Chapter 53

诗曰： 渭水滔滔日夜流，西岐征战几时休。漫言虎豹才离穴，又见貔貅树敌楼。 修德每愁糜白骨，荒淫反自咏金瓯。岂知天意多颠倒，取次干戈不断头。

The poem says: The Wei River flows day and night with surging waters; When will the wars at Xi Qi cease? Do not say that tigers and leopards have just left their dens, for already we see pi xiu building enemy towers. To cultivate virtue often brings sorrow over wasted bones; To indulge in debauchery turns one's thoughts instead to singing of golden bowls. Who knows the will of Heaven is so capricious, that war and strife continue without end.

话说申公豹说反了土行孙下山，他又往各处去了。

It happened that Shen Gongbao had turned Tuxingsun against the mountain, and then he went elsewhere.

且说当日绝龙岭逃回军士进汜水关，报与韩荣，说知闻太师死于绝龙岭，随修表报进朝歌。有微子看报，忙进偏殿，见纣王行礼称“臣”。王曰：“朕无旨，皇伯有何奏章？”微子把闻太师的事奏启一遍，纣王大惊：“孤数日前，恍惚之中明明见闻太师在鹿台奏朕，言在绝龙岭失利；今日果然如此！”纣王著实伤感。王问左右文武曰：“太师新亡，点那一员官，定要把姜尚拿解朝歌，与太师报雠。”众官共议未决；有上大夫金胜出班奏曰：“三山关总兵官邓九公，前日大破南伯侯鄂顺，屡建大功；若破西岐，非此人不克成功。”纣王传旨：“速发自旄、黄钺，得专征伐。差官即往，星夜不许停留。”使命官王贞，持诏往三山关来，一路上马行如箭，心去如飞，秋光正好，和暖堪行。怎见得： 千山水落芦花碎，几树风扬红叶醉。路途烟雨故人稀，黄菊芬菲山色丽，水寒荷破人憔悴。白苹红蓼满江干，落霞孤鹜长空坠。依稀黯淡野云飞，玄鸟去，宾鸿至，嘹嘹呖呖惊人寐。

Meanwhile, on that day, the soldiers who had fled back from Juelongling entered Sishui Pass and reported to Han Rong, informing him of the death of Tai Shi Wen at Juelongling. They then drafted a memorial to be sent forward to Chaoguo. Wei Zi, upon reading the report, hurried into the side hall and bowed before King Zhou, addressing him as "Minister." The king said, "I have not issued any orders. What memorial does my royal uncle have to present?" Wei Zi presented a full report on the matter of Tai Shi Wen. King Zhou was greatly startled and said, "A few days ago, in a daze I clearly saw Tai Shi Wen presenting reports to me at Lütai, saying that he had suffered a defeat at Juelongling;" "today it has indeed come to pass!" King Zhou was genuinely grieved. The king asked the civil and military officials around him, "With Tai Shi Wen newly deceased, which official shall I appoint to capture Jiang Shang and bring him to Chaoguo, so as to avenge Tai Shi Wen?" The officials deliberated together but had not yet reached a decision; Shang Dafu Jin Sheng stepped forward and presented a report, saying, "The overall commander of Sanshan Pass, Deng Jiugong, on the previous day greatly defeated Nanbo Hou E Shun, having repeatedly established great achievements;" "if we are to conquer Xi Qi, no one but this man can achieve success." King Zhou issued an order: "Quickly dispatch the white mao and yellow yue, granting full authority for military campaigns. Send officials immediately to proceed; they are not allowed to stay even a single night." The imperial envoy Wang Zhen, carrying the decree to Sanshan Pass, rode along the way as swiftly as an arrow, his heart flying ahead. The autumn scenery was at its best, and the weather was warm enough for travel. How is this described: A thousand mountains see water recede, with broken reeds; a few trees have their red leaves drunk by the wind. Along the road, mist and rain make old friends scarce; chrysanthemums fragrant and beautiful, mountain scenery lovely, cold water and broken lotuses leave people weary. White water clover and red rhoea cover the riverbanks; setting clouds, solitary geese fall from the vast sky. Faint and dim, wild clouds fly; the xuan bird departs, while the guest goose arrives. Their cries, loud and clear, startle people from their sleep.

话说天使所过府、州、县、司，不止一日。其日到了三山关，驿内安歇。次日，到邓九公帅府前。邓九公同诸将等焚香接旨，开读。诏曰： “天子征伐，原为诛逆救民。大将专阃外之寄，正代天行拯溺之权。兹尔元戎邓九公，累功三山关，严出入之防，边烽无警；退鄂顺之反叛，奏捷甚速；懋绩大焉。今姬发不道，纳亡招叛，大肆猖獗。朕累勤问罪之师，彼反抗军而树敌；致王师累辱，大损国威，深为不法，朕之恶心。特敕尔前去，用心料理，相机进剿；务擒首恶，解阙献俘，以正国典。朕决不惜茅土，以酧有功。尔其钦哉，毋负朕托重至意。故兹尔诏。”

It happened that the imperial envoy passed through various prefectures, states, counties, and offices along the way, taking more than one day. roadside That day he arrived at Sanshan Pass and took lodging at the post station. The next day, he arrived in front of General Deng Jiugong's headquarters. General Deng Jiugong and the various commanders burned incense to receive the decree and read it aloud. The decree said: "The Son of Heaven wages war originally to punish rebels and save the people. Great generals entrusted with command outside the capital hold the authority to act on behalf of Heaven, rescuing those in distress. Now you, General Deng Jiugong, have repeatedly achieved merit at Sanshan Pass by strictly guarding the entry and exit points, ensuring no alarms from border beacons; you repelled E Shun's rebellion with great speed and submitted a report of victory. Your achievements are most remarkable. Now Ji Fa is unrighteous, harboring fugitives and inciting rebels, growing increasingly rampant. I have repeatedly dispatched armies to punish the guilty, yet they resist by raising enemies; this has led to repeated humiliations for our royal forces and greatly damaged the nation's prestige, a serious violation of law that fills me with deep displeasure. Therefore, I specially command you to go forward, manage affairs diligently, and seize the opportunity to advance in suppressing them; you must capture the chief evildoers, bring them before the palace for surrender, so as to uphold national law. I will certainly not withhold fiefs and titles in rewarding those who have rendered service. You must take this most seriously, and do not fail the great trust I place upon you." Therefore, this is my decree to you."

