Chapter 47: Gongming Assists Lord Wen

诗曰： 异宝虽多莫炫奇，须知盈满有参差。西山此际多夸胜，狭路应思失意悲。 跨虎有成终属幻，降龙无术转当时。堪嗟纣日西山近，无奈匡君欠所思。

The poem says: Though many strange treasures abound, do not display them as marvels; one must know that fullness and completeness are never without irregularities. At this moment, the western hills abound with boasts of excellence; in a narrow path, one should think of sorrow from misfortune. Taming tigers may seem successful but is ultimately an illusion; subduing dragons without skill will inevitably change in the moment. It is indeed lamentable that on the day of Zhou, the western hills are near; it is regrettable that those who would assist the ruler lack thought.

话说赵公明乘虎提鞭，出营来大呼曰：“著姜尚快来见我！”哪吒听说，报上篷来：“有一跨虎道者，请师叔答话。”燃灯谓子牙曰：“来者乃峨嵋山罗浮洞赵公明是也，你可见机而作。”子牙领命下篷，乘四不相，左右有哪吒、雷震子、黄天化、杨戬、金、木二吒拥护。只见杏黄旗招展，黑虎上坐一道人，怎见得： 天地玄黄修道德，洪荒宇宙炼元神。虎龙啸聚风云鼎，乌兔周旋卯酉晨。五遁三除闲戏耍，移山倒海等闲论。掌上曾安天地诀，一双草履任游巡。五气朝元真罕事，三花聚顶自长春。峨嵋山下声名远，得到罗浮有几人。

Now, Zhao Gongming rode a tiger and held a whip in hand as he came out of the camp, shouting loudly, "Jiang Shang! Come quickly to see me!" Ne Zha heard this and reported on the canopy, saying, "A Daoist riding a tiger requests Uncle Master to speak with him." Randel said to Ziya, "The one who has come is Zhao Gongming of Luofu Cave on Emei Mountain. You should act according to the situation." Ziya accepted the order and descended from the canopy, riding Sibuxiang. On either side were Ne Zha, Leizhenzi, Huang Tianhua, Yang Jian, and the two Zhazhi Jin and Mu to support him. One could see the apricot-yellow banner fluttering, and on a black tiger sat a Daoist. How was he described: He cultivated morality in heaven and earth's darkness and yellow; he refined his original spirit through the chaos of the universe. Tigers and dragons howled, gathering wind and clouds in a cauldron; crows and rabbits revolved through the hours of Mao and You at dawn. Five evasions, three eliminations—idle play; moving mountains and overturning seas are but casual talk. lxml In his palm he once held the secrets of heaven and earth; a pair of straw sandals allowed him to wander freely. The Five Qi converging toward the Yuan is truly rare; the Three Flowers gathering at the crown bring eternal spring. Far and wide is his reputation beneath Emei Mountain; how many have reached Luofu?

话说子牙见公明，向他施礼，口称：“道友是那一座名山？何处洞府？”公明曰：“吾乃峨嵋山罗浮洞赵公明是也。你破吾道友六阵，倚仗你等道术，坏吾六友，心实痛切！又把赵江高吊芦篷，情俱可恨！姜尚！我知你是玉虚宫门下。我今日下山，必定与你见个高低！”提鞭纵虎来取子牙，子牙仗剑急架忙还。二兽相交。未及数合，公明祭鞭在空中，神光闪灼如电，其实惊人。子牙躲不及，被一鞭打下鞍鞽。哪吒急来，使火尖枪敌住公明。金吒救回姜子牙。子牙被鞭打伤后心，死了。哪吒使开枪法，战未数合，又被公明一鞭打下风火轮来。黄天化看见，催开玉麒麟，使两柄锤抵住公明。又飞起雷震子，展开黄金棍，往下打来。杨戬纵马摇枪，将赵公明裹在垓心。好杀！只杀得： 天昏地惨无光彩，宇宙浑然黑雾迷。

Now, Ziya saw Gongming and paid him a bow, saying respectfully, "Daoist friend, which famous mountain is your home?" "Which cave dwelling do you reside in?" Gongming said, "I am Zhao Gongming of Luofu Dong on Emei Mountain." "You destroyed my Daoist friend's six formations, relying on your Dao techniques to harm my six friends. My heart is truly pained!" Moreover, you hanged Zhao Jiang and Gao Diao from the straw canopy—this is all deeply hateful! Jiang Shang! I know you are a disciple of Yuxu Palace. Today, as I descend the mountain, I shall surely settle with you who is superior or inferior!" Gongming raised his whip and rode forward to attack Ziya; Ziya brandished his sword, quickly raising it in defense. The two beasts clashed. Before several exchanges could occur, Gongming offered his whip into the air; divine light flashed like lightning, truly astonishing. Ziya failed to evade in time and was struck from his saddle by a single whip. Ne Zha rushed forward urgently, wielding the Fire Tip Lance to confront Gongming. Jin Zha rescued Jiang Ziya back. After being struck in the heart by the whip, Ziya was wounded and died. Ne Zha employed his spear techniques; before several exchanges could occur, he too was struck by Gongming's whip and fell from the Wind-Fire Wheels. Huang Tianhua saw this and spurred his Jade Qilin forward, wielding two hammers to confront Gongming. Then Leizhenzi flew up, brandishing a golden staff and striking downward. Yang Jian rode forward, waving his spear, surrounding Zhao Gongming in the center of the battlefield. How fierce the battle! The battle raged so fiercely that: Heaven darkened and earth turned bleak, without luster; the universe was shrouded in a murky fog.

赵公明被三人裹住了。雷震子是上三路，黄天化是中三路，杨戬暗将哮天犬放起，形如白象。怎见得好犬： 仙犬修成号细腰，形如白象势如枭。铜头铁颈难招架，遭遇凶锋骨亦消。

Zhao Gongming was surrounded by three men. Leizhenzi attacked the upper third, Huang Tianhua the middle third, and Yang Jian secretly released Xiaotian Quan, which took on a form like that of a white elephant. How was the fine dog described: The immortal dog, refined and known as Xi Yao, took a form like a white elephant in shape and a vulture in posture. Its copper head and iron neck were hard to counter; encountering its fierce attack, even bones would be shattered.

