entering and exiting. Within the forest dwell long-lived deer and immortal foxes; Among the flowers live phoenixes and qilin. On the trees perch divine birds and mystical fenghuang. Jade grass and rare flowers never wither; Peaches of immortality bloom in perpetual spring. Cedar pines and emerald cypress trees remain evergreen. Immortal peaches bear fruit constantly, while elegant bamboo often holds clouds in its grasp. A ravine is thick with vines and wisteria; on all sides, the banks of streams are fresh with new grass. Indeed: A pillar that supports the heavens where a hundred rivers converge, an unshakable root of the earth through ten thousand calamities.

话说闻太师到了金鳌岛，下了墨麒麟，看了一回，各处洞门紧闭，并无一人，不知往那里去了，静悄悄的。闻太师沉吟半晌，自思：“不如往别处去罢。”上了墨麒麟，方出岛来，后有人叫曰：“闻道兄！往那里去？”闻太师回顾，见来者乃菡芝仙也。忙上前稽首曰：“道友往那里去？”菡芝仙答曰：“特来会你。金鳌岛众道友为你往白鹿岛去练阵图。前日申公豹来请俺们往西岐助你。我如今在八卦炉中炼一物，功尚未成，若是完了，随即就至。众道友现在白鹿岛；道兄，你可速去。”闻太师听说大喜，遂辞了菡芝仙，迳往白鹿岛来，霎时而至。只见众道人：或带一字巾、九扬巾，或鱼尾金冠、碧玉冠，或挽双抓髻，或陀头样打扮，俱在山坡前闲说，不在一处。闻太师看见，大呼曰：“列位道友，好自在也！”众道人回头，见闻太师，俱起身相迎。内有秦天君曰：“闻得道兄征伐西岐，前日申公豹在此相邀助你，吾等在此练十阵图，方得完备。适道兄到临，真是万千之幸！”闻太师问曰：“兄练的那十阵？”秦天君曰：“吾等这十阵，各有妙用。明日至西岐摆下，其中变化无穷。”闻太师看罢，曰：“为何只有九位，却少一位？”素天君曰：“金光圣母往白云岛去练他的金光阵，其玄妙大不相同，因此少他一位。”董天君曰：“列位阵图可曾完么？”众道人曰：“俱完了。”“既完了，我们先往西岐。闻兄在此等金光圣母同来。你意下如何？”闻太师曰：“既蒙列位道兄雅爱，闻仲感戴荣光万万矣。此是极妙之事。”九位道人辞了闻太师，借水遁先往西岐而来。怎见得，有诗为证： 天下嬉游半月功，倏来倏去任西东，仙家妙用无穷际，岂似凡人驾彩虹。

Speaking of Tai Shi Wen, upon arriving at Jin Ao Island, he dismounted from his black Qilin and took a look around. All the cave entrances were tightly shut, with not a single person in sight; he had no idea where they had gone. The place was deathly quiet. Tai Shi Wen pondered for a moment, then thought to himself: "I might as well go elsewhere." He was just about to mount his black Qilin when someone called out from behind him: "Brother Tai Shi!" Where are you going?" Tai Shi Wen turned around and saw that the one who had called out was Hanzhi Xian. He hurried forward, bowed respectfully, and asked: "Where are you going, Daoist friend?" Hanzhi Xian replied: "I have come especially to meet with you. The Immortal Lord of the Island has been away for some time, but I heard that you were coming and so I came out to greet you." The Daoist friends of Jin Ao Island have gone to Bai Lu Island to practice formation diagrams. Shen Gongbao came the other day and invited us all to go to Xi Qi to assist you." I am now refining an object in my Bagua Furnace, and the process is not yet complete. Once it is finished, I will come to you immediately." The other Daoist friends are currently at Bai Lu Island; If you wish, I can send a message for them to return. "Daoist brother, you may go quickly." Upon hearing this, Tai Shi Wen was greatly pleased. He bid farewell to Hanzhi Xian and went directly to Bai Lu Island, arriving in an instant. He saw the Daoist sages: some wore single-character or nine-ribboned head coverings, others donned fish-tail golden hats or emerald jade crowns; some had their hair tied in double pigtails, while others were dressed in the Tuo Tou style. They