邓九公读毕，待天使，等交代。王贞曰：“新总兵孔宣就到。”不一日，孔宣已到。邓九公交代完毕，点将祭旗，次日起兵。忽报：“有一矮子来下书。”邓九公令进帅府。见来人身不过四尺长，至滴水檐前行礼，将书呈上。邓九公拆书，观看来书，知申公豹所荐，乃是“土行孙效劳麾下”。邓九公见土行孙人物不好，“欲待不留，恐申道友见怪；若要用他，不成规矩。……”沈吟良久，“……也罢，把他催粮应付三军。”邓九公曰：“土行孙，既申道兄荐你，吾不敢负命。后军粮草缺少，用你为五军督粮使。”命太鸾为正印先行；子邓秀为副印先行；赵升、孙焰红为救应使；随带女孩儿邓婵玉，随军征伐。邓元帅调人马离了三山关，往西进发。一路上旗旛荡荡，杀气腾腾。怎见得： 三军踊跃，将士熊罴。征云并杀气相浮，剑戟共旗旛耀日。人雄如猛虎，马骤似飞龙。弓弯银汉月，箭穿虎狼牙。袍铠鲜明如绣簇，喊声大振若山崩。鞭梢施号令，浑如开放三月桃花；马摆闪銮铃，恍似摇锭九秋金菊。威风凛凛，人人咬碎口中牙；杀气腾腾，个个睁园眉下眼。真如猛虎出山林，恰似大王离北阙。

After General Deng Jiugong finished reading the decree, he waited for the imperial envoy and arranged the necessary handover. roadside Wang Zhen said, "The new overall commander Kong Xuan is about to arrive." In no time at all, Kong Xuan had already arrived. After General Deng Jiugong completed the handover, he inspected his troops and held a flag-sacrificing ceremony; on the following day, they set out with their army. Suddenly a report came: "A short man has arrived to deliver a letter." General Deng Jiugong ordered him to enter the headquarters. roadside The man who came was no more than four chi tall; he bowed at the eaves of the hall and presented the letter. General Deng Jiugong opened the letter, read it carefully, and learned that Shen Gongbao recommended this man as "Tuxingsun, who is willing to serve under your command." General Deng Jiugong saw that Tuxingsun was not an impressive figure and thought, "If I were to refuse him, I fear Shen Daoyou might be offended;" "but if I were to use him, it would set a bad precedent." ... He pondered for a long time. "... Well then, let him be responsible for supplying provisions to the three armies." General Deng Jiugong said, "Tuxingsun, since Senior Daoist Shen recommended you, I dare not disobey the order. When provisions for the rear army are lacking, you will serve as the supervisor of grain and supplies for all five armies." He appointed Tai Luan as the official in charge to proceed ahead; his son Deng Xiu as deputy commander to lead the advance; roadside Zhao Sheng and Sun Yanhong as relief commanders; He also brought along his daughter Deng Chanyu to accompany the army on its campaign. General Deng departed with his troops from Sanshan Pass, advancing westward. Along the way, banners fluttered and a fierce killing aura filled the air. How is this described: The three armies were eager and spirited; generals and soldiers as strong as bears and pizzlies. War clouds and killing aura floated together, swords and halberds shining alongside banners in the sunlight. The men were as fierce as tigers; the horses galloped like flying dragons. Bows bent like silver river moons, arrows piercing through tiger and wolf teeth. Armors and coats were brightly adorned like embroidered clusters; shouts echoed with such force they seemed to shake the mountains. Whips cracked out commands, as if bursting open peach blossoms in March; Horses moved with flashing 銮 bells, like shaking golden chrysanthemums of autumn. With imposing might and solemn presence, every man clenched their teeth in determination; Killing aura surged fiercely, each person's eyes wide open beneath furrowed brows. It was truly like a fierce tiger emerging from the mountains, just as if a great king had left his northern palace.

话说邓九公人马在路，也行有个月。一日来到西岐。哨探马报入中军：“启元帅：前面乃西岐东门，请令定夺。”邓九公传令：“安营。”怎见得： 营安八卦，旛列五方。左右摆攒簇簇军兵；前后排密密层层将佐。拐子马紧挨鹿角；连珠炮密护中军。正是：刀枪白映三冬雪，炮响声高二月雷。

Meanwhile, General Deng Jiugong's troops on their journey had been traveling for about a month. One day they arrived at Xi Qi. A scout horseman reported to the central camp: "Your Excellency, ahead lies the eastern gate of Xi Qi. Please give orders." General Deng Jiugong issued an order: "Set up camp." How is this described: The camps were arranged in the Eight Trigrams, banners displayed in the Five Directions. Soldiers on both sides gathered densely; officers and assistants were arranged closely in front and behind. Guaizi horses stood close to the palisades; Chain cannons were densely arranged to protect the central camp. Indeed: swords and spears gleamed like snow in three winters, cannon roared with thunder from February skies.

邓九公安了行营，放炮呐喊。

After General Deng Jiugong had set up the camp, he fired cannons and raised shouts.