话说杨戬暗放哮天犬，赵公明不防备，早被哮天犬一口把颈项咬伤，将袍服扯碎，只得拨虎逃归进辕门。闻太师见公明失利，慌忙上前慰劳。赵公明曰：“不妨。”忙将葫芦中仙药取出搽上，即时全愈。不表。

Now, Yang Jian secretly released Xiaotianquan. Zhao Gongming was unprepared and was quickly bitten on the neck by Xiaotianquan, tearing his robe to shreds. He had no choice but to turn back in retreat toward the camp gate. Wen Taishi saw Gongming's defeat and hurried forward to console him. Zhao Gongming said, "It is nothing." He quickly took out divine medicine from the gourd and applied it; instantly, he was fully healed. No further details are given.

且说子牙被赵公明一鞭打死，抬进相府。武王知子牙打死，忙同文武众官至相府来看子牙；只见子牙面如白纸，合目不言，不觉点首叹曰：“名利’二字，俱成画饼！”著实伤悼。正叹之间，报：“广成子进相府来看子牙。”武王迎接至殿前，武王曰：“道兄，相父已亡，如之奈何？”广成子曰：“不妨。子牙该有此厄。”叫取水一盏。道人取一粒丹，用手捻开，口撬开，将药灌下十二重楼。有一个时辰，子牙大叫一声：“痛杀吾也！”二目睁开，只见武王、广成子俱站于卧榻之前。子牙方知中伤已死。正欲挣起身来致谢，广成子摇手曰：“你好生调理，不要妄动。吾去芦篷照顾，──恐赵公明猖獗。”广成子至篷上，回了燃灯的话，“已救回子牙还生，且在城内调养。”不表。

Meanwhile, Ziya had been struck down and killed by Zhao Gongming's whip, and was carried into the prime minister's residence. King Wu learned of Ziya's death and hurriedly went with his ministers to the prime minister's residence to see him; They saw Ziya with a face as pale as paper, eyes closed and silent. Unable to help himself, he nodded and sighed, saying, "The two words 'fame' and 'profit' have all become painted cakes!" It was truly a cause for grief. While mourning, a report came: "Guangchengzi is entering the prime minister's residence to visit Ziya." King Wu welcomed him to the hall. King Wu said, "Daoist elder brother, my father-in-Dao has passed away—what can we do?" Guangchengzi said, "It is nothing." "Ziya was destined to encounter this calamity." He ordered a cup of water. The Daoist took a pill, crushed it with his hand, pried open Ziya's mouth, and administered the medicine down to the twelve-story throat. After an hour, Ziya let out a loud cry: "This pain is killing me!" He opened his eyes and saw King Wu and Guangchengzi both standing before his bedside. Ziya then realized he had been mortally wounded and was already dead. Just as Ziya tried to sit up to express his gratitude, Guangchengzi shook his head and said, "You must rest well and not move unnecessarily. I will go back to the straw canopy to take care of things—fearing that Zhao Gongming may grow bold." Guangchengzi returned to the canopy and reported back to Randel, saying, "Ziya has already been rescued and revived; he is now resting and recovering within the city." No further details are given.

话说赵公明次日上虎，提鞭出营，至篷下，坐名要燃灯答话。哪吒报上篷来。燃灯遂与众道友排班而出；见公明威风凛凛，眼露凶光，非道者气象。燃灯打稽首，对赵公明曰：“道兄请了！”公明回答曰：“道兄，你等欺吾教太甚！吾道你知；你道吾见。你听吾道来： 混沌从来不记年，各将妙道补真全。当时未有星河斗，先有吾党后有天。

Now, the next day Zhao Gongming mounted his tiger and brandished a whip to leave camp. He arrived at the canopy below and demanded that Randel come forward for discussion. Ne Zha reported this from above the canopy. Randel then stepped out with his fellow Daoists in formation; They saw Gongming exuding a fearsome aura, eyes flashing with ferocity—unlike the demeanor of a Daoist. Randel bowed deeply and said to Zhao Gongming, "Respectful greetings, Daoist elder brother!" Gongming replied, "Daoist elder brother, you have wronged our sect too greatly! You know my Dao; you should see my way. Listen to my Dao: From the beginning, chaos has never marked years; each contributes wondrous Dao to complete the true and perfect. At that time, before there were constellations or rivers of stars, our sect existed first, then came heaven itself.

道兄，你乃阐教玉虚门下之士；我乃截教门人。你师，我师，总是一师秘授，了道成仙，共为教主。你们把赵江吊在篷上，将吾道藐如灰土。吊他一绳，有你半绳，道理不公。岂不知： 翠竹黄须白笋芽，儒冠道履白莲花。红花白藕青荷叶，三教元来总一家。”

Daoist elder brother, you are a disciple from the Yuxu lineage of the Shandao Sect; I am a disciple of the Jie Sect. Your master and my master were ultimately taught by one same master, who secretly transmitted the Dao; we both attained enlightenment to become immortals and became sect leaders. You hung Zhao Jiang from the canopy above, treating my Dao as if it were dust beneath your feet. Hanging him with one rope is no different than hanging you with half a rope; this is unjust reasoning. Do you not know: Green bamboo, yellow beard, white bamboo shoots—Confucian caps and Daoist sandals bloom with white lotus flowers. Red flowers, white lotus roots, green lotus leaves—the Three Teachings have always been one family."

燃灯答曰：“赵道兄，当时佥押‘封神榜’，你可曾在碧游宫？”赵公明曰：“吾岂不知！”燃灯曰：“你既知道，你师曾说神中之姓名，三教内俱有弥封无影，死后见明。尔师言得明明白白，道兄今日至此，乃自昧己心，逆天行事，是道兄自取。吾辈逢此劫数，吉凶未知。吾自天皇修成正果，至今难脱红尘。道兄无束无拘，却要强争名利。你且听我道来： 盘古修来不计年，阴阳二气在先天。煞中生气肌肤换，精里含精性命团。 玉液丹成真道士，六根清净产胎仙。扭天拗地心难正，徒费工夫落堑渊。”

Randel replied, "Daoist elder brother Zhao, when the 'Fengshen Bang' was signed and sealed, were you present at Biyou Palace?" Zhao Gongming said, "How could I not know!" Randel said, "Since you are aware of this, your master once spoke the names of deities in the 'Fengshen Ban,' which were all sealed and hidden within the Three Teachings, becoming clear only after death. Your master explained clearly and plainly. Daoist elder brother, your coming to this point today is due to your own ignorance of your heart, acting against Heaven's will—it is you who have brought it upon yourself. We now face this calamity; whether fortune or misfortune awaits us remains unknown. I cultivated from the time of Tianhuang to attain true enlightenment, yet I still find it hard to escape worldly entanglements. Daoist elder brother is free and unbound, yet insists on fiercely contending for fame and profit. Listen to me speak: Since Pan Gu cultivated without counting years, the Yin-Yang dual energies existed before Heaven and Earth. From destruction arises life; flesh is transformed. Essence contains essence—life and destiny are united in a single ball. Jade-liquid pills completed—the true Daoist; six roots cleansed, the embryo immortal is born. Twisting Heaven and bending Earth—how can one's heart remain upright? All effort is in vain, ending only in a pit of despair."