were all chatting idly on the hillside but not gathered together. Seeing this, Tai Shi Wen called out joyfully: "Dear Daoist friends, how at ease and carefree you all are!" The Daoists turned around upon hearing him, saw Tai Shi Wen, and rose to greet him. Among them, Qin Tianjun said: "We heard that you were waging war against Xi Qi. The other day Shen Gongbao came here to invite us to assist you, and we have been practicing the Ten Formation Diagrams until they are complete. Now that it is done, we will go with you." It is truly a great honor to welcome you here today!" Tai Shi Wen asked: "Brother, what are the ten formations you have practiced?" Qin Tianjun replied: "These ten formations we have practiced each has its own wondrous application. They are called the 'Ten Heavenly Formation Diagrams,' and they can be used to trap any immortal or sage." Tomorrow we will deploy them in Xi Qi, where their transformations will be endless." After examining the formations, Tai Shi Wen asked: "Why are there only nine of you here? One is missing?" Sutianjun said: "Jinguang Shengmu has gone to Baiyun Island to practice his own Golden Light Formation, which is vastly different in its mysteries. That is why one of us is missing." Dong Tianjun asked: "Have all of you completed your formation diagrams?" The Daoists replied: "All are complete." "If they are all completed, let us go to Xi Qi first. We will send a message to Jinguang Shengmu and have him join us later." Brother Tai Shi, you may wait here for Jinguang Shengmu to come with us. What do you think?" Tai Shi Wen said: "Since all of you, my esteemed Daoist brothers, have shown me such kindness and favor, I am deeply honored. The gratitude I feel is beyond measure. I will wait here for Jinguang Shengmother to arrive." This is a most wondrous matter indeed." The nine Daoists bid farewell to Tai Shi Wen and, using water-based teleportation techniques, departed ahead toward Xi Qi. How so? A poem testifies: With half a month's effort, they travel and play freely across the land; suddenly here, suddenly there, at will to the west or east. The wondrous applications of immortals are boundless—how could this be like ordinary mortals riding rainbows?

不说九位道者往西岐山，到了营里。且说闻太师坐在山坡，倚松靠石，未及片时，只见正南上五点豹斑驹上坐一人，带鱼尾金冠，身穿大红八卦衣，腰束丝绦，脚登云履，背一包袱，挂两口宝剑，如飞云掣电而来。望见白鹿岛洞前不见众人，只见一位穿红、三只眼、黄脸长髯的道者，却原来是闻太师。金光圣母急下坐骑，曰：“闻兄何来？”二人施礼。问：“九位道友往那里去了？”太师曰：“他们先往岐山去，留吾在此等候同行。”二人大喜，齐上坐骑，驾起云光，往岐山而来，霎时便至。到了行营，吉立领众将迎接，上中军帐，与众道人相见。秦天君曰：“西岐城在那里？”闻太师曰：“因吾前夜败兵，退至七十里安营，此处乃是岐山。”众人曰：“我们连夜起兵前去。”闻太师令邓忠前队起兵，整点人马；一声炮响，杀奔西岐城来，安了行营，三军放定营大炮，呐喊传更。