且说西岐子牙自从破了闻太师，天下诸侯响应。忽探马报入相府：三山关邓九公人马驻札东门。”子牙闻报，谓诸将曰：“邓九公其人如何？”黄飞虎在侧，启曰：“邓九公，将才也。”子牙笑曰：“将才好破，左道难破。”且言邓九公次日传令：“那员战将先往西岐见头阵走遭？”帐下先行官太鸾应声：“愿往。”调本部人马出营，排开阵势，立马横刀，大呼搦战。探事马报入相府：“有将请战。”子牙问左右：“谁见头阵？”有南宫适领令，提刀上马，呐喊摇旗，冲出城来；见对阵一将，面如活蟹，海下黄须，坐乌骓马。怎见得，有赞为证： 顶上金冠飞双凤，连环宝甲三锁控。腰缠玉带如团花，手执钢刀寒光迸。锦囊暗带七星锤，鞍鞽又把龙泉纵。大将逢时命即倾，旗开拱手诸侯重。三山关内大先行，四海闻名心胆痛。

Meanwhile, since Prime Minister Ziya of Xi Qi defeated Tai Shi Wen, feudal lords throughout the land responded in support. Suddenly a scout horseman reported into the prime minister's residence: "The troops of Deng Jiugong from Sanshan Pass are stationed at the eastern gate."" Upon hearing the report, Prime Minister Ziya asked his generals, "What kind of man is Deng Jiugong?" Huang Feihou, standing nearby, replied, "Deng Jiugong is a capable general." Ziya smiled and said, "It's easy to break through a capable general; it's hard to counter the left-hand path." Meanwhile, on the next day General Deng Jiugong gave an order: "Which general shall go first to Xi Qi and lead the vanguard?" Tai Luan, the advance commander under his command, responded immediately, saying, "I am willing to go." He mobilized his own troops out of the camp, arranged their formation, mounted a horse with sword drawn across, and loudly challenged for battle. A scout horseman reported into Prime Minister's residence: "There is a general requesting to fight." Ziya asked those around him, "Who will lead the vanguard?" Nan Gong Shi took command, drew his sword and mounted a horse, shouted while waving flags, and charged out of the city; he saw an opposing general with a face like a live crab, yellow beard beneath his chin, riding a black horse. How is this described? A verse testifies: On his head a golden crown with two flying phoenixes; a set of precious armor linked in rings, three locks controlling it. A jade belt wrapped around his waist like clustered flowers; he held a steel sword whose cold light flashed. Silk pouches secretly carried seven-star hammers, and on his saddle were the Longquan swords ready for action. When a great general meets his time, fate is immediately overturned; at the raising of his banner, feudal lords bow and revere him. The chief commander from Sanshan Pass; famous throughout the four seas, making hearts and livers ache with fear.

话说南宫大呼曰：“来者何人？”太鸾答曰：“吾乃三山关总兵邓麾下，正印先行太鸾是也；今奉敕西征讨贼。尔等不守臣节，招纳叛亡，无故造反，恃强肆暴，坏朝廷之大臣，藐天朝之使命，殊为可恨。特命六师，剿除叛恶。尔等可下马受缚，解往朝歌，尽成汤之大法，免生民之倒悬。如再执迷，悔之无及。”南宫适笑曰：“太鸾，你知闻大师、魔家四将、张桂芳等只落得焚身，斩首，片甲不归。料尔等米粒之珠，吐光不大；蝇翅飞腾，去而不远。速速早回，免遭屠戮。”太鸾大怒，催开紫骅骝，手中刀飞来直取。南宫适纵骑，合扇刀急架相还。两马相交，一场大战。来往冲突，擂破花腔战鼓，摇碎锦绣旗旛。来来往往，有三十回合。南宫适马上逞英雄，展开刀势，抖搜精神，倍加气力。太鸾怒发，环眼双睁，把合扇刀卖一个破锭，叫声：“著！”一刀劈将下来。南宫适因小觑了太鸾，不曾在意，见一刀落将下来，南宫适著忙，叫声“不好！”将身急闪过，那刀把护肩甲吞头削去半边，绒绳割断了数肘，把南宫适諕得魂飞天外，大败进城。太鸾赶杀周兵，得胜回营，见邓九公，曰：“今逢南宫适大战，被末将刀劈护肩甲吞头，不能枭首，请令定夺。”邓九公曰：“首功居上；虽不能斩南宫适之首，已挫周将之锐。”且说南宫适进城，至相府，回见子牙，且言失利，几乎丧师辱命。子牙曰：“‘胜败军家之常’，为将务要见机，进则可以成功，退则可以保守无虞，此乃为将之急务也。”次日邓九公传令，调五方队伍，大壮军威，炮声如雷，三军踊跃，喊杀振天，来至城下，请姜子牙答话。探子马报入相府。子牙分付辛甲：“先调大队人马出城，吾亲会邓九公。”西岐连珠炮响，两扇门开，一簇人马踊出。邓九公定睛观看，只见两杆大红旗，飘飘而出，引一队人马，分为前队；有穿红周将压住阵脚。怎见得人马雄伟，有诗为证，诗曰： 旗分离位列前锋，朱雀迎头百事凶。铁骑横排冲阵将，果然人马似蛟龙。