赵公明大怒曰：“难道吾不如你，且听我道来： 能使须弥翻转过，又将日月逆周旋。后来天地生吾后，有甚玄门道德仙！”

Zhao Gongming became greatly enraged and said, "Am I truly inferior to you? Listen as I speak: I can turn Mount Sumeru upside down; I can reverse the rotation of sun and moon. Heaven and Earth were born after me—what Daoist sages or moral immortals could possibly rival me!"

赵公明道罢。黄龙真人跨鹤至前，大呼曰：“赵公明，你今日至此，也是‘封神榜’上有名的，合该此处尽绝！”公明大怒，举鞭来取。真人忙将宝剑来迎。鞭剑交加。未及数合，赵公明将缚龙索祭起，把黄龙真人平空拿去。赤精子见拿了黄龙真人，大呼：“赵公明少得无礼！听吾道来： 会得阳仙物外玄，了然得意自忘筌。应知物外长生路，自有逍遥不老仙。 铅与汞，产先天，颠倒日月配坤乾。明明指出无生妙，无奈凡心不自捐。”

After Zhao Gongming finished speaking. Huanglong Zhenren arrived on a crane and shouted, "Zhao Gongming! You have come to this today because your name is inscribed on the 'Fengshenbang.' It is only fitting that you perish here!" Gongming became furious and raised his whip to attack. The Zhenren quickly brandished a treasure sword to meet the strike. Whip and sword clashed together. Before several exchanges could take place, Zhao Gongming summoned the Dragon-Binding Rope and seized Huanglong Zhenren from midair. Chizigen saw that Huanglong Zhenren had been captured and shouted, "Zhao Gongming, you shameless wretch! Listen to me: To understand the mysteries of Yang immortals beyond worldly things; enlightenment brings joy, forgetting even the means. One should know that the path to eternal life lies beyond material concerns—there are naturally immortal sages who remain forever young and at ease. Lead and mercury, born of the primordial, reverse day and moon to match Kun and Qian. Clearly pointing out the wondrous path of no birth; alas, ordinary hearts cannot cast off their attachments."

话说赤精子执剑来取公明。公明鞭法飞腾。来往有三五合，公明取出一物，名曰定海珠，珠有二十四颗──。此珠后来兴于释门，化为二十四诸天。──公明将此宝祭于空中，有五色毫光。纵然神仙，观之不明，瞧之不见，一刷下来，将赤精子打了一交。赵公明正欲用鞭复打赤精子顶上，有广成子岔步大叫：“少得伤吾道兄！吾来了！”公明见广成子来得凶恶，急忙迎架广成子。两家交兵，未及一合，又祭此珠，将广成子打倒尘埃。道行天尊急来抵住公明。公明连发此宝，打伤五位上仙……玉鼎真人，灵宝大法师五位败回芦篷。赵公明连胜回营。至中军，闻太师见公明得胜大喜。公明将黄龙真人也吊在旛杆上。把黄龙真人泥丸宫上用符印压住元神，轻容易不得脱逃。营中闻太师一面分付设酒，四阵主陪饮。且说燃灯回上芦篷坐下，五位上仙俱著了伤，面面相觑，默默不语。燃灯问众位道友曰：“今日赵公明用的是何物件打伤众位？”灵宝大法师曰：“只知著人甚重，不知是何宝物，看不明切。”五人齐曰：“只见红光闪灼，不知是何物件。”燃灯闻言，甚是不乐；忽然抬头，见黄龙真人吊在旛杆上面，心下越觉不安。众道者叹曰：“是吾辈逢此劫厄不能摆脱。今黄龙真人被如此厄难，我等此心何忍！谁能解他愆尤方好。”玉鼎真人曰：“不妨。至晚间再作处治。”众道友不言。不觉红轮西坠，玉鼎真人唤杨戬曰：“你今夜去把黄龙真人放来。”杨戬听命。至一更时分，化作飞蚁，飞在黄龙真人耳边，悄悄言曰：“师叔，弟子杨戬奉命，特来放老爷。怎么样阳神便出？”真人曰：“你将吾顶上符印去了，吾自得脱。”杨戬将符印揭去。正是： 天门大开阳神出，去了昆仑正果仙。