Without further mention of the nine Daoists heading to Xi Qi Mountain and arriving at their camp, let us return to Tai Shi Wen waiting on Bai Lu Island. Meanwhile, Tai Shi Wen sat on the hillside, leaning against a pine tree and resting by a rock. Not long had passed when he saw from the due south direction a man riding five spotted leopard steeds. The rider wore a golden fish-tail crown, donned a crimson eight-trigram robe, tied his waist with a silk sash, and wore cloud-patterned shoes on his feet. He carried a bundle on his back and had two treasure swords hanging at his side, arriving as swiftly as flying clouds and flashing lightning. Looking toward the front of the White Deer Island cave, he saw no one else but a Daoist in red robes with three eyes, yellow face, and long beard—none other than Tai Shi Wen. Jinguang Shengmu quickly dismounted from his steed and asked, "Brother Wen, where have you come from?" The two men bowed to each other. Jinguang Shengmu asked, "Where have the nine Daoist friends gone?" Tai Shi Wen replied: "They went ahead to Qi Mountain first and left me here waiting for you to join us." The two were greatly pleased. They both mounted their steeds, raised clouds of light, and flew toward Qi Mountain. In an instant, they arrived. Upon arriving at the camp, Ji Li led the generals to greet them and escorted them into the central command tent, where they met with the Daoists. Qin Tianjun asked, "Where is the city of Xi Qi?" Tai Shi Wen replied: "Because my troops were defeated last night, I withdrew and set up camp seventy li away. This place is Qi Mountain." The crowd said, "We will raise our army at once and march ahead overnight." Tai Shi Wen ordered Deng Zhong to lead the vanguard troops and prepare the soldiers and horses; A cannon roared, and they rushed toward the city of Xi Qi. They set up their camp and deployed large siege cannons for the three armies, with shouts echoing as night watch signals were passed around.

子牙在相府自因得胜，与众将逐日议论天下大事，忽听喊声，子牙曰：“闻太师想必取得援兵至矣。”傍有杨戬答曰：“闻太师新败，去了半月，弟子闻此人乃截教门下，必定别请左道旁门之客，也要仔细防护。”子牙听罢，心下疑惑，乃同哪吒、杨戬等都上城来观看，闻太师行营今番大不相同。子牙见营中愁云惨惨，冷雾飘飘，杀光闪闪，悲风切切；又有十数道黑气，冲于霄汉，笼罩中军帐内。子牙看罢，惊讶不已。诸弟子默默不言，只得下城入府，共议破敌，实是无策。

Zi Ya, in the prime minister's residence, was rejoicing over his recent victory and had been discussing major affairs of the world with his generals day by day. Suddenly hearing shouts, Zi Ya said, "Tai Shi Wen must have brought reinforcements." Beside him, Yang Jian replied, "Tai Shi Wen recently suffered a defeat and has been away for half a month. I have heard that this man is a disciple of the Jie Sect. He must have invited some practitioners of left-hand or heretical arts; we should remain vigilant and carefully guard against them." After hearing this, Zi Ya felt doubtful and so ascended the city wall together with Nezha, Yang Jian, and others to observe. This time, Tai Shi Wen's camp looked completely different from before. Zi Ya saw that the camp was shrouded in gloomy clouds and cold mist, with flashes of killing light and a mournful wind blowing. Moreover, more than ten dark mists surged into the sky above, enveloping the central command tent. After observing this, Zi Ya was greatly startled and astonished. The disciples remained silent and said nothing but descended from the city wall back to the residence, where they gathered together to discuss strategies for defeating the enemy. Yet, in truth, they had no plan at all.