It happened that Nan Gong shouted loudly, "Who dares to come forth?" Tai Luan replied, "I am Tai Luan, the official commander under General Deng Jiugong of Sanshan Pass;" today I have been ordered to campaign westward and suppress rebels. You do not uphold the loyalty of a subject, harboring rebels and fugitives without cause, have rebelled wantonly, relying on strength to commit violence, destroying great ministers of the court, and defying imperial envoys from Heaven—this is most despicable. Therefore, I have been specially commissioned by six armies to root out this rebellious evil. You may dismount and surrender, be taken to Chaoguo, and face the great laws of Chengtang, thus sparing the people from suffering. If you persist in your delusion, it will be too late to regret." Nan Gong Shu laughed and said, "Tai Luan, do you know that Master Dayi, the Four Generals of Mo, Zhang Guifang, and others only ended up burned to death, beheaded, not a single piece of armor returning. You are but grains of rice among pearls, your light is faint; flies with wings may flutter upward, but do not go far. Return quickly and early, to avoid slaughter." Tai Luan became greatly enraged, urged his purple 骅骝 forward, and with a swift stroke from his blade, charged straight at him. Nan Gong Shu spurred his horse forward, quickly raising his folding fan-sword to parry and counterattack. The two horses clashed, a great battle ensued. They charged back and forth, shattering the flower-patterned war drums, shaking to pieces the brocade banners. Back and forth they fought for thirty rounds. Nan Gong Shu displayed his heroism on horseback, spreading out his blade's might, summoning all his spirit and strength. Tai Luan in fury, with eyes wide open, struck a decisive blow with his folding fan-sword and shouted, "Take this!" A single stroke cleaved downward. Nan Gong Shu had underestimated Tai Luan and paid no attention. When he saw the blade falling, Nan Gong Shu was startled and cried out, "No good!" He hastily dodged, but the blade bit into his shoulder armor and sliced off half of it, cutting through several elbows' worth of silk ropes. Nan Gong Shu was so frightened that he lost his wits to Heaven itself, and fled back into the city in defeat. Tai Luan pursued and killed the Zhou troops, returning to camp victorious. He reported to Deng Jiugong, saying, "Today I fought a great battle with Nan Gong Shu; my blade cleaved his shoulder armor but could not behead him. Please give orders on what should be done." Deng Jiugong said, "The first merit is the highest; although you could not behead Nan Gong Shu, you have already blunted the sharpness of the Zhou general." Meanwhile, Nan Gong Shu entered the city and went to the prime minister's residence. He returned to see Jiang Ziya and reported his defeat, nearly losing his army and disgracing his mission. Jiang Ziya said, "Victory and defeat are common in military affairs. As a general, one must always be alert to the situation; advancing can lead to success, retreating ensures safety without danger—this is the most urgent duty of a general." The next day, Deng Jiugong issued orders, mobilizing troops from the five directions to greatly strengthen military might. The cannon fire roared like thunder; all three armies surged forward with shouts shaking the heavens as they arrived beneath the city walls and called for Jiang Ziya to come out and speak. A scout galloped into the prime minister's residence to report. Jiang Ziya instructed Xin Jia, "First deploy a large force outside the city; I will personally meet Deng Jiugong." The linked cannons of Xi Qi roared, both gates opened, and a group of troops surged out. Deng Jiugong fixed his gaze and observed two large red banners fluttering out, leading a group of troops as the vanguard; Red-clad Zhou generals held down the rear of the formation. How is this grandeur described? A poem testifies, the poem says: Banners divided into ranks form the vanguard; Zhuque at the head brings a hundred ominous affairs. Iron cavalry arranged in rows charge against the formation's generals—indeed, troops and horses resemble coiled dragons.

二声号炮，又见两杆青旗，飞扬而出，引一队人马，立于左队；有穿青周将压住阵脚。怎见得人马鹰扬，有诗为证，诗曰： 青龙旗展震宫旋，短剑长矛次第先。更有冲锋窝里炮，追风须用火攻前。

Two blasts of signal cannons; then two green banners flew out, leading another group of troops to stand in the left formation; blue-clad Zhou generals held fast at the rear. How is this display of might described? A poem testifies: The green dragon banner spreads, shaking the palace's rotation; short swords and long spears follow in order. There are also cannons hidden among the vanguard troops, ready to use fire attacks with speed like the wind.

三声炮响，只见两杆白旗，飘扬而出，引一队人马，立于右队；有穿白周将压住阵脚。怎见得人马勇猛，有诗为证，诗曰： 旗分兑位虎为头，戈戟森森列敌楼。硬弩强弓遮战士，中藏遁甲鬼神愁。

Three cannon blasts; then two white banners fluttered out, leading a troop to stand in the right formation; white-clad Zhou generals held firm at the rear. How is this bravery described? A poem testifies: Banners divided in the direction of Dui, with tigers at their head; halberds and spears stand dense on enemy towers. Strong crossbows and powerful bows shield the warriors; hidden within are secret arts that make ghosts and gods weep.

邓九公对诸将曰：“姜尚用兵，真个纪律严明，甚得形势之分，果有将才。”再看时，又见两杆皂旗，飞舞而出，引一队人马，立于后队；有穿黑周将压住阵脚。怎见得人马齐整，有诗为证，诗曰： 坎宫玄武黑旗旛，鞭鐧抓锤衬铁轈。左右救应为第一，鸣金击鼓任频敲。

Deng Jiugong remarked to his generals, "Jiang Shang's use of troops is indeed strictly disciplined and well-organized; he truly understands the division of terrain and strategy. He is a man of generalship." Looking again, two black banners flew out, leading a group of soldiers to stand in the rear formation; black-clad Zhou generals held steady at the back. How is this orderly display described? A poem testifies: The black banners of the Xuanwu in the Kan palace; whips, maces, and hammers support iron chariots. Left and right reinforcements are first priority; sound gongs and beat drums as needed.

又见中央摆列杏黄旗在前，引著一大队人马，攒簇五方八卦旗旛，众门人一对对排雁翅而出；有二十四员战将，俱是金盔，金甲，红袍，画戟，左右分十二骑；中间四不相上，端坐子牙，甚是气概轩昂，兵威严肃。怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 中央戊己号中军，宝纛旗开五色云。十二牙门排将士，元戎大帅此中分。话说邓九公看子牙兵按五方而出，左右顾盻，进退舒徐，纪律严肃，井井有条，兵威甚整，真堂堂之阵，正正之旗，不觉点首嗟叹：“果然话不虚传！无怪先来将士损兵折将，真劲敌也！”乃纵马向前言曰：“姜子牙请了！”子牙欠身答曰：“邓元帅，卑职少礼。”邓九公曰：“姬发不道，大肆猖獗。你乃是昆仑山明士，为何不知人臣之礼，恃强叛国，大败纲常，招亡结党，法纪安在！及至天子震怒，兴师问罪，尚敢逆天拒敌，尔必有大败之愆；不守国规，自有戮身之苦。今天兵到日，急早下马受缚，以免满城生灵涂炭。如抗吾言，那时城破被擒，玉石碎焚，悔之晚矣。”子牙笑曰：“邓将军，你这篇言词，真如痴人说梦。今天下归周，人心效顺，即数次主帅，俱兵亡将掳，片甲无回。今将军将不过十员，兵不足二十万，真如群羊斗虎，以卵击石，未有不败者也。依吾愚见，不若速回兵马，转达天听，言姬周并未有不臣之心，各安边境，真是美事。若是执迷不悟，恐蹈闻太师之辙，那时噬脐何及！”邓九公大怒，谓诸将曰：“似此卖面编小人，敢触犯天朝元宰，不杀此村夫，怎消此恨！”纵马舞刀，飞来直取。子牙左有武成王黄飞虎催开五色神牛，大呼：“邓九公不得无礼！”邓九公见黄飞虎，大骂曰：“好反贼！敢来见吾！”二骑交加，刀枪并举。黄飞虎枪法如龙；邓九公刀法似虎。二将相交，一场大战。怎见得，有赞为证： 二将恃强无比赛，各守名利夸能会：一个赤铜刀举荡人魂；一个银蟒枪飞惊鬼怪。一个冲营斩将势无伦；一个捉虎擒龙谁敢对。生来一对恶凶神，大战西岐争世界。