Now Chizigen took up his sword to attack Gongming. Gongming's whip technique soared and flew. After several exchanges back and forth, Gongming took out an object called the Dinghai Zhu (Sea-Calming Pearl), a set of twenty-four pearls in total—. These pearls later became prominent within Buddhism, transforming into the Twenty-Four Lokapalas (Heavenly Protectors). —Gongming summoned this treasure into the air, where it emitted five-colored rays of light. Even immortals and sages could not clearly see or recognize the treasure, but with a single sweep downward, it knocked Chizigen to the ground. Just as Zhao Gongming was about to strike Chizigen again with his whip, Guangchengzi suddenly stepped in and shouted, "Stop! You dare harm my Daoist elder brother!" Here I come!" Gongming, seeing that Guangchengzi approached fiercely, hurriedly raised his weapon to meet him. As the two clashed in battle, before even a single exchange could be completed, Gongming summoned this pearl again and knocked Guangchengzi to the ground. Daoxing Tiangong hurriedly came forward to hold off Gongming. Gongming continuously unleashed this treasure, wounding five high immortals... Yuding Zhenren and Lingbao Dashifu were among the five who retreated back to their reed huts in defeat. Zhao Gongming returned to his camp after consecutive victories. Upon arriving at the central command, he heard that Marshal Tai Shi was greatly pleased by Gongming's victory. Gongming also hanged Huanglong Zhenren on a flagpole. He placed talismans and seals over the Huanglong Zhenren's Taimo Gong (a spiritual center) to suppress his original spirit, making it impossible for him to escape easily. Within the camp, Tai Shi ordered wine to be prepared and had the four generals accompany Gongming in drinking. Meanwhile, Rendeng returned to his reed hut and sat down; the five high immortals were all injured, looking at each other in silence. Rendeng asked his fellow Daoist companions, "What object did Zhao Gongming use today to injure all of you?" Lingbao Dashifu said, "We only know that it struck us with great force. We do not know what treasure it is; we could not see it clearly." The five of them said in unison, "We only saw flashes of red light and did not know what object it was." Rendeng, upon hearing this, felt very displeased; Suddenly raising his head, he saw Huanglong Zhenren hanging on the flagpole and became even more uneasy. The Daoist followers sighed, saying, "It is our fate to encounter this calamity and be unable to escape it." Now that Huanglong Zhenren has suffered such a misfortune, how can we bear this in our hearts!" Who among us could possibly relieve his guilt and suffering?" Yuding Zhenren said, "Do not worry." "We will deal with it properly later tonight." The fellow Daoists said nothing. Before they realized it, the red sun had set in the west. Yuding Zhenren called out to Yang Jian and said, "You must go tonight and release Huanglong Zhenren." Yang Jian accepted the order. At the first watch of the night, he transformed into a flying ant and flew to Huanglong Zhenren's ear, whispering softly, "Uncle Master, disciple Yang Jian has been ordered by my master to come especially to release you, Sir. How shall we get your yang spirit out?" The Zhenren said, "Remove the talismans and seals on my head, and I will be able to escape by myself." Yang Jian removed the talismans and seals. It was exactly as said: The heavenly gate opens, yang spirit departs; gone is the true immortal of Kunlun's fruit.

真人来至芦篷稽首，谢了玉鼎真人。众道人大喜。且说赵公明饮酒半酣，正欢呼大悦，忽邓忠来报：“启老爷：旛上不见了道人了！”赵公明掐指一算，知道是杨戬救去了。公明笑曰：“你今日去了，明日怎逃！”彼时二更席散，各归寝榻。

Zhenren arrived at the reed hut, bowed deeply, and thanked Yuding Zhenren. The fellow Daoists were overjoyed. Meanwhile, Zhao Gongming was halfway through his wine and in high spirits when suddenly Deng Zhong came to report, "Your Honor: the Daoist on the pole is gone!" Zhao Gongming calculated with his fingers and realized it was Yang Jian who had rescued him. Gongming laughed and said, "You may have escaped today, but how will you escape tomorrow!" At that time, the second watch of the night arrived and the banquet ended; everyone returned to their beds.

次日，升中军，赵公明上虎，提鞭，早到篷下，坐名要燃灯答话。燃灯在篷上见公明跨虎而来，谓众道友曰：“你们不必出去，待吾出丢会他。”燃灯乘鹿，数门人相随，至于阵前。赵公明曰：“杨戬救了黄龙真人来了，他有变化之功，叫他来见我。”燃灯笑曰：“道友乃斗筲之器，此事非是他能，乃仗武王洪福，姜尚之德耳。”公明大怒曰：“你将此言惑乱军心，甚是可恨！”提鞭就打。燃灯口称：“善哉！”急忙用剑来招架。未及数合，公明将定海珠祭起。燃灯借慧眼看时，一派五色毫光，瞧不见是何宝物。看看落将下来，燃灯拨鹿便走；不进芦篷，望西南上去了。公明追将下来，往前赶有多时，至一山坡。松下有二人下棋，一位穿青，一位穿红，正在分局之时，忽听鹿蹄响亮，二人回顾，见是燃灯道人，二人忙问其故？燃灯把赵公明伐西岐事说了一遍。二人曰：“不妨。老师站在一边，待我二人问他。”且说赵公明虎走如飞驰电骤，倏忽而至。二人作歌曰： “可怜四大属虚名，认破方能脱死生。慧性犹如天际月，幻身却是水中冰。 拨回关捩头头著，看破虚空物物明。缺行亏功俱是假，丹炉火起道难成。”

The next day, at dawn in the central command, Zhao Gongming mounted his tiger, raised his whip, and arrived early beneath the reed hut, demanding Rendeng to come out for a confrontation. Rendeng saw from the reed hut that Gongming was riding a tiger and said to his fellow Daoists, "You need not go out. Wait for me as I shall meet him." Rendeng rode on a deer with several disciples following and arrived at the front of the formation. Zhao Gongming said, "Yang Jian has rescued Huanglong Zhenren; he possesses the power of transformation. Call him to come and see me." Rendeng smiled and said, "My Daoist friend is but a petty vessel. This matter was not achieved by him alone; it was due to the great fortune of King Wu and the virtue of Jiang Shang." Gongming became greatly enraged and said, "You have used these words to confuse the soldiers' hearts. How despicable!" He raised his whip and struck immediately. Rendeng said, "Good!" He hurriedly used his sword to block the strike. Before several exchanges could be made, Gongming summoned up the Dinghai Zhu (Sea Calming Pearl). Rendeng used his wisdom eye to look and saw a burst of five-colored rays, but could not discern what treasure it was. As the object came crashing down, Rendeng urged his deer forward and fled; He did not return to the reed hut but headed toward the southwest instead. Gongming chased after him, running for a long time until he reached a hillside. Under a pine tree, two men were playing chess: one wearing blue and the other red. Just as they were in the middle of an intense game, suddenly they heard the sound of hooves from a deer. The two turned around and saw it was Daoist Rendeng. They hurriedly asked him what had happened? Rendeng recounted the entire story of Zhao Gongming's campaign against Xiqi. The two said, "Do not worry." "Master is standing over there. Let us question him ourselves." Meanwhile, Zhao Gongming rode his tiger as if flying at the speed of lightning, arriving in a flash. The two sang: "How pitiable are the four great elements, all but empty names; only by recognizing this can one escape life and death. Wisdom is like the moon in the sky, while the illusory body is but ice on water. Turn back and adjust the key points; see through emptiness and all things become clear. Deficient actions and incomplete achievements are all false; when the cinnabar furnace's fire rises, the Dao is hard to attain."