且说闻太师安了营，与十天君共议破西岐之策。袁天君曰：“吾闻姜子牙昆仑门下。想二教皈依，总是一理，如红尘杀伐，吾等不必动此念头；既练有十阵，我们先与他斗智，方显两教中玄妙。若要倚勇斗力，皆非我等道门所为。”闻太师曰：“道兄之言甚善。”次日，成汤营里炮炮声一响，布开阵势。闻太师乘墨麒麟，坐名请子牙答话。报进相府。子牙随调三军，摆出城来，旛分五色，众将轩昂；子牙坐四不相上，看成汤营里布成阵势。只见闻太师坐麒麟，执金鞭在前，后面有十位道者，好凶恶！脸分五色：青、黄、赤、白、红，俱皆骑鹿而来。怎见得，有诗为证： 青丝上搭一纶巾，腹内玄机动万人。无福成仙称道德，“封神榜”上列其身。

Meanwhile, Tai Shi Wen set up his camp and convened with the Ten Tianjun to discuss strategies for breaking through Xi Qi. Yuan Tianjun said: "I have heard that Jiang Ziya is a disciple of Kunlun." He continued, "Though the two sects differ in their teachings, they ultimately follow one principle. As for worldly conflicts and bloodshed, we need not entertain such thoughts; we should seek a peaceful resolution." Since we have already prepared the Ten Arrays, let us first challenge him with wisdom—only then will the profound mysteries of both sects be revealed." "If we were to rely on brute strength and courage alone, that would not be in line with our Daoist principles at all." Tai Shi Wen said: "My Daoist brother's words are most wise." The next day, a cannon roared in the Cheng Tang camp, and the formation was deployed. Tai Shi Wen rode the Hei Qilin (Black Qilin) to the city walls and requested a parley with Zi Ya. The news was reported into the prime minister's residence. Zi Ya promptly mobilized his three armies, marching them out of the city with five-colored banners fluttering and generals standing tall and proud; Zi Ya sat atop the Sibuxiang and observed as the Cheng Tang camp deployed its formation. He saw Tai Shi Wen seated on a qilin, holding a golden whip in front, with ten Daoists behind him—how fierce and fearsome they looked! Their faces were colored five different hues: blue, yellow, red, white, and crimson. All rode on deer as they approached. How so? A poem attests: A single ribbon adorns the flowing hair; within lies profound mystery, stirring ten thousand men. Though lacking merit to become an immortal and claim virtue, their names are inscribed on the "Fengshen Bang" (List of Gods).

话说秦天君乘鹿上前，见子牙打稽首，曰：“姜子牙请了！”子牙欠背躬身答曰：“道兄请了。不知列位道兄是那座名山？何处洞府？”秦天君曰：“吾乃金鳌岛炼气士秦完是也。汝乃昆仑门客，吾是截教门人，为何你倚道术欺侮吾教？甚非你我道家体面。”子牙答曰：“道友何以见得吾欺侮贵教？”秦完曰：“你将九龙岛魔家四人诛戮，还深侮吾教。我等今下山，与你见个雌雄。非是倚勇，吾等各以秘授略见功夫。吾等又不是凡夫俗子，恃强斗勇，皆非仙体。”秦完说罢，子牙曰：“道兄通明达显，普照四方，复始巡终，周流上下，原无二致。纣王无道，绝灭纪纲，王气黯然。西土仁君已现，当顺天时，莫迷己性。况鸣凤于岐山，应生圣贤之兆。从来有道克无道，有福摧无福，正能克邪，邪不能犯正。道兄幼访名师，深悟大道，岂有不明道理！”秦完曰：“据你所言，周为真命之主，纣王乃无道之君。吾等此来，助纣灭周，难道便是不应天时？──这也不在口中讲。姜子牙，吾在岛中曾有十阵，摆与子牙过目。不必倚强，恐伤上帝好生之仁，累此无辜黎庶，勇悍儿郎，智勇将士，遭此劫运，而縻烂其肌体也。不识子牙意下如何？”子牙曰：“道兄既有此意，姜尚岂敢违命。”只见十道人俱回骑进营，一两个时辰，把十阵俱摆将出来。秦完复至阵前曰：“子牙，贫道十阵图已完，请公细玩。”子牙曰：“领教了。”随带哪吒、黄天化、雷震子、杨戬四位门人来看阵。闻太师在辕门与十道人细看，子牙领来四人：一个站在风火轮上，提火尖枪，是哪吒；玉麒麟上是黄天化；雷震子狰狞异相；杨戬道气昂然。只见杨戬向前对秦天君曰：“吾等看阵，不可以暗兵、暗宝暗算吾师叔，非大丈夫之所为也。”秦完笑曰：“叫你等早晨死，不敢午时亡。岂有将暗宝伤你等之理！”哪吒曰：“口说无凭，发手可见。道者休得夸口！”四人保定子牙看阵。见头一阵，挑起一牌，上书“天绝阵”；第二上书“地烈阵”；第三上书“风吼阵”；第四上书“寒冰阵”；第五上书“金光阵”；第六上书“化血阵”；第七上书“烈焰阵”；第八上书“落魂阵”；第九上书“红水阵”；第十上书“红砂阵”。子牙看毕，复至阵前。秦天君曰：“子牙识此阵否？”子牙曰：“十阵俱明，吾已知之。”袁天君曰：“可能破否？”子牙曰：“既在道中，怎不能破？”袁天君曰：“几时来破？”子牙曰：“此阵尚未完全，待你完日，用书知会，方破此阵。请了！”闻太师同诸道友回营。子牙进城，入相府，好愁！真是双锁眉尖，无筹可展。杨戬在侧曰：“师叔方才言能破此阵，其实可能破得否？”姜子牙曰：“此阵乃截教传来，皆稀奇之幻法，阵名罕见，焉能破得？”不言子牙烦恼。且说闻太师同十位道者入营，治酒款待。饮酒之间，闻太师曰：“道友，此十阵有何妙用可破西岐？”秦天君开讲十绝大阵。不知有何奥妙，且听下回分解。