In the center, a yellow banner was arranged at the front, leading a large group of troops. They gathered around the five-directional Bagua banners; the disciples emerged in pairs like geese spreading their wings; there were twenty-four generals, all wearing golden helmets and armor, red robes, and holding painted halberds; twelve riders stood on each side; in the center sat Jiang Ziya atop a four-horse chariot, exuding great dignity and bearing; the troops were solemn and imposing. How is this described? A poem testifies: In the center, Wuji commands the central army; the treasure banner opens with five-colored clouds. Twelve gateways arrange generals and soldiers; here is where the supreme general divides command. It happened that Deng Jiugong observed Jiang Ziya's troops emerging in the five directions, looking left and right with composure, advancing and retreating calmly, strictly disciplined, orderly arranged. The military might was well-organized—truly a grand formation and righteous banners. He could not help but nod his head and sigh, "Indeed, the saying is true! No wonder previous generals suffered losses in troops and officers; this is truly a formidable foe!" He urged his horse forward and said, "I greet you, Jiang Ziya!" Jiang Ziya bowed slightly in reply, saying, "General Deng, your subordinate offers his respects with less ceremony." Deng Jiugong said: "Ji Fa is unjust and has grown wildly defiant. You are a learned man from Kunlun Mountain, yet you do not know the rites of a subject. Why rely on strength to rebel against your country? You have greatly violated moral order and laws, harboring fugitives and forming factions—where is law and discipline?" When the Son of Heaven became furious, raised an army to punish you for your crimes, and you still dared defy Heaven by resisting—this will surely bring great disaster upon you; To disregard the laws of the state is to invite suffering and death. Today, with our troops here, surrender quickly by dismounting and accepting capture, so as to spare the people of this city from suffering. If you defy my words, when the city falls and you are captured, both jade and stone will be shattered by fire—then it will be too late to repent." Jiang Ziya smiled and said, "General Deng, your words are truly like a fool's dream. Now the world has submitted to Zhou; people's hearts follow willingly. Even several previous commanders have perished in battle, their generals captured and not a single soldier returning. Now your general has no more than ten commanders, and fewer than two hundred thousand soldiers. This is like a flock of sheep fighting a tiger, or an egg striking a stone—there can be no victory but defeat." In my humble opinion, it would be better for you to quickly withdraw your troops and convey this to Heaven, stating that Ji Zhou has no rebellious intentions. Let each side maintain peace along the borders—this would truly be a good outcome. If you remain stubborn and unenlightened, I fear you will follow the same fate as Master Dayi. By then, it will be too late even to regret!" Deng Jiugong became greatly enraged and said to his generals, "This lowly, deceitful man dares to offend the prime minister of Heaven. If we do not kill this peasant, how can we quell our anger!" He spurred his horse forward with sword in hand and charged straight at him. Jiang Ziya's left side saw the Duke of Wucheng, Huang Feihuo, urging his five-colored divine ox forward and shouting, "General Deng Jiugong must not be disrespectful!" Deng Jiugong saw Huang Feihuo and shouted in anger, "You good rebel! How dare you appear before me!" The two horses clashed as swords and spears were raised in battle. Huang Feihuo's spear technique was like a dragon; Deng Jiugong's sword techniques were like a tiger. The two generals clashed in fierce battle. How is this battle described? A verse testifies: Two generals, relying on their strength, compete without equal; each guards reputation and profit, boasting of skill: one raises a red-bronze sword that shakes the soul; one wields a silver python spear that startles ghosts and demons. One charges through the camp to slay generals, unmatched in might; one captures tigers and dragons—none dare oppose. Born as a pair of evil war gods, they wage great battle at Xi Qi for the world.

话说邓九公战住黄飞虎。左哨哪吒见黄飞虎战邓九公不下，忍不得登开风火轮，摇枪助战。成汤营中邓九公长子邓秀纵马冲来；这壁厢黄天化催开玉麒麟截战。太鸾舞刀冲来；武吉摇枪抵住。赵升使方天戟杀来；这里太颠挡住。成汤营孙焰红冲杀过来；有黄天禄接住。两家混战，好杀！只杀得天昏地暗，旭日无光，嗗战鼓忙敲，咭叮当两家兵器。怎见得有赋为证，赋曰： 二家混战，士卒奔腾。冲开队伍势如龙，砍倒旗旛雄似虎。兵对兵，将对将，各分头目使深机；枪迎枪，箭迎箭，两下交逢乘不意。你往我来，遭著兵刃命随倾；顾后瞻前，错了心神身不保。只杀得征云黯淡，两家将佐眼难明；那里知怪雾弥漫，报效儿郎寻队伍。正是：英雄恶战不寻常，棋逢敌手难分解。

It happened that Deng Jiugong was locked in combat with Huang Feihuo. On the left vanguard, Ne Zha saw that Huang Feihuo could not overcome Deng Jiugong and could no longer hold back. He mounted his Fenghuo Wheel and brandished his spear to join the battle. From the Chengtang camp, Deng Jiugong's eldest son, Deng Xiu, spurred his horse forward; On this side, Huang Tianhua urged his Jade Qilin forward to intercept and fight. Tai Luan charged in with sword raised; Wu Ji parried with his spear. Zhao Sheng charged in wielding a Fangtian halberd; here, Taidean blocked him. From the Chengtang camp came Sun Yanhong charging in; Huang Tianlu met him. The two sides clashed in chaotic battle, a fierce slaughter! They fought so fiercely that the heavens darkened and the sun lost its light. War drums were hastily beaten, clanging weapons from both sides ringing out in a cacophony. How can this be described? A rhapsody serves as evidence: The two sides clashed in chaos, soldiers galloping wildly. They broke through the ranks with a might like dragons; they cut down banners and standards as fierce as tigers. Soldier met soldier, general faced general, each side's leaders employing deep strategies; Spear met spear, arrow met arrow, both sides clashing unexpectedly. You came and I went; those struck by weapons lost their lives instantly; Looking back and forth, distracted minds led to loss of life. They fought until the battlefield clouds darkened, leaving both sides' generals and assistants unable to see clearly; Unaware that strange mists spread everywhere, loyal young soldiers seeking their units. Indeed: A fierce battle of heroes is no ordinary affair; when a master meets an equal opponent, it's hard to tell who will prevail.