且说赵公明正赶燃灯，听得歌声古怪，定目观之，见二人各穿青、红二色衣袍，脸分黑、白。公明问曰：“尔是何人？”二人笑曰：“你连我也认不得，还称你是神仙！听我道来： 堪笑公明问我家，我家原住在烟霞。眉藏火电非闲说，手种金莲岂自夸。 三尺焦桐为活计，一壶美酒是生涯。骑龙远出游苍海，夜静无人玩物华。

Meanwhile, as Zhao Gongming was chasing Rendeng and heard the strange singing, he fixed his gaze and saw two men dressed in blue and red robes with black and white faces. Gongming asked, "Who are you?" The two laughed and said, "You do not even recognize us—how can you still call yourself an immortal!" Listen to me: It is laughable that Gongming asks about my home; my home originally dwells in mist and clouds. The fire and lightning hidden in our brows are no idle talk, nor is the golden lotus we plant with our hands mere boasting. Three feet of charred zither is our livelihood; a gourd of fine wine is the course of our lives. We ride dragons far and wide, exploring the vast seas; in quiet nights with no one around, we enjoy the beauty of things.

吾乃五夷山散人萧升、曹宝是也。俺弟兄闲对一局，以遣日月。今见燃灯老师被你欺逼太甚，强逆天道，扶假灭真，自不知己罪，反恃强追袭，吾故问你端的。”赵公明大怒：“你好大本领，焉敢如此！”发鞭来打。二道人急以宝剑来迎。鞭来剑去，宛转抽身。未及数合，公明把缚龙索祭起来拿两个道人。萧升一见此索，笑曰：“来得好！”急忙向豹皮囊取出一个金钱，有翅，名曰：“落宝金钱”，也祭起空中。只见缚龙索跟著金钱落在地上。曹宝忙将索收了。赵公明见收了此宝，大呼一声：“好妖孽，敢收吾宝！”又取定海珠祭起于空中，只见瑞彩千团打将下来。萧升又发金钱。定海珠随钱而下。曹宝忙忙抢了定海珠。公明见失了定海珠，气得三尸神暴跳，急祭起神鞭。萧升又发金钱，──不知鞭是兵器，不是宝，如何落得！正中萧升顶门，打得脑浆迸出，做一场散淡闲人，只落得封神台上去了。曹宝见道兄已死，欲为萧升报仇。燃灯在高阜处观之，叹曰：“二友棋局欢笑，岂知为我遭如此之苦！待吾暗助他一臂之力。”忙将乾坤尺祭起去。公明不曾提防，被一尺打得公明几乎坠虎，大呼一声，拨虎往南去了。燃灯近前，下鹿施礼，“深感道兄施术之德。堪怜那一位穿红的道人遭迍，吾心不忍！二位是那座名山？何处洞府？高姓？大名？”道者答曰：“贫道乃五夷山散人萧升、曹宝是也；因闲无事，假此一局遣兴。今遇老师，实为不平之忿；不期萧兄绝于公明毒手，实为可叹！”燃灯曰：“方才公明祭起二物欲伤二位，贫道见一金钱起去，那物随钱而落，道友忙忙收起，果是何物？”曹宝曰：“吾宝名为‘落宝金钱’，连落公明二物，不知何名。”取出来与燃灯观看。燃灯一见定海珠，鼓掌大呼曰：“今日方见此奇珍，吾道成矣！”曹宝忙问其故。燃灯曰：“此宝名‘定海珠’，自元始以来，此珠曾出现光辉，照耀玄都；后来杳然无闻，不知落于何人之手。今日幸逢道友，收得此宝，贫道不觉心爽神快。”曹宝曰：“老师既欲见此宝，必是有可用之处，老师自当收去。”燃灯曰：“贫道无功，焉敢受此？”曹宝曰：“一物自有一主，既老师可以助道，理当受得。弟子收之无用。”燃灯打稽首，谢了曹宝，二人同往西岐，至芦篷。众道人起身相见。燃灯把遇萧升一事说了一遍。燃灯又对众人曰：“列位道友被赵公明打伤扑跌在地者，乃是‘定海珠’。”众道人方悟。燃灯取出，众人观看，一个个嗟叹不已。