As the story continues, Qin Tianjun rode forward on his deer and saw Zi Ya bowing respectfully. He said, "Jiang Ziya, greetings!" Zi Ya bowed with a slight bend of the back and replied, "My Daoist elder brother, greetings." I wonder which famous mountain your esteemed Daoist brothers belong to?" And what is the name of your cave dwelling?" Qin Tianjun replied, "I am Qin Wan, a cultivator from Jinao Island. My master is the great immortal Taiyi Zhenren." Since you are a disciple of Kunlun and I belong to the Jie Sect, why have you used your Daoist arts to bully our sect? "This is most unbecoming for both of us as members of the Daoist tradition." Zi Ya replied, "My Daoist friend, on what grounds do you say I have bullied your sect?" Qin Wan said: "You executed the four Ma brothers of Jiulong Island, which is a great insult to our sect. Furthermore, you have destroyed the formation of the Ten Thousand Demons and killed countless disciples of my sect." Now we have descended from the mountain to settle this dispute with you. Let us see who is superior!" This is not about brute strength; rather, each of us will demonstrate our skills through the secret teachings we have received." We are no ordinary mortals. To rely on strength and fight with brute force is not in line with the nature of immortals." After Qin Wan finished speaking, Zi Ya said: "My Daoist elder brother is wise and enlightened, shining brightly in all directions. The Dao begins again after the end, flows ceaselessly up and down—there is essentially no difference between us. If we can resolve this through reason and wisdom, it would be most harmonious." King Zhou is tyrannical and lawless, having destroyed the principles of order. The royal aura has faded into darkness. The Mandate of Heaven belongs to a new ruler; it would be best for both our sects to seek peace." A benevolent ruler in the west has already emerged. We should follow the will of Heaven and not be blinded by our own desires. Let us seek a peaceful resolution." Moreover, the phoenix has cried out on Qi Mountain—this is an omen of sages and virtuous men to come. It would be wise for both sides to avoid further conflict." Righteousness has always triumphed over tyranny, and those with virtue have overcome the unworthy. The just can conquer the unjust, but evil cannot harm righteousness. Let us resolve this matter through wisdom and harmony." "My Daoist elder brother studied under renowned masters from a young age and deeply understood the great Dao. How could you fail to comprehend such principles!" Qin Wan said: "According to your words, the Zhou is the true sovereign, and King Zhou is a tyrant without virtue. If this is so, then why did you not submit earlier? Why have you delayed for so long?" We came here to assist King Zhou in defeating the Zhou. Is this truly going against Heaven's will? If you claim righteousness, then why do you resist so fiercely?" "This is not something to be argued with words." "Jiang Ziya, while I was on the island, I had prepared ten formations and showed them to you for your inspection. You saw their power with your own eyes." There is no need to rely on strength. I fear it would harm the compassionate will of Heaven, burdening innocent civilians and brave young men, as well as wise and courageous generals who suffer this calamity and have their bodies ruined. Let us resolve this peacefully." "What is your opinion on this matter, Master Zi Ya?" Zi Ya said: "If my Daoist elder brother has such an intention, how could Jiang Shang dare to defy it." Just then, the ten Daoists all returned on their steeds and entered the camp. Within one or two hours, they deployed all ten formations. Qin Wan returned to the front of