话说两家大战西岐城下。哪吒使开火尖枪，助黄飞虎协战邓九公。九公原是战将，抖搜神威，展开大刀，精神加倍。哪吒见邓九公勇猛，暗取乾坤圈打来，正中九公左臂上，打了个带断皮开，几乎坠马。周兵哪吒得胜，呐了一声喊，杀奔过来。太颠不防赵升把口一张，喷出数尺火来，烧得焦头烂额，险些儿落马。两家混战一场，各自收兵。且说九公败进大营，声唤不止，痛疼难禁，昼夜不安。且言子牙进城，回至相府，见太颠带伤，命去调养。不表。

The story speaks of the great battle between the two sides beneath the walls of Xi Qi city. Ne Zha brandished his Fire-Tip Spear, aiding Huang Feihong in fighting Deng Jiugong. Deng Jiugong was originally a warrior of battle; he shook off his divine might, brandished his great sword, and his spirit doubled. Ne Zha saw Deng Jiugong's bravery and secretly hurled his Kunlun Ring, which struck the left arm of Jiugong directly. The blow tore through flesh and nearly caused him to fall from his horse. The Zhou forces, with Ne Zha victorious, let out a shout and charged forward fiercely. Taidean was unprepared as Zhao Sheng opened his mouth and spewed fire several chi long, scorching Taidean's head and face until they were singed and blistered, nearly causing him to fall from his horse. The two sides engaged in a chaotic battle, then each withdrew their troops. Meanwhile, Jiugong retreated into the main camp, crying out in pain without ceasing; the agony was unbearable, and he could find no peace day or night. Meanwhile, Zi Ya entered the city and returned to his prime minister's residence. Seeing that Taidean was wounded, he ordered him to go for rest and recuperation. No further details are given.

且言邓九公在营，昼夜不安，有女婵玉见父著伤，心下十分懊恼。次日，问过父安，禀：“爹爹且自调理，待女孩儿为父亲报雠。”邓九公曰：“吾儿须要仔细。”小姐随点本部人马，至城下请战。子牙坐在银安殿，正与众将议事，忽报：“成汤营有一女将讨战。”子牙听报，沉吟半晌。傍有武成王言曰：“丞相千场大战未尝忧惧；今闻一女将，为何沉吟不决？”子牙曰：“用兵有三忌：道人，陀头，妇女。此三等人非是左道，定有邪术。彼仗邪术，恐将士不提防，误被所伤，深为利害。”哪吒应声出曰：“弟子愿往。”子牙分付：“小心！”哪吒领命，上了风火轮，出得城来，果见一女将滚马而至。怎见得，有赞为证，赞曰： 红罗包凤髻，绣带扣潇湘。一瓣红蕖挑宝镫，更现得金莲窄窄；两湾翠黛拂秋波，越觉得玉溜沉沉。娇姿袅娜，慵拈针指好轮刀；玉手菁葱，懒傍妆台骑劣马。桃脸通红，羞答答通名问姓；玉粳微狠，娇怯怯夺利争名。漫道佳人多猛烈，只因父子出营来。有诗为证，诗曰： 甲胄无双貌出奇，娇羞袅娜更多姿。只因误落凡尘里，至使先行得结缡。

Meanwhile, Deng Jiugong in the camp was restless day and night; his daughter Chanyu, seeing her father wounded, felt deeply distressed. The next day, after inquiring about her father's well-being, she said: "Father, please take care of yourself. Let me, your daughter, avenge you." Deng Jiugong said, "My child, you must be careful." The lady then summoned her own troops and went to the city walls to request battle. Zi Ya was seated in Yinan Hall, discussing matters with his generals when suddenly a report came: "A female general from the Chengtang camp is demanding battle." Upon hearing the report, Zi Ya fell into deep thought for a moment. Beside him, General Wuchengwang said: "Prime Minister, you have never shown worry or fear in a thousand great battles; why now do you hesitate at the mention of one female general?" Zi Ya said, "There are three taboos in warfare: Daoists, monks, and women. These three categories of people are not ordinary; they must possess some kind of dark magic. They rely on their occult arts, and if our soldiers are unprepared, they may be injured by them—this is a serious matter." Ne Zha stepped forward and said: "Disciple volunteers to go." Zi Ya instructed, "Be careful!" Ne Zha accepted the order and mounted his Fenghuo Lun. As he left the city, he indeed saw a female general galloping toward him. How can this be described? An ode serves as evidence: A red silk scarf adorns the phoenix bun, embroidered sashes tied with elegance. A single petal of crimson lotus decorates the golden stirrup; it highlights her slender golden lotus feet; Her two brows of emerald green brush against autumn waves, making her jade-like eyes appear even deeper. Graceful and delicate, she lazily held a needle in one hand while wielding a fine blade with the other; Her jade-like hands were slender as scallions, idly leaning by her dressing table on a spirited horse. Her peach-blossom face flushed red, shyly asking for names and surnames; With a slight frown on her jade-like brow, she timidly vied for glory. One might say that beauties are often fierce; it is only because father and daughter have come from the camp. A poem serves as evidence: With armor and helmet, her appearance is unparalleled; graceful and shy, she displays even more charm. It was only because of a mistake in descending to the mortal world that it led the vanguard to tie the marital knot.