"We are Xiaosheng and Caobao, recluses from Wuyi Mountain." My brother and I play a game of chess in leisure to pass the days and months. Today, we saw Master Rendeng being bullied by you to an extreme degree. You defy the heavenly Dao, support falsehood and destroy truth, yet remain unaware of your own crimes, relying on strength to pursue and attack. That is why I asked you directly." Zhao Gongming became furious: "You have great skills indeed—how dare you act so boldly!" He lashed out with his whip. The two Daoists hurriedly brandished their treasure swords to meet the attack. Whip and sword clashed, each side twisting and dodging as they fought. Before several exchanges could be completed, Gongming raised the Dragon-Binding Rope to seize the two Daoists. Xiaosheng saw this rope and laughed, saying, "Come right on time!" He quickly took out a golden coin with wings from his leopard-skin pouch, called the "Luobao Jin Qian" (Treasure-Plucking Golden Coin), and summoned it into the air. The Dragon-Binding Rope immediately followed the golden coin down to the ground. Caobao quickly retrieved the rope. Zhao Gongming saw that this treasure had been taken and shouted in alarm, "You demon! How dare you take my treasure!" He then summoned the Dinghai Zhu into the air again. A thousand clusters of auspicious light rained down in attack. Xiaosheng once more sent forth the golden coin. The Dinghai Zhu followed the coin down to the ground as well. Caobao hurriedly snatched up the Dinghai Zhu. Seeing that he had lost the Dinghai Zhu, Gongming was so enraged that his Three Soul Deities leapt in fury. He quickly summoned up his divine whip. Xiaosheng again sent forth the golden coin—yet this time, since the whip was a weapon and not a treasure, it could not be made to fall! It struck Xiaosheng directly on the top of his head, smashing his brains out. Once a carefree and idle man, he was now reduced to being sent up onto the Fengshen Tai (Immortalization Platform). Caobao saw that his Daoist elder brother had died and wished to avenge Xiaosheng. Randel, observing from a high vantage point, sighed and said, "These two friends played their game with joy and laughter; how could they have known that it would bring me such suffering!" "I must secretly lend them a helping hand." He quickly summoned up the Qiankun Chi (Celestial and Earth Measuring Ruler). Gongming had not been on guard, and was struck by the ruler so hard that he nearly fell from his tiger. He shouted in alarm and rode off southward on the tiger. Randel approached, dismounted from his deer, and paid respects, saying, "I deeply appreciate my Daoist elder brother's benevolence in using your magic arts. It is truly pitiable that the red-robed Daoist suffered such misfortune; I cannot bear it in my heart! Which famous mountain are you two from? What is the name of your cave dwelling? What is your family name? And your given name?" The Daoist replied, "I am Xiaosheng and Caobao, recluses of Wuyi Mountain; we had nothing to do and merely played this game for amusement. Today, meeting you, Master, we feel a sense of injustice; unfortunately, my elder brother Xiaosheng was killed by Gongming's cruel hands—truly lamentable!" Randel said, "Earlier, Gongming summoned up two objects to injure you both. I saw a golden coin rise into the air, and that object followed it down. Your Daoist friend hurriedly retrieved it—what exactly was that item?" Caobao said, "My treasure is called the 'Luobao Jin Qian' (Treasure-Plucking Coin). It caused two of Gongming's treasures to fall. I do not know what they are named." He took it out for Randel to see. Randel saw the Dinghai Zhu and clapped his hands, shouting joyfully, "Today I have finally seen this wondrous treasure—my Dao is now complete!" Caobao hurriedly asked why. Randel said, "This treasure is called the 'Dinghai Zhu.' Since Yuanshi's time, this pearl has once emitted a brilliant light that illuminated Xuandu; thereafter it vanished without a trace, and no one knew who had obtained it. Today I am fortunate to meet you Daoist friend and recover this treasure; I cannot help but feel my spirit refreshed and joyful." Caobao said, "Since Master wishes to see this treasure, there must be a use for it. You should take it yourself." Randel said, "I have no merit; how dare I accept such a thing?" Caobao said, "Every object has its rightful owner. Since Master can use it to aid the Dao, you should naturally accept it." "It would be of no use for a disciple like me to keep it." Randel bowed deeply and thanked Caobao. The two then traveled together toward Xiqi, arriving at the reed pavilion. The other Daoists rose to greet them. Randel recounted the entire incident of meeting Xiaosheng. Randel then said to the others, "My Daoist friends who were struck and fallen by Zhao Gongming are due to the 'Dinghai Zhu.'" The other Daoists finally understood. Randel took it out, and the others looked at it, each expressing their admiration without end.

不说燃灯得宝，话说赵公明被打了一乾坤尺，又失了定海珠、缚龙索，回进大营。闻太师接住，问其追燃灯一事。公明长吁一声。闻太师曰：“道兄为何这等？”公明大叫曰：“吾自修行以来，今日失利。正赶燃灯，偶逢二子，名曰萧升、曹宝，将吾缚龙索、定海珠收去。吾自得道，仗此奇珠。今被无名小辈收去，吾心碎矣！”公明曰：“陈九公、姚少司，你好生在此，吾往三仙岛去来。”闻太师曰：“道兄此去速回，免吾翘首。”公明曰：“吾去速回。”遂乘虎驾风云而起，不一时来至三仙岛下虎，至洞府前，咳嗽一声。少时，──童儿出来，“原来是大老爷来了。”忙报与三位娘娘：“大老爷至此。”三位娘娘起身，齐出洞门迎接，口称：“兄长请入里面。”打稽首坐下。云霄娘娘曰：“大兄至此，是往那里去来？”公明曰：“闻太师伐西岐不能取胜，请我下山，会阐教门人，连胜他几番；后是燃灯道人会我，口出大言，吾将定海珠祭起，燃灯逃遁，吾便追袭。不意赶至中途，便遇散人萧升、曹宝两个无名下士，把吾二物收去。自思：辟地开天，成了道果，得此二宝，方欲炼性修真，在罗浮洞中以证元始；今一旦落于儿曹之手，心甚不平。特到此间，借金蛟剪也罢，或混元金斗也罢，拿下山去，务要复回此二宝，吾心方安。”云霄娘娘听罢，只是摇头，说道：“大兄，此事不可行。昔日三教共议，佥押‘封神榜’，吾等俱在碧游宫。我们截教门人，‘封神榜’上颇多，因此禁止不出洞府，只为此也。吾师有言，‘弥封名姓，当宜谨慎。’宫门又有两句贴在宫外： 紧闭洞门，静诵‘黄庭’三两卷；身投西土，‘封神榜’上有名人。

Without mentioning Randel's acquisition of the treasure, let us speak instead of Zhao Gongming. After being struck by the Qiankun Ruler and having lost both the Dinghai Zhu and the Dragon-Binding Rope, he returned to his main camp. Duke Tai heard of this and received him, asking about the matter of pursuing Randel. Gongming let out a long sigh. Duke Tai said, "Elder brother, why are you like this?" Gongming shouted in alarm, "Since I began cultivation, today is the first time I have suffered a loss. While pursuing Randel, I chanced upon two men named Xiaosheng and Caobao who took away my Dragon-Binding Rope and Dinghai Zhu. Since I attained the Dao, I have relied on this wondrous pearl. Now it has been taken by an obscure young upstart—it breaks my heart!" Gongming said, "Chen Jiugong and Yao Shaosi, you must remain here carefully. I am going to Sanxian Island." Duke Tai said, "Elder brother, please return quickly after you go—do not make me wait anxiously." Gongming said, "I shall leave and return swiftly." He then rode his tiger through wind and clouds, and in no time at all arrived beneath the tiger at the entrance to the cave dwelling of Sanxian Island. He coughed once. After a short while—, saying, "Ah, it is the great master who has arrived." He hurriedly reported to the three Ladies: "The great master has arrived here." The Three Ladies rose, all came out of the cave entrance to greet him, saying in unison, "Elder brother, please come inside." They bowed deeply and sat down. Yunxiao Lady said, "Elder brother has come here—where have you traveled from?" Gongming said, "Duke Tai is attacking Xiqi but cannot achieve victory. He invited me to descend the mountain and confront disciples of the Chan Sect, defeating them several times; later, I encountered Daoist Randel who spoke boastfully. I summoned the Dinghai Zhu to attack him; Randel fled and I pursued him. Unluckily, while pursuing in the middle of my journey, I encountered two obscure recluses named Xiaosheng and Caobao. They took away both of my treasures from me. Reflecting on this, I thought: having cleaved the earth and opened the heavens to attain Dao realization, I obtained these two treasures. Only then did I begin cultivating my nature and pursuing truth in Luofu Cave to prove myself worthy of Yuanshi; now, they have been taken by mere youths in an instant. I feel deeply wronged. That is why I have come here. Whether to borrow the Golden Crocodile Shears or the Hunyuan Golden Basin, I will take them down the mountain and must recover these two treasures—only then will my heart find peace." After hearing this, Lady Yunxiao merely shook her head and said, "Elder brother, this matter cannot be done. In the past, the Three Teachings jointly deliberated and signed the 'Fengshen Bang' (Immortalization List), and we were all at Biyou Palace. Our Jie Sect disciples are numerous on the 'Fengshen Bang,' so we have been strictly forbidden from leaving our cave dwellings—for this very reason. Our master said, "The names on the list must be sealed with utmost caution." There were also two lines pasted outside the palace gate: Tightly close the cave door, quietly recite a few volumes of the "Huangting Jing"; Body cast westward, one's name appears on the 'Fengshen Ban' (Immortalization List).