the formation and said: "Zi Ya, my ten array diagrams are now complete. Please take a close look." Ziya said: "I have received your instruction." He then brought along his four disciples—Nezha, Huang Tianhua, Leizhenzi, and Yang Jian—to view the formation. Tai Shi Wen, at the 辕门 (yuanmen, a gate of the camp), observed with the ten Daoists as Zi Ya brought over four people: one stood on wind and fire wheels, holding a spear—this was Nezha; on the Jade Qilin sat Huang Tianhua; Leizhenzi had a fierce and monstrous appearance; Yang Jian exuded an imposing Daoist aura. Just then, Yang Jian stepped forward and said to Qin Tianjun: "We are here to observe the formation. It is not the act of a true man to use hidden troops or secret treasures to ambush our master or uncle." Qin Wan laughed and said, "I can have you all dead in the morning; you dare not escape by midday. You may look closely at these formations now!" How could I possibly harm any of you with hidden treasures?" Nezha said: "Words alone are not proof. Let us see what your hands can do." "Do not boast so much, you Daoist!" The four men stood guard around Zi Ya as he observed the formation. They saw the first array, where a banner was raised with the words "Tianjue Array" (Heavenly Cutoff Array) written on it; the second bore the inscription "Dilie Array" (Earth Shattering Array); the third read "Fenghou Array" (Roaring Wind Array); the fourth bore the words "Hanjing Array" (Frozen Ice Array); the fifth read "Jinguang Array" (Golden Light Array); the sixth bore the inscription "Huaxue Array" (Blood Transmutation Array); the seventh read "Lieyan Array" (Blazing Flame Array); the eighth bore the words "Luohun Array" (Soul-Dropping Array); the ninth read "Hongshui Array" (Red Water Array); and the tenth was inscribed with "Yingyang Array" (Yin-Yang Array). The tenth bore the inscription "Hongsan Array" (Red Sand Array). After inspecting them, Zi Ya returned to the front of the array. Qin Tianjun asked: "Zi Ya, do you recognize these arrays?" Zi Ya replied: "I understand all ten arrays; I already know them." Yuan Tianjun asked, "Can you break through them?" Zi Ya replied: "Since I am a Daoist, how could I not be able to break through them?" Yuan Tianjun asked: "When will you come to break them?" Zi Ya said, "These arrays are not yet fully complete. When they are finished, I will be informed by letter and then break through these arrays." "Understood!" Lord Wenshi returned to the camp together with his fellow Daoist disciples. Zi Ya entered the city and went into the prime minister's residence, feeling very troubled! Truly, his brows were furrowed with worry, and he had no plan to unfold. Yang Jian said from the side: "Master Uncle just now said you could break through this array, but in reality, can it actually be broken?" Jiang Zi Ya said: "These arrays were passed down from the Jie Sect; they are all strange and wondrous illusions. The names of these arrays are rare, so how could I possibly break through them?" It goes without saying that Zi Ya was troubled. Meanwhile, Lord Wenshi and the ten Daoist practitioners entered the camp and prepared a banquet to entertain them. While drinking, Lord Wenshi said: "Daoist friends, what wondrous effects do these ten arrays have in defeating Xi Qi?" Qin Tianjun began to explain the Ten Absolute Arrays. What wondrous secrets they hold remains unknown; we shall hear more in the next chapter.