哪吒大呼曰：“女将慢来！”邓婵玉问曰：“来将是谁？”哪吒答曰：“吾乃是姜丞相麾下哪吒是也。你乃五体不全妇女，焉敢阵前使勇！况你系深闺弱质，不守家教，露面抛头，不识羞愧。料你总会兵机，也难逃吾之手；还不回营，另换有名上将出来。”邓玉大怒：“你就是伤吾父亲雠人，今日受吾一刀！”切齿面红，纵马使双刀来取。哪吒火尖枪急架相还。二将往来，战未数合，邓婵玉想：“吾先下手为强。”把马一拨，掩一刀就走，“吾不及你！”哪吒点头叹曰：“果然是个女子，不耐大战。”竟往下赶来。赶未及三五射之地，邓婵玉扭颈回头，见哪吒赶来，挂下刀，取五光石掌在手中，回手一下，正中哪吒脸上。正是： 发手五光出掌内，纵是仙凡也皱眉。

Ne Zha shouted, "Female general, hold on!" Deng Chanyu asked, "Who are you?" Ne Zha replied: "I am Ne Zha under the command of Prime Minister Jiang. You are a woman with incomplete limbs, how dare you show bravery on the battlefield!" Moreover, you are a delicate and frail woman from behind closed doors, who does not abide by family teachings. You expose your face in public, showing no shame or modesty. Even if you possess military strategy, it is hard for you to escape my hands; Return to your camp at once and send out a famous general instead." Deng Yu was furious: "You are the one who injured my father, my enemy! Today you shall receive my blade!" Her face red with rage, she spurred her horse and charged forward wielding twin swords. Ne Zha quickly raised his Fire-Tip Spear to parry. The two generals clashed, fighting for only a few rounds when Deng Chanyu thought: "I should strike first." She turned her horse aside and slashed with one sword before retreating, saying, "I am no match for you!" Ne Zha nodded and sighed: "Indeed she is a woman, unable to endure prolonged battle." And so he chased after her. Before he had chased for more than three or five arrow lengths, Deng Chanyu turned her head and saw Ne Zha approaching. She dropped her sword, took a Wuguang stone in her hand, and with one backward throw struck Ne Zha directly on the face. Indeed: With a flick of her hand, five-colored light shot from within; even if one were immortal or mortal, they would wince.

话说邓婵玉回手一石，正打中哪吒面上，只打得传粉脸青紫，鼻眼皆平，败回相府。子牙看见哪吒面上著伤，乃问其故。哪吒曰：“弟子与女将邓婵玉战未数合，那贱人就走；弟子赶去，要拿他成功；不防他回首一道光华，却是一个石头，正中脸上，打得如此狼狈。”子牙曰：“追赶必要小心。”傍有黄天化言曰：“为将之道：身临战场，务要眼观四处，耳听八方。难道你一块石头也不会招架，被他打伤；今恐土星打断，就破了相，一生俱是不好。”把哪吒气得怒冲牛斗，今日失机著伤，又被黄天化一场取笑。

The story continues: Deng Chanyu's backward throw struck Ne Zha on the face, hitting him so hard that his fair complexion turned blue and purple, his nose flattened, and he retreated back to the prime minister's residence in defeat. Zi Ya saw Ne Zha with a wound on his face and asked him about it. Ne Zha said, "Disciple fought the female general Deng Chanyu for only a few rounds. That wretch fled; I chased after her to capture her and claim success; unaware that she turned back with a flash of light, which was actually a stone, striking me right in the face and causing this disgraceful state." Zi Ya said: "You must be cautious when pursuing her." Beside him, Huang Tianhua said: "The way of a general is this: when on the battlefield, one must always watch all directions and listen to every sound. Could it be that you cannot even block a single stone and were injured by her? Now I fear the Earth Star may break, ruining your appearance—this will bring ill fortune for the rest of your life." This enraged Ne Zha, his anger surging to the heavens. Today he had been wounded and missed an opportunity, only to be mocked by Huang Tianhua as well.

且说邓婵玉进营，见父亲回话，说打伤哪吒一事。邓九公闻言虽是观喜，其如疼痛难禁。次日，婵玉复来搦战。探马报入相府。子牙问：“谁去走一遭？”黄天化曰：“弟子愿往。”子牙曰：“须要仔细。”天化领令，上了玉麒麟，出城列阵。邓婵玉马走如飞，上前问曰：“来将何名？”黄天化曰：“吾乃开国武成王长男黄天化是也。你这贱人，可是昨日将石打伤吾道兄哪吒？是你么？不要走！”举锤就打。女将双刀劈面来迎。二人锤刀交架，未及数合，拨马就走。婵玉高声叫曰：“黄天化，你敢来赶我？。”天化在坐骑上思想：吾若不赶他，恐哪吒笑话我。”只得催开坐骑，往前赶来。邓婵玉闻脑后有声，挂下双刀，回手一石。黄天化急待闪时，已打在脸上，比哪吒分外打得狠，掩面遽回，进相府来回令。子牙见黄天化脸著重伤，仍问其故：“你如何不提防？”天化曰：“那贱人回马就是一石，故此未及防备。”子牙曰：“且养伤痕。”哪吒在后，听得黄天化失机，从后走出言曰：“为将要眼观四处，耳听八方。你连一女将如何也失手与他，被他打断山根，一百年还是晦气！”黄天化大怒曰：“你为何还我此言！我出于无心，你为何记其小忿！”哪吒亦怒：“你如何昨日辱我！”彼此争论，被子牙一声喝：“你两个为国，何必如此！”二人各自负愧，退入后寨。不题。