如今阐教道友犯了杀戒，吾截教实是逍遥，昔日凤鸣岐山，今生圣主，何必与他争论闲非。大兄，你不该下山。你我只等子牙封过神，才见神仙玉石。大兄请回峨嵋山，待平定封神之日，吾亲自往灵鹫山，问燃灯讨珠还你。若此时要借金蛟剪、混元金斗，妹子不敢从命。”公明曰：“难道我来借，你也不肯？”云霄娘娘曰：“非是不肯，恐怕一时失了，追悔何及！总来兄请回山，不久封神在迩，何必太急。”公明叹曰：“一家如此，何况他人！”遂起身作辞，走出洞门，十分怒色。正是： 他人有宝他人用，果然开口告人难。

Now, the Chan Sect Daoist friends have broken the precept against killing. Our Jie Sect has indeed remained carefree. In ancient times, Feng 鸣 at Qishan; in this life, a sage ruler shall arise—why must we quarrel over trivial matters? Elder brother, you should not have descended the mountain. We must wait until Ziya has completed the Immortalization before we can see which of us are true immortals and which mere stones. Elder brother, please return to Emei Mountain. When the Immortalization is completed, I shall personally go to Lingjiu Mountain and ask Randel for the pearl back for you. If at this time you wish to borrow the Golden Crocodile Scissors or the Hunyuan Golden Basin—my sister dares not obey your command." Gongming said, "Is it that even if I come to borrow, you will not give them?" Lady Yunxiao said, "It is not that we are unwilling—it is just that I fear losing them at any moment. If we do, it will be too late to regret it! Please return to the mountain for now. The Immortalization is soon to take place nearby—why rush so much?" Gongming sighed, "Even my own family is like this; how much more so for others!" He then rose to take his leave and walked out of the cave entrance with a very angry expression. Indeed: When others have treasures, they use them themselves; it is truly hard to ask for help from people when you need something.

三位娘娘听公明之言，内有碧霄娘娘要借，奈姐姐云宵不从。且说公明跨虎离洞，行不上一二里，在海面上行，脑后有人叫曰：“赵道兄！”公明回头看时，一位道姑，脚踏风云而至。怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 髻挽青丝杀气浮，修真炼性隐山丘。炉中玄妙超三界，掌上风雷震九州。 十里金城驱黑雾，三仙瑶岛运神飙。若还触恼仙姑怒，翻倒乾坤不肯休。

The three Ladies heard Gongming's words, and among them, Lady Bixiao wanted to lend the treasures, but her elder sister Yunxiao would not agree. Meanwhile, let us return to Gongming, who rode his tiger away from the cave. He had not traveled more than one or two li when, while crossing over the sea surface, someone called out behind him, "Daoist Brother Zhao!" Gongming turned around and saw a Daoist nun approaching on wind and clouds. How did this appear? A poem testifies to it, the poem says: Her hair in a bun, blue silk flowing with killing aura; cultivating truth and refining nature, she hides among hills. Mystic wonders within the furnace transcend the Three Realms; wind and thunder in her palm shake all nine provinces. Ten-mile golden city drives away black mists; Sanxian Yao Island commands divine gales. Should one provoke the anger of this Daoist nun, she will overturn heaven and earth without ceasing.

赵公明看时，原来是菡芝仙。公明曰：“道友为何相招？”道姑曰：“道兄那里去？”赵公明把伐西岐失了定海珠的事说了一遍，“……方才问俺妹子借金蛟剪，去复夺定海珠，他坚执不允，故此往别处借些宝贝，再作区处。”菡芝仙曰：“岂有此理！我同道兄回去。一家不借，何况外人！”菡芝仙把公明请将回来，复至洞门下虎。童儿禀三位娘娘：“大老爷又来了。”三位娘娘复出洞来迎接。只见菡芝仙同来入内，行礼坐下，菡芝仙曰：“三位姐姐，道兄乃你三位一脉，为何不立纲纪。难道玉虚宫有道术，吾等就无道术。他即收了道兄二宝，理当为道兄出力。三位姐姐为何不允！这是何故？倘或道兄往别处借了奇珍，复得西岐燃灯之宝，你姊妹面上不好看了。况且至亲一脉，又非别人。今亲妹子不借，何况他人哉！连我八卦炉中炼的一物，也要协助闻兄去，怎的你到不肯！”碧霄娘娘在傍，一力赞助：“姐姐，也罢，把金蛟剪借与兄长去罢。”云霄娘娘听罢，沈吟半晌，无法可处；不得已，取出金蛟剪来。云霄娘娘曰：“大兄！你把金蛟剪拿去，对燃灯说：‘你可把定海珠还我，我便不放金蛟剪；你若不还我宝珠，我便放金蛟剪，那时月缺难圆。’他自然把宝珠还你。大兄，千万不可造次行事！我是实言。”公明应诺；接了金蛟剪，离却三仙岛。菡芝仙送公明曰：“吾炉中炼成奇珍，不久亦至。”彼此作谢而别。公明别了菡芝仙，随风云而至成汤大营。旗牌报进营中：“启太师爷：赵老爷到了。”闻太师迎接入中军坐下。正是： 入门休问荣枯事，观见容颜便得知。