Meanwhile, Deng Chanyu returned to the camp and reported to her father about wounding Ne Zha. Deng Jiugong heard this news with joy, yet his pain was still unbearable. The next day, Chanyu came again to challenge the enemy. A scout reported this news into the prime minister's residence. Zi Ya asked, "Who will go and meet her?" Huang Tianhua said: "Disciple volunteers to go." Zi Ya said, "You must be careful." Tianhua accepted the order, mounted his Jade Qilin, and left the city to take up position. Deng Chanyu rode forward like the wind and asked: "What is your name, challenger?" Huang Tianhua replied: "I am Huang Tianhua, eldest son of the State-Founding General Wuchengwang. Are you the wretch who yesterday struck my Daoist elder brother Ne Zha with a stone?" Is it you?" "Do not run!" He raised his mace to strike. The female general met him with twin swords slashing toward his face. The two clashed hammer against sword, but after only a few exchanges, she turned her horse and fled. Chanyu shouted loudly: "Huang Tianhua, dare you chase me?" ." Huang Tianhua on his steed thought to himself: If I do not chase her, Ne Zha will surely mock me. He had no choice but to urge his horse forward and pursue her. Deng Chanyu heard a sound from behind, dropped her twin swords, and with one backward toss hurled a stone. Huang Tianhua tried to dodge, but it was too late—the stone struck his face. It hit harder than the one that had struck Ne Zha before. Covering his face in pain, he hurried back and reported to the prime minister's residence. Zi Ya saw that Huang Tianhua had a serious facial injury, yet he still asked about the reason: "How could you not be on guard?" Tianhua said, "That wench threw a stone as she turned her horse, so I had no time to prepare." Zi Ya said, "Rest and let the wound heal." Ne Zha was behind and, hearing that Huang Tianhua had missed an opportunity, stepped forward from the back and said: "As a general, one must watch all directions with one's eyes and listen to all sides with one's ears. Even against a female general, you were careless enough to be struck by her and had your nose broken—this is misfortune for a hundred years!" lineno Huang Tianhua angrily said: "Why are you still saying this to me!" I did it without ill intent, so why do you hold a grudge over such a small grievance!" Ne Zha was also angry: "How could you humiliate me yesterday!" The two argued back and forth, but Zi Ya shouted sharply: "You are both serving the state; why must you act this way!" Both men felt ashamed and withdrew to the rear camp. No further mention is made of it.

且说邓婵玉得胜回营，见父亲，言：“打了黄天化，败进城去了。”邓九公虽见连日得胜，但臂膊疼痛，度日如年。次日，邓婵玉又来城下请战。探马报入相府曰：有婵玉在城下搦战。”子牙曰：“谁去走遭？杨戬在傍，对龙须虎曰：“此女用石打人，师兄可往；吾当掠阵。”龙须虎曰：“弟子愿往；榻戬压阵。”子牙许之。二人出城。邓婵玉一见城里跳出一个东西来，自不曾见的。怎见得，有诗为证： 发石如飞实可夸，龙生一种产灵芽。运成云水归周主，炼出奇形助子牙。手似鹰隼足似虎，身如鱼滑髩如虾。“封神榜”上无名姓，徒建奇功与帝家。

Meanwhile, Deng Chanyu returned to camp after winning the battle and reported to his father: "I defeated Huang Tianhua and drove him back into the city." Although Deng Jiugong saw that they had won victories for several days, his arm still pained him, and each day felt like a year. The next day, Deng Chanyu once again came to the city walls to challenge for battle. A scout horseman reported into the prime minister's residence: "Chanyu is challenging for battle beneath the city walls." Zi Ya said, "Who will go and meet him?" Yang Jian, standing nearby, said to Longxu Hu: "This woman throws stones at people; senior brother may go and face her. I will support from the side." Longxu Hu said, "Disciple is willing to go; Ta Jian will hold the rear." Zi Ya agreed. The two left the city. Deng Chanyu saw a creature leap out from within the city walls, something he had never seen before. How did this appear? A poem testifies: Stones fly like the wind, truly admirable; From dragon's lineage sprouts a wondrous shoot. Transformed by clouds and water to serve King Zhou, Forged into an unusual form to aid Zi Ya. Hands like hawks', feet like tigers'; Body as slippery as a fish, hair like that of a shrimp. "Names unknown on the Immortals' List," Yet they built wondrous feats for the emperor's house.

话说邓婵玉见城内跳出个古怪东西来，諕得魂不附体，问曰：“来的甚么东西？”龙须虎大怒：“好贱人！吾乃姜丞相门徒龙须虎便是。”婵玉又问：“你来做甚么？”龙须虎曰：“今奉吾师之命，特来擒你。”邓婵玉不知龙须虎发手有石，只见龙须虎把手一放，照著邓婵玉打来，有磨盘大小的石头；两只手齐放，便如飞蝗一般，只打得遍地灰土迸起，甚如霹雳之声。婵玉马上自思：“此石来得利害！若不仔细，便打了马也是不好。”拨回马就走。龙须虎赶来。婵玉回头一看，见龙须虎赶来，婵玉回手一石打来。龙须虎见石光打来，把头往下一躲，颈子长，弯将过来，正中颈子窝儿骨，把龙须虎打的扭著颈子跑。婵玉复又一石，龙须虎独足难立，打了一交。邓婵玉勒转马来，要取龙须虎首级。不知性命如何，且听下回分解。

Speaking of Deng Chanyu, who saw a strange creature leap out from the city and was so frightened that his soul seemed to leave his body. He asked in alarm: "What kind of thing have you come here?" Longxu Hu became furious: "You wench!" I am Longxu Hu, a disciple of Chancellor Jiang." Chanyu asked again: "What are you here for?" Longxu Hu replied, "I have come on my master's orders to capture you." Deng Chanyu did not know that Longxu Hu had stones at his disposal. He only saw Longxu Hu raise his hand and throw a stone toward Deng Chanyu as big as a millstone; With both hands, he launched the stones, which flew like swarms of locusts. They struck so hard that dust and dirt burst up from the ground, their impact echoing like thunderclaps. Chanyu thought to himself while on horseback: "These stones are dangerous! If I am not careful, they might even strike my horse and that would be bad." He turned his horse around and fled. Longxu Hu pursued him. Chanyu looked back and saw Longxu Hu chasing after him, so he turned his hand and hurled a stone in return. Longxu Hu saw the stone coming and ducked his head down. Because of his long neck, he bent it back just in time—but the stone still struck him right at the base of his neck, causing Longxu Hu to run with a twisted neck. Chanyu hurled another stone, and this time, unable to keep his balance on one foot, Longxu Hu fell flat on his back. Deng Chanyu reined in his horse and turned around to strike for Longxu Hu's head. Whether he would live or die remains to be seen in the next chapter.