When Zhao Gongming looked closely, he saw that it was none other than Hanzhi Xian. Gongming said, "Daoist friend, why have you called for me?" The nun asked, "Where is my Daoist brother going?" Zhao Gongming recounted the entire matter of losing the Dinghai Zhu while attacking Xiqi, saying "...just now I asked my sister to lend me the Golden Crocodile Scissors in order to reclaim the Dinghai Zhu, but she firmly refused. Therefore, I am going elsewhere to borrow some treasures and make further arrangements." Hanzhi Xian said, "How can this be right!" I will go back with my Daoist brother. If one's own family refuses to lend, how much more so outsiders!" Hanzhi Xian brought Gongming back and returned once again to the cave entrance where his tiger was. Tong Er reported to the three Ladies: "My lord has come again." The Three Ladies once again came out of the cave to greet him. As they entered, Hanzhi Xian came in with them. They paid respects and sat down. Hanzhi Xian said: "Three elder sisters, this Daoist brother is of your three's lineage; why do you not uphold discipline? Is it that the Jadehall Palace has Dao techniques, and we therefore have none?" Since he had already taken possession of two treasures from his Daoist brother, it was only right for him to exert effort on behalf of his Daoist brother. Why did the three elder sisters not agree!" What is the reason for this?" If my Daoist brother goes elsewhere to borrow rare treasures and regains Master Rendeng's treasure from Xiqi, it will not look good for you sisters. Moreover, he is a close relative of the same lineage, not an outsider. Now even your own younger sister refuses to lend it; how much less so others!" lou Even one item I have refined in my Eight Trigrams Furnace, I am willing to assist Lord Wen with; how could you possibly refuse!" Bixiao Nangong, standing by, strongly supported: "Sisters, very well, let us lend the Golden Crocodile Scissors to our elder brother." After hearing this, Yunxiao Nangong fell into thought for a while and found no way out; With no choice left, she took out the Golden Crocodile Scissors. Yunxiao Nangong said: "Elder brother!" Take the Golden Crocodile Scissors and tell Rendeng: 'You may return the Dinghai Zhu to me, and I will not release the Golden Crocodile Scissors; if you do not return my treasure pearl to me, I shall unleash the Golden Crocodile Scissors, and at that time, a broken moon will be hard to reunite.'" He will naturally return the treasure pearl to you. Elder brother, by no means act rashly!" These are my sincere words." Gongming nodded in agreement; he took the Golden Crocodile Scissors and left Sanxian Island. Hanzhi Xian bid farewell to Gongming, saying: "The rare treasures I have refined in my furnace will also arrive shortly." They thanked each other and parted ways. Gongming, having bid farewell to Hanzhi Xian, rode on wind and clouds directly back to the Shang dynasty's main camp. The standard-bearer reported into the camp: "Your Excellency, Lord Zhao has arrived." Lord Wen received him and led him to sit in the central command tent. Indeed: Upon entering, one need not ask about glory or decline; observing a person's countenance reveals it all.

太师问曰：“道兄往那里借宝而来？”公明曰：“往三仙岛吾妹子处，那里借他的金蛟剪来。明日务要复夺吾定海珠。”闻太师大喜，设酒款待，四阵主相陪。当日席散。次早，成汤营中炮响，闻太师上了墨麒麟，左右是邓、辛、张、陶。赵公明跨虎临阵，专请燃灯答话。哪吒报上芦篷。燃灯早知其意──“今公明已借金蛟剪来。”──谓众道友曰：“赵公明已有金蛟剪，你们不可出去。吾自去见他。”遂上了仙鹿，自临阵前。公明一见燃灯，大呼曰：“你将定海珠还我，万事干休；若不还我，定与你见个雌雄！”燃灯曰：“此珠乃佛门之宝，今见主必定要取，你那左道旁门，岂有福慧压得住他！此珠还是我等了道证果之珍，你也不必妄想。”公明大叫曰：“今日你既无情，我与你月缺难圆！”燃灯道人见公明纵虎冲来，只得催鹿抵架。不觉虎鹿交加，往来数合。赵公明将金蛟剪祭起。不知燃灯性命如何，且听下回分解。

Lord Wen asked, "Daoist brother, from where did you borrow treasures?" Gongming said: "I went to my sister's place on Sanxian Island and borrowed the Golden Crocodile Scissors from there. Tomorrow, we must definitely reclaim my Dinghai Zhu." Lord Wen was greatly pleased and arranged a banquet to entertain him, with the four generals in attendance. That day, after the banquet ended. The next morning, cannons roared in the Shang camp; Lord Wen mounted his Hei Qilin, with Deng, Xin, Zhang, and Tao on either side. Zhao Gongming rode his tiger onto the battlefield, specifically calling for Rendeng to come forward. Nezha reported this at the thatched shelter. Rendeng had already known his intent—"Now Gongming has borrowed the Golden Crocodile Scissors." "—he said to his fellow Daoists, "Zhao Gongming already has the Golden Crocodile Scissors; you must not go out. I shall go see him myself." He then mounted his immortal deer and personally went to the front of the battlefield. As soon as Gongming saw Rendeng, he shouted, "Return my Dinghai Zhu to me and all matters will be settled; if you do not return it, I shall definitely fight with you for a decisive outcome!" Rendeng said, "This pearl is a treasure of the Buddhist school. Now that I have seen its master, I must definitely take it. Your left-hand path and minor schools certainly lack the merit and wisdom to subdue it! This pearl is a rare treasure for us to attain enlightenment and fruitfulness in Dao; you need not entertain wild fantasies." Gongming shouted angrily, "Since today you are heartless, I shall make it so that the moon is broken and cannot reunite!" Seeing Gongming ride his tiger charging forward, Master Rendeng had no choice but to urge his deer into a counterattack. Unknowingly, the tiger and deer clashed repeatedly, circling each other for several rounds. Zhao Gongming raised the Golden Crocodile Scissors into the air. Whether Master Rendeng would survive or not remains to be seen in the next